Looking to buy in Center Moriches?

THE SCOOP When it comes to location, Center Moriches has the best of both worlds, says John W. Liberti, owner-broker of Coldwell Banker Showplace Realty. "It's close to the Hamptons and has access to the main part of the Island."

The community's location is also noted for its access to Moriches Bay. "It has something of a seafaring town feel," adds Kevin Loiacono, owner-broker of Brookhampton Realty.

There are scenic creeks and canals as well as wildlife and sealife in areas south of Montauk Highway. Also popular is the pedestrian friendly downtown dotted by mom-and-pop stores and restaurants. Main Street -- also the site of parades and street fairs -- possesses a "Mayberryesque" quality, says Steven Monzeglio, also of Brookhampton Realty.

The Center Moriches Library on Main Street is under renovation to add about 50 percent more space, says director Nan Peel. Completion is anticipated by October.

Housing stock is eclectic and prices can range from the mid $200,000s to more than $1 million, Loiacono said.

Holiday Beach, a property owners' association, has a beach, boat ramp and marina.

CONDOS The Vineyards, a new 55 and older community with prices ranging from $399,999 to the $500,000s.

SALES PRICE From Jan. 1, 2011 to Feb. 27, 2012, there were 57 sales with a median sales price of $325,000, according to Multiple Listing Service of Long Island data. The low price was $126,000, and the high was $1,675,000. From Feb. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2010, there were 56 sales. The median sales price was $362,975 with a low of $150,000 and a high of $950,000.

ATTRACTIONS Kaler's Pond with new playground and plastic rock wall; Kaler's Pond Audubon Center offers wildlife preservation events and natural education; Terry-Ketcham Inn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places; Terrell River County Park. The Chamber of Commerce sponsors events including the St. Patrick's Day Parade, scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m.

BY THE NUMBERS

Town: Brookhaven

Area: 5 square miles

ZIP code: 11934

Population: 7,580

Median age: 39.5

Median household income: $92,375

Median home value: $325,000*

LIRR time to NYC: From Mastic-Shirley, 1 hour, 37 minutes to 1 hour, 51 minutes at peak

Monthly ticket: $395

School district: Center Moriches

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