Gen X Couples ‘Rightsize’ to New Community Amid Housing Shift

UPDATE: Two couples from Westchester County are leading a trend among empty nesters by “rightsizing” in a new community-focused development in Sleepy Hollow, New York. As they transition from family homes to more accessible living, the Falks and the Coopermans are embracing vibrant lifestyles in a mixed-use area that promises to redefine community living.

With their children now in college, Stephanie and Andrew Falk, along with Judy and Steven Cooperman, are making significant moves amid a competitive housing market. The Falks have sold their century-old Edgemont home, trading it for a new townhome at Edge-on-Hudson, a development offering modern amenities and a walkable lifestyle for around $1.6 million.

The demand for such housing is surging as Gen Xers and boomers seek alternatives to traditional retirement communities. The Falks and Coopermans are part of this growing movement, aiming for homes that foster social connections while maintaining proximity to nature. Stephanie Falk emphasized, “I just believe fully in community,” highlighting the importance of staying active and engaged with like-minded neighbors.

The Edge-on-Hudson development is currently under construction and will eventually feature nearly 1,200 townhomes, condos, and apartments, along with amenities such as parks and a grocery store on what was once a GM assembly plant site. As of late July 2024, both couples have moved into rental apartments at the site, where they will remain until their new homes are completed.

In a compelling twist, the couples are not alone in their search for community. Several acquaintances are also exploring purchasing opportunities within the development, demonstrating a broader trend of friends and families seeking to live closer together in a vibrant setting.

The Coopermans, who have streamlined their possessions, describe the experience as liberating. Judy noted the ease of their new lifestyle, saying, “It’s very easy to just say, ‘Hey, you want to go out for a walk?’” This shift provides them with a fresh social circle, reminiscent of the camaraderie found in college.

As these couples embark on this new chapter, the Edge-on-Hudson community stands as a beacon for empty nesters looking to balance comfort with companionship. The ongoing construction and vibrant atmosphere are drawing attention, making this development a focal point for those eager to embrace a lifestyle change.

With the housing landscape evolving rapidly, the success of such community-focused developments may signal a significant shift in how families approach their living situations as they transition into new life stages. As the Falks and Coopermans settle into their new homes, the broader implications of their choices resonate with many in similar situations, marking a pivotal moment in suburban living.