If you’ve spent time exploring all that Westchester has to offer, chances are you’ve come across Melissa Colabella, a seasoned realtor, passionate community builder, and a go-to guide for discovering both your family home and the standout features of a neighborhood or village in Westchester County. With a personal experience in home construction (you'll see a love of homes runs in the family) and a background in interior design, Melissa brings a sharp eye, deep knowledge, and genuine care to every client experience. We’ve loved teaming up to spotlight the best of Westchester—from weekend adventures to community features because we’re both connectors at heart. Whether you're hunting for your forever home, a new spot to explore, or the perfect Sunday plan with your family, Melissa knows how to match people with places that feel just right.
I'm excited to feature her here in this edition's Local Business Spotlight and encourage you to reach out to her if you are considering buying or selling a home.
What is the story behind your business? How did you get started?
I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of “home”—not just the physical space, but the entitlement it represents, the lifestyle it creates, and the business behind it.
I grew up in Westchester. In high school, I read Mole People and learned about the thousands of people living in tunnels in NYC, which changed my perspective on the entitlement of having any home at all. My father, who owned Colabella Builders, developed homes until the late '80s, and I watched him struggle when the recession hit. I grew up understanding the idea of a "dream home" as any home that didn’t leave you bankrupt. Later in life, I attended the graduate program at The New York School of Interior Design with the dream of developing my own brand of homes. There, I learned that you can design at any budget as long as you maintain a strong concept.
I believe this holds true for lifestyle as well. You can live the lifestyle you want in Westchester County at any budget if you break the hold of what your vision tells you it needs to look like.
I started off staging homes for my former manager at Sotheby’s. I remember the owner telling my boss that after my changes, they didn't want to move! That’s when I realized the power of thoughtful design in shaping how people experience a home. I also realized that I was in the wrong business!
I created Destination Westchester to make the transition from NYC living easier, clearer, and exciting. There's so much to love about Westchester, and I help buyers and sellers navigate their decisions with confidence—whether it's finding the right town, maximizing a home's value, or making a move that truly fits their lifestyle.
What are some fun facts about you or your business?
I can help you find the Westchester town that truly fits your personality—because each one has its own unique vibe.
Think of my Instagram (@DestinationWestchester) as your personal cheat sheet for Westchester real estate. Follow along for local insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and a glimpse into life as a mom balancing it all.
Real estate isn’t just a job for me—it’s a more than full-time career that I pour everything into. While you might catch me at The Tiny Mess Club with my kids on occasion, what you don’t see are the late nights, weekends, and countless hours of strategy and administrative support that drive my business.
What does your business offer its' customers?
For sellers: I use Compass' cutting-edge tools to get your home sold faster and for more money, with marketing that makes buyers fall in love before they even step inside.
For buyers: I help you navigate Westchester’s many towns, schools, and hidden costs so you land the right home without regrets.
For anyone moving to Westchester: I provide honest, local insights (no sugarcoating!) to help you find your perfect fit.
I also provide connections wherever I can so you can get more than one person's opinion.
Who does your business serve?
Short answer—everyone. Long answer—if I determine that the specialty you need is beyond what I can offer, I will either collaborate or connect you with the right person. My expertise is local but my network is vast. I collaborate with agents multiple times a week via Zoom not only around Westchester County but also around the country.
What are you most proud of?
I love when past clients tell me that moving to Westchester totally changed their life—that their kids love their new community, that they’ve made new friends, and that I was the catalyst in helping them source this chapter in their lives.
Anything else you would like to share?
Over the past decade, I’ve learned that many people still believe outdated real estate rules. We trust our parents but some of our parents haven't transacted since the 90's and I promise you things have changed. It can be hard to let go of beliefs that no longer serve them in today’s market.
If you have the earliest thought of moving or selling in Westchester, I invite you to call me for an honest conversation about your options—no pressure, just guidance. For every person I’ve advised to sell now, I’ve told just as many that a move isn’t the right choice for them at this time.
Would you like to include any incentives for MacaroniKID subscribers?
Yes. Homeowners: Email me to sign up to receive quarterly Real Estate Reviews based on your specific market. For Buyers- a complimentary town itinerary for any town they are curious to know more about plus a complimentary buyer's consultation to advise on their individual needs.
Be in Touch!
Email: Melissa.Colabella@Compass.com
Website: https://destinationwestchester.com/
