Elm Hollow offers shingle and Tudor homes around a village green, while Brookside offers tree-lined greenway streets and mid-century cottages. Both have their own character; the right choice depends on the kind of home, outdoor space and daily routine you want.
Homes and lots
Elm Hollow: Shingle-style and Tudor houses with deep porches are the signature here, along with Colonial Revival and Arts and Crafts designs, most on mature lots. A smaller number of attached homes and apartments sit near the square.
Brookside: Expect brick and siding ranches, cape cods, split-levels and cottages, usually on modest, level lots. Several blocks have been thoughtfully expanded with rear additions and second stories, and a few newer infill homes mix in.
Things to do
Elm Hollow: Hollow Green hosts a weekend market in warm months and an evening concert series. Cafes, a bookshop and a bakery are a short stroll from most addresses, and a leafy loop trail circles the neighborhood edge.
Brookside: The Brookside Trail connects playgrounds, a community garden and a small amphitheater. A cluster of casual restaurants and a hardware store anchor the main crossing, and the neighborhood hosts a spring trail clean-up day.
Getting around
Elm Hollow: A main avenue links Elm Hollow to downtown, and local bus routes stop near the green. Cyclists use a marked route toward Brookside.
Brookside: Two collector roads connect Brookside to the central city, and the trail is a practical bike route to Elm Hollow and Ashford Park.
What to check before buying
Elm Hollow: Many homes are a century old, so choose an inspector comfortable with plaster, original windows and older wiring. Some blocks have design guidelines for exterior changes; ask for them before planning an addition. Well-kept homes draw steady interest, so alerts and an early pre-approval help.
Brookside: Check the grade and drainage near the greenway, and ask about any known drainage history; an inspection of the lower level is worth requesting before you write an offer. Single-level layouts are common and tend to be popular with a wide range of buyers.
How to decide
Tour both on the same day, at the same time, and compare how each fits your routine. Use our checklist, then read each full guide: Elm Hollow and Brookside.
Frequently asked questions
Which has larger lots, Elm Hollow or Brookside?
Elm Hollow features mature lots; Brookside features level lots. Your agent can show examples of each.
Can I tour both in one day?
Yes. Our agents regularly plan back-to-back neighborhood tours.
Sources
- Your local assessor, recorder or municipal office (confirm current rules)
- A licensed attorney, tax professional or lender for your situation
- The local MLS and your Northfield Realty agent for current market conditions
Talk with a Northfield agent
Whether you are buying, selling or just exploring, we are happy to answer questions. No pressure, just good advice.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Programs, rates and regulations change; please confirm details with a licensed professional. Northfield Realty is committed to the Fair Housing Act and equal opportunity in housing. Back to all articles.