Buying in Williston Park

THE SCOOP Since residents are so enthusiastic about their tiny village, it seems fitting that the original houses built by William Chatlos in Williston Park in 1926 were referred to as "Happiness Homes."

Mayor Paul Ehrbar calls the village a small town experience in 2011. "It's a true community where we all help each other out," says resident Evelyn Atanas, who owns Atanas Realty Corp. "It's family oriented," adds Marie Grieco of Coach Realtors of the Willistons in Williston Park. In fact, some families are third generation, Ehrbar said, noting many who grew up here return because of what the village offers.

Residents have access to parks and youth sports programs as well as a slew of restaurants, shops and services along Willis and Hillside avenues. The village's central location is desirable as well, says Nina Jean Harris of Coach Realtors of the Willistons, citing proximity to major highways. Roosevelt Field mall and Winthrop-University Hospital are nearby, Harris adds.

As for housing, Capes and Colonials are most prominent, though other styles can be found. Prices typically range between $400,000 and $600,000, Greico says, though they can go lower or higher, she adds. Lot sizes often range between 40 by 100 feet and 50 by 100 feet. "Houses are moving, but not as fast paced as before," Atanas says.

CONDOS One listing at $399,900

SALES PRICE According to Multiple Listing Service of Long Island, there were 48 sales from Nov. 1, 2010 to Dec. 12, 2011. The median sales price was $427,500 with a low of $315,000 and high of $770,000. From Oct. 1, 2009 to Oct. 31, 2010, there were 53 sales with a median sales price of $467,000. The low price was $345,000, and the high was $773,000.

ATTRACTIONS William J. Kelleher Field and the Vincent J. Fay Hockey Rink are near the pool on Syracuse Street. The Williston Day Street Fair is usually held in September. The Chamber of Commerce of the Willistons and the Rotary Club of Williston Park are active.

MORE STATS

Town North Hempstead

Area 0.6 square miles

ZIP code 11596

Population 7,287

Median age 42.9

Median household income $94,702

Median home value $414,500*

LIRR time to NYC From East Williston, 41 minutes to 48 minutes at peak

Monthly ticket $223

School districts Herricks and Mineola

SOURCES: 2010 Census; mlsli.com; Long Island Rail Road;

*Based on sales in the past six months according to Multiple Listing Service of Long Island