If you’re shopping for homes in Chappaqua, Westchester County, or surrounding areas, kitchen features often influence buying decisions more than almost anything else. One question I hear constantly at NestEdge Realty showings is:
“What type of stove or cooktop is best?”
The answer depends on cooking style, maintenance tolerance, budget, and resale considerations. Here’s a practical breakdown of the major options you’ll encounter while touring Westchester real estate listings.
Gas Stoves & Cooktops
Most popular in Westchester homes
Pros:
-
Instant heat control (preferred by many chefs)
-
Works during power outages (if ignition is manual)
-
Typically boosts resale appeal in luxury markets
Cons:
-
Requires gas line installation
-
Slightly harder to clean than flat surfaces
-
Indoor air quality considerations if ventilation is poor
👉 Real estate tip: In higher-end Chappaqua homes, gas ranges often signal a more upgraded kitchen.
Electric Coil Stoves
Common in older or entry-level homes
Pros:
-
Lower upfront cost
-
Simple technology = fewer repairs
-
Durable burners
Cons:
-
Slower temperature response
-
Harder to clean
-
Less premium buyer perception
👉 These sometimes show up in otherwise great homes and are an easy upgrade negotiation point.
Smooth-Top Electric Cooktops (Radiant)
Very common in updated Westchester kitchens
Pros:
-
Sleek, modern look
-
Easier cleaning than coil burners
-
Even heating
Cons:
-
Slower than gas or induction
-
Scratches possible if cookware is rough
-
Residual heat safety issue
👉 Many sellers install these before listing because they photograph well.
Induction Cooktops
Fastest-growing premium option
Pros:
-
Extremely fast heating
-
Very energy efficient
-
Surface stays relatively cool
-
Modern luxury appeal
Cons:
-
Requires compatible cookware
-
Higher upfront cost
-
Some buyers unfamiliar with them
👉 I’m seeing these increasingly in new construction and renovated Westchester homes.
Dual-Fuel Ranges
(Gas cooktop + electric oven)
Pros:
-
Best of both worlds
-
Strong resale appeal
-
Preferred by serious home cooks
Cons:
-
Higher installation cost
-
Requires both gas and electric hookups
👉 Often found in luxury Chappaqua properties and upscale renovations.
Downdraft & Ventless Options
Important in open-concept homes.
Pros:
-
Cleaner sightlines
-
Works where overhead hood isn’t practical
Cons:
-
Less effective ventilation
-
Can impact cooking experience
👉 Buyers often ask about this during showings.
What Buyers in Westchester Actually Prefer (2026 Trend)
From what I’m seeing across Westchester County real estate:
-
✔ Gas still dominates resale appeal
-
✔ Induction is gaining traction fast
-
✔ Electric coil is viewed as outdated
-
✔ Premium kitchens increasingly influence offers
Kitchen upgrades remain one of the strongest ROI improvements before selling.
Final Thought From NestEdge Realty
Whether you’re buying or selling in Chappaqua or anywhere in Westchester, understanding kitchen features like stoves and cooktops helps:
-
Price homes correctly
-
Market listings effectively
-
Avoid unnecessary upgrade mistakes
And yes — buyers absolutely notice these details.
If you ever want guidance on what upgrades actually move the needle in today’s Westchester real estate market, I’m always happy to help.
