Great River is a small, historic village located within the Town of Islip in Suffolk County, New York. As with any location, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider when buying property in Great River.

Advantages:
- Great River is a quiet, family-friendly community with a strong sense of community and local pride.
- The village is situated along the Connetquot River, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
- Residents of Great River have access to top-rated schools in the neighboring communities of Islip and East Islip.
- The village is conveniently located near major highways, such as the Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway, making it easy to travel to other parts of Long Island or New York City.
- The housing stock in Great River is diverse, ranging from historic homes to modern, newly-constructed properties.

Disadvantages:
- The cost of living in Suffolk County is generally higher than the national average, which can make buying property in Great River more expensive than in other areas.
- The village is located in a flood-prone area, which can increase the risk of property damage from storms and other natural disasters.
- While Great River is close to major highways, it can still be a somewhat isolated community, and residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for certain types of goods and services.

Overall, Great River can be an attractive option for homebuyers looking for a quiet, waterfront community with a strong sense of community and access to outdoor recreation opportunities. However, the higher cost of living and risk of flooding are important factors to consider when making a decision about whether to buy property in the village.