A number of historic landmark properties in the Greater New York area are back on the market, with prices attracting attention!

A legendary Hudson Valley business that opened just after World War II has put its showroom and offices up for sale after serving the area for nearly 80 years.

As the Hudson Valley continues to grow and evolve, more and more storied businesses are either selling their operations and relocating or closing after opening their doors for generations.

Legendary curtain call

The Hudson Valley is a large area along the Hudson River in the state of New York. The Hudson River runs north to south through the state of New York, from its source in the Adirondacks to New York City, where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean. It is generally considered to begin in Albany and Troy in the north and end in Westchester County in the south, including towns and villages along both sides of the river.

Known for its natural beauty, rich heritage and artistic culture, the Hudson Valley is home to numerous national historic landmarks, historic mansions, museums and galleries, and has been a source of inspiration for writers, artists and musicians. At the same time, it is also a major tourist attraction in New York State, especially famous for its red leaf scenery and wine estates in autumn.

A much-loved landmark in the Hudson Valley, Spruce Lodge’s Colden Manor lists its properties and businesses for sale after 60 years on the market, while Alps Sweet Shop, a candy store that has been run by the same family for more than 100 years, and another 75-year-old grocery store, An old cash register rings for the last time in May 2023. Some of these candy shops are small, family-run businesses that have been around for decades, others are run by young culinary pioneers pushing the boundaries of flavor and taste, and one is even owned by two famous Hollywood actors.

Alps Sweet Shop is not only known for its handmade desserts and chocolates, it also carries memories for generations. Alps Sweet Shop has been the community’s go-to place to celebrate holidays and special occasions for many years, earning widespread acclaim for its rich history and quality products. The history of Colden Manor and Alps Sweet Shop is intertwined, making it an important part of Hudson Valley culture and tradition.

Alps Sweet Shop for sale now. For now, the business is still operating as no new buyer has been announced. Lucky Chocolates has also announced its official closure.

Today, these landmarks have been put up for sale, arousing the attention and emotion of local residents and loyal customers.

Perform the last song

It’s a similar story in Poughkeepsie, also in the Hudson Valley.

Just a year after the end of World War II, Joseph Venchitore opened the Venchitto Piano Center in Poughkeepsie. Trained at The Juilliard School, known for its excellent music, dance and drama programs, and serving as an Army Air Force band director during World War II, the musician is happy to share his love of music with others.

Joseph Venchitore said the musical instrument store has moved twice in the past eight decades, finally settling in its current location in 1965.

Now it looks like the legendary building, built in 1946, is also up for sale. The 8,000-square-foot building is listed by real estate brokerage Keller Williams Realty Partners for $799,000. The real estate agency said it hopes potential new owners will have the ability to implement extensions that add additional stories to existing homes.

Regain one’s life

Another venue in New York’s Hudson Valley, a storied 60-year-old venue that has hosted thousands of weddings, is also up for sale.

For 60 years, this Colden estate at Spruce Lodge has been the venue for weddings, anniversaries, retirement parties, birthday parties, corporate events and other milestones.

The estate was once the home of the Coldens family, which played an important role in the history of New York State in the 18th and 19th centuries, including prominent politicians and social activists such as Cadwallader Colden, who served as Governor of New York.

According to Keller Williams Realty Partners’ listing, the estate has offered $3 million and is primarily marketed to people who want to continue operating the property or convert it into a restaurant, bar or other type of retail business.

Real estate insiders say many of the Hudson Valley’s beloved businesses have become a part of local life. Whether it’s the department store with the annual back-to-school shopping, the restaurant that caters to all the family’s special occasions, or the neighborhood little market where everyone meets with a smile, these Hudson Valley stores large and small have become an integral part of the community. When one of these long-run businesses decides to leave, it’s almost like losing a family member. There are fewer small business owners in the Hudson Valley than there were decades ago, and each year more and more decide to sell or close their stores. The reasons are diverse and complex, including changes in consumer behavior, labor shortages, and the impact of the pandemic.

While facing challenges, opportunities are also brewing. With increasing innovation and adaptability, a full recovery in tourism and strong community support, the dream of a vibrant and prosperous Hudson Valley small business is not out of reach