Life and
Capital Region
Homes
FREE
november 2016
Autumn Delights Local Listings
FREE
Local Real Estate Magazine
Beautiful Homes in Perfect Locations Residential • Commercial • Multi-Family • Land
Find Your Next Home @ www.LifeandHomes.com
See This Featured Property on Page 13
Welcome Harvest Thanks
Life and
Homes
What an remarkable time of year to showcase this beautiful region with its outstanding homes, land/lots, commercial listings, investment opportunities and more.
Capital Region, NY Edition Account Executive/Owner Sales Representative
David Lisi 315-865-5845
At LifeandHomes™ we enjoy working with realtor estate professionals, investors, builders and community members to promote community and boost the local economy. We make it our job to connect buyers and sellers, professionals and the public - which in turn benefits LifeandHomes™
david@lifeandhomes.com
David P. Lisi, RMC
Real Estate Marketing Consultant 315-865-5845 • David@lifeandhomes.com
readers and our local area.
Corporate Editor
Kim Lisi
Advertising Deadline
This full color magazine is distributed each month for FREE throughout
December Issue
Table of Contents
October 28, 2016
the greater Capital Region. Look for LifeandHomes™ at many of our fine Magazine Deadlines Page restaurants, stores, professional offices, grocery stores and other retail House Listing Directory outlets. Please share our magazine with your friends and go online at Editorial www.LifeandHomes.com to view additional real estate listings, and read Front Cover Feature Home Fulton County Section articles of interest to home buyers/sellers. Flip through these pages and visit us online at www.LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY for deals on local properties and professional services.
2 10 11, 22 13 16
Adirondack Properties & Land
17-19
Business News & Directory
20-21
Rentals Section
21
For advertising rates & info, contact David Lisi 315-865-5845 david@lifeandhomes.com Published by Corporate Office Davi d Lisi, 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 LifeandHomes is published monthly by Lisi Merchant Solutions, Inc.
Welcome to Capital Region LifeandHomes™. We are thankful for your patronage.
i David P. Lis
Follow Us on Facebook
www.facebook.com/pages/Lifeandhomes.CapitalRegion
Front Cover Featured Home 400 North Shore Rd, Edinburgh For more information on this Front Cover Featured Home, See Page 13 Listed by
Deborah Oare
Licensed R.E. Salesperson
518-863-2653 (C)
Front Cover photo: harrywirtz.com
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 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 © 2016 Lisi Merchant Solutions, Inc.
Looking for a Franchise? 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
4 Smart Reasons to Upgrade Your Home Security System Think of what has changed forever in the span of a decade. How do you watch movies at home? You’ve replaced the DVDs with digital streaming. How do you send a picture of your kids to your parents? You skip the printing and post it on social media or send a quick text. Another thing you can add to the list of next generation living is home security. If you install a new system in your home today, you’ll find it easier to secure and control your home, while burglars will find it harder to pull off a home heist. Today’s best security systems come with smart home technology and a mobile app, which allows you to remotely control your system as well as other devices like locks, lights, video cameras and even your thermostat. Modern systems also offer enhanced protection from crime, with professional monitoring for emergencies and wireless communication that can’t be defeated by a semi-savvy burglar with wire cutters. “A next-generation security system combines state-of-the-art protection with the convenience of smart home technology,” says Matt Zartman of Alarm.com, a l smart home security technology provider. “It’s easy to use, whether you’re at home or away, and it does much more for you than a traditional system can.” Here are few changes Zartman has seen: Smart features: One of the biggest challenges with traditional security systems is forgetting to arm the system. Once you leave home, you have no way to control it. Thanks to smartphone apps, that’s all changed. You can arm a modern security system with a tap on the screen of your smartphone, whether you are upstairs in bed tucked in for the night or hundreds of miles away on vacation.
newsShorts Real-time news: An older system would only alert you when an alarm was set off. Today’s systems can alert you to a range of events via your smartphone. For example, you can get an alert when your kids arrive home, when a trusted contractor opens your smart lock, or when a video camera detects motion. You can also get notifications when something inside your home is accessed, such as a safe or a locked cabinet. Upgraded protection: Older phone and cablebased security systems are easy to defeat because a burglar can cut the wires outside the home. The best modern systems use a wireless cellular connection to communicate. Even if your power is disabled or WiFi signal goes out, your home security system keeps you safe and connected. Other emergencies: Tied into modern security systems is the ability to detect other emergencies in your home, such as detecting smoke or a carbon monoxide leak. They are even capable of alerting you when a water pipe bursts, so you can take action to prevent costly water damage. If you are interested in learning more about modern security systems and how they keep your family safer and more connected when you are away, check out Alarm.com’s Smarter Home Security systems at www.alarm.com/ blog. (BPT)
Home improvement:
What’s Old Is New Again
What makes the current trends in home décor so unique? Simply put, what’s old is new again. Homeowners are gravitating to classic and timeworn elements to give their home a traditional feel.
Character is not something with which every home is born. Newer construction often sacrifices some of the charm or detail of older home styles that can be incorporated with strategic use of materials and furnishings. Imagination is the limit for homeowners, but here is a sampling of what can be done. Build from the ground up Install new flooring that’s inspired by the charm of vintage floors. Retailers like Lumber Liquidators sell an array of flooring styles that mimic the look and feel of vintage woodwork - wide planks that echo farmhouse floors, distressed finishes and much more. By replicating techniques such as wire brushing and hand scraping, distressed flooring achieves the look of vintage craftsmanship. Rustic charm of wall accents Adding a wood accent wall can create the feel of a farmhouse or even an industrial loft. Wood can add an artistic element or focal point to backsplashes and ceilings. Whatever your goal, accent wood makes a statement. Small touches: Fixtures and surfaces Don’t forget the little details: a glass doorknob, an oil-rubbed light fixture or a stained glass panel in the window. These touches go a long way to convey the look of another era in a newer home. Mixing eras with furniture Antiques and classic period pieces mix well with more contemporary furnishings to create an eclectic style in a newer home. Mid-century modern elements - from architecture to furniture - weave their way into home décor again this season, proving their staying power. If homeowners are looking to imbue a newer home with the timeless details of tradition, there’s a project of every scale. New materials that are designed to look old will not only perform better, they’ll last for years to come. And “timeless” is always on trend. (BPT)
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
3
Stop Drafts, Save Money and Improve Your Home Here are some ways you can easily, and inexpensively seal and insulate the four largest sources of energy leaks in your home. Attic Stairs: When attic stairs are installed, an approx. 10 sq. ft. hole is created in your ceiling. The ceiling and insulation that were there have to be removed, leaving only a thin, unsealed, sheet of plywood. Because your attic space is ventilated directly to the outdoors, the attic space can be very cold in the winter, and in the summer it can be very hot. And what is separating your conditioned house from your unconditioned attic? Only that thin sheet of plywood. Try this: at night, turn on the attic light and shut the attic stairway door. If you see any light coming through, it means your heated and airconditioned air is leaking out of these large gaps in your home, 24-hours a day. A low-cost solution is to add an insulated attic stair cover that seals the stairs and stops drafts and energy loss. Add the desired amount of insulation over the cover to restore the insulation removed from the ceiling. Whole-House Fans and Air-Conditioning Vents When whole-house fans are installed, a large hole is created in your ceiling, leaving only the drafty ceiling shutter between you and the outdoors. An easy solution is to add a whole house fan shutter seal. Made from white textured flexible insulation, simply install the seal over the ceiling shutter, secure it with Velcro, and trim it to fit. The shutter seal can also be used to seal and insulate air conditioning vents, and is easily removed when desired. Fireplaces: Fireplaces, especially during the winter heating season, are energy losers. One study showed that an open damper on an unused fireplace in a well-insulated house can raise overall heating-energy consumption by 30 percent. Even if the damper is shut, it’s not air-tight, and glass 4
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
newsShorts doors don’t stop the drafts either. Your chimney is an opening that leads directly outdoors - just like an open window and like a giant straw sucking your expensive heated or air-conditioned air right out of your house!
* Choose the Right Size Rake: Super size rakes actually increase the potential for injury. Choose a rake that is light and easy to use for your size/ strength. And if it’s cold and damp, stretch more and dress warmly. Cold makes muscles and tendons tighten up and become prone to injury.
A simple way to avoid this problem is to add a Fireplace Plug to your fireplace. Available from Battic Door, a company known for their energy conservation products, the Fireplace Plug is an inflatable pillow that seals the fireplace damper, eliminating drafts, odors, and noise. The pillow is removed whenever the fireplace is used, then reinserted after.
* Stretch- Before and After: Take a walk around the yard to loosen up the legs, and gently rotate your back and neck to let them know they’ll be getting a workout soon. Windmill your shoulders to loosen them up. 5-10 minutes of stretching before/after you rake will work wonders.
Clothes Dryer Exhaust Ducts: In the winter, cold drafts come in through the duct and your dryer and into your house. Many dryer vents use a sheet-metal flapper to try to reduce these drafts. This is primitive technology that doesn’t stop the drafts. Compounding the problem, lint often clogs the flapper valve, causing it to stay open.
* Switch Hands: Most people keep their hands in the same position on the rake. Over an hour or two of raking, this puts ‘repetitive stress” on only one side of back/ neck/shoulders. Simply switch the position of your hands, and alternate hands frequently.
A dryer vent seal will reduce unwanted drafts and help keep out pests, bees and rodents. The vent will remain closed unless the dryer is in use. When the dryer is in use, a floating shuttle rises to allow warm air, lint and moisture to escape. For more information on Battic Door’s energy conservation solutions and products for your home, visit www.batticdoor.com or, to request a free catalog, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to P.O. Box 15, Mansfield, MA 02048. (BPT)
Avoid Leaf Raking
Injuries
Once autumn’s splendor is mostly on the ground, weekend warriors turn to the annual chores of raking, bagging, blowing, and mulching the leaves. To avoid injuries to your back, neck, shoulders and wrists while you’re cleaning up leaves, here are some tips:
* Use Your Legs, Not Your Back: Avoid reaching too far and extending your back. Stay in a normal, upright position and use shorter raking strokes instead of long, reaching strokes. You’ll immediately notice that you’ll be moving your legs a bit more to get to the leaves.
* Hand Blowers: The natural tendency when you use a hand blower is to bend slightly forward from the waist to get the right angle to blow the leaves. This is a terrible positioning for your lower back. Stay upright and avoid the tendency to bend!
While leaf raking is a bit of a chore, done in spectacular fall weather can make it enjoyable to be outside. Take your time and don’t try to load up those tarps with all of the leaves at one time! Dragging overloaded tarps is a common cause of back pain. (westhartfordchiropractic.com)
Queensbury/Glens Falls/Lake George 63 Quaker Rd.,Queensbury, NY 12804
518-798-3636
RealtyUSA.com
Julie A. Snyder
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Senior Sales Associate (C) 518-260-6732 juliesnyder@realtyusa.com
Working Tirelessly on Behalf of My Clients’ Needs! 16 Webster Avenue, Glens Falls
$239,000
7 Noble Way, Queensbury
$489,000
This house is straight out of a fairy tale with it’s turret, charming English bathroom, french doors, hardwood floors throughout, bright sun room, large kitchen with a separate breakfast room,and a lovely private landscaped yard. MLS# 201619207
Spectacular BH Group built 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home in wonderful Kings Court development. This newer home will make everyone in the family happy! Gourmet Kitchen, Granite, Hardwood, Fireplace, central A/C, master suite, large rooms, big front and back yard with in-ground sprinklers, 900sq ft 3+ car garage, 5KW whole house generator, and more. This is the house you have been waiting for! Sale contingent upon Sellers finding home of their choice. MLS# 201617920
4 Cedar Court, Queensbury
14 Fort Amherst Road,
$169,000
Easy and elegant living in this wonderful, bright maintenance free town-home. Huge Master bedroom, gas fireplace, A/C, second floor laundry, full basement, and a large backyard with deck. All well under the assessed value! MLS# 201618632
119 Vaughn Drive, Kingsbury
$414,900
Beautiful 6 bedroom, 4.5 bath,Dutch Colonial City Home. Wood floors, 3 fireplaces, high ceilings with crown molding, built-ins, Stainless appliances, granite counter tops, master suite, finished basement with media room, large fenced yard with in-ground pool,covered porch, in-ground sprinklers, and shed, 2 car garage. All in a wonderful neighborhood. MLS# 201604273
$159,000
18 Sheridan St., Glens Falls
$189,900
This House is so much bigger than it looks! 3 bedrooms, Formal dining room, living room with Fireplace, big sun room and huge corner lot. Make this house your home! Sale contingent upon Seller finding an apartment of their choice. MLS# 201618631
10 year young city home With 2 car garage. Lots of windows, A/C, gas fireplace, full basement, storage over garage, and easy maintenance with a small yard. Walking distance to enjoy everything Glens Falls has to offer. MLS# 201525122
794 Ridge Road, Queensbury
12 & 24 Shore Acres Road, Queensbury $2,600,000
$445,000
Stunning Park-like setting for this 100+ year old farmhouse. 2 additional building lots, original post and beam barn and detached 2 car insulated garage with office area above. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, built-ins, fireplace, recently updated eat-in kitchen with pantry, living room, family room, and dining room. MLS# 201601055
10 James Street, Warrensburg
Step back in time and have your family relax, play and create their own memories in the magnificent Shore Acres Estate. The stately, elegant 1845 brick Colonial house, along with the 3 bedroom guest house, is situated on 2.8 acres which butts up to 225’ of idyllic lake frontage on the ‘’Queen of American Lakes’’, Lake George. MLS# 201505342
$169,900
54 Notre Dame St., Fort Edward
You will LOVE this Beautiful Craftsman Style 3 bedroom 2.5 bath Home. Original woodwork throughout. Full finished basement with bar is a sports lover’s dream for entertaining. Large backyard with Apple trees! You don’t find homes with this much character very often. MLS# 201618595
$99,000
With some TLC this house could be brought back to it’s original beauty with it’s gorgeous woodwork, high ceilings and private backyard, this is a house your family could call home. Sold-As-Is. MLS# 201618774
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
5
Your Own Private Oasis
Yankee Realty Inc.
1719 Central Ave, Suite 101 Albany NY 12205
David E. LaMar Licensed Realtor
C- 518-410-1409
Dlamar5126@aol.com 6
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
NEW PRICE
3416 GARI LANE, GUILDERLAND
$192,900
Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath raised ranch with a private, fenced backyard with a deck off master bedroom. House features large living room with hardwood floors and vaulted ceiling, family room with wet bar, gas stove and sliding glass doors that lead to a screened patio and inground pool. Other updates include high efficiency furnace 2008, A/C, newer s/s appliances, hardwood and tile floors, first floor could easily be used as an in-law apartment. Guilderland School District and quiet street.
It’s all about Trust… I value your trust in me above all else. Buying or Selling a Home
is one of the most significant steps you will talk along life’s path. It requires well-timed, accurately informed decision making, guided by Trustworthy, Experienced and Resourceful Professionals. My reputation has been built on the Positive Results of guiding clients through this important process with Reliable and Respectful Expertise.
I work by referral. The proof of my success is evident by the weekly referrals I get from happy clients who have told others about their great experience. Working by referral is how I prefer to do business, always giving my best and the business follows. Give me a call, email or text you’ll be glad you did!
Lisa Wloch
Licensed RE Salesperson, Realtor® (formerly under CM Fox Real Estate)
Lisa Wloch is recognized by The National Association of REALTORS®: e-Pro® Certified • Accredited Buyer’s Representative - ABR® Designation Seller Representative Specialist – SRS™Designation
(C) 518-588-1239 Best # to CALL or TEXT! LisaSoldIt@kw.com 180 Delaware Avenue Delmar, NY 12054 • (O) 518-591-4600 • www.LisaSoldIt.com
A few testimonials...
“In my house-hunting efforts, I was fortunate to utilize an exceptional realty team in Mark Burlingame and his business partner, Lisa Wloch. Mark began the process with me and, due to his illness, Lisa took the reins. From my personal experience, Lisa is head and shoulders above other Realtors®. She worked tirelessly without regard to time of day [and] was tenacious in getting answers for me ....Lisa’s efforts did not end with the sale...I found Lisa to be totally focused and dedicated to doing what was best for her clients and putting their needs above any personal financial gain. Lisa is one-in-a million who truly takes her job seriously, always performing beyond expectations.” - Lee P (Guilderland) “We have bought and sold a number of homes over the past several years, accumulating a great deal of experience with various Realtors®. We can both state that Lisa Wloch has been the most professional, trustworthy, and talented Realtor® we have had the pleasure to work with. From the time we first met her and her wonderful business partner, the late Mark Burlingame, we knew we would not work with another Realtor® for any future real estate transactions. Lisa goes way above and beyond, and truly puts her heart into every aspect of the client relationship...offering advice to make a home more appealing, or simply checking in to help her clients through the sometimes stressful business of selling their home. Her level of commitment to her clients is something we truly did not find in any of the many Realtors®/agencies we had worked with in the past. Lisa has continued to be a problem-solver long after the final sale, always making herself available for any questions, recommendations, or assistance with our new home. Thank you Lisa - you have clients for life in us!” - Marc and Marianne Roman “We chose to have Mark Burlingame and Lisa Wloch market our home in Guilderland, based on recommendations from friends and neighbors. It could not have been a better choice! Mark and Lisa treated us in a professional way from beginning to end. Their team philosophy made us very comfortable, and they were immediately responsive to all our concerns and questions. Mark’s untimely passing was a real blow to everyone, however, Lisa continued on in the same spirit that they had worked with together, and was able to accomplish the sale of our property, in spite these most difficult circumstances. We think Lisa Wloch is the Realtor® of choice to market and property in the Capital District.” - Don and Candy Dries
South Colonie
$159,900
113 Lansing Road South - Charming 4 Bedroom Brick Cape, fresh paint, new carpet, quiet neighborhood. South Colonie schools. Call today for a showing. MLS# 201614219
Albany
$139,900
49 Hurlbut Street - Money making investment property or nice owner occupied home. Let tenant pay the mortgage! Across street from Delaware Community School. MLS# 201617563
Guilderland
$229,900
15 Seeley Drive - Nicely updated Raised Ranch. Kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters. HW floors, newer roof, remodeled baths, lovely yard w/ in ground pool. MLS# 201610146
Michael Brown 215 Delaware Ave • Delmar, NY 12054 482-5000 • KearneyBrownRealty.com
November
■
Principal Broker
mkbrown111@msn.com cell: (518) 858-1944
www.Life and Homes .com
7
Commitment, Enthusiasm, Results! 7969 Austrian Pine Cir, Manlius
$399,900
Simply a spectacular house from the gorgeous, treed and landscaped yard to the lovely in-ground pool, and fanciful play yard. You can readily imagine children playing in the playhouse while you relax in the pool or on the deck. When you enter this house, which features every amenity, you will be charmed by its welcoming warmth. You will be impressed with the gourmet kitchen, the cozy family area, the private study and finally the finished basement complete with TV area and chilled wine cellar. Note the gleaming hardwoods, the lovely quartz bathrooms and the fresh. fashionable paint! MLS# s348236
Opportunity Knocks
21 Whitney Farm Lane, Pompey
$75,000
3 Acre Lots. Whitney Farm Lane, Town of Pompey. Unique residential setting offering some of the areas most scenic and dramatic building sites. 15 minutes to hospitals, universities and downtown Syracuse. Mature woodlands, gentle rolling hills. Privacy, serenity, and spectacular views. Utilities installed underground. Fayetteville-Manlius schools. Additional lots available. MLS# s325797
8
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
305-307 Woodruff Ave, Syracuse
$119,900
Wonderful two family in a lovely neighborhood. This well cared for home has been owned by the same family for the past fourteen years. This home has three bedrooms in the upper flat and a newer kitchen as well. The first floor flat has truly beautiful woodwork as well. Don’t miss it! MLS# s356161
Commitment, Enthusiasm, Results!
BARBARA B FERRO Associate Real Estate Broker
315-391-5600 (C)
315-373-0440 x 224 (O) barbferro@aol.com
6868 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, NY 13066
5727 East Seneca Turnpike, Onondaga $395,000 This is a beautiful, well-cared for Victorian home that has been in the same family for many years. There have been significant updates to the furnaces, the hot water heaters, the roof, and more. The two apartments are spacious and beautiful as are the surrounding grounds of approximately 2 acres. It would be a lovely office, needing only the imagination of the owner to furnish the details. There is ample parking as well as a three car garage for the use of tenants or the office occupant. This property is so beautiful and so unique that you must see it to fully appreciate the scope of the property. MLS# s0000288
Affordable Luxury
6113 Royal Birkdale Drive, Dewitt • $285,000
34 Nursery Lane, Syracuse • $229,900
523 Wendall Terrace, Syracuse • $149,900
Welcome to this spacious, flowing town home in beautiful Pointe East. Nicely situated on the golf course - you may play or just dream! Lovely kitchen with oceans of storage space, a breakfast bar and still room for a table and chairs. There are three fireplaces - one that is doublesided in the dining room and living room. MLS# s1002345
Luxurious stand alone town house in the lovely Comstock Commons. 2-3 BEDROOMS. 3 FULL BATHS . Private deck with lovely surroundings. 2 fireplaces, and a small kitchen in the basement for entertaining. You will enjoy the proximity to the SU campus as well as the convenient near by neighborhood. MLS# S1002569
Lovely two family home in the heart of Sedgwick and convenient to everything. Each flat has three bedrooms, living room, bath, dining room and personal laundry facility. Very nice condition and currently rented but no leases. Perfect for an owner occupant. MLS# s348011
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
9
LifeandHomes.com
For more information on any of these houses, visit www.LifeandHomes.com and type in the QSN#
Bleecker
$298,500
103 Hemlock Dr
Open Market Listing Service™ Guilderland
$229,900
15 Seeley Drive
3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths
3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths
QSN #453922
QSN #438765
ADK Realty MaryEllen Charles
Kearney Brown Realty Michael Brown
Lic. R.E. Broker
Lic. R.E. Broker
518-725-2357
518-858-1944
mel@adksrealty.com
Broadalbin
$210,000
739 County Highway 110
mkbrown111@msn.com
Schenectady
$40,000
2314 Fairlee St
3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths
3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths
QSN #445031
QSN #428680
William J Cole Real Est Inc Deborah Oare Lic. R.E. Assoc. Broker
Lic. R.E. Assoc. Broker
518-863-2653
518-489-1000
doare@colerealestate.com
Glens Falls
$189,900
18 Sheridan St
RealtyUSA.com Brian Brosen brian@thecapitalteam.com
Voorheesville
$279,900
84 Voorheesville Av
3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths
3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths
QSN #409277
QSN #456174
RealtyUSA.com Julie Snyder Lic. R.E. Salesperson
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
518-260-6732
518-439-2888
juliesnyder@realtyusa.com
Glenville
$149,900
2140 West Glenville Rd
rlarocco@realtyusa.com
Whitehall
$289,000
West Mountain Forest
3 Bedrooms / 1.0 Baths
Land /Timber
QSN #456513
QSN #457048
Yankee Realty, Inc. David LaMar
RealtyUSA.com Rosalie LaRocco
Fountains Land Todd Waldron
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
Lic. R.E. Broker
518-410-1409
518-668-5880
dlamar5126@aol.com
THIS WEEKEND‘S OPEN HOUSES LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY - Open House Info updated every Friday @ 4:30 10
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
0@0.com
4 DIY Projects For Your First Home “Where should I start?” It’s a question many homeowners ask themselves. DIY is a great place to start for new homeowners. DIY projects are very versatile - they can easily be adapted to your skill level, budget and desired project. With a little extra time and creativity, you can transform your home. Other benefits to choosing a DIY project are that they are typically more cost-effective than the alternative and they offer an added sense of ownership and pride in your home. Since DIY project ideas are endless, it’s important to choose ones that will improve your home’s value at a reasonable cost. These are some top recommended DIY projects for first-time homeowners. They won’t break the bank but they will deliver a bang for your buck. 1. Add crown molding or update casing and trim. The addition of crown molding to the top of interior walls is a subtle change with big impact. Casing, which is the trim around doors and windows, can
also make a huge difference. The replacement of dated crown molding, casing or trim can make a room look newly updated. Go one step further with a fresh coat of paint on the walls, and you’ll basically have an entirely new room. For more information on how to install crown molding, visit woodnaturally.com. 2. Replace doors. Doors are often forgettable, but don’t have to be. Replace hollow core bedroom, bathroom and closet doors with wood alternatives for an instant dash of richness. And don’t limit yourself to traditionally-styled options. From specialty woods to glass panels, there are plenty of options to choose from. 3. Clean and refinish your wood deck. As long as your wood is in good shape, all you need is deck cleaner and wood stain to turn something dated into the focal point of your backyard. You can buy deck cleaner at your local hardware store. Wood deck stains are available there or at a paint store. You’ll be amazed to see weathered wood look like new again.
If you haven’t cleaned or refinished a deck before, visit woodnaturally.com for step-by-step instructions. 4. Update your closets. Add built-in shelving or simply streamline clothes hangers for an organizational boost. Or you can tackle a popular closet upgrade: lining a traditional closet with cedar. Natural cedar looks great, smells great and keeps moths and mildew away. It’s a classic and high-end upgrade that’s not terribly expensive or time-intensive. Use tongue-and-groove cedar to line some or all of an existing closet. You can leave baseboards in place if they’re thicker than the cedar. If not, remove them with a pry bar before the cedar installation. Use nails to attach the cedar to the wall studs, or adhere them with a construction adhesive. Prepare to feel like a bona fide fancy grown-up when it’s done! These are just a fraction of the many DIY projects possibilities. The most important piece of advice is to have fun and don’t be afraid to try new things. (BPT)
Looking for a BOO-tiful new home? Start your search at Capital Region LifeandHomes™
LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY
315-865-5845 | David@LifeandHomes.com
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
11
Patricia Cole
Deborah Oare
518- 863-2653
518-863-2653
Lic. R.E. Broker
patcole1@roadrunner.com doare@colerealestate.com
Photos by: Harry Wirtz, harrywirtz.com
Northville
$549,000
105 Juergens Point Rd - Great Sacandaga Lake access: 6 Bedrooms, 3.5 baths Custom Contemporary with beach & dock in exclusive Juergen Point community, adjoins golf course: in-ground heated pool w/gazebo, Hot Tub, expansive decking, , many upscale amenities, spacious family living. MLS #201312647
Northampton
Kirk Tooley
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
518-774-4911
laker1t@gmail.com
$379,000
465 Seven Hills Rd - Wilderness post & beam immaculate log home. 3BR, 2BA, Complete privacy on 20+ wooded acres. Beautifully appointed, move in ready, enjoy year round. Take a walk or snowmobile in the woods, swim at lake or sit by campfire. Great room, kit, dining & liv rm, wide plank floors, stone wood burning fireplace. stainless appliances, granite counters, La Cornue chef's stove. Screened porch to relax, sitter home monitoring system. 10' lake access, walking distance to GSL. MLS #201611999
Northville
$310,000
Northampton
$409,000
Day
$399,000
Day
$329,500
Northhampton
$329,000
Day
$299,900
Broadalbin
$210,000
Edinburg
$299,000
252-262 South Main St - Northville lakeside unique property, 2 separate lots=1.4 level acres with 200’ on Northville Lake with dock. 4 BR 3 BA Victorian exc condition, modern kit w/bosch appliances & custom cabinetry- open to DR and summer kit. MLS #201506616
609 Bunker Hill Rd - Great Sacandaga Lakeside 2BR (1 double loft) 1BA furnished cottage in good condition with newer updates including metal roof, sliders and deck. Panoramic lake and mountain views, prime 1/2 acre lot with 100’ lake frontage. MLS #201408198
12
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
102 Longvue Lane - Great Sacandaga Lake 3BR 2BA Open floor plan gas fireplace& cathedral ceiling great room beautiful home with cherry floors & marble in BA.Full walk out basement. MLS #201313373
69 Pine Ridge Rd - Lakeside 2 BR furnished cottage in very good condition. 2 lakeside parcels(1 with cottage 1 vacant lot) Big Lake Views here over 169’ lake frontage. MLS #201514889
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
8 Flansburg Lane - Lakeside 4BR 3.5BA 2 story home w/finished bsmnt Private 0.35 ac lot on dead end rd. Recently renovated, Kit w/ granite counters & island open to liv rm w/ gas frplc & din rm. Lower level: kit, liv rm, BR BA wine cooler. MLS #201606615
739 County Highway 110 - Great Sacandaga Lake Access Charming circa 1929 3 BR 1 BA home with original hardware and trim, french door in LR/DR, wood flooring. Large open porch 2.55 acres with gardens and nice landscaping. MLS #201419842
2643 North Shore Rd - Log Chalet 3BR 1.5 BA nested in privacy on 2.42 acres with 10’ lake access close by! Huge cathedral ceiling in living room with full height fireplace atrium doors to deck with some lake views. MLS #201608130
34 Wozniak Lane - Directly on the Great Sacandaga Lake 2BR 1.5BA furnished camp with rental history. Private setting, large enclosed porch for dining area .0.34 acre lot with 100’beach with a gradual shoreline. Located on quiet dead end road. MLS #201312345
Patricia Cole
Deborah Oare
518- 863-2653
518-863-2653
Lic. R.E. Broker
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
patcole1@roadrunner.com doare@colerealestate.com
Kirk Tooley
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
518-774-4911
laker1t@gmail.com
Because Life Is Better By The Water
Front Cover Feature Home Edinburg
$650,000
400 North Shore Road - Great Sacandaga Lakeside 3-4 Bedrooms plus 3 full Baths and 2 half Baths. Custom contemporary-Custom kitchen overlooks sunken living room with fireplace and dining room. Foyer with winding staircase leads to master Bedroom suite featuring private sitting room and bath with radiant heated floor & jacuzzi. Located on private 3.72 acres with 90’ sandy beach. Attached garage and large barn. Guest home has 3 Bedrooms. This is a must see property with many extra features. MLS# 201414792 | Deborah Oare • 518-863-2653 • doare@colerealestate.com
Photos by: Harry Wirtz, harrywirtz.com
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
13
Call me, your Accessibility Advisor, for a FREE, No Obligation • Bconsultation usiness • Life o t • u A Home “Making Realty Dreams a Reality”
Home • Auto • Business • Life
518.288.6063
518.288.6063
If you or a member of your family are disabled, the prospect of buying a home may seem overwhelming. You or your family member may need a house with specific features and properties with accessibility features are hard to find! An Accessibility Advisor knows what to look for based on the unique needs of each client and develops an individualized home buying plan tailored to find properties to help you achieve the dream of homeownership faster than if you went it alone. Selling a home that has accessibility features or can be easily adapted for special needs? Let’s work together to get your home sold!
Joel Siegfried
Rosalie LaRocco
North Utica
RealtyUSA.com
We Have You Covered
RLarocco@RealtyUSA.com
New Hartford
231 Delaware Ave Delmar NY 12054
Gigliotti, Siegfried & Associates, Inc.
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson PEAK Residential Partners Team at RealtyUSA (C) 518-530-7241
IN TOWN TREASURE • $449,900 Elegant proportions, architectural details, nooks & crannies abound in this Circa 1926 English Estate. 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, Master Bath has Walk in Shower with multiple body jets, Formal Living and Dining rooms, Applianced Chef’s Kitchen with spacious Butler’s Pantry and an oversized Breakfast Area. Magnificent Family Room with oversized windows that bring the outside in. Nearly five private acres with in ground pool.
PICTURE PERFECT • $309,900
Understated elegance in this Circa 1938 center hall colonial on 1.5 very private and wooded acres. Formal living & dining rooms, Designer kitchen w/stainless appliances, granite countertops, & a hearth warmed fireplace with a wall of glass overlooking a koi pond. 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths, hardwoods, newer mechanicals, heated garage, and an attached greenhouse w/separate zoned heat & plumbing.
Joseph Scarafile
Licensed Real Estate Broker GRI/Owner email: grandenvironments@gmail.com
Margaret Graniero Sales Associate
23 Oxford Road, New Hartford 14
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
275 UPPER NEWTOWN RD, MECHANICVILLE
$359,900
Great location, excellent views, near Sheldon Hills, zoned C-1, this remodeled and updated farmhouse, barn and outbuilding sit on over 5+ acres with frontage on Upper Newtown Rd. and over 480 feet of frontage on Rt 146! Tons of privacy and zoned ok for horses. MLS# 201619849
2140 WEST GLENFIELD RD., GLENVILLE $149,900 Lovely 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home on desirable level corner lot. 1,950 square feet, detached barn. MLS# 201620512
93 EUCLID AVENUE TROY
price drop
$129,900
Unique 3 bedroom 2 full bath Cape on a private dead end street. Radiant heated hardwood floors, cozy fireplace in living room, master bedroom suite with full bath located on 2nd floor, convenient to schools, shopping, RPI and amenities Troy offers. MLS# 201615344
David E. La Mar Licensed Realtor
C- 518-410-1409 Dlamar5126@aol.com
Yankee Realty Inc.
1719 Central Ave, Suite 101, Albany NY 12205
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
15
LifeandHomes
™
Fulton County Section
Jack Callery Real Estate 23 Cady Street | Johnstown | New York | 12095 | 518.848.1338 or 518.762.1884
78 Scotch Bush Road Burnt Hills NY 12027
www.garnetrealtyny.com
Joe Mulone,
Lic. R. E. Salesperson
518-813-6514 406 South Melcher Street, Johnstown
jmulone@verizon.net
$249,000
This executive family home was built in 1894 and designed by George Franklin Barber, one of America’s most renowned residential design architects of the 19th century. The home boasts original oak and yellow birch floors, original oak woodwork, staircase, and cypress doors. There is an open foyer, formal reception hall with original parquet floors, formal parlor, formal dining room and library, full modern kitchen and a recently updated full bathroom on the first floor. The second floor offers four bedrooms with a brand new bathroom, laundry room and additional full bath with some original plumbing fixtures including a claw bathtub and sink. The home has a full attic and there is a walkout basement with generous 10’ ceilings. The stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer and dryer are included. The property exterior offers a beautiful front veranda and 2nd floor balcony and an attached large back private deck with a 1 car garage. This Home is being offered at $249,000 through Jack Callery Real Estate exclusively! Call for an Immediate Showing at [518] 848-1338.
192 Casler Rd Little Falls, NY 13365
Koehler Real Estate
Large Building Lots
315-891-3254
Hillside Heights Building Lots
Adirondack Land
Little Beaver Lodge 55 Acres
Camp Whitetail 65 Acres
Great Setting For Your New Home Or Camp. These Properties Have It All! Ponds, woods, fields, streams, abundant wildlife, snowmobile/ATV trails, town road with electric. Asking $69,900 & $79,900. Near Old Forge.
New Homes Modular
Your Family Oriented Development A Few Remaining Building Lots Are Available.
Priced From $16,900 to $19,900 Curbside Utilities, Deed Restrictions
A Must See For Your New Home 1 Acre Lots • Builders Welcome
Located Off McKern Road, Floyd, NY
Interested, 315-891-3254
16
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
315-891-3254
THIS IS THE BEST DEAL AROUND!
“The Best Homes at the Best Prices” Middleville, Herkimer County - 2 acre to 8
“IT’S SIMPLE”
We can give you better specifications, more upgraded features,
A HIGHER QUALITY HOME and we can do it all for less money.
Bring Us Your Best Deal - We Will Beat It!
315-891-3254
Phone: 315-891-3254
acre building lots. Private community. 35 exceptional homesites set on 235 acres. Riding Trails, sunset views. Direct Snowmobile and ATV trails. Prices starting at $16,900 & up. Interested, 315-891-3254
LifeandHomes
™
Adirondack Properties & Land
ADK Realty 2144 State Hwy 10, Caroga Lake, NY 12032
MaryEllen Charles
Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner
518-705-5616 (Cell) 518-835-2357 • www.ADKSrealty.com Local Guide to the Southern Adirondacks!
Peck Lake
$298,500
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath custom home! Lots of class yet very relaxing! Hickory floors, Tile baths. Soaring ceilings, living room opens to deck with lake views. Lake access just down the road. Full basement, Large, private corner lot!
151 Char Lane, Fonda
$249,000
Fonda Fultonville Schools. 10+ acres, BIG 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Custom Ranch with full finished basement. Living room with fireplace, master suite. Beautiful inside and out! 2 car garage plus a 3 car barn! VERY private.
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
17
LifeandHomes
™
Adirondack Properties & Land
BIRD’S
Adirondack Real Estate
Own A Piece of The Adirondacks
2730 Route 28, Old Forge, NY 13420
315-369-2136
Check all the listings at: www.birdsadkrealestate.com
Long Lake
$59,000
6.2 AC wooded lot with small shed. Town water & under ground power. Possible owner financing.
Raquette Lake Home
$695,000
Waterfront 3 bedroom home on 7 acre lot with 370’of lakefront. Features large living room with fireplace, dining room with fireplace, kitchen, bath, & loft. Also includes guest cabin. Boat access for added privacy & electric power & phone service.
Old Forge
$649,000
Old Forge
$895,000
Old Forge
$795,000
Raquette Lake
$495,000
Old Forge
$89,900
Old Forge
$195,000
5.3 acre wooded lake front lot with 150’of shoreline.
Boat access only seasonal home, located at Green Point. 2 Story home with seperate sleeping cabin included. The main house has a first floor bedroom and full bathroom, 2 bedrooms on the second floor, full kitchen, living room w/woodstove, laundry room, screened in porch.
Marine Dealership - 2730 Rt 28 - Business Opportunity with spacious living quarters. Old Forge Marine dealership & garage includes 2 offices, 50’X 100’store and garage on 180ft of road frontage on Rt 28. Garage has 3 overhead doors in back and 1 in front.
Summit Place -This is a 1 acre cleared building lot overlooking 1st Lake with lake rights to Hollywood Hills. Possible owner financing.
Tuttle Road - 3rd Lake Home. Year round 4 bedroom ranch home with boathouse on 100’of lakefront, 3700 sq ft and 1.8 Acres. Features sun porch & walk out basement facing 3rd lake.
210 Pullman Ave - Centrally located property in the heart of Old Forge! This is a 1 story, 2 bedrooms, and 2.5 baths home. Close by the Enchanted Forest Water Safari, snowmobile trails, and walking distance of restaurants and shops, this home is in a prime location!
Marketing Rural, Recreational & Agricultural Properties
(877) 528-LAND • www.NationalLandandFarm.com 2547 State Route 12b, Hamilton, New York 13346 18
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
LifeandHomes
™
Adirondack Properties & Land 3044 State Route 28 (Main Street) Old Forge, NY 13420
(315) 369-6910 www.herron-realty.com herronrealty@gmail.com
We Live Here, You Could Too!
• Jaimee Tormey, Real Estate Salesperson • #156155 • $325,000 • Old Forge • 3 Bdrms, 2.5 Baths • Indoor Hot Tub & Sauna
• Kathleen Rivet, Real Estate Salesperson • #157429 • $249,900 • Log Cabin Beauty • Accessible to Snowmobile Trails • Forestport, 20 Minutes to Old Forge
• Tory Dunn, Associate Real Estate Broker • #156186 • $469,000 • Inlet • 3 Bdrm, 2.5 Baths • 200’Lakefront
• David Dunn, Associate Real Estate Broker • #155157 • $437,000 • Fulton Chain • Year Round • 2 Bdrm, Loft
• Patricia Hays, Real Estate Salesperson • #156500 • $599,900 • Hollywood Hills • Private Yet Close To Town • 175’Waterfront with Boathouse & Dock
• Dennis McAllister, Associate Real Estate Broker • #154625 • $125,000 • Year Round • Lake Rights Big Moose Lake • Snowmobile & Hiking Trails
• Sharon Finkle-Kleps, Real Estate Salesperson • #157563 • $685,000 • 169’on White Lake • 4 Bdrm, 2 Bath • 3 Stall Garage, Radiant Heat
• Sandra Albert, Real Estate Salesperson • #154939 • $990,000 • 4th Lake South Shore Road • Contemporary • Substantial Size Rooms
• #156432 • $232,000 • Hollywood Hills • Deeded Lake Rights • Totally Renovated
• #154178 • $274,000 • Inlet • 4 Bdrm, 2 Bath • Golf Course View
F I N D T H E H O U S E O F Y O U R D R E A M S AT
M O H A W K VA L L E Y H O M E S . C O M
M O H A W K VA L L E Y L I S T I N G S E R V I C E , I N C . P R O U D LY S E R V I C I N G H E R K I M E R & O N E I D A C O U N T I E S F O R O V E R 3 2 Y E A R S .
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
19
LifeandHomes Business News & Directory
LiFi – The Future of Wireless Internet
Reduced Utility Costs, Through Lighting Systems Upgrades
LiFi is a wireless technology that uses the infrared light spectrum to transmit information. LiFi is capable of reaching speeds as high as 224 gigabits per second which is thousands of times faster than today’s WiFi. At Lifi’s maximum speed, you would be able to conceivably download a full length movie in well under one second. Though LiFi works best in the direct light of a transmitting device,
LED Lighting Projects Offer • Increased Light • Improved Aesthetics • Large Incentives
it can also be as fast as 70 mbps when reflected off of walls. If LiFi was widely adopted, it would have large implications on the way we communicate. With a data connection that fast, our devices would only need limited processing power. This would allow computer technology to enter the simplest of everyday items such
• Reduced Cost • Minimized Maintenance • Positive Cash Flow
Call Us Today to Receive a Free Lighting Assessment and Energy Consultation!
as notepads, computer desks, lunch trays, and office chairs at a very low cost. This would allow for enormous possibilities to improve commerce and our everyday lives, creating a wave of advancements and transforming the world around us.
Andrew Gehrig Program Manager Potentia Management Group, LLC. 8469 Seneca Turnpike Plaza 5, Suite 204, New Hartford NY 13413
315-240-5568
agehrig@potentiamanagement.com
Messier’s Auction Services Stephanie Messier -
2015 NYS Womens Auctioneer Champion, Lic. Real Estate Salesperson, Licensed FFL Firearms Dealer, Certified Estate Specialist, Members of the NAA & NYSAA
Together, We keep your dog
Happy, Healthy, & Safe! • Lifetime Warranty • Outdoor Systems • Indoor Systems
• Veterinarian Approved • Made in the USA
518-767-DOGS(3647) • capitaldistrictdogguard.com
Re-Utilize CNY
3 professional Auctioneers, with a proven marketing strategy!
(877) 528-LAND
2547 State Route 12b Hamilton, New York 13346
We are the right professional team for the job specializing in; Residential & Commercial Properties | Business Liquidations Farm Equipment | On-Site and Consignment Auctions Antiques & Collectibles | Firearms
FREE Magazine
Call Vick today for a FREE consultation with NO obligation!
315.225.3565
www.messiersauction.com
Life and
Homes
12 Century Hill Latham NY, 12110
™
Estate Liquidations & Clean Out Service
518.861.7030
2209 St. Rte. 5 Utica NY 13502
Jonathon D. Smoulcey
Owner
jon@reutilizecny.com 315.292.2076 315.797.3788
Store Hours: Tues - Fri 11-6 Sat & Sun 11-4 Travel radius 250 miles 20
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
Carmella
Crisafulli Richards Sign up for your FREE Magazine Subscription at LifeandHomes.com/CR-NY | Click on FREE MAGAZINE tab
Associate Broker
(C) 518.928.6486
Carmella@carmellarichards.com
LifeandHomes Business Directory
Looking for Answers to Your Home Related Questions? Search no further! Consider Your Local Business Expert!
Advertise
Home Inspection
LIFEANDHOMES™ 315-865-5845 To advertise your business in this space and be a part of the Capital region’s ever growing business Directory, give us a call and join the
VSI LLC 518-371-7944
Serving the Capital District since 1993. nYS
member Since 01/15
Licensed Home Inspector, Lic # 16000005522; nYS Certified Pest Inspector #T5685318; nYS
LifeandHomes™ community!
Auction Service
Estate Sales
RE-UTILIZE CNY ESTATE LIQUIDATIONS & CLEAN OUT SERVICE 315-292-2076/ Jonathon D. Smoulcey - Providing CnY area estate liquidations and clean out services. buy315-797-3788 member Since 06/16
ing one item or entire estates. visit our store for used furniture, artwork, collectibles, antiques, home decor, tools & more. Travel radius 250 miles. www.reutilizecny.com
LifeandHomes
™
member Since 04/16
Lifetime warranty,outdoor & Indoor systems,veterinarian approved. capitaldistrictdogguard.com
Pools
MARYANN O’BRIEN Your Local Farmers Agent Currently offers Savings 518-280-1396
ATLANTIC POOLS A family owned & operated business w/ 30 518-279-1785
member Since 02/15
member Since 07/15
Call messier’s Auction Services, a professional auction company,where the auction action is to your satisfaction. messiersauction.com
DOG GUARD OF THE CAPITAL DISTRICT Safe,effective,affordable out-of-sight fencing. 518-767-3647
Certified Codes officer
Insurance
MESSIER’S AUCTION SERVICES Do you have personal or real property you need to 315.225.3565 315.447.6440 sell? You can rely on us for all of your auction needs. member Since 12/15
Pet Care
For: Auto, Home, Life, Collectable Auto, business, renter, boat, Personal Watercraft, motorcycle, Condo, mobile Homes, recreational vehicles
Land
years experience in the swimming pool industry. We provide pool installation, renovation, service, or repair & also offer pool care & spa services.
Property Preservation
NATIONAL LAND & FARM 1-877-528-LAnD Looking for rural, recreational, or Agricultural
LIFEANDHOMES™ REHAB Debris removal, winterizations, rekeying/lock 315-865-5845
member Since 02/15
member Since 04/12
Properties? Check out our network of real estate brokers Specializing in Land and Farm Sales.
replacement,lawncare,boarding and securing, janitorial services, and repair and remodeling.
www.nationalLandandFarm.com
If you would like to be listed here, Please call 315-865-5845
Rentals
Oak Brook Commons Luxury Apartments in Clifton Park Welcome to a 50 acre beautifully landscaped community. Conveniently located. • 24 Hour quality maintenance
Prices starting at just $1105 for 1 bedroom at 1150 sq.ft. and $1250 for 2 bedrooms at 1350 sq. ft.
Make Oak Brook CommonsYourNew Home Call 518-371-0216 • Route 9, Clifton Park NY 12065
Hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.• Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday by Appointment
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
21
Easy and Affordable Ways to Personalize Your First Home Call this the age of personalization. You can customize practically anything these days to make it feel more “yours,” so of course you want to be able to do that to your first home. If you’re shopping for your first home keep in mind certain features can make a home easier and more affordable to customize after you’ve moved in. For example, if you think you’ll need room to expand for a growing family down the road, it will be cheaper in the long run to buy a home with an attic or basement that you can finish into living space than to try and build on an addition from scratch. As you’re shopping consider these elements that will help make it easier and financially feasible for you to make your new home truly your own:
Architectural bones that are right for you What’s your personal style? Do you favor a mid-century modern look? Art-deco? Craftsman? Colonial? It’s important to choose a home in a basic architectural style you love, because while you can affordably change the color and landscaping, it’s much harder to create a whole new look. Look for exterior features that play up the home’s architectural style, and then think of ways to customize them down the road. For example, simply painting the gingerbread trim on your Victorian style home in a different color can celebrate the look you love while making it your own.
Energy efficient lifestyle features Green considerations and energy efficiency are top priorities for many of today’s first-time 22
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
homebuyers, so it’s important to look for a home that has conservation-minded features like a high-efficiency water heater or low-flow showerheads. The best eco-conscious home features, however, will also enhance your lifestyle. Upgrades like Energy Star-qualified, solar-powered, fresh-air skylights like those from Velux America provide natural light plus passive ventilation, helping to cut energy costs while reducing dependency on artificial light and ventilation sources. If you buy a home that already has skylights, you can personalize them by adding energy efficient blinds in designer colors and patterns. And if you add solar powered skylights to the home, it’s easy and cost-effective since there is no cost for electrical work to operate the units. Solar skylights, blinds and installation costs are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. A programmable touchpad remote allows you to adjust the amount of light entering through the venting skylights and also to adjust the blinds with the touch of button. The skylights close automatically in case of rain. You can also easily and affordably add more natural light to interior spaces like hallways and closets with Sun Tunnel tubular skylights, which can be installed by a handy DIYer in a few hours. Visit www.whyskylights.com to learn more.
Room to grow More Americans are living in multi-generational homes. Whether you plan to grow your family by having kids, moving your aging parents in with you, or adopting as many pets as you can fit in your house, you may find you’ll need more space in your new home before you’re ready to move out of it. Homes that have unfinished basements and/or attics will be easier to customize for your growing space needs. Converting an attic or basement into living space can cost much less than having an addition built on your home and attics are perfect spaces to easily add light and fresh air with skylights or roof windows.
A price that lets you add value Popular renovation and fixer-upper shows make it easy to understand the idea of finding a home at a price that will allow you to add value. A home that needs some renovation and upgrading will likely cost less than a comparable new home, but it also affords you the opportunity to extensively personalize your space. If you buy a home that needs work for a price well under your budget limit, you can use the extra money to invest in renovations that put your personal stamp on your home. In addition to customization for additional enjoyment, those upgrades will also allow you to instantly add value to your home. (BPT)
OUR PLANS ARE FLEXIBLE. The versatility of Lindal’s distinctive designs makes your dream home an affordable reality. Choose from thousands of original plans…or we’ll help design your very own. Lindal homes offer the elegance of dramatic cathedral ceilings and free-flowing interiors. Our unique open post and beam system makes it easy to plan your home just the way you want it. Visit us to find out more.
Be sure to ask about our award-winning Lindal planbook.
Independently Distributed by:
Custom Home Masterpieces, Inc. 5180 W. Taft Road P.O. Box 3306 Syracuse, NY 13220-3306 315-458-4256 www.lindal.com/ny
November
■
www.Life and Homes .com
23
Brian Brosen & Reginald Monroe
Licensed Associate Real Estate Brokers
Proudly Serving the Community for 12 Years 2190 State Rt 67, Galway
2314 Fairlee St, Schenectady
7 Old English Rd, New Scotland
687 Slate Hill Rd, Sharon Springs
27 Walden Glen, Ballston Lake
Gifford Hollow Road, Berne
They don’t make them like this anymore. Early 1800’s built farmhouse on 55.43 acres in Galway school district. Home has wide plank floors(living rm is old carriage house), hand hewn beams, and oozes charm not found today. Owner has beautifully maintained this home. $339,900
3 bedroom home in a convenient location. Home has hardwood floors, crown molding, good sized kitchen with pantry,formal dining room and walk up attic with lots of room for storage. Newer furnace, updated electrical, front porch and rear enclosed porch for extra space. NEW PRICE $40,000
This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with over 3000sf sits on 80 acres, nestled quietly only minutes from the village of Sharon Springs. This superb family retreat offers a great wrap around porch, back deck, in ground heated pool with great views. The home has an amazing updated kitchen w/ granite counter tops, under cabinet lighting, new SS appliances. $375,000
Immaculate and truly impressive home with over 5500sf of living space, on a beautiful, landscaped near acre lot in Voorheesville schools. Stunning high end details throughout include hickory flooring, red oak flooring, FDR w/ tray ceilings, family room w/gas FP/built ins. NEW PRICE $688,000
Superbly maintained home on over half acre corner lot in Ballston Lake. This home features a spacious and newly updated kitchen w/ granite/pergo floors, new gas stove, whole house generator and a bonus room finished over garage (4th br). This home has a nice family room with gas fireplace and built ins, 1st floor laundry, newer vinyl tilt in windows, new driveway. $257,900
Spectacular 51.2 acres of land situated next to the NYS Partridge Run state forest land. This land, made up of 2 parcels being sold together, has 1800 feet of road frontage and has 3 small, stocked ponds. The land has amazing views of the surrounding Helderberg mountains and features ample cleared, as well as plenty of wooded territory. Could be subdivided. NEW PRICE $115,000
Tech Valley’s Full Service Real Estate Team • Seller representation • Buyer Representation • Landlord and Tenant Representation • Credit Checks for prospective tenants
24
LifeandHomes ■ Capital Region
Offering:
• Commercial Leasing/Commercial Sales • Short Sale/Pre Foreclosure sales/consultation • Land Sales and Development Consultation • New Construction Sales