Laffey Knows Long Island Living

There are so many good reasons to shop at farmers markets. First, it's just fun to walk around and see all the local goods for sale. You also support the local economy, meet the people who grow your food, and purchase fresh produce to enjoy at home. Our real estate agents know the local farmer's market scene and recommend stopping by the following markets on Long Island.

• Babylon Village Farmers Market: 126 N. Carll Ave., Babylon, NY 11702
  The Babylon Village Farmers Market is held in the Babylon Train Station parking lot. It's held every Sunday from 8 am-noon June 15-November 20.

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Whether you're moving out of state, to a different city, or just across town, packing and cleaning for the move can feel like an overwhelming task that's too big to tackle. To make things less stressful, our real estate agents recommend getting organized and prepared before you begin.

If you've sold your Long Island home, there's a lot to do before you move on. Here's a list of helpful tips for making packing and cleaning a breeze.

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Downsizing can simplify life, whether you're an empty nester or looking to get into the tiny home trend. A smaller house means less upkeep, lower bills, and more time and money to do the things you love.

Our real estate agents can smoothen your transition to a smaller space by helping you find a home that's perfect for you.

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With the temperatures finally getting warm consistently, there's no better time to plan a project in your yard or garden. You may want to add some plants, install a pond, add a retaining wall, or make another type of improvement. To get the supplies you'll need and some help and advice, stop by a landscaping supply business around Long Island.

Our real estate agents recommend visiting the following destinations to find the landscaping supplies you need.

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It's never a bad time for ice cream. However, some days seem made for it. June 7th is National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, so why not celebrate with a cup or a cone? If you're new to the area, our real estate agents can help you find your way around and get what you need. Here are our picks for the best places to get chocolate ice cream on Long Island.

• Itgen's Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlour - 211 Rockaway Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580
  This gem is a great place for lunch, but an even better place for ice cream. Itgen's serves up sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and other typical diner food. They also have a variety of ice cream flavors, including chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, vanilla fudge, and more. And they have an even wider variety of toppings, from hot fudge and butterscotch to pineapple syrup and candied walnuts. You'll definitely want to try their Death by Chocolate sundae: double chocolate chip ice cream, hot fudge sauce, whipped cream, and chocolate sprinkles.

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Bidding wars occur when housing inventory is low in a popular location. It occurs when two or more buyers are interested in the property. As a buyer, it's not advisable to rely solely on the seller's agent when you find yourself in a bidding war; you should have your own home-buying pro. Our real estate agents are ready to negotiate on your behalf to help you navigate this tricky process.

In today's competitive market, houses in all locations and price ranges are receiving multiple offers, and bidding wars are becoming a lot more frequent. Sometimes, a listing can be purposely underpriced to trigger a bidding war. One of the primary reasons longtime home searchers find it difficult to close on a home is because they end up outbid repeatedly.

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As we approach the warmest time of the year, adjust your outdoor space to match the summer. Your outdoor space is more valuable during summer, and you need to get it ready in anticipation of entertaining your friends and family. Hosting a festive outdoor party filled with fun and laughter involves more than moving your indoor party to your patio. Our real estate agents recommend these tips to get your outdoor space ready for summer entertaining.

1. Up the Ambience by Adding Outdoor Lighting
   Most outdoor events begin in the evening and transition into the night. Therefore, it's important to have adequate lighting. Create some ambiance by adding outdoor lighting like garden stake lights to light up pathways. Backyard uplighting or pool lighting will light up the night and add a beautiful aesthetic. You can choose to add the tiki torches, a summer classic, or the battery-operated candles. Light some citronella candles around the seating area to keep bugs away.

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Director Quentin Tarantino once declared that hamburgers are the cornerstone of a nutritious breakfast. There's no wrong time for a burger, especially in May during National Hamburger Month. Join our real estate agents in exploring the range of unique burgers at these restaurants around Long Island. 

1. American Burger Co. - 80 E. Main St., Smithtown, NY 11787
   A certain fast-food chain urged us to "Have it your way," and American Burger Co. takes personalization to a whole new level. Their 1/3-pound patties blend chuck, sirloin, and ground beef, cooked to your preferred doneness. Choose your favorite bun, cheese, and toppings, or try one of their specialty options, such as the Philly Cheesesteak. Feeling adventurous after a day viewing Smithtown homes for sale? Go with a Wagyu truffle, bison chipotle, or lamb harissa patty. Hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.

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