Articles Tagged "Laffey Real Estate"
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30
5 Benefits of Adding Solar Panels
Thinking of how you might save a little money in 2023? How about cutting some energy costs? In our region, where the heating season can be rather long, we must cut back on electricity, gas, or heating oil use to realize cost savings. Although it's not easy to save when the weather is cold, there are various means to reduce energy bills. Surprisingly, one of the best ways to cut down on electricity use is by adding solar panels.
23
Up Your Dinner Game With These Cooking Classes
"Learn a new skill" and "eat healthy" are among the top ten most common New Year's resolutions. Our real estate agents plan to cross both off their lists with cooking classes at these convenient locations around Long Island.
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Long Island: Where to Celebrate National Bacon Day
According to Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli, bacon is special because it appeals to all of our senses. All our real estate agents know is that it tastes amazing. Celebrate Bacon Day on Friday, December 30 with a tasty meal at one of these great Long Island restaurants.
12
Easy Recipes for Holiday Cookie Baking
Most of us don't need a reason to bake up a yummy batch of cookies, but National Bake Cookies Day gives us a perfect reason to indulge. Since Bake Cookies Day happens during the Christmas holidays on December 18th, our real estate agents think it's a great way to celebrate your sweet tooth and enjoy the holidays with family and friends.
5
5 Long Island Candy Shops to Fill Your Stockings
There's nothing quite like a classic New York candy shop. From the fun interior to the wide selection of treats and nostalgic candy, visiting your local shop can be fun for both kids and adults. Plus, with the holidays coming up, a trip to the candy store is a great way to stock up on Christmas treats. Our real estate agents recommend visiting one of these Long Island candy shops.
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7 Tips for Holiday Decorating on a Budget
The holidays are a fun, festive time of year, but let's face it: They can also put a substantial dent in your budget. Fortunately, when it comes to decorating, you don't have to forego festive decor to save some money. With a little creativity, you can deck your home out for the holidays while staying on a budget.
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Energy-Saving Tips for Homeowners
With the cost of natural gas predicted to rise more than 30 percent over last year, homeowners throughout the country are bracing for big heating bills this winter. In addition to higher energy prices, demand could outpace supply, and winter weather could be slightly colder than last year.
14
One-of-a-Kind Gift Shops Around Long Island
As the holiday season approaches, it's a good idea to do more of your shopping at small and local businesses. These businesses are the backbone of our local economies, owned and operated by members of our own communities. Small Business Saturday, which is coming up on November 26, is the perfect opportunity to shop local. Here are some of the local stores our real estate agents recommend visiting on the occasion.
7
Put These Holiday Events on Your Calendar
Ready or not, the holiday season is just around the corner, and it's the most wonderful time of the year. It's not too early to start getting yourself into the holiday spirit. Our real estate agents love kicking off the holidays by attending a local event. From immersive light displays to holiday markets, there is a lot to do around Long Island, so you'll need to plan ahead. Here are some top events you'll want to add to your calendar this year.
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Repairs Before Listing: Addressing Common Problems
With home values at historic highs, many homeowners are rushing to put their houses on the market to take advantage of the increase in their equity. But our real estate agents want to caution sellers that hasty decisions can mean necessary repairs can go unidentified and delay closing the sale. A pre-inspection can be a worthwhile investment and reveal issues that can be resolved before listing.
24
Holiday Road Races and Where to Prep for Them
The holiday season always brings plenty of opportunities to run on Long Island! With lots of great holiday 5k walks and runs coming up, our real estate agents are excited to share some of their favorites.
And if you're looking for someplace to get in shape for your next big race, then you're in luck. Long Island is also home to some great trails and greenways where you can practice. So lace up your shoes, and get ready to hit the pavement in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
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Long Island: Where You Can Make a Difference
Did you know that October 22 is National Make a Difference Day? The idea behind Make a Difference Day is that every small bit of support can make a difference in someone's life and that everyone can do their part. This is the 30th Make a Difference Day since it was originally established in 1992, presenting the perfect opportunity to show your support to some of the many non-profit organizations on Long Island that make a difference in the lives of others every day. Our real estate agents have the details on five Long Island non-profit organizations to consider for Make a Difference Day this year.
- Rebuilding Together Long Island – 208 NY-109, Ste. 204, Farmingdale, NY 11735
Dedicated to helping homeowners in need with necessary repairs, maintenance, and rebuilding efforts, Rebuilding Together Long Island has a network of 250 volunteers with a home base near Farmingdale homes for sale. You can become a member of that large network of volunteers to help make vital repairs, revitalize communities, and rebuild lives. Unable to volunteer? Rebuilding Together is also always in need of donations and sponsors for projects of all sizes.
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As Is: 10 Tips for a 'No-Demo' Reno Project
If you're craving a home overhaul, you may hesitate to go through a demolition's time, expense, upheaval, and mess. You can still make your home more beautiful and functional with a renovation project that avoids many of the negatives associated with a demo.
Our real estate agents suggest 10 tips for a successful "no-demo" reno project.
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Long Island: Where to Stop for Coffee Oct. 1
For many of us, coffee is the elixir of life. It's hard to start the day without it. And October 1st is International Coffee Day. What better way to celebrate than by enjoying a cup at your favorite coffee shop? Of course, this can be more difficult if you've just moved to a new area. Our real estate agents can help you find the perfect house, but where are the coffee shops nearby? We've got you covered. Here are our picks for the best places in Long Island to stop for coffee on October 1st.
- Bean Coffee House - 17 Fire Island Ave., Babylon, NY 11702
Located near Babylon homes for sale, Bean Coffee House imports coffee beans from all over the world. That includes French Roast, Sumatra Mandheling, Columbia Supremo, Ethiopia Longberry Harrar, and many others. All their coffee is fair trade and delicious. If you're a coffee fan who appreciates the nuances of different varieties, this is the place for you.
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How to Bridge the Gap Between Buying and Selling
Our real estate agents know that financing is one of a homebuyer's biggest worries. It continues to be a concern even on your second or third home. In fact, homeowners have unique challenges when it comes to selling their existing home and buying a new one!
When there's a gap between the time you close on a new home and closing day on your existing one, it can introduce real financial peril. In many cases, this can stretch your budget to the breaking point. But even if the timing doesn't line up perfectly, you still have options you can pursue.
One of those is the bridge loan.
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4 Things You Shouldn't Do Before Buying a Home
When it comes to buying a home, planning is essential. The sooner you get started, the better. That is especially true for most buyers who will need some financing to meet their goals. Our real estate agents are always glad to clear up your questions and make homebuying easier.
You don't have to have the perfect credit score or a huge down payment saved up to buy a home, but there are some things you should avoid doing. While lenders have a lot of leeway in deciding who to offer financing to, there are some issues that they simply won't be able to overlook.
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Suffolk County: Indulge in Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts are a favorite treat in the Suffolk County area of New York, and although you can often buy them fresh year-round, they're an especially good fall treat. The cake-like donuts are flavored with apple cider as well as spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to create a deliciously unique flavor.
Our real estate agents suggest visiting the following farms and farm stands in and near Suffolk County to indulge in apple cider donuts.
2
5 Tips to Ensure Your Home's Showing Is a Success
The purpose of showing your home is to hook a buyer. You want the buyers to come through your house and be impressed - so impressed in fact, that they're ready to make an offer! You'll have one chance to make a great first impression on the potential buyers, so make sure to follow these five helpful tips to really make it count!
- Focus on the outside. Make sure that you don't neglect the outside of your home. Curb appeal can make or break the odds of someone even bothering to get out of the car to come in. If they pull up and see a home with a lawn that obviously needs edging and has an unkempt flower bed, they're going to wonder what else hasn't been cared for properly. You want the outside of your home to be spotless. Clean the siding, the windows, and the doors. Make sure there are no dirt smudges, no cobwebs and that anything that needs painting has been spiffed up.
- Take yourself out of the house. That means that you want to take out all the personal stuff. Remove the family photos from the wall or tables. You want the home to look neutral so that the potential buyers can look at your house and picture it as themselves living there. Everything should be as neutral as possible in terms of personal items.
- Remove all the extra clutter you see at first glance. If you look around, it'll amaze you at how much stuff you've accumulated over the years. Some of it might very well be important, but that doesn't mean that your potential buyers should see it. When you have a lot of clutter, it shrinks the living space of the house. It makes it look and feel cramped and smaller. Many homeowners get something called house blindness. They've lived in the home for so long with the same clutter that they don't even really see it anymore. But a stranger will always notice. So clean out your house and make the space as big as possible.
- If you have a pet, no one that walks through your house should be able to notice it exists. That means no cat litter box, no dog to jump on anyone, no food sitting around in a dish. Your home should not have any pet odors. Having a clean house that's odor free is a big selling point. You don't want to lose a possible deal just because they can smell your pet's presence or your pet makes a bad impression.
- Stage your home! You can hire a professional or you can do it yourself. Stage your living areas in a way that shows off your home. You can rent furniture to make your home furnishings look good if you don't use a stager. Someone who knows how to stage a house knows how to play up the best features of your home and knows what to bring in or get rid of to make the entire house appeal to a buyer.
First impressions are HUGE when showing you home to potential buyers, but by following the simple tips above you will be well on your way to making a great impression and, hopefully, receiving multiple offers! (And if you are at all anxious about this important step, just reach out to a trusted real estate agent in your area who can help guide you through this process!)
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5 Fall Festivals to Put on Your Calendar
Fall is a wonderful time for festivals around Long Island, with something to suit every taste and member of the family. With events celebrating the fall harvest, culinary culture of Long Island, and the communities we love to call home, there's something new to enjoy nearly every weekend throughout the fall. Our real estate agents have all the exciting details on five fall festivals that you won't want to miss around Long Island.
- Long Island Harvest Festival – 1770 W. Main St., Riverhead, NY 11901
The theme of this year's Long Island Harvest Festival is Apples, Pumpkins & Mums, Oh My! This year's event will take place on September 25, 2022, from 10 am to 5 pm at the Tangiers Outlets in Riverhead. Adults will love the food from local restaurants, classically trained chefs, and food trucks, along with drinks from local breweries and vineyards. There will also be some great details available at the shops. For younger attendees, there will be fun lawn games, live, interactive entertainment, and special attractions like the Bubble Palooza Bubble Bash.
23
Have You Tried These Outdoor Cleaning Hacks?
If you feel like your outdoor spaces constantly look messy, it's time to revamp your cleaning routine. A clean exterior helps your home look its best while making it more appealing to potential homebuyers. Our real estate agents encourage you to follow these hacks for cleaning your outdoor areas.
- Invest in a Pressure Washer
A pressure washer is a smart addition to your arsenal of home cleaning products. Instead of relying on expensive, potentially dangerous chemicals, a pressure washer uses a powerful stream of water to clean your home's exterior areas.
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Closing Day: What Sellers Should Expect
Closing day is a big deal! It's a culmination of all your hard work: getting your house ready to sell, going through the work of keeping it clean and staged for showings, and negotiating with your buyer. It's normal to be both excited and nervous about closing day, especially if you haven't closed on a property as the seller before.
Fortunately, things rarely go wrong on closing day, especially when you have our real estate agents guiding you through the process. Here is a rundown of everything you need to know about the big day.
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Long Island: 5 Destinations for Bookworms
From light beach reads to page-turning thrillers, getting lost in a book is the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon. And with so many independent bookstores around Long Island, your new favorite novel might just be a few blocks away.
Long Island was home to many great authors, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Truman Capote, and even poet Walt Whitman. This area's literary legacy lives on through our dozens of independent bookstores, which have become important community assets. These shops not only provide an excellent inventory of literature but also serve as neighborhood gathering spaces, promote learning, and host local events.
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Homeowners: Summer Backyard Activities
Summer on Long Island is in full swing, and the kids have been complaining that there's nothing to do. They've even gotten bored with video games! But parents, have no fear! A spacious backyard is a perfect venue for a summer fun fest, and our real estate agents have plenty of ideas to help make that happen.
- Lawn Games
While more popular with younger children, even teens may enjoy oversized dominos, Jenga, or throwing games such as ring toss and bean bags. Game pieces are a snap for the do-it-yourselfer with the proper tools. Pre-made options are available in a broad price range from about $15 to $50. Don't forget the popsicle or ice cream treats to cool down after the competition. An ice cream maker might be a hit!
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Where to Appreciate Watercolor Art on Long Island
Oil paintings may be impressive, but there are so many other artistic mediums out there that are just as beautiful. July is World Watercolor Month, so now is a great time to get better acquainted with this exquisite art form. According to our real estate agents, these five locations around Long Island are good places to begin.
- Nassau County Museum of Art - 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, NY 11576
Since its opening in 1969, the Nassau County Museum of Art has worked to showcase some of the finest works of American and European art. This includes many works from Barbara Prey, one of the most prominent American watercolor artists alive today. The museum also features rotating exhibits that often include at least a few pieces in watercolor.
20
What to Look for When Downsizing
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.
13
5 Places for Landscaping Supplies Around Long Island
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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Long Island: Chocolate Ice Cream Day Destinations
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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Buyer's Guide to a Bidding War
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.
23
Get Your Outdoor Space Ready for Summer Entertaining
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.
- 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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Not Your Ordinary Hamburger: 5 Places on Long Island
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.
- 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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5 Shops to Get Caught Reading in May
Whether you love fiction, nonfiction, fairytales, or romance novels, May is the month for you. It's Get Caught Reading Month. Even if nobody catches you, this is the perfect occasion to curl up with a good book and let your mind explore. Our real estate agents recommend visiting one of these Long Island book stores to find the perfect book.
- Theodore's Books: 17 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY 11771
If you're looking at Oyster Bay homes for sale, stop by Theodore's Books while you're in the area. This book store is the creation of former Congressman Steve Israel, who wanted to create a warm and friendly place for his fellow book lovers to shop.
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Where to Go Biking Around Long Island
Bike riding is one of the best ways to spend time outdoors and keep your physical activity levels high. Our real estate agents swear by it, especially in the right setting. Whether you're bringing family members or going it alone, these stellar bike trails are some of the best places to enjoy a ride on Long Island.
- The Bethpage Bikeway – Woodbury, NY 11797
The Bethpage Bikeway is one of the most well-known bike paths in the Long Island area. The path offers a full 13.4 miles of asphalt-paved track that travels across several parks in Nassau County: Trail View State Park, Bethpage State Park, and Massapequa Preserve.
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Should You Tap Into Your Home's Equity?
At Laffey Real Estate, our real estate agents want to help you make informed decisions about homeownership. One of the biggest ones is whether to tap into your home's equity.
Equity is the value that builds up over time as you pay off more of your mortgage. Every cent you pay on the principal, the initial mortgage amount, becomes equity. On the other hand, money that pays for loan interest provides no benefit to the homeowner; it is pure profit for the mortgage lender.
11
Where to Order a Grilled Cheese Around Long Island
Sometimes our real estate agents crave a good grilled cheese sandwich, especially on a cool, rainy day. With National Grilled Cheese Day coming up April 12, we started thinking about how to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.
Not all grilled cheese is created equal. Our favorite version has slightly toasted golden bread, a good blend of melted cheese, and just enough butter. Of course, everyone has their own version, including many of the great restaurants on Long Island.
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How to Make a Galley Kitchen More Functional
A galley kitchen can seem small and dark if not utilized properly. In reality, it's actually one of the most functional designs for a kitchen since everything you need while you cook is at most a few steps away, if not right in arm's reach. How, then, to make this design look more welcoming? The difference is all in the details, as our real estate agents will show you.
- Clear the Way
Having a lot of stuff in the way as you traverse the kitchen will make it feel more cramped. Avoid a lot of clutter, such as too many rugs, and for reaching upper cabinets, invest in footstools that will fold up and stow neatly out of the way. If you have a bar, make sure that bar stools can tuck neatly under it when not in use. Galley kitchens look best without a lot of visual interruptions.
21
Go on a Bourbon Tour Around Long Island
Nothing warms the soul quite like a nice glass of bourbon. Trying different types of bourbon can be a lot of fun—there are many subtle differences in flavor.
Our real estate agents love gathering with friends and trying new varieties, and there are quite a few popular bourbon destinations around Long Island. If you're thinking about a bourbon tour around Long Island, make sure to stop by some of our favorites.
14
Planning to Sell? Switch Up Your Decorating Style
Home decorating trends are constantly changing, and staying up to date with home designs is essential for anyone looking to sell. The last two years have brought substantial changes to how we live. As life eases back to normalcy, new home trends are popping up while designers retire other designs. Our real estate agents have the exclusive scoop on the hottest trends to refresh your decorating style below.
What's In?
2022 is an exciting year for home designs, thanks to trends like the following.
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Long Island: 5 Places to Visit if You Love Peanut Butter
You may not realize it, but National Peanut Butter Lover's Day is right around the corner. On March 1st, feel free to indulge in your favorite snack, whether it's a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich or a high-calorie candy. There are plenty of places where you can pick up something special, so our real estate agents have picked out their favorite spots and treats.
- Doughnut Plant — 31-00 47th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101
From standard and sourdough donuts to vegan and gluten-free selections, Doughnut Plant has it all. To celebrate this special day, we'd suggest that you pick up one or two of the peanut butter and jam donuts along with a yummy cup of coffee. If you're looking for something unique, however, you must also take home one of their ripple donuts, which is a huge, three-ring yeast donut that you design yourself. Be sure to stop by after looking at Long Island City homes for sale.
21
Kitchen Tips: Better Organize Your Pantry
For many families, the kitchen is the most important room in the house. That's why it's imperative to prioritize the kitchen when purchasing a home and choose one that suits your family's needs and lifestyle. Inform our real estate agents what you're looking for in a kitchen and which features are non-negotiable, so they can find you houses that are up to your standards.
One of the key features you should consider is storage and workspace; there's no such thing as too much kitchen storage space. Even when you have enough space, your kitchen pantry can quickly become overrun with all the canned goods, cereal boxes, and miscellaneous cooking ingredients that tend to pile up.
14
Baking Up Some Family Fun at Home This February
Mmmmm, what smells better than something in the oven? Our real estate agents will assure you that many potential buyers have been attracted by the aroma of freshly baked cookies in the kitchen. Why not enjoy that same sensation while spending some quality time with your loved ones to celebrate National Bake for Family Fun Month? Here are a few tasty treats that everyone can enjoy:
- Red Hot Baked Apples
Not only are they quick and easy, but these delectable desserts offer a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional baked goods.
7
Where to Celebrate Galentine's Day on Long Island
Female friendships deserve to be celebrated, and February 13th is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Over the past few years, this date has become known as Galentine's Day. Celebrating is easy: Grab your girlfriends, dress up, and go out for a nice brunch together, perhaps with a few drinks. Our real estate agents can recommend some great spots to celebrate Galentine's Day on Long Island.
- Rustic Root: 7927 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY 11797
Rustic Root is a chic, tavern-style restaurant that serves an incredible, hearty brunch on the weekends. There's truly something for everyone on the menu. If any of your gals are vegetarian, the Roasted Beets are an excellent choice. They come topped with candied pistachios, feta cheese, and mandarin oranges. You can't go wrong with the Lox and Everything Pizza either.
31
Long Island Dining: Have Dinner in an Igloo
During winter, outdoor dining is now an option on Long Island, with some of the best local restaurants adding heated igloos that allow you to dine outdoors during any season. This dining trend has quickly become very popular, with outdoor igloos/greenhouses becoming some of the hottest tables at your favorite dining destinations. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on 6 of the best places to have dinner in an igloo on Long Island.
- Vista Sky Lounge – 27-05 39th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101
For a view from above in your own personal igloo near Long Island City homes for sale, try a trip to Vista Sky Lounge. A classic rooftop bar, Vista Sky Lounge offers unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline with a menu of fine dining and craft cocktails to match. It's a great place to start or cap off your next night on the town.
24
Take a Painting Class Around Long Island
Have you ever looked at a beautiful painting and wished you could create something similar? While some people do have a natural knack for painting, it is a skill that can be learned and practiced. A great way to get started with painting is to take a class or two at a local studio. Our real estate agents recommend these great art schools and teaching studios offering painting classes on Long Island.
- The Teaching Studios of Art: 98 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY 11771
If you're looking at Oyster Bay homes for sale, this magnificent art school is just minutes away. The Teaching Studios of Art opened in 2009, and they take a classical approach, offering classes for kids, teens, and adults.
17
Buyers: Will the Garage Be Right for You?
Home garages are not what they used to be. Homebuyers expect the garage to have adequate space for parking one or two cars, storing tools and household items, building home projects, and pursuing hobbies. According to our real estate agents, buyers expect the garage to be a livable space in the home that serves multiple purposes.
In most newer home developments, the garage is attached to the house. This provides easy access to the house and added safety when parking the car, especially at night. The garage has become an important home feature that prompts home buyers to ask a lot of questions before making an offer on a property.
11
Houseplant Help: How to Add Greenery to Your Home
Do you laugh when people tell you it's National Houseplant Appreciation Day because you're a notorious plant killer? If, like most of us, you enjoy the beauty houseplants bring to a home but have a brown thumb, have no fear. Our real estate agents have some nearly bullet-proof suggestions that will let you join the ranks of houseplant aficionados whose homes proudly display elegant living decor. Your first step will be assessing the light levels in the spaces where you want to place your plants.
- Albuca Spiralis
This unique sun lover will be an instant conversation piece when given a prominent position in a window. Its deep green tendrils spiral wildly, like curling ribbon on a package. A healthy plant will welcome spring with stalks of yellow-green flowers that give off a pleasant vanilla-like scent. But harvest the blossoms, or your plant will lose its signature curls. The leaves will also tell you whether your plant is over or underwatered. If they start turning yellow, slow down on the watering. If they droop and the tips turn brown, your plant is thirsty. Be sure to select a pot with good drainage.
12
Should You Really Avoid This Decorating Don't?
When you're decorating your new home, it can seem like there are so many style choices and decorating rules to follow. One choice that everyone seems to have an opinion about is ceiling fans. Even though some people feel they're outdated, ceiling fans do serve an important function, and our real estate agents can affirm that plenty of buyers and homeowners appreciate having them. There are plenty of on-trend designs and updated finishes available so ceiling fans can look great in any style of home.
Benefits of ceiling fans
If you don't have ceiling fans, here's why you might want to add them, even if you're selling soon. And if you already have them, you may want to update them rather than removing them completely.
- All-year temperature control. In warm weather, run the fan to circulate the air and create a breeze to cool down the room. In cold weather, when the heat is on, running the fan in reverse helps push the warmer air down, making the room temperature more comfortable and allowing the heating system to operate more efficiently. They're also a great addition in places like Long Island, where you'll get a few unseasonably warm days before you really want to switch on the air conditioner for the season. It's much easier just to switch on a fan for a few hours.
21
Find Your Om at These Yoga Studios on Long Island
International Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21, so grab a mat and a bottle of water and head to a local Long Island yoga studio. You'll be practicing one of the oldest and best ways to relax your mind and body, and who doesn't need to release some tension after COVID-19 quarantines?
Our real estate agents suggest finding your om at these yoga studios on Long Island.
- Long Island Center for Yoga – 107 E. Main St., Babylon, NY 11702
Long Island Center for Yoga specializes in gentle yoga, meditation, and tai chi. The center, which is located just around the corner from Babylon homes for sale, has classes, memberships, and class times to suit just about every need and interest. Over 25 classes are offered throughout the week, with morning, day, and evening times to suit your schedule. Yoga classes, which are taught by instructors who have at least five years of experience in teaching the practice, range from gentle to Vinyasa. And finally, if you'd like to become a member, you'll have a plan to suit your needs whether you want to attend class twice a week or are a frequent practitioner.
14
Buyers: Should You Make an Early Offer?
Real estate markets across the country are booming, with more buyers shopping than there are homes available in many markets. With homes selling so quickly, it's important to consider all options for landing the top choices on your list of potential homes. For buyers in a competitive market, an early offer can be an appealing option for trying to land a home before more buyers get the opportunity to make a bid. There are both positives and potential pitfalls to making an early offer, and our real estate agents are here to help you decide on the best options for purchasing your next home.
- What Qualifies as an Early Offer?
In many cases, agents like to list homes on Friday because it's typically the best day of the week for posting new listings. The open house will then usually occur a few days later, so there is a small gap between when the listing is posted and when most buyers will see the home in person. So an early offer will typically come in shortly after the house has been listed, but before most buyers will see the home. Some sellers will be more interested in considering an early offer than others, with their own circumstances and the local real estate market trends playing an important role in their decision.
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Long Island: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth for Candy Month
If you've been known to have a sweet tooth, then June is your month. That's right, June is Candy Month, which gives you all the reason you need to indulge in some extra chocolate or a bag of your favorite sour gummies. Luckily for you, the Long Island area is home to many wonderful candy stores. Our real estate agents recommend visiting one of these top shops to indulge your sweet tooth this June.
- Roe Roe's Sweet Street: 68 W. Main St., Babylon NY, 11702
Roe Roe's Sweet Street is a family-owned chocolate shop near plenty of homes for sale in Babylon. The shop has a nostalgic feel and will remind you of childhood. They even have a Candy Museum inside, where you can admire the candy of yesteryear while listening to music from the '50s and '60s.
Roe Roe's has a little bit of everything chocolate – from fudge to gourmet truffles to chocolate-dipped strawberries. Their chocolate-covered popcorn is a crowd favorite and a perfect choice if you love crunchy treats. They even sell dipped apples and cherries.
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Don't Skip This Step When Adding Plants to Landscaping
Our real estate agents can tell you that no matter how green-thumbed you are, the success of your garden still depends on a higher power. Before you design your garden, buy seeds, or get into the weeds with a new vegetable patch or flower bed, it's important to consult one of the top arbiters of horticultural success: the sun. Just like choosing plants for your climate zone, you also have to pick the right spot for your garden. This means determining how much sun exposure your garden will get, especially in areas where tall buildings and trees cast shifting patterns of shade. The method you'll use to choose the best area for your plants is called sun mapping.
Why Map Sun Exposure in Your Garden?
Solar energy is fuel for plants, but this doesn't mean that all plants require the same amount of sun exposure. Some plants need full sun, which means 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day. Plants labeled as part sun and part shade require 3-6 of sunlight each day, while those labeled as shade need 3 hours or less of sunlight a day. A sun map can give a clear picture of where and when the sun hits throughout the day. This can help you plan the landscape around your home and determine the best area for certain crops. Tracking sun exposure and shade patterns on clear days during different months of the growing season will give you a guideline for planting a healthy garden.
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Long Island: Grab a Unique Beverage at These Juice Bars
Whether you're trying to get rid of the "Quarantine 15" or you just want a healthy boost, fresh-made juices are all the rage! After a full morning of helping clients find their dream home, our real estate agents love stopping by one of the great local juice bars for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Unique Beverage Day is coming up on May 6th, so now is a great time to venture out and try a new juice cocktail for yourself. Here's a round-up of our favorite healthy hot spots.
- Fusion Juice Bar: 34-02 36th Ave., Astoria, NY 11106
One of the top choices in the Queens area, Fusion Juice Bar offers a great selection of cold-pressed juices, fresh juices, acai bowls, energy shots, superfood smoothies, and more. Their huge menu means you can visit almost every day and never get bored! We love stopping by any time we're in the area showing Astoria homes for sale.
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Visit the Past at These Long Island Destinations
Long Island is rich with history, with several sites that make ideal destinations for trips that are fun and educational. Theodore Roosevelt, as well as the Guggenheim and Vanderbilt families are part of the area's history, so you'll be able to visit their former homes as well as other interesting locations.
Our real estate agents suggest making a trip to visit the past at these historic Long Island destinations and making sure of any restricted hours due to COVID-19 before your visit:
- Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium – 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, NY 11721
Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium is located near Centerport homes for sale and is on a 43-acre estate, the centerpiece of which is a spectacular Spanish-Revival mansion of William Vanderbilt II. Take a tour of the mansion's living quarters and then visit its Marine Museum to see wild-animal habitat, dioramas, and more. Then head to the planetarium to watch a show, complete with a full-dome view and surround sound. Finally, finish your visit at the observatory, where you can look at the evening sky through telescopes that provide amazingly detailed views.
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Spring Makeover for Your Front Yard
Is it time for a spring makeover for your front yard? It is the "face" of your home, and to passersby, it is an indication of what the inside of your home looks like. An unkempt yard gives the impression of a home that is just as messy and disordered, while a well-maintained one builds the expectation of an orderly, tidy home.
Along with spring cleaning your home, consider doing a spring makeover for your front yard. The weather is perfect for it, and so are the bright, uplifting plants and flowers that come with the season. The following guide will take you through how to do your makeover:
- Take stock of what you need
When you get started, you want to keep going without stopping to get supplies. You can do that by taking stock of what you need and getting everything before starting. Start from one corner of your yard and work toward the other, working from the top down. Start with the exterior walls of the front of your house and decide what you would like to do here: Would you like to plant climbing plants or vines, and would you like them to be flowered or not? Perhaps the exterior walls could do with a fresh coat of paint.
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Visit These 5 Craft Breweries on Beer Day
Our real estate agents love introducing new residents to the area. This includes helping them find the best local restaurants and watering holes. When we learned that Beer Day was coming up soon, we knew now was a great time to take a closer look at some of the excellent craft breweries nearby.
Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just open to trying something new, we recommend visiting one (or more!) of the following local breweries. You never know what awesome new beverage you're going to discover.
- South Shore Craft Brewery: 3505 Hampton Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572
Nassau County's newest craft brewery is already making a name for itself. South Shore Craft Brewery is a farm brewery, meaning they source most of their supplies from New York State growers and suppliers. They brew up a variety of beers and cider and also stock NYS wine and mead. Stop by their tasting room to enjoy a pint or a flight. While you're there, you can also grab a bite from their food truck and engage in a riveting game of Jenga. On your way home, we suggest taking a drive around so you can get a look at some of the beautiful Oceanside homes for sale in the neighborhoods nearby.
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Don't Skip This Step When Buying a Home
Pre-approval. It's the first step every homeowner should take before shopping for a new home. Our real estate agents recommend starting with this step because it helps narrow your search to homes within your price range. It also gives your offer added weight when you find the home you want to purchase. Whether you have excellent credit or a significant down-payment, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a step you don't want to skip.
The Many Advantages of Pre-Approval
We are in a low inventory market, which means that sellers receive multiple offers for their homes. Many times the offers are above the listing price. As sellers consider their options, the knowledge you're serious about and can close the deal gives you an advantage. It also helps you know how high you can go if a bidding war erupts.
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Visit These Walk-Worthy Parks Around Long Island
With a unique blend of natural scenery, history, art, and recreation, the parks of Long Island offer endless entertainment for local residents. The many walk-worthy parks of Long Island are ideal for enjoying some natural beauty as winter turns to spring and learning about the history of local communities in the process. From inspiring one of the most popular novels in history to hosting major golf tournaments, Long Island's parks have done it all. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on five of the best walk-worthy parks to explore around Long Island.
Where to Go for a Walk Around Long Island
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Sands Point Preserve Conservancy – 127 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point, NY 11050
Ever wonder what it would be like to live in the world of F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel The Great Gatsby? Then a walk at Sands Point Preserve Conservancy, located on Long Island's Gold Coast near Sands Point homes for sale, is sure to get the imagination flowing. Experience a walk on any of six marked hiking trails that stretch over 200 acres, amble through a rose garden that features more than 1,500 roses, and stick around to enjoy a sunset with stunning waterfront views.
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Put These Items on Your Spring Cleaning Supply List
With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to prepare for spring cleaning. Spring is a fantastic time to tend to all those projects you've been meaning to do, and our real estate agents know a sparkling house is more appealing to potential buyers.
Nothing is worse than settling in for a few hours of cleaning, only to discover you don't have everything you need for the job. Here are some items to add to your cleaning supply list to ensure you're prepared for any mess you encounter.
- A Vacuum with an Extension Wand and Attachments
A vacuum cleaner is a must-have for any cleaning job. Before you start wiping things down, use your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and grime. Remember, when dirt gets wet, it makes mud, which can make it even more cumbersome to clean your home. Vacuum as much of it away to expedite your cleaning. If possible, select a vacuum cleaner with an extension wand and a few attachments. A round horsehair attachment is a versatile option that works well on multiple surfaces: upholstered furniture, baseboards, and hard floors. A roller-head attachment is a great addition if you have pets that shed a lot; it will help remove hair from your furniture, bedding, and rugs.
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Behind the Scenes of Determining Home Value
At Laffey Real Estate, our real estate agents work hard to get you to closing quickly and easily. If you're getting ready to sell your home, one of the most important parts of that process is also one of the earliest: Setting an asking price. What does it really mean if a home is "priced to sell?" It means you are getting the best deal possible aligned with your local market – and thus, attracting highly qualified buyers.
Ideally, a home is on the market for 30 days or less. Warning lights flash as it climbs toward 60 days. Pricing a property correctly is essential to that timeframe. It protects you against leaving money on the table but also against the wasted time and aggravation of a listing that lingers. If a home cannot be sold in 90 days, it often has to be relisted later. This spells disaster for sellers!
It's fair to ask: How does a real estate agent price a home?
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Valentine's Day Carryout Around Long Island
Valentine's Day is one of our favorite holidays of the year because it's a great opportunity to show your love for the special person in your life. We know that planning a Valentine's Day date is going to be a little bit more complicated this year due to health and safety restrictions. However, a nice date night in your own dining room can be just as romantic as a night out on the town. With so many fantastic local restaurants, it's easy to enjoy your favorite dinner at home. Our real estate agents compiled a list of some of our favorite Long Island restaurants offering takeout this Valentine's Day.
- Vespa Italian Kitchen - 282 Main St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
This classy restaurant has a modern flair and always makes for a great Valentine's Day date night spot. This year, you can order online and enjoy Vespa Italian Kitchen's authentic Italian cuisine from home. The large menu features pasta, sandwiches, and stone-fired pizzas, so you'll be sure to find something you enjoy. Best of all, this restaurant is just a few minutes away from these Farmingdale homes for sale.
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Fill Your House With Music in 2021
Music may not make the world go round, but it sure does round out your world. Whether you're working from home or resting after a long day at the office, setting your home up for sound is a great way to enjoy the day. Day in and day out, our real estate agents will tell you that an increasing number of homes in the area incorporate systems that make it easy to enjoy music while taking a bath, working in the kitchen, or relaxing on the patio.
- Create a Foundation You Can Build Upon
Smart home systems create a solid foundation that you can use to create a connection between your favorite music in every room in the house. Google and Amazon are the leaders in smart home systems that allow you to connect every speaker in your home through one centralized system. You can install these devices in every room and set your system to operate these speakers individually or as part of a whole-home group.
At the heart of your home, make sure that you install solid and reliable WiFi. The stronger the signal, the better. If you plan to connect other smart home devices to your system, make sure your system has enough bandwidth to support all of your devices; otherwise, you can end up with a less than desirable sound quality and reliability.
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Here's How to Make Your Long Island Home Smarter in 2021
Want to upgrade your home in 2021? Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or staying put, adding some smart home features is a great idea! Our real estate agents are always talking to potential buyers who are interested in homes with smart upgrades, making this an excellent investment. It's also easy to get started! Follow these simple tips and you'll have your upgrades done in no time.
- Consider Your Unique Needs
The right smart home upgrades for you will depend on your unique needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. For example, if you work from home, a smart doorbell might be a great idea. This will allow you to see who's at the door so you can decide whether to open it or not. On the other hand, if you spend most of your days away from home, then devices like smart locks, a smart garage door opener, and a programmable thermostat might earn top spots on your wish list.