Standing seam roof

Private Island Retreat With a New Luxury Cottage on the St. Lawrence River

A rare waterfront property in Hammond, New York, offers a lifestyle that is difficult to replicate in conventional real estate: a private island, a newly constructed contemporary cottage, expansive water views, and direct access to one of the most scenic recreational waterways in the region. Priced at $798,500, this distinctive property sits on approximately 0.25 acres in the Chippewa Bay and Thousand Islands area along the St. Lawrence River.

Built in 2023, the residence was designed as a modern cottage with a strong emphasis on comfort, low-maintenance living, and connection to the surrounding water and landscape. The property features three bedrooms, two bathrooms including one full bathroom and one half bathroom, an open floor plan, vaulted pine tongue-and-groove ceilings, laminate flooring, custom hickory cabinetry, leather-finished granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a portable butcher block island, a sleeping loft, and a main-level laundry room.

The exterior is equally distinctive. A standing seam metal roof, Marvin windows, covered porch, open deck, patio furniture, and a newly constructed native stone seawall surround the island property. The listing reports approximately 400 feet of waterfront frontage around the island, creating an unusually close relationship with the St. Lawrence River.

For buyers who enjoy boating, fishing, waterfront recreation, privacy, and the idea of owning a turnkey seasonal or year-round retreat, this property presents a unique opportunity. At the same time, island ownership comes with specialized considerations involving transportation, utilities, water, septic systems, shoreline maintenance, insurance, emergency access, and weather conditions.

A Private Island in the Thousand Islands Region

The defining feature of this property is its island location.

Rather than simply being a waterfront home with a view across the water, the residence is positioned on an approximately quarter-acre island. That creates a very different sense of privacy and separation from traditional residential properties.

The property is situated in the Chippewa Bay and Thousand Islands area along the St. Lawrence River, a region widely associated with boating, fishing, islands, scenic waterways, and recreational properties.

The setting allows the surrounding water to become part of everyday life.

From the windows of the cottage, owners can reportedly enjoy views of the river and surrounding natural scenery. The listing also mentions distant views of freighters, adding another distinctive visual element to the waterfront experience.

The island itself is approximately 110 by 120 feet according to the property dimensions, providing a compact but highly specialized residential setting.

A Newly Built 2023 Cottage

The residence was built in 2023, making it one of the property’s strongest characteristics.

Newer construction can offer advantages when compared with older waterfront cottages that may require extensive modernization. Here, the listing emphasizes that the home was completed with new materials, appliances, furnishings, and systems.

The cottage-style design combines contemporary finishes with natural materials and an informal waterfront aesthetic.

The goal appears to be a comfortable retreat where the owner can arrive, settle in, and spend time enjoying the river rather than undertaking a long renovation project.

The listing describes the property as fully turnkey and states that no work or repairs are needed. Prospective buyers should still perform an independent inspection, especially because waterfront structures are exposed to moisture, wind, temperature changes, and other environmental conditions.

Approximately 1,800 Square Feet of Structure

The property facts report approximately 1,800 square feet of total structure area.

The home provides three bedrooms, one full bathroom, one half bathroom, a sleeping loft, kitchen and dining areas, storage space, and laundry facilities.

The floor plan is designed to make efficient use of the interior while maintaining an open feeling.

For a private island property, approximately 1,800 square feet provides substantial living space without creating an unnecessarily large structure to maintain.

This can be particularly practical for a vacation property where the goal is to have comfortable accommodations while keeping maintenance manageable.

Three-Bedroom Layout

The cottage features three bedrooms.

The property facts indicate that at least one bedroom is located on the first floor, which can provide convenience for guests or household members who prefer to avoid stairs.

The home also includes a sleeping loft, adding another flexible area for overnight guests.

A three-bedroom layout can make the property suitable for a family retreat, a gathering place for friends, or a private getaway where additional guests can stay comfortably.

The actual sleeping capacity should be confirmed based on the configuration and applicable occupancy rules.

Open Floor Plan Concept

The interior is designed around an open floor plan.

The kitchen, dining area, and living spaces can therefore function as a connected central gathering area.

This arrangement is particularly appropriate for a waterfront retreat because it allows people to interact while preparing meals, dining, relaxing, and enjoying the views.

An open layout can also make the home feel larger than its square footage might suggest.

The vaulted ceiling further contributes to the sense of openness.

Instead of dividing the cottage into numerous small rooms, the design emphasizes shared spaces and visual connection.

Vaulted Pine Tongue-and-Groove Ceilings

One of the most attractive architectural details is the vaulted pine tongue-and-groove ceiling.

Natural pine adds warmth and texture to the interior while reinforcing the cottage character.

The vaulted design creates additional visual height and gives the main living area a more spacious appearance.

This combination of natural wood and contemporary finishes helps bridge the gap between rustic waterfront living and modern residential design.

For a property surrounded by water and nature, the material selection fits naturally with the setting.

Custom Hickory Cabinetry

The kitchen features custom-made hickory cabinetry.

Hickory is known for its distinctive grain patterns and natural variation, which can give cabinetry a highly individual appearance.

Custom cabinetry also allows storage to be tailored to the kitchen’s layout.

For a property designed around entertaining and extended stays, adequate kitchen storage can be especially important.

The hickory cabinetry complements the pine ceiling and creates a cohesive natural-material palette.

Leather-Finished Granite Countertops

The kitchen also includes leather-finished granite countertops.

This finish can provide a textured appearance that differs from highly polished stone surfaces.

Combined with the custom hickory cabinetry, the countertops create a kitchen that feels both upscale and appropriate for a casual lake or river retreat.

The kitchen is clearly one of the property’s major interior features and is designed to support both everyday meals and entertaining.

Stainless Steel Appliances

The home includes a selection of modern appliances.

The listing identifies a convection oven, electric cooktop, dishwasher, freezer, microwave, electric clothes dryer, washing machine, and electric water heater.

Having these appliances already installed contributes to the property’s turnkey character.

For a seasonal property, the availability of a complete kitchen and laundry setup can be particularly convenient because owners can arrive without needing to furnish or equip the home themselves.

Buyers should confirm the condition, age, warranties, and operating status of all appliances during inspection.

Portable Butcher Block Island

The kitchen includes a portable butcher block island.

Unlike a permanently installed island, a portable unit can potentially be repositioned depending on how the space is being used.

It can provide additional food-preparation space, casual serving space, or storage.

The butcher block surface also contributes to the home’s warm, cottage-inspired design.

Spacious Bathrooms

The property includes two bathrooms, consisting of one full bathroom and one half bathroom according to the property facts.

The listing specifically highlights spacious bathrooms with granite vanities.

The primary bathroom includes a walk-in ceramic-tiled shower.

A walk-in shower can be particularly convenient in a vacation property where ease of use is important.

The combination of granite surfaces and ceramic tile provides a more finished appearance than the basic fixtures often found in older seasonal cottages.

Main-Level Laundry

The home includes a dedicated laundry area on the main level.

The presence of a washer and dryer adds practical convenience for a waterfront retreat.

Boating, swimming, fishing, and outdoor activities can result in frequent clothing changes and laundry needs.

Having laundry facilities inside the residence means owners do not need to travel elsewhere to manage everyday household tasks.

Turnkey Furnishings

The listing states that all new high-end furniture is included.

This is particularly notable for a second home or vacation property.

Furnishing a new residence can be expensive, time-consuming, and logistically challenging, especially when the property is located on an island.

A furnished property allows the buyer to focus on enjoying the space rather than immediately purchasing beds, seating, tables, outdoor furniture, and other essentials.

The exact list of included furnishings should be confirmed in the purchase agreement.

Marvin Windows and Water Views

The property features Marvin windows, and the listing emphasizes that water and nature can be viewed from every window.

This is a central part of the home’s design philosophy.

Rather than treating the river as an occasional backdrop, the architecture appears designed to keep the surrounding landscape visible throughout the residence.

Natural light enters the interior while the windows provide changing views of the river, weather, boats, wildlife, and surrounding scenery.

For a waterfront home, this connection between interior and exterior spaces can be one of the most valuable design characteristics.

Covered Porch

The exterior includes a covered porch with patio furniture.

A covered porch provides a sheltered location for enjoying the waterfront without being completely exposed to sun or light rain.

It can serve as an outdoor living room during the warmer months.

Morning coffee, casual meals, conversations, reading, or simply watching boats pass can all become part of the porch experience.

Because the property is surrounded by water, the porch also provides another location from which to experience changing weather and seasonal scenery.

Open Deck for Sun and Water

In addition to the covered porch, the cottage has an open deck area.

The open deck is designed for enjoying sunshine and the water.

Together, the porch and deck create two different outdoor environments.

The covered area provides shade and shelter, while the open deck can be used for sunbathing, outdoor seating, entertaining, or simply enjoying the waterfront.

The listing indicates that patio furniture is included, further contributing to the property’s ready-to-use character.

A New Native Stone Seawall

The island is surrounded by a newly constructed native stone seawall measuring approximately 400 feet.

A seawall is a major feature on an island property because shoreline protection can play an important role in managing erosion and maintaining the edge of the property.

The native stone construction also fits the natural aesthetic of the river environment.

Because shoreline structures can be subject to permits and environmental regulations, buyers should obtain documentation concerning the seawall’s construction, approvals, maintenance requirements, and ownership responsibilities.

Approximately 400 Feet of Waterfront

The listing reports approximately 400 feet of waterfront around the island.

This is a significant amount of shoreline relative to the property’s quarter-acre land area.

The island configuration means that water surrounds much of the property, creating multiple perspectives and potentially different locations for enjoying the river.

The property facts identify the St. Lawrence River as the body of water and specifically describe the location as waterfront and island property.

Waterfront measurements should be verified through the survey and property documents.

Boating and Fishing

The listing describes the area as one of the best fishing and boating locations around.

The property’s island setting naturally supports a boating-oriented lifestyle.

Fishing enthusiasts may enjoy convenient access to the river, while boat owners can use the surrounding waterways for recreation and exploration.

Before purchasing, however, buyers should investigate docking arrangements, boat access, navigation conditions, seasonal water levels, local regulations, and any rights or restrictions associated with the waterfront.

The property itself should be evaluated for safe access and practical boat transportation.

The Thousand Islands Lifestyle

The Thousand Islands area is known for its combination of waterways and islands, creating a recreational environment centered around boating and outdoor activities.

A private island home allows the owner to experience that environment directly rather than simply visiting it.

The surrounding river can become an extension of the property.

Instead of driving to a lake or marina for every outing, owners can begin their recreational experience from their own waterfront setting.

That distinction can make an island property particularly attractive to people whose primary interest is spending time on the water.

Distant Freighter Views

The listing mentions distant views of freighters.

Large commercial vessels moving along the river can add another visual dimension to the landscape.

Watching boats and freighters from the property can provide a constantly changing waterfront scene.

Combined with natural views and surrounding islands, the river offers a dynamic backdrop throughout the year.

River-Drawn Water System

The property facts report river-drawn water.

This is an important utility characteristic that should be carefully investigated by prospective buyers.

River water systems can require specialized filtration and treatment to ensure suitable household water quality.

The buyer should confirm the exact system configuration, filtration equipment, maintenance requirements, permits, testing history, and operating costs.

The listing emphasizes high-quality construction throughout the property, but independent verification of all utility systems remains essential.

High-Capacity Septic System

The property includes what the listing describes as a new high-capacity septic system.

A modern septic system is particularly important for a waterfront property because wastewater management must be handled responsibly.

The buyer should obtain records concerning the system’s design, capacity, installation, approvals, inspection history, and maintenance requirements.

Any future expansion of the residence or changes in occupancy should be evaluated against the septic system’s permitted capacity.

Electric Utility

Electricity is available on the property, and the listing indicates that electric service is on the property.

Reliable power is essential for the home’s appliances, water treatment, septic equipment, heating or cooling systems, lighting, and other infrastructure.

Island properties can have unique utility considerations, so buyers should determine how electricity reaches the island, who maintains the connection, and what happens during severe weather or outages.

A Metal Standing Seam Roof

The cottage has a standing seam metal roof.

Metal roofing can be well suited to seasonal weather conditions and can offer durability when properly installed and maintained.

The standing seam design also gives the home a contemporary appearance.

The roof should still be inspected for condition, fasteners, flashing, penetrations, drainage, and any evidence of weather-related damage.

Low-Maintenance Design

The listing repeatedly emphasizes that the property is maintenance-free and turnkey.

While no property is completely maintenance-free, newer construction can reduce the immediate renovation burden compared with older waterfront homes.

The 2023 construction date, new seawall, new septic system, modern kitchen, newer windows, furnishings, and finished outdoor spaces all contribute to the property’s ready-to-use character.

Routine maintenance will still be necessary, particularly because island homes face exposure to water, wind, snow, freezing temperatures, and seasonal environmental conditions.

A Vacation Home or Private Escape

The property could naturally function as a vacation home.

The island setting creates a sense of escape, while the three-bedroom cottage provides enough space for family and guests.

Owners could potentially use the property for weekends, holidays, extended summer stays, or other personal recreation.

The turnkey furnishings make spontaneous visits easier because much of the infrastructure is already established.

Whether the property can be used as a short-term rental should be verified with local authorities, insurance providers, and any applicable property restrictions.

Potential Rental Considerations

Waterfront vacation properties sometimes attract buyers interested in rental income.

The location, private island setting, modern construction, and recreational features could potentially make the property appealing to vacation renters.

However, rental use should never be assumed.

Before purchasing with an investment strategy in mind, buyers should verify zoning, local rental regulations, insurance requirements, occupancy limitations, lease or community restrictions if applicable, and any rules governing commercial activity.

A realistic financial analysis should also include cleaning, maintenance, utilities, property management, taxes, insurance, platform fees, seasonal occupancy, and transportation considerations.

Understanding the $798,500 Asking Price

The property is listed at $798,500, while the Zillow Zestimate is reported at $774,500.

The difference between those figures is relatively modest, but neither figure should be interpreted as a guarantee of market value.

Private island properties can be difficult to compare with conventional residential real estate because the value is influenced by factors such as waterfront frontage, island ownership, construction quality, privacy, boating access, seawall improvements, water systems, and the availability of comparable properties.

Prospective buyers should examine recent comparable sales and obtain professional local market advice.

Annual Property Taxes

The listing reports an annual tax amount of approximately $5,816 and a tax-assessed value of $220,000.

Tax-assessed value and market value are different concepts, and the assessment should not be used as a direct substitute for a current appraisal.

Buyers should confirm the current tax bill, assessment methodology, and whether any future reassessment could occur after the transaction.

Insurance for an Island Property

Insurance deserves particular attention.

An island property can involve specialized risks related to waterfront exposure, storms, flooding, wind, winter conditions, access, docks or seawalls, and emergency response.

Prospective buyers should obtain insurance quotes before committing to the purchase.

The insurer should be informed that the property is located on an island and should receive accurate information about the residence, seawall, utilities, water system, septic system, and any other structures.

The availability and cost of coverage can affect the overall affordability of the property.

Winter and Seasonal Considerations

Hammond is located in northern New York, where seasonal weather can be an important consideration for any waterfront property.

A buyer should understand how the residence is maintained during winter and whether it is intended for year-round occupancy or primarily seasonal use.

Questions about heating, insulation, water systems, septic protection, access, snow, ice, and winterization should be answered before purchase.

The listing does not provide extensive detail about the heating system, so that information should be confirmed during due diligence.

Island Access and Transportation

The listing describes easy access even for mainland purchasers.

Nevertheless, island ownership naturally requires more attention to transportation than a conventional mainland home.

Buyers should determine exactly how they reach the property, where vehicles can be parked, how supplies are transported, how guests arrive, and what arrangements are available during different seasons.

If boat transportation is required at any point, the buyer should understand the costs and practical requirements.

Emergency access should also be investigated.

The Importance of Due Diligence

Although the listing presents the property as turnkey, buyers should still conduct a thorough inspection.

Important areas include:

• Foundation and structural components
• Roof
• Windows and doors
• Electrical service
• Plumbing
• River-drawn water system
• Filtration equipment
• Septic system
• Heating and cooling
• Appliances
• Seawall
• Decks
• Porch
• Shoreline
• Drainage
• Property boundaries
• Waterfront rights
• Island access
• Insurance
• Tax records
• Environmental requirements

A professional inspection can help confirm that the property matches the listing description.

A Rare Combination of Modern Comfort and Nature

What makes this property especially distinctive is the combination of modern construction and a highly natural setting.

The cottage was built in 2023 and includes high-end finishes, modern appliances, custom cabinetry, contemporary windows, a metal roof, and a new septic system.

At the same time, the residence is surrounded by water and nature.

The result is a property that can provide the comforts of a modern home without giving up the secluded atmosphere associated with a private island.

Final Thoughts on This Private Island Property

At $798,500, this Hammond, New York property offers a rare opportunity to own a private island retreat in the Chippewa Bay and Thousand Islands area along the St. Lawrence River.

The approximately 0.25-acre island is home to a 2023-built cottage with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, including one full bathroom and one half bathroom. The residence offers approximately 1,800 square feet of structure area, an open floor plan, vaulted pine tongue-and-groove ceilings, laminate flooring, custom hickory cabinetry, leather-finished granite countertops, modern stainless steel appliances, a sleeping loft, and main-level laundry.

The exterior is equally compelling.

A standing seam metal roof, Marvin windows, covered porch, open deck, patio furniture, and extensive native stone seawall surround the residence. The property facts report approximately 400 feet of waterfront along the St. Lawrence River.

The waterfront itself is a major component of the lifestyle.

The listing highlights fishing and boating, while the island setting provides direct immersion in the surrounding river environment. Views from the property reportedly include water, nature, and distant freighters.

The home also includes a high-capacity septic system, river-drawn water, electricity, and modern household appliances. These systems should all be independently inspected and verified, particularly because island infrastructure can involve specialized maintenance requirements.

The property’s turnkey character may appeal to buyers who do not want to spend years renovating an older waterfront cottage. The listing states that everything is new and high quality and that no work or repairs are required.

Nevertheless, the best way to approach a property like this is with careful professional due diligence.

Potential buyers should review the water system, septic system, shoreline improvements, seawall documentation, insurance availability, property taxes, access arrangements, winterization requirements, waterfront rights, and any applicable regulations.

For someone looking for a conventional suburban home, this property is clearly a different type of real estate purchase. Its value is tied not only to the residence but also to the private island setting, extensive waterfront, recreational opportunities, privacy, modern construction, and unique character.

For a buyer who values boating, fishing, nature, waterfront scenery, and a private retreat, the property provides a setting where the river becomes part of everyday life.

The combination of a newly built cottage, high-end furnishings, custom kitchen, sleeping loft, multiple outdoor spaces, modern infrastructure, and approximately 400 feet of shoreline makes this one of the more distinctive types of residential properties available in the region.

Rather than simply owning a house near the water, the future owner would have the opportunity to experience an island-centered lifestyle on the St. Lawrence River.

 

Listed on Zillow.