642 West 138th Street presents a rare opportunity to own a classic Harlem townhouse on a picturesque, tree lined block between Broadway and Riverside Drive in the heart of Hamilton Heights.
Built in 1901, this well maintained single family townhouse is currently configured with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a dedicated home office, offering a flexible layout for modern living. The property also provides the option to convert to a two family configuration, giving future owners additional flexibility for rental income, multigenerational living, or a separate guest residence.
One of the property's most compelling features is its long term development potential. With a maximum buildable area of approximately 7,885 square feet, there is an opportunity to substantially increase the existing footprint. Located outside of a historic district, the property also offers greater freedom to reimagine and customize the exterior, subject to applicable zoning and building approvals.
The home is fully electric and benefits from exceptionally low annual property taxes of under $6,000, an increasingly rare advantage for a Manhattan townhouse.
The location combines residential charm with exceptional accessibility. The 1 train at 137th Street City College is just one block away, providing a convenient commute to Midtown and throughout Manhattan. Riverside Park and Riverbank State Park are nearby, offering waterfront paths, green space, recreation, and access to the Hudson River.
The surrounding neighborhood continues to benefit from major institutional anchors, including Columbia University's expanding Manhattanville campus, The City College of New York, and NewYork Presbyterian Hospital.
Whether you're looking for a spacious primary residence, the flexibility of a two family home, or a townhouse with meaningful expansion potential, 642 West 138th Street offers a unique combination of location, versatility, low carrying costs, and future upside in one of Hamilton Heights' most desirable residential pockets.