Famed Sex Therapist Dr. Ruth’s Stunning New York Lake House Is Listed for Rent—2 Months After Her Death

by Jennifer Kelly Geddes

Getty Images; Realtor.com

Beloved sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer‘s stunning New York lake house is on the rental market for a monthly rate of $6,500—two months after the boundary-breaking sexual health advocate died.

Perched right on the water in Putnam Valley, NY, the 2,512-square-foot home offers three bedrooms and two baths.

Dr. Ruth, who died in July at the age of 96, fled Nazi Germany and moved to New York City in 1956, ultimately settling down in Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood, where she lived for six decades.

But when she wanted an escape from her busy city life, the sex guru made her way to this sylvan retreat, which not only offers some celebrity cachet but also many picture-perfect amenities behind its doors.

Airy cathedral ceilings crown the open layout in the main space, which includes the living room with a huge stone fireplace, the dining area, and kitchen. The elegant cook space is bright and attractive, with stainless steel appliances and a large island with seating.

PASADENA, CA - FEBRUARY 11: Dr. Ruth Westheimer of 'Ask Dr. Ruth' speaks onstage during the Hulu Panel during the Winter TCA 2019 on February 11, 2019 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for Hulu)
Iconic sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s New York lake house is up for rent—two months after her death.

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The home was built in 1978.

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The open-concept layout is airy and spacious.

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The primary suite is on the second floor, and the home also offers a den and family room. Full bathrooms are located on each level. But the reason for renting is clearly the pretty property and lake access. A big deck and a stone patio are perfectly positioned for viewing the water.

This spot is ideal for a water enthusiast or anyone looking for a leafy hideaway. Take full advantage of Lake Oscawana’s calm waters as you kayak, swim, boat, or canoe,—activities Dr. Ruth and her family are all said to have enjoyed during their decades-long ownership of the property.

“The surrounding landscape is adorned with charm and tranquility and designed for privacy,” the property’s listing states. “This retreat combines comfort with the beauty of nature along with outdoor activities such as motorized boating, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, jet skis, and more.”

Dr. Ruth got her start rather late in life, in her 50s, when she worked at a radio station in New York City answering questions from listeners about sex and relationships. She spoke frankly about sex, without judgment, giving the facts and encouraging people to discuss the topic freely and openly.

Her fame continued to grow when she launched her eponymous TV show, before going on to host three programs and pen more than two dozen books. Her last publication, titled “The Joy of Connections,” was released six weeks after her death and is aimed at helping people stave off loneliness and make friends.

Dr. Ruth is survived by her two children, Miriam and Joel, who she shared with her late husband, Fred Westheimer, who died in 1997 from complications of a stroke.

 

The decor feels midcentury in most rooms.

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There are full bathrooms on each floor.

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Mature trees surround the house.

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This deck has room for a table and porch swing.

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The patio leads to the lawn at the water’s edge.

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