53 Ferris PlaceOssining, NY 10562Price: $500,000

Set behind sculpted hedges on a quiet Village of Ossining street, 53 Ferris Place is a three-bedroom cottage with far more outdoor space than the curb lets on. An arched entry and bay window give the front real character. Inside, the living room runs wide and bright under exposed wood beams and recessed lighting, with windows on two sides. The kitchen opens right off it with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, gas cooking and a movable island. Step out back to the best part of the house: an oversized deck sitting up in the treetops, looking over a deep backyard edged with stone walls, bluestone and mature maples and evergreens. A private driveway handles off-street parking. Downtown Ossining's restaurants and shops, the Hudson riverfront, Metro-North and Routes 9, 9A and the Taconic are all close by. Bring your ideas and make it your own