Good Neighbors Make Good Fences
Poet Robert Frost is noted for saying good fences make good neighbors. It's safe to assume Mr. Frost had no idea how contentious neighbors could become over that issue. Property disputes involving fences and allegations of encroachment are reportedly among the most heavily litigated types of cases. While fence issues may feel petty in the grand scheme of things, they do affect property rights and that IS important.
If you're planning on installing a fence, hedges, trees, or bushes on your property to create a boundary or division, it would be wise to take a few steps to help avoid creating a fence dispute.
Hire a land surveyor to determine your property lines. Installing a fence even an inch over your line can cause problems. Fence companies usually install a foot inside the line, just to be sure. Obtain a permit, if required, and follow local zoning ordinances dictating fence requirements, such as the height of a fence, how far an owner must set back a fence, the use of prohibited material, the maintenance of a fence, etc. In some places, you won't need a permit to put up a fence but you will need to be aware of any ordinances governing the height and placement of fences and screening
811 is the national call-before-you-dig phone number. Call 811 a few business days before digging to request that the approximate location of buried utilities be marked with paint or flags so that you don’t unintentionally dig into an underground utility line.
No one likes surprises. Before installing, says IndyHomes, have a conversation with neighbors. If property line issues exist, resolve them before installation. No need to show neighbors the design – that’s just inviting trouble. They have to live with your choice unless it lowers property values or is dangerous.
Be a good neighbor when it's time for fence maintenance, repair or replacement.. If a dispute does happen to arise between yourself and a neighbor, work together and do everything in your power to find a peaceful resolution. Remember, good fences make good neighbors and good neighbors make good fences.
What Goes Into My Total Monthly Mortgage Payment?
Principal + interest + mortgage insurance (if applicable) + escrow (homeowners insurance and tax) =Total monthly payment.
If you live in a condo, co-op, or a neighborhood with a homeowners’ association, you will likely have additional fees that are usually paid separately.
Although your principal and interest payment will generally remain the same as long as you make regular payments on time (unless, for example, you have a balloon loan), your escrow payment can change. For example, if your home increases in value, your property taxes typically increase as well.
When considering a mortgage offer, make sure to look at the total monthly payment listed on the written estimates you receive. Many homebuyers make the mistake of looking at just the principal and interest payment, leading to an unpleasant surprise when they learn their total monthly payment is much higher. You can find your estimated total monthly payment on page 1 of the Loan Estimate, in the “Projected Payments” section.
Many lenders require you to pay your taxes and insurance in advance using an escrow account, but not all do. If there’s no escrow payment listed on your Loan Estimate, these costs won’t be included in your monthly payment to your mortgage lender. Instead, you’ll have to pay property taxes directly to your state or local government and homeowners insurance directly to your insurance company. To make sure you can afford the mortgage, find out what your property tax and homeowners insurance bills will be, and calculate the total monthly payment yourself. Ask your real estate agent where to get this information.
If one lender requires you to pay taxes and insurance into an escrow account, but another doesn’t, compare the offers by looking at the principal and interest payment instead of the total monthly payment. Make sure to calculate the total monthly payment as well so you can be certain you can afford it.
(consumerfinance.gov)
Guide To Purchasing New Appliances
Appliance Tech put together a helpful guide to purchasing a new home appliance from a unique perspective. It's a buyer's checklist that is completely from a professional technician's point of view.
If you're in the market to buy a new kitchen or laundry appliance, before you rush to make a purchase, read the Appliance Tech checklist and guide to purchasing a new appliance. When getting ready to buy a new refrigerator, dryer, stove, or washing machine, it’s really helpful to hear from someone who knows these machines inside and out. Salespeople will give you one perspective, but a technician will give you a brand new angle to look at the purchasing process.
As a consumer shopping for a new appliance, make sure you take the right steps before you buy. Through their new appliance purchase guide, Appliance Tech takes you through a two part checklist that comes from a technical, and common sense perspective. It's aimed at the budget-conscious buyers, to help with making every dollar count. However, it can help consumers in every circumstance make a smarter purchasing decision on a new appliance.
This guide is designed to help you make a more informed major appliance purchase, from the viewpoint of a technician with many years of service and repair in the field. The article begins with the basics first, then proceeds going through the subjects of warranties, repairs, service, and
how to save money- they cover all the bases. It is a must read before purchasing any new appliance for your home. Find the guide at https:// appliancetechclemsonsc.com/guide-to-buying-anew-appliance/. (pr.com) your local professional service.
(BPT)
Increase Your Water Safety Vigilance
Drowning remains the leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 4 years old.
Parents and caregivers can follow simple steps to keep children safer in and around the water: Never leave a child unattended in or near water, and always designate an adult Water Watcher. This person should not be reading, texting, using a phone or being otherwise distracted. In addition to pools and spas, this warning includes bathtubs, buckets, decorative ponds, and fountains.
•If you own a pool or spa, install layers of protection, including barriers to prevent an unsupervised child from accessing the water. Homes can use door alarms, pool covers, and self-closing, self-latching devices on fence gates and doors that access pools.
•Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults. Many communities offer online CPR training.
•Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim.
•Keep children away from pool drains, pipes, and other openings to avoid entrapments.
•Ensure any pool and spa you use has drain covers that comply with federal safety standards. If you do not know, ask your pool service provider about safer drain covers.
(cpsc.gov)
Bruce Graham Real Estate LLC
One of Otisco’s original farmhouses. The house is currently con gured as a two-family with the back addition being the second dwelling. With solid bones and foundation, this property deserves to be restored to the next lucky owner’s vision. Additional acreage is available as a separate land listing. Taxes are computed with no agricultural exemptions, and for the total 83+ acres. Call today for complete listing details.
KINYON ROAD, OTISCO • $400,000 73+ Acres With Outstanding Views
Large tract of wooded land. Hill top location with outstanding views to the North. Driveway on Kinyon Road goes back to a clearing in the wood lot. Cabin does not convey. Lot is part of larger tract included with residence 2499 Kamm Road. Lot to be subdivided. Taxes stated with out agricultural exemption, and the entire 83+ acres and residence.
8187 Seneca Turnpike (Rt 5), New Hartford
368 Steuben Rd. - Built in 2017, ranch home w/40 acres! 1,980
it your Home. Previously a Hair Salon, owner began turning it into a “Single Family Residence” for you to Finish into whatever you want. MLS#S1518675
Sabrina Arcuri
Rosemary
Santina “Tina” Pavia
For Lease: 5-19 Commons Drive, Cooperstown Former Family Dollar space available 1/1/2024. Cotenancy with Grand Union, Bassett Healthcare, NBT Bank, J&J Liquor, Short Cuts and Jive Café.
For Lease: 8372-8378 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford 2,600 ± SF retail or office space located in close proximity to major retail corridor. Key tenants include New Hartford Eye Associates, Empire Hearing and Audiology.
For Lease: 34-38 Oriskany Boulevard Whitesboro Neighborhood center located at a controlled intersection. This center is 90% occupied and tenants include Berkshire Bank, Dollar Tree, Label Shopper.
For Sale: 2514 Oneida Street Utica – BUSINESS ONLY Ridgewood Market & located
For Lease: 239 Genesee Street, Utica
For Sale: 1692 Bennett St & 1675 Hager St, Utica The historic Finger Bullet offers a full bar & fully equipped with. On-
parking and located adjacent to Faxton Hospital and
LifeandHomes Howard Hanna
106 Kenmore Rd, Old Forge “WILDWOOD “- Imagine The Posibilities $3,200,000
“Wildwood”, a spectacular 4 season home perfectly positioned for sweeping lake and mountain views. With 5.5 acres of prime waterfront and over 400 feet of shoreline, this meticulously kept and custom-built compound a ords tasteful Adirondack living and perfect ow.
The open oor plan still a ords privacy on its expansive three levels, and main level. Stylish 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom guest house remarkably well equipped and beautifully executed. Stone replaces. terraces, decks, lawns, serene porch, boathouse, two-stall garage, this one checks all the boxes!
Contact John Brown to schedule your private showing of this impressive property.
FRONT
COVER FEATURED HOME
130 Paris Rd, New Hartford
This expansive mansion sprawls over 5.8 acres with 5200 square feet of luxurious amenities. Meticulously updated elegance while honoring its rich history, this home offers unparalleled entertainment amidst mature, lush landscapes and private gardens. Enjoy the in-ground heated pool, hot tub and flower gardens, lawns perfect for shuffleboard, pickleball and lawn games.
Inside, nd 4 bedrooms with the potential for a 5th, including a lavish and over-sized primary ensuite with soaking tub, raised ceilings and sauna.
The attached 3-stall garage accommodates 5-6 vehicles, complemented by an additional 3-stall detached garage. Come live the lifestyle!
Listing Agents: Vincent Scalise & John Brown
Amodio Realty, Inc. Pays it Forward by Giving Back
Real Estate Rebate Program Honors Local Heroes
BY RICHARD BARRETT Aug. 2018
Amodio Realty Inc., located in the Town of Lee, wanted to show its appreciation to the military, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, health care professionals, and teachers for their service to country and community, but wanted to do it in a way that went beyond mere words.
So the small family real estate agency, staffed by Stephen Amodio (Broker/Owner), his wife Betsy (President/Owner), and their daughter, Lucciana, decided to do something extraordinary with their business after learning about Heroes Home Advantage and a courageous woman named Michele Ladd, its founder.
Stephen Amodio, a former Marine whose own family includes many community heroes, heard about Ladd’s noble mission of honoring hometown heroes by offering discounts and rebates on real estate services, and he wanted to get on board. He did his due diligence first, spending nine months researching and speaking with other realtors nationwide who were already participating.
Amodio Realty, Inc. joined the Heroes Home Advantage program in January of 2017 and is currently working with about a half dozen heroes. He has closed on several properties already, but explained that it’s not about being pressured to obtain listings, move properties and meet sales quotas. It’s about giving back. He discovered through census tract records that in the tri-county area he exclusively serves, these categories of community heroes when combined comprise 50% of their total population.
As of Januray 2024, Amodio Realty, Inc. now serves 8 counties: Oneida, Herkimer, Madison, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, St. Lawrence and Hamilton!
“We can never repay our heroes for their service, but we can honor them with a small token of our appreciation,” Amodio said. “We are looking for opportunities to honor local community heroes. That is our goal.”
Amodio Realty gives 25% of earned commission directly to the hero, (up to $5000 per transaction), when we close on the sale and/or purchase of their residential or commercial property.
“It’s a small gesture in comparison to the their daily sacrifices and service to our community and country,” he said.
He also works closely with a comprehensive, likeminded network of community partners who offer additional rebates and discounts on their related products and services. The savings to heroes when
all is said and done can be thousands of dollars. As word of mouth about the program spreads, Amodio envisions adding a half-dozen sales staff and expanding his cadre of committed community business partners even further. He graciously welcomes those who respect the program’s mission and embrace its spirit of honoring community heroes for their contributions.
“We’re hungry for more hero partners,” he said. “The door is wide open to virtually any business, but we discourage people from using the program to leverage their business and not follow through on their promises.” There are no fees involved, no catches, and no restrictions on how Amodio’s rebate can be used. The program is open to all qualified active, retired and volunteer heroes, both buyers and sellers, including first-time home buyers.
Amodio can’t hide his enthusiasm for the program and the people it serves.
“We’re enjoying doing this,” he admitted. “We always get a great reception.”
Heroes Home Advantage has representation in 40 states. For more information, visit AmodioRealty.com or HeroesHomeAdvantage.com
Article written by Richard Barrett Editor, Accent Magazine Reprinted and edited with permission Special Thanks to Jason Gulla with Gulla Graphics
Johnstown $319,900
Waterfront Family Compound On Hinckley Reservoir!
160 NYS 365, Russia $650,000
and approx. 900 ft deep with over 3 acres. The Adirondack Park land borders the Blue Line “Water Front. “ CAMP 1- Sleeps over 15, 4 bedrooms 2 and a half baths, a large family room with a vaulted ceiling, field stone fireplace. Lg kitchen, small porch off the back. Full basement and an outside entrance. Camp 2-A second story camp with fireplace, 3 beds, one full bath, eat-in kitchen. Redone recently with Tongue and Groove Pine throughout. First floor garage, washer and dryer hook ups. Year round usage. Camp 3- 3 beds, 1 bath, full kitchen opens to living room. Tongue and Groove Pine throughout. Beautiful water access, short staircase to the boat dock. Sandy to rocky shoreline. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing!
Located on the edge of the Adirondack Park in a private gated area. Beautiful 200’ frontage along the Black River. Fairly new off-the-grid cabin, wired with solar panels and power inverter. The 12’ x 30’ cabin includes a screenedin porch, second floor, insulated & wired, full bathroom. No septic or water hookups. Kitchen is unfinished, plumbing and kerosene refrigerator. Needs flooring and walls finished - most materials are on-site for completing. 6 acres of land for privacy, 12’ x 14’ fairly new storage shed. Staircase leads to the Black River calm section, enjoy swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. HOA has common picnic spot along the stream, maintains roads, gated main entrance. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing!
Approximately 18 acres of pristine, surveyed land near Hinckley Reservoir. This fully wooded property boasts a blend of hardwoods, softwoods and mature trees. Flat to gently rolling terrain up front and a majestic high ridge at the back. Well-drained soil. Driveway to a cleared area ready for your dream camp or house. Evergreen borders provide natural seclusion and privacy. Close proximity to Hinckley Reservoir, Black Creek, and has DEC Beach and access to snowmobile and ATV trails nearby. Excellent fishing spots and hunting opportunities. Adirondack Park approved for building. High-speed fibe internet available at road frontage. Just 25 to 30 minutes from Utica. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing!
Camp In The Town Of Forestport On The Black River!
Bellingertown Rd, Forestport $124,900
Secluded Woodland Paradise Close to Hinckley Reservoir!
Pardeeville Rd, Russia $68,500
Amy Abdoo
Lic. R. E. Broker 315-794-2653
BLON316@AOL.com
Dominion Homes Real Estate Brokerage
Pamela Allen
Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-717-7530 pfallen0314@gmail.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Sharon Baisley
Lic. R.E. Broker 315-429-9754 sbaisley@hbegroup.com
United Country Real Estate/ HBE Group Inc.
Chris Buck Luxury Apartment Complex (315) 617-3300 rentals@thedeltaapartments.com The Delta Apartments
John “JACK” Carlin
Lic. R. E. Broker 315-429-3395
unitedcountry@hbegroup.com United Country Real Estate/HBE Group Inc.
Clyde Diedrich
Lic. R.E. Broker 315-868-4339 rcentur3@twcny.rr.com
Diedrich Associates Valley Realty
David Drapalski
Lic. R.E. Assoc Broker 315-868-3233 superdd527@aol.com Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Janet L. Giacovelli
Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-404-7108 janetgiacovelli@howardhanna.com
Howard Hanna Utica/New Hartford
MLS BROKER/AGENT DIRECTORY
Azza Giorgi
Lic. Assoc. RE Broker 315- 534-2709 azzagiorgi@gmail.com
Howard Hanna CNY IncUtica/New Hartford Office, NY
Gina Hartman
Licensed R.E. Salesperson 315-717-5249
ginahartman55@yahoo.com
Bruce Ward & Co, Inc.
Ryan Hastings
Lic. R. E. Salesperson 315-219-3116
ryan@centralnewyork.com Coldwell Banker Faith Properties
Patricia Kelly Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-717-2421 bward@brucewardusa.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Thomas F. Koehler
Lic. R. E. Broker/Modular Home Dealer 315-891-3254
Koehler RE/ New Homes Modular
Kuyahoora Luxury Lodge & Resort
Lic. R.E. Broker 315-741-2202 guestservice@kuyahooraresort.com Vacation Rentals
Fred Macchia Lic. R. E. Broker 315-292-0373 fmccim@hotmail.com 1st Rome Realty
Bill Macri
Lic. Associate R. E. Broker 315-360-1920
bill.joemacrirealty@gmail.com
Joe Macri Realty
John Macri
Lic. R. E. Salesperson 315-866-2521
jmacri40@yahoo.com Joe Macri Realty
Monica Munford Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-822-6666
pmumford@twcny.rr.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Robert Paul Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-717-3527
rpaul07@yahoo.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Art Pratt GRI, Lic. R.E. Broker 315-366-3600
PrattRealty@ArtPratt.com
Pratt Realty
Matthew Pryputniewicz NY Licensed R.E. Salesperson/ Commercial Director 315-794-3305
mattrealty@msn.com
Berkshire Hathaway CNY Realty
Paul Sacco
Lic. RE Salesperson (315) 525-1377
paulsacco1013@gmail.com
Howard Hanna Utica/ New Hartford
Michelle Gorea Thompson
Lic. R. E. Salesperson 315-794-3260
saratogaunion@aol.com
Coldwell Banker Faith Properties - John Brown Tream
Carol Spisak Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-269-6933
carol1320@aol.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
K Bruce Ward
Lic. R.E. Broker 315-796-4425 bward@brucewardusa.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
James F Woodrick
Lic. Associate R. E. Broker 315-866-0258 jwoodric@twcny.rr.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
LifeandHomes Product & Service Directory
Flat Fee Apartment Leasing Includes tenant application screening, apartment showings, rent & dep collection. Move-In/Move-Out Statement, plus* 90-Day Landlord/Tenant Support & Retention Guarantee. Call for Details. GreenPeaRealEstate.com (315) 351-2988
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Estate & house sales, appraisals, coins, vintage jewelry, antiques, glass, china, furniture, Americana, art, lighting and more. thepottingshedantiques.com
Cabinets
AMERICA
315-733-6261
Kitchen cabinets and Stone countertops. Exceptional quality and great prices. Fast estimates. Over 50 years experience. By appointment only. cabinetamerica.net
General Contracting. Handyman services, Plumbing, Electrical, Painting, Sheet Rocking, Estate Cleanouts. 30+ Years Experience. Low Rates & Fully Insured. Call Dean 315-985-5249.
Cleaning/Cleanout Service
JURY DUTY
315-853-6468
Member Since 09/16
Pre/Post Move Cleanouts * Debris Removal * Garage/Basement/Attic/Barn * Recycling
Farm & Garden
BENSON'S FARM AND GARDEN
315-520-8395
Member Since 12/21
located in Whitesboro, NY has been a family run greenhouse since 1977. We serve the Utica-Rome area offering a wide selection of annuals, vegetables, perennials, and hanging baskets as well as everything you need to build and maintain your pond.
Garage Doors
Home Inspection
ADVANCED HOME
315-792-9029 Member Since 04/13
27 years experience. NYS Licensed/Certified Inspector. NEHA/NRPP Certified Radon Inspector. Electronic Inspection Report Emailed Same Day. www.advancedhomeis.com
SUPERIOR QUALITY HOME INSPECTIONS
315-794-1565
Home Inspections for Buyers & Sellers. Radon testing, septic system dye testing & well water flow/well water quality testing. Patrick Rightmier. NYS Lic 16000066870. www.sqhi1.com
REAL ESTATE INSPECTIONS, LLC
315-868-8287
Comprehensive Residential Inspections, Real Estate Inspections, Septic Dye Tests, Radon Testing , Water Flow Testing, Water quality testing. Al zennamo. www.alshomeinspections.com
Modular Homes
KD HOMES
315-841-8700
Member Since 11/13
Featuring Bill Lake Homes. A different kind of home built with pride & integrity by professionals. www. kdhomesny.com
Insurance
PROTECT NY INSURANCE AGENCY
315-795-4900
Homeowners, Automobile, Business, Landlord Insurance. Jordan Roorda, Principal Agent. www.ProtectNY.com
Painting
URBANIK’S PAINT CO.
315-724-5129
315-336-0400
Member Since 07/15
Serving the Oneida, Herkimer & Madison counties, we have a simplified and centralized database of area listings to help you promote your new listings and buyer needs to cooperating agents and brokers, plus off-market, solds and
Largest selection of paint and wallcovering in Central NY. Rentals: floor sanders, polishers, airless sprayers, power washers, edgers. 1420 Oriskany St. Utica
Wells/Water Conditioning/Pumps
AMBER WATER PROS
315-484-5959
Member Since 12/21
For over 53 years …We've helped customers with superior services, including well drilling, pump installation, water conditioning and more. Water Emergency? Call or Text us 24/7.
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