Life and Homes Capital Region

Life and

Capital Region

Homes

FREE august 2015

Residential • Commercial • Multi-Family • Land

Sensational Local Listings

Hot Hot Hot

Real Estate Deals

Local Listings @ www.LifeandHomes.com

Welcome What Home Buyers Really Want There were few surprises in the recent report from the National Association of Home Builders studying the characteristics of home buyers. They found the average buyer included in the study looked at 10 different houses before making a buying decision. When ready to make the commitment, about 51% of the purchases were made using savings and 17% used money from the sale of a previous home toward the downpayment.

For buyers of brand new homes, room layout/design, neighborhood, exterior appearance and construction quality tended to be of utmost importance. Among first-time buyers, not surprisingly, price was a major consideration.

Life and

Homes

THIS WEEKEND‘S

OPEN HOUSES

Capital Region, NY Edition

Publication Manager Account Executive Joel Siegfried, RMC 315-796-2258 JoelS@LifeandHomes.com Darcy Stone 518-888-4998 Darcy@lifeandhomes.com

Visit LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY for Open House information, updated every Friday afternoon @ 4:30.

Advertising Deadline September Issue

July 31, 2015 When choosing a home, buyers say size and room layout/design topped their priority list. The top two deciding factors for choosing a neighborhood were “the house itself” and safety. Proximity to friends and family, proximity to amenities, familiarity with the neighborhood, and proximity to work were further down on the list.

Table of Contents

Research group, Demographia, reports that for the second year in a row, the United States has the most affordable housing among major metropolitan markets. If you’re not in a “major metropolitan market” and you’re still saving up for your own home purchase, here’s a little perspective for you...be thankful you aren’t house hunting in Hong Kong. The survey found that even if a household there could direct ALL, (we’re talking 100%), of its household income toward buying a home, it would still take 17 years before they could afford to buy. Even then, the average size of a new home there comes in at just 484 square feet, compared to 2,200 s/f for a new home in the U.S. God Bless the U.S.A.!

Commercial Section

For advertising rates & info, contact

Magazine Deadlines Page News Shorts

2 3-4

House Listing Directory Ask The Expert

7-10 12-14 15

Joel Siegfried, RMC 315-796-2258 JoelS@LifeandHomes.com Published by Corporate Office David L isi, OW NER 315-865-5845 David@LifeandHomes.com www.LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY Lisi Merchant Solutions, Inc. PO Box 18 Holland Patent, NY 13354

For franchise information call, 315-865-5845

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LifeandHomes is published monthly by Lisi Merchant Solutions, Inc. This information has been compiled from public records and other sources we believe to be reliable, but we make no guarantee with respect to its accuracy or completeness or

If what you really want is to own your own place, keep saving your pennies, engage the services of one of the many qualified professionals advertising within these pages, and visit LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY daily for the best of local listings.

Joel Siegfried,

Publication Manager • Account Exec.

315.796.2258 • joels@lifeandhomes.com

the absence of restrictions on use and are not responsible for any liability, loss, or risk that subscribers may incur, directly or indirectly, from using the contents of this site.

Copyright © 2015 Lisi Merchant Solutions, Inc.

The Most Affordable Way to Promote Your Listings!

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LifeandHomes™ Franchise is a low cost, home-based, recurring revenue business model.

Our franchise system enables the franchisee to become the Real Estate Marketing Expert in their community.

For more information, contact David Lisi 315.865.5845 david@lifeandhomes.com

Understanding

Interest Rates If you’ve ever had a mortgage, a car loan or a student loan, you know that today’s economy is fundamentally linked to interest rates—and understanding them can make a difference in your own finances.

To help, one of the world’s leading derivatives exchanges created a new video to explain interest rates and the economy.

Called “The Ins and Outs of Interest Rates,” it shows how businesses manage interest rate risk and how that affects both banks and their customers.

For example, when you take out a mortgage, the lender determines the rate of interest on the loan. This rate is heavily influenced by the overall economy’s interest rates.

The bank, in turn, pays interest to the Federal Reserve Bank, the central banking system of the United States. Think of it like this: If the bank is your lender, then the Fed is the bank’s lender. Since these interest rates move all the time, the bank is constantly exposed to price risks that will shape how much money it loans out, and at what rate.

“The topic of home mortgages and interest rates is extremely important for the U.S. financial system. Given the current climate, we wanted to outline the importance and value of managing interest rate risk on the economy and on individuals —whether they are in the markets or not,” explained Anita Liskey, CME Group Managing Director, Corporate Marketing & Communications.

With easy-to-understand content that everyone from students to experienced market participants can find informative, Futures Fundamentals, the online resource behind the video, takes investing concepts such as futures, hedging and speculating and shows the essential role

newsShorts

they play. The goal is to make financial education an engaging experience for anyone, regardless of how well versed he or she is in the world of finance.

You can learn more about this and other videos at www.futuresfundamentals.com. (NAPSI)

5 Tips For a Seamless

Moving Process

Packing up your entire life and moving it somewhere new is an exciting, yet intimidating task. Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the street, you’re bound to experience all the ups and downs of the moving process. Between the packing, moving and eventual unpacking, the process seems never ending.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed when you look around your current home and ask yourself, “What am I supposed to do with all of this stuff?” First thing’s first, you need a plan. Don’t wait until the last minute to start cramming your belongings into boxes. Take some time to create a moving strategy before taking action.

If you’re planning a move and are struggling on how to get started packing, follow these tips from Apartment Therapy and Staples for a smooth and painless moving process.

Don’t wait to get organized.

Don’t make the mistake of procrastinating.

Even if you’re not planning to move anytime soon, you can still take small steps to help your future self. If your home feels like chaos, slowly organize each room, one at a time. When it comes time to pack up and go, you’ll be better prepared to take on the challenge.

Purge before packing.

View the moving process as a shining opportunity to clear out the clutter. Don’t move anything you won’t need or want in your new home.

The more items you donate or throw away, the less you’ll have to pack and move. Your new home will also feel more like a fresh start after paring down your belongings. For added convenience, some charitable organizations offer a pick-up service for donations.

Color code and pack by room.

Using moving boxes and plastic totes, create a system where each box contains items from only one room. You’ll be able to simply drop a box in a room of your new home and not have to move it again until it’s unpacked. Color coding the boxes by room is helpful to anyone helping you move or unloading the moving truck.

They’ll know exactly where to drop off each box.

Become a label person.

Don’t waste time running around searching for lost documents or important items. When it comes to organization, storage and moving, labels are your best friends. Take an inventory of all the boxes you’ve packed so you’re sure not to lose track of any. Keep a master list of each box and its contents in case anything gets lost. For the safe-keeping of important documents, file them in clear boxes so they’re conveniently stashed away until you need them.

Stay organized in your new home.

Once you’ve made it to your new home, it’s time to unpack and organize. If you’re going to make the effort to organize, you might as well get excited about it. Instead of using plain boxes and containers, consider using decorative totes and boxes that look as good as they store. You can use these to develop an organizational strategy in your new home. Additionally, if you use these boxes to pack, your belongings will already be organized before they even enter your new home.

Moving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Make a plan, start early and you’ll be on your way to a fresh start in your new home. For more moving tips and all the supplies you’ll need, visit www.staples.com. (BPT) August

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Less Is More & It’s A Growing Trend The tiny house movement, which advocates simple living in smaller homes, has been growing in popularity.

Research from the Urban Land Institute suggests that tiny houses, aka micro units and micro shelters, typically larger than a one-car garage, smaller than a double, have staying power as a housing type that appeals to urban dwellers in high-cost markets who are willing to trade space for improved affordability and proximity to downtown neighborhoods.

Micro units are typically about 350 square feet in size, but can range from less than 250 square feet to 500 square feet, depending on the city building code requirements. They have no separate bedroom; sleeping space is combined with living space, but they do have fully functional bathrooms and kitchens.

The target market profile for micro units is predominantly young professional singles, typically under 30 years of age, earning less than $40,000, trending slightly more toward males than females. Other market segments include couples, older single empty-nesters, and temporary users. Singles currently living with roommates tend to be the most interested in making the switch from a traditional unit to a micro unit.

The appeal of micro units is largely about economics, as well as place and privacy.

Those interested in micro units are seeking to lower their rental costs (the units typically rent for 20 to 30 percent less than larger units); they are also drawn to the trendy “hip” locations where micro units tend to be built, and by the ability to live alone.

Those who are interested in switching to micro units ranked access to a grocery store as their top priority for a neighborhood amenity, 4

LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region

newsShorts

followed by restaurants and a gym. In terms of project amenities, a laundry room ranked highest, followed by assigned parking, visitor parking, and a fitness center; and for unit amenities, a washer and dryer ranked first, followed by built-in closet/drawers and storage space. More than half were interested in multi-functional, convertible furniture.

Fans of the tiny house movement say they are willing to sacrifice space in order to have money left over to spend on travel, fun and family. It remains to been seen if this grass roots movement will be a trendy fad or a serious solution to housing affordability and sustainability.

How To Audit Your Home’s

Energy Efficiency A home that wastes energy can put significant strain on your budget.

Extremely cold winter temperatures and scorching summers, together with a poorly performing thermal system will drive monthly heating and cooling costs higher than expected.

So what can you do to cut the waste and the expense? For starters, clean all the filters in your heating and cooling equipment. This helps to improve the efficiency of your home; however, the best way to tackle your home’s energy inefficiencies head on is to understand your home’s overall performance with an energy audit.

To perform the audit, a certified Home Energy Rater will conduct a series of tests to provide an overall efficiency rating in much the same way that household appliances are rated. Armed with this information, you can make home improvement decisions that further boost your home’s energy efficiency.

One common energy audit test is a door blower, or airflow, test. A large fan is used to pull air out of the house and create negative pressure inside. The higher air pressure outside the home then flows into the home through the unsealed cracks and openings. To detect where these air leaks are located, the auditor will use a smoke pencil. A well-sealed home should have no air leaks. The auditor may also complete a comprehensive infrared scan of your home using an infrared camera. These scans provide a clear image of where the inefficiencies in your home are.

One of the easiest ways to dramatically improve the overall performance of your home following an energy audit is to assess your home’s existing insulation. Insulation and a tight air seal are vital to keeping the temperature inside your home comfortable and consistent all year round.

Another effective solution that offers immediate and long-term cost savings is replacing your home’s traditional fibrous insulation with high-performance spray foam insulation. Spray foam insulation, such as Icynene, is a wise investment for homeowners who want to make significant improvements to their home that have a long-term, positive impact. Able to perform in all climates, spray foam insulation allows homeowners to utilize air-conditioning systems more efficiently throughout the summer and their furnaces during winter.

As a modern insulation solution, spray foam insulation expands rapidly to completely seal a home’s walls, floors and ceilings and prevent air leakage. Insulation experts from Icynene note that quality spray foam insulation can noticeably reduce monthly cooling and heating costs, in some cases by up to 50 percent.

Additionally, spray foam insulation helps minimize random airborne moisture and pollutants from entering the home. This is ideal for anyone suffering from seasonal allergies, an important consideration as spring arrives. For more information on how spray foam insulation can help homeowners optimize the efficiency of their home, visit www.icynene.com. (BPT)

CMN Real Estate

1510 Central Ave #380 Albany, NY 12205

518-456-7140 • www.cmnre.com .

Schenectady

$615,000

Schenectady

$76,900

Why go through the hassle of building? It’s already been done for you - JUST MOVE IN! Custom Amedore“Estate Series”home located in the beautiful Parkside Estates Community.This home is centered on the cul-de-sac and only three years old. It is like new construction, without all of the headaches! Everything in this home has been customized.

Recently updated and waiting for you! Ideal for the first-time homebuyer who is looking to own a home and pay less monthly for their mortgage than they are currently paying in rent! Open floor plan, cute yard, newer windows , furnace and hot water tank.

Motivated sellers and a must see!

Troy

$95,000

Albany

$15,000

Schenectady

$138,940

Troy

$195,000

Cohoes

$99,974

Waterford

$189,900

Schenectady

Excellent investment or owner occupied property.

Main unit has wide plank floors, hardwood floors and oak trim through out.It also features a wood-stove in the family room and has a great kitchen with lots of cabinets, counter space and a breakfast bar. New windows and updated electric in both units.

Waterford

Great investment opportunity. Rents are low...have not been raised in years. All separate utilities. 4 new boilers.Two new hot water tanks.

Sold As IS, MLS CONTRACT, PROOF OF FUNDS OR PRE QUAL AND BANK ADDENDUM WITH ALL OFFER. SUBJECT TO SHORT SALE

Like New. Brand new heating systems including duct work in each unit. New kitchens, new bathrooms (claw foot tubs remain) new carpet & flooring, newer windows, updated electric & brand new appliances. Each unit has a stack-able washer & dryer, microwave/range hood, refrigerator & stove. Large Deck on 2nd floor.

Must be seen to be appreciated! Great family home on quiet street, located in the highly desirable Upper Union St neighborhood, this 3 bedroom 1 bath home is located across from Howe Magnet Elementary School. Newer vinyl siding, furnace and windows. fenced in back yard. Located in a great walkable neighborhood.

Great Owner occupied home w/ beautiful viewsThis home was previously used as a single family home and could be used that way again.This home features hardwood floors, original woodwork,new roof, fenced yard, and a nice view.

Exterior woodwork and porch freshly painted. Driveway redone and extend for additional off street parking.

$112,000

Move Right In To This Spacious 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath 2 Story Home in North Troy, Located In Lansingburgh Schools, Enjoy Many Nights On Your Beautiful Back Deck With Family and Friends or Just Enjoying The Stars, Room For Off Street Parking In Back, Fenced In Yard, New Siding/2007, New Roof/2009.

$89,900

Quaint home in desirable neighborhood. Newer roof and furnace. Hardwood floors on 1st floor, carpet over hardwood on 2nd floor. Detached 2 car garage. Must be seen to be appreciated.

Sick of Your Old Home?

Bradley Park Builders, LLC We Serve All Rensseleaer And Northern Columbia And Greene Counties!

Call For Appointment Or Open House Times: 518-674-3047 – 466-2339 www.bradleyparkbuilders.com or email us at bradleyparksub2@aol.com

We do tear-downs and replace your old home with a beautiful new modular!

Each time we welcome visitors to our model homes, folks are amazed to find that our model home is also a modular home. In choosing a new home, it is important to select the highest quality modular home, but most important to select the right builder to complete your new home!

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5

Dress Up Your Floors With Top Tile Trends If you are renovating any area of your home, it may be time to try something new-such as bringing tile into main living areas in addition to your bathrooms and kitchen. New designs, styles and technologies are making tile the most versatile and accessible flooring material.

“Tile has always been durable and easy to maintain,” says Kevin McDaniel, director of product development and design services for The Tile Shop, which sells tile and natural stone at more than 100 retail showrooms across the country. “Tile has a long life span and classic good looks, making it a favorite flooring of choice wherever homeowners need a floor material that’s both practical and beautiful. Even more design options are available now, making tile a smart floor surface in virtually any room of the home.”

Homeowners, builders, designers and product developers are thinking outside the box when incorporating tile into renovations and new builds. From bringing tile flooring up the wall, to using the same tile flooring across multiple rooms, to using water jet technology, they’re working with tile in non-traditional ways. Here are some top tile trends to consider for your interior design project: 1. The look of real wood with a rustic finish.

Many of the larger-format faux wood tiles mimic the look of real hardwood floors. Less expensive and more durable than real wood, these tile floors are practical yet beautiful choices for active households with children and pets. Details evoke the character of real wood, right down to the nails. “Rustic faux wood is making a huge splash because of its warm, earthy coloring and unusual time-worn finishes such as aged paint, a finish hard to 6

LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region

achieve with real wood. I foresee it continuing to be a very popular design trend,” McDaniel says.

2. Those longer tile planks. While standard square tile sizes will always have their place in home décor, rectangular tiles - otherwise known as planks - are gaining popularity.

New 12-by-24-inch tiles are a hot choice in bathrooms and 6-by-36-inch tiles or 8-inch by 8-feet planks (often in wood-grained looks) are a favorite for living areas.

“Using longer planks can help smaller spaces look larger, and create an appealing consistency across multiple rooms,” says McDaniel. “While consumers may be familiar with traditional tile shapes such as square or hexagon, these longer tiles offer exciting new design flexibility.”

3. That poured concrete look. While concrete is a trendy design material right now, it’s not practical for every household or application.

New tile styles create the look of poured or stained concrete at a fraction of the cost, and with all the durability, versatility and ease associated with tile. Tile options range from long rectangular 8-by-18-inch or 12-by-24-inch planks to 18-by-18-inch squares. Tiles are rectified-the edge is cut completely straight-and grout joints are very narrow to further create the look of seamless concrete.

4. The warmth of heated floors. While heated floors were once a luxury option for homeowners, they’re becoming increasingly mainstream.

Tile lends itself to radiant heat beneath the floor.

The Tile Shop carries a full line of accessories, including thermostats, which can control the heat in any floor in your home. This includes both the shower floor and shower benches.

5. Unconventional grout and tile design ideas.

Using a high-contrast grout color can make the floor pop, and it’s a tactic that works well with mosaic designs. Choosing the right grout color is just as important as the tile you select.

Also popular is the concept of mosaic designs that mimic an area rug within a larger section of tile flooring and create the look of custom art within the floor.

Shopping for tile designs and inspiration is easy when you visit one of The Tile Shop’s local showrooms or visit www.tileshop.com. (BPT)

Open Market Listing Service™ Albany

LifeandHomes.com For more information on any of these houses, visit www.LifeandHomes.com and type in the QSN#

Clifton Park

$15,000

600 Livingston Av

$369,900

26 Blue Jay Way

6 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths

4 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths

QSN #367620

QSN #388459

CMN Real Estate Joseph Molesky

CCS Realty Group Patrick Seeberger

Realtor

Lic. R.E. Broker

518-456-7140

518-573-2943

Joe@upstatejoe.com

Albany

pat@ccsrealtygroupllc.com

Clifton Park

$199,900

526 Warren St

$385,000

22 Dennis Dr

6 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths

4 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths

QSN #384188

QSN #381773

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor

Tironi One Realty Brian T. Neary

Realtor

Lic R.E. Salesperson

518-489-1000

518-573-4287

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

Bethlehem

FHdogman@gmail.com

Clifton Park

$519,500

6 Ruxton Rd

$141,900

205 Yorktown Dr

4 Bedrooms / 4.0 Baths

2 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths

QSN #378881

QSN #381774

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor

Tironi One Realty Brian T. Neary

Realtor

Lic R.E. Salesperson

518-489-1000

518-573-4287

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

Bethlehem

FHdogman@gmail.com

Cohoes

$539,500

70 Gullane Dr 4 Bedrooms / 5.0 Baths

2 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths

QSN #376602

QSN #371373

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor

Claverack

CMN Real Estate Brent Tague

Realtor

Realtor

518-489-1000

518-456-7140

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

brenttague1@gmail.com

Colonie

$649,000

150 County Route 9

$615,000

16 Arborgate Ct

5 Bedrooms / 4.0 Baths QSN #381772

$99,974

74 Columbia St

4 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths QSN #371372

Davala Real Estate Karen Davala

CMN Real Estate Aaron Bochniak

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Realtor

518-755-2385

518-456-7140

karenrealestate@yahoo.com

(877) 528-LAND

2547 State Route 12b Hamilton, New York 13346

Aaron@cmnre.com

Let us help you make your next move.

Karen Davala | 518-755-2385 119 Main Street, Philmont, NY www.davalarealestate.com

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7

LifeandHomes.com

For more information on any of these houses, visit www.LifeandHomes.com and type in the QSN#

Duanesburg

Open Market Listing Service™ Lake George

$264,500

400 Chadwick Rd

$289,900

16 Birch Ave

3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths QSN #376601

3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths QSN #388458

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor Realtor

Lic. R.E. Broker

518-489-1000

518-573-2943

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

Ghent

CCS Realty Group Patrick Seeberger pat@ccsrealtygroupllc.com

Malta

$795,000

226 Old Post Rd

$144,900

73 Pepperbush Place

4 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths QSN #357249

2 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths QSN #332739

Davala Real Estate Karen Davala

CCS Realty Group Patrick Seeberger

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Lic. R.E. Broker

518-755-2385

518-573-2943

karenrealestate@yahoo.com

Hudson

pat@ccsrealtygroupllc.com

Marcy

$199,900

$329,500

117 Green St

6289 Mallory Rd

3 Bedrooms / 1.5 Baths

4 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths

QSN #376775

QSN #381777

Davala Real Estate Karen Davala

Century 21 Gentry Realty Elizabeth Miller

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Broker

518-755-2385

315-942-4408

karenrealestate@yahoo.com

rieanna@century21gentryrealty.com

CLIFTON PARK

$795,000

12 Cathedral Ct - Great entertaining home w/top-notch amenities throughout.

Custom Kitchen w/maple-cherry stain cabinets w/many fine features & S/S appliances.

Travertine tile in 10’ Foyer, Hall & Bath w/mosaic design. New wrought-iron stair railing. Handsome Family Room w/coffered ceiling & frame wall molding. Newer large Sun Room w/radiant heat. Exquisite detail throughout. Diagonal hardwood in Kitchen/ Mud Room & Dining Room. Newer hardwood 2nd floor. Inground heated pool w/all new stone ledge, patio & waterfall wall. Gazebo, Pergola, 2-Tier Deck & private grounds.

Some high-end designer furniture can be negotiated. MLS# 201500383

Luxury Home in Clifton Park Clifton Park Office 1547 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 518-371-1137 (office) www.realtyusa.com

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LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region

Lauri Morrissey Licensed Real Estate Broker

518-376-3636 (cell)

lmorrissey@realtyusa.com

Open Market Listing Service™ Mayfield

LifeandHomes.com For more information on any of these houses, visit www.LifeandHomes.com and type in the QSN#

Schenectady

$344,900

208 Priddle Point Rd 5 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths QSN #368605

4 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths QSN #362921

518 Realty.Com Inc Joel Gort Realtor

518-542-6070

joel@518realty.com

rderikart@realtyusa.com

Schodack

$279,500

1261 Cranbrook Ct

$247,000

66 Boyce Rd

4 Bedrooms / 4.0 Baths QSN #366050

Realty USA Rachel Derikart Lic R.E. Salesperson

518-456-6518

Niskayuna

$117,900

1543 Van Cortland St

3 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths QSN #367614

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor

CMN Real Estate Karen Ublacker

Realtor

Realtor

518-489-1000

518-456-7140

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

Schenectady

kublacker19@hotmail.com

Troy

$138,940

1079 Garner Av

541 9Th Av

3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths QSN #374129

$112,000

3 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths QSN #367615

CMN Real Estate Michael Schulman

CMN Real Estate Karen Ublacker

Realtor

Realtor

518-456-7140

518-456-7140

mike@cmnre.com

V.S.I. LLC Visual Structural Inspections Serving the Capital District since 1993

Protect your biggest investment with a Home Inspection

158 Woodin Rd, Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518)371-7944 • Fax: (518)348-0878 NYS License# 16000005522

kublacker19@hotmail.com

LANDLORDS Are Insurance Premiums

Hurting Your Bottom Line?

Let Us Help!

With my home inspections you will receive a good professional inspection.

Your Local Farmers Agent Currently Offers Savings For:

• Auto • Home • Life • Collectable Auto • Business • Renter • Boat • Personal Watercraft • Motorcycle • Condo • Mobile Homes • Recreational Vehicles WE ARE INSURANCE. WE ARE FARMERS.

NYS License Home Inspector Lic# 16000005522 • NYS Certified Pest Inspector #T5685318 NYS Certified Home Inspector Instructor • Instructor & Owner of Clifton Park Home Inspection Training Center (Affiliated with Askus) • NYS Certified Code Officer Associations: President of Local Chapter of NACHI • Member of NYSBOC

Call today and ask about our competitive rates and discounts.

Joel Siegfried 315-793-7580

518-280-1396 • mobrien1@farmersagent.com www.farmersagent.com/mobrien1 635 Plank Rd, Clifton Park, NY 12065

House Hunting? Relax.

We’ll Deliver Your Dream Home.

Life and

Homes

™

LifeandHomes™ Property Search www.LifeandHomes.com

- Tell us what type of local property you’re looking for: location, price range, # bed/bath, etc.

- You’ll receive an email when a property matching your search criteria comes on the market and updates.

- Automatically connect with over 125 local real estate participants.

TV & Video

Magazine

Online

Mobile

Social

Call Joel at 315.796.2258 or email JoelS@lifeandhomes.com to participate.

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9

LifeandHomes.com

For more information on any of these houses, visit www.LifeandHomes.com and type in the QSN#

Troy

Open Market Listing Service™

$199,900

352 Marshland Ct

Waterford

$189,900

18 Charles St

4 Bedrooms / 1.5 Baths

5 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths

QSN #354309

QSN #380843

Realty USA Rachel Derikart

CMN Real Estate Brent Tague

Lic R.E. Salesperson

Realtor

518-542-6070

518-456-7140

rderikart@realtyusa.com

Troy

brenttague1@gmail.com

$285,900

30 Myrtle Av

3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths

RealtyUSA.com Tamara DeMartino

QSN #381775

Tironi One Realty Brian T. Neary

Realtor

Lic R.E. Salesperson

518-489-1000

518-573-4287

tamarademartino@gmail.com

Waterford

$195,000

48 1St St

Westerlo

$259,500

33 Myrtle La 3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths

QSN #367618

QSN #378882

CMN Real Estate Brent Tague

pat@ccsrealtygroupllc.com

(518) 573-2943

Realtor

Realtor

518-489-1000

THIS WEEKEND‘S

OPEN HOUSES

LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region

Cindy Taylor & Gloria Krimmer Licensed Associate Real Estate Brokers Albany/Empire Office 20 Aviation Road Albany, NY 12205

CCS

36 Blue Jay Way Rexford, NY 12148

cindy.taylor1212@gmail.com

518-421-7517 cell

Rates as low as 3.5%

Realty Group

RealtyUSA.com Cindy Taylor

518-456-7140

brenttague1@gmail.com

10

FHdogman@gmail.com

Excellent Investment Property

Patrick Seeberger Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner

$99,900

1411 7th Ave

4 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths QSN #366045

Watervliet

LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY - Open House Info updated every Friday @ 4:30

Simple Steps Toward

Saving Money Putting money in a savings account seems simple enough, yet it’s a struggle for many. According to federal data by Statistics Brain, the average U.S. family’s savings account held a balance of $3,800 in 2014. While there has been an upward trend in the amount being socked away each year, increasing savings account balances can help Americans meet their long-term goals, such as retirement.

When building your savings account, take the task head on by defining a clear course of action and setting specific goals.

Know how you’ll use the money. There are a variety of ways you can use your newly earned savings, from growing your savings balance to making a major purchase to paying down debt. Set an attainable goal, such as paying off a credit card, funding a down payment for a new house or making an extra mortgage payment.

Challenge yourself to save. If you need a little extra motivation, tackle a program that lets you gradually step up your savings game, such as the 52 Week Savings Challenge.

“A savings challenge is a great way to ensure you’re not only stashing money away, but doing so on a regular basis,” said John Heath, directing attorney for Lexington Law. “Creating a habit of saving money is the ultimate takeaway, and the simplest way to ensure a solid financial future for your family.”

The challenge is simple: start off saving $1 the first week, $2 the second week, and eventually $52 in the final week of the challenge. If you save each week throughout the year, you will be $1,378 richer. You may find it helpful to set a weekly reminder to stay on track. Although the challenge suggests starting off with $1 for the first week, you could decide to save more if your budget allows and come out an even bigger winner.

Ditch the money jar. By opening a savings account, you will be far less likely to “borrow” from yourself. Having an account also makes it easier to arrange for automatic recurring transfers that move money from your checking account to your savings account on a regular schedule. If your paycheck is delivered via direct deposit, you can also direct a portion of each check directly to savings.

options to fit your needs. For example, if you meet certain criteria, you may be eligible to open a high-interest savings account to grow your savings even higher. Another route is to choose a savings account that imposes penalties for excessive withdrawals. While these accounts can feel restrictive, they provide a valuable deterrent for those who are too easily tempted to dip into their savings.

Treat your savings contribution like a bill. Create a budget that outlines all your expenses, and includes a line for savings. Thinking of your savings account as a debt to be paid will help hold you accountable for making regular deposits and limit any tendencies to spend what you may have been able to save.

For more tips for managing your money, or your credit, visit www.LexingtonLaw.com.

(Family Features)

Use accounts that give you a boost. Most financial institutions offer a variety of saving

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LifeandHomes

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Joel Siegfried • 315-796-2258 • jsiegfried35@gmail.com 12

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Investment Properties for Sale

5298 Terry Road, Syracuse $695,000 - (fully leased office/retail building, 10 year leases)

612-614 West Seneca Tpk,Syracuse $199,900 - (4 unit fully occupied)

3208 West Genesee St, Syracuse $995,000 - (fully leased office/retail building, 15 year leases)

Commercial 6845 S.James Street - Commercial store front. 6000 +/- sF.ample parking.$130,000 Delta Lake Property 6642 Stokes-Westernville Road, Ava4 bedroom, 2 baths, garage. situated on 8+ acres. Can subdivide into 5 building lots. also zoned recreational. 475’ Lakefront. $575,000

6.5 Acres - City of Rome - Commercial Property - Land development at the corner of Liberty & gifford Road. suitable for condos and townhouses.Water, sewer and gas. Close to shopping.Variance required. $225,000 FIRM.

1624 Genesee St Syracuse $295,000 awesome opportunity to purchase a 9 unit apartment building in a prime location. the building is fully occupied and under professional management. there is one 3 bedroom unit,one 2 bedroom and the rest one bedroom. Rents total 5560 per month. great cash flow!

111 Gertrude Ave Solvay $164,900 superb opportunity! Fully rented and updated all brick 4 family in solvay. all units are 2 bedroom 1 bath.,2 with large porches. updates throughout. Rents currently at 800/800/775/675. strong income! Off street parking, newer boiler,add this one to the portfolio today!

106 William St Solvay $149,000 Excellent investment opportunity. all brick 4 unit apartment building,full rented. all 2/1 units, with many updates including electrical and plumbing. solvay electric keeps bills low! Can be purchased together with 111 gertrude ave,another all brick 4 unit fully rented in solvay.

5426 Salina St Syracuse $139,900 - stately and spacious brick 2 family in the Valley. Over 4000 sq ft,and perfect for investor or owner occupant. 4 bedrooms in one unit and 3 in the other. Live in one side and rent the other,or cash flow from this lovely home. tons of updates.

306-308 Sly St Elmira $45,000 - an investor’s dream!

Five units in One Building! Easy to collect rents,easy to make it pay for itself,and only one lawn to maintain!

MOtIVatED sELLER! Priced low,long distance seller is trying to liquidate his properties! get it while you can! selling as-Is.Courtesy of Hatfield Real Estate

1208 Davis St Elmira $35,000 - Wow! What a find!

Comes with the amish Buggy,a traveling Food Cart, all of the Equipment inside,functioning Fish & Chips stand! Just the paved drive will save you thousands.also a great location for a barber shop,beauty parlor,or so much more! Courtesy of Hatfield Real Estate

Are You Looking to

Sell Investment Properties?

406 E Church St Elmira $125,000 - Building is vacant and stripped to studs.Zoned for 10 apartments.Ready for you to remodel.square footage is from LandData. sellers want this building sold! What will you do with it?

Courtesy of Hatfield Real Estate

We are always looking for Buyers!

Allied Real Estate Investment Network Joel Siegfried

2017 genesee st utica NY 13501

315-793-7580

Properties Brokered Through SBG Inc.

Licensed R.E. Broker

Brokers Protected August

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315-796-2258 Jsiegfried35@gmail.com

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Brett M. Lojewski

Cell 315-794-4815 Fax 315-793-7686 brettlojewski@yahoo.com Campion-Weeks

Licensed Associate R.E. Broker 1102 Ash St • Utica

919 Mathews Ave • Utica

Great investment opportunity.

Near Utica college. 3 BR, 1 BA in each flat. Newer furnaces & roof.

New windows & separate utilities..

MLS#1501092 $54,900

Great 6 bed, 2 bath Utica College area investment property. Many updates throughout.

Newer windows & furnace. Vinyl sided with parking. MLS# 1501148 $61,500

1103 Ash St • Utica

1624 Bennett St • Utica

Income producing property located a short bike ride away from Utica College. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath in each apartment. New windows & furnaces. College rental opportunity. MLS#1501094 $49,900

Nice condition and size 2-family with extra living space in attic. owner occupied for years with modern 2nd floor 3 br apartment expanding into attic with has 4th br, family room and summer kitchen & 2nd bath All separate utilities. MLS# 1502500 $93,900

1619 Holland Ave • Utica

37 Gardner St * Whitesboro

124 Christensen Rd • Frankfort

Income producing 2-family investment property conveniently located in South Utica steps away from work, shopping, restaurants & the busline. 3 bedroom/1 bath in each.

MLS# 1500084 $49,900

Two houses on one lot - a 1-family & a 2-family. all new furnaces updated electrical and Large side lot for parking. owner to paint exterior. MLS#1502574 $79,900

Contemporary ranch w/a large landscaped lot & spectacular views! 3 BR/2BA home that boast massive floor plan w/features throughout. Updated kitchen, spa, quality master bath, covered patio, Jacuzzi, central vac & income producing apartment perfect for college or corporate rental. MLS #1502433 $262,900

Let Me Represent YOU as a Buyer’s Agent! Call for details!

I SELL Investment Properties!

With over 18 years’ experience of buying and selling investment properties in Utica and the Mohawk Valley, let me represent you.

• 2 to 4 Unit Apartment Buildings • 4+ Unit Commercial • College Area Housing Rentals • Corporate Relocation Housing Rentals

Brett M. Lojewski

Campion-Weeks Licensed Associate R.E. Broker

Cell 315-794-4815 Fax 315-793-7686 brettlojewski@yahoo.com

Weichert Realtors Campion Weeks • 141 Genesee St • New Hartford, NY 13413 • Office 315-735-8515 14

LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region

ask the expert Looking for Answers to Your Home Related Questions?

Search no further! Consider Your Local Business Expert!

Auction Service BROZTEK’S 315-678-2542 315-678-2000 Member since 04/15

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JOHN C DELBUONO Personal and Commercial Lines; auto, Home, 315-732-3900 Member since 01/15

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