LifeandHomes Capital Region NY August 2023

Wait A Minute - Or A Month

You've likely noticed home improvements that used to take a few weeks are now taking months, sometimes even longer, and materials are significantly more expensive than they were just a few years ago. On average, renovations that would have taken just 22 days in 2019 take 79 days now, according to finance tech company Credello.

Although it's a factor, we can't blame the delays only on supply chain disruptions. One of the primary reasons home improvements are taking longer now is the increased demand for renovation services which has put a strain on the renovation industry that's still struggling to keep up with the high demand and labor shortage. Simply put, we need more skilled laborers. Who saw that coming?

If you're finding yourself frustrated at having to adjust your renovation timeline and/or budget, can I point out a silver lining that can be easily overlooked? Delaying renovations can actually work in your favor - especially if you've just moved into a new-to-you home or plan to soon. Slowing down the process, living in the house for awhile, researching options, accumulating funds, getting a true feel for your surroundings before making any changes can actually help you prioritize and fine tune your renovation project ideas.

Not all delays are negative. Planning, prioritizing, and budgeting, while not glamorous, are keys that can open the door to unexpected opportunities leading to increased renovation success.

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Regular Home Maintenance Can Save You Money

As a homeowner, you need to make time for routine maintenance to keep your home in good condition. Regular maintenance can help reduce the possibility of costly and timeconsuming repairs.

"We're taught to have our vehicle's motor oil changed every few thousand miles to keep it in good running condition and a home is no different in that it needs regular attention too," says Bonnie Lee, Mercury Insurance VP of Property Claims. "Putting off tasks until something breaks or needs repair can lead to much larger and more expensive headaches."

Four areas homeowners should check regularly to keep it safe include:

TLC for the Airways- Heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) is the system that keeps the temperature inside a home comfortable. In order to not only keep running costs low but also extend the life of it, owners need to give it love and attention. A small leak or failure to replace an air filter could cause your annual energy bill to skyrocket.

A dirty air filter is the most common cause of problems for an HVAC system. When the air filter is dirty, the blower has to work harder to force air through the debris, increasing the system's energy consumption or overworking its capabilities. Regularly checking, cleaning and replacing your filters can help prevent this problem.

Check Your Roof- The first step of roof inspection begins inside the home. Look for damp spots or

water stains on the ceiling or for cracked plaster along the wall as these can be signs of water damage. During dry, warm months, conduct a visual examination of your roof's exterior for any cracked or missing shingles. Notice if you have to trim back tree branches that make contact with the roof as they can cause damage. If you suspect it needs attention, contact an experienced roofer who can perform a thorough inspection with drones and provide a condition report. Remember, roof repairs required because of damage caused by severe weather are covered by your insurance. Roof repairs that are necessary due to lack of maintenance, age, or standard wear and tear are not.

Gutters- Clean the gutters. Gutters are necessary to direct water away from your home's foundation. Their exposure to the elements means that they need to be cleaned and inspected regularly. While cleaning out dirt and leaves, make sure the gutters are securely attached to your house. The weight of heavy snowfall, rain, and dirt can cause gutters to loosen and pull away from the home.

"Our data shows that routine maintenance means lower homeowner costs by addressing small issues before they become problematic," says Lee.

Prepare for extreme weather- What might've been considered once-in-a-lifetime extreme weather events in the past are now becoming more frequent. Natural weather events such as flooding cause billions of dollars in property damage every year. Homeowners must be aware of all perils that can impact their homes as well as the type of coverage needed. Damages caused by an earthquake or storm flooding, for example, are not covered by a standard homeowners policy. Homeowners may want to consider purchasing policies or endorsements specifically designed to cover such perils.

A few minutes a day to inspect and take care of your home can make a difference. Review what policy coverages and home warranties are in place before a disaster strikes and take care of routine maintenance before it becomes a bigger problem. This will help you keep a happy and safe home. (BPT)

Home Remodeling Market Projected To Contract By 2024

CAMBRIDGE - After more than a decade of continuous growth, annual spending on improvements and repairs to owneroccupied homes is expected to decline by early next year, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) released by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University

The LIRA projects that year-over-year expenditures for homeowner improvements and maintenance will post a modest decline of 2.8 percent through the first quarter of 2024.

“Higher interest rates and sharp downturns in homebuilding and existing home sales are driving our projections for sluggish remodeling activity next year,” says Carlos Martín, Project Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Center. “With ongoing uncertainty in financial markets and the threat of a recession, homeowners are increasingly likely to pare back or delay projects beyond necessary replacements and repairs.”

“Homeowner improvement and maintenance spending is expected to top out at $458 billion in the coming year, compared with market spending of $471 billion over the past four quarters,” says Abbe Will, Associate Project Director of the Remodeling Futures Program. “However, strong and steady growth in the number of homes permitted for remodeling projects, as well as a slew of federal incentives for energy-efficiency retrofits may yet buoy remodeling expenditure from steeper declines.” (jchs.harvard.edu)

A rare opportunity to own this unique property on a pristine West Stoner Lake in the lower Adirondacks. The property is surrounded by New York state land and is only accessible by boat. Included are a driveway across the lake, a dock for parking, and a 12-foot boat.

This lakefront cabin has three bedrooms and one bathroom. The bathroom includes a sink, shower, and an Incinolet. There is hot/cold running water (lake water). The kitchen has an electric stove, refrigerator, microwave, and ample storage. A charming and fully functional wood stove is in the main living area for heat. The cabin has knotty pine walls and floors, a metal roof, and rough-cut wood siding.

The property includes an outhouse, a large storage shed, dock, and a swim platform. The property is being sold ‘’as is’’ with all home furnishings. There’s 252 ft. of natural shoreline on West Stoner Lake. The lake, and surrounding area, are perfect for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. Relax and unplug at this one-of-a-kind retreat.

What's new in home design? Check out these 5 exciting trends

If you love home renovation and design, you'll be excited to discover up-and-coming trends that are transforming the look and functionality of home spaces today. Home design is continually evolving - inspiring homeowners and design professionals to innovate and reimagine how you can live in and feel about your home.

Here are design trends to explore this year.

1. Embrace sustainability

Concern for the environment and consumer demand is spurring many companies to create more sustainable processes and materials, while ensuring that they don't sacrifice design or durability.

For example, Cosentino Group, the Spanish global leader in production and distribution of innovative and sustainable surfaces for architecture and design, has created Silestone, with HybriQ® Technology, a high-performance blend of premium minerals, quartz and recycled materials. With HybriQ+, Silestone products have an enhanced product composition and manufacturing method that uses 99% recycled water, 100% renewable electric energy, zero water discharge and at least 20% recycled raw materials. This new technology represents the first sustainable surfacing of its kind.

2. Say goodbye to all-white kitchens

Today's kitchens provide the focal point for entertaining, inspiring homeowners to express themselves through design, surfacing and materials. Opting for custom cabinetry colors, unique backsplash designs and dramatic countertops are subtle ways to express your

personal style through kitchen design.

For more drama and style in your kitchen surfaces, Cosentino's new Silestone Le Chic collection, launching in July, features contemporary designs in cream and rich-colored shades that are a modern interpretation of Parisian and Victorian inspired styles. Le Chic's six distinctive colors with expressive veins and metallic accents portray a sense of timeless allure, with a hint of nostalgia.

3. Say hello to wet rooms

Dreaming of a spa-like atmosphere? The Europeanstyle wet room might be your next great bathroom reno. Creating a cohesive space for your shower and bath is a great solution to enhance design and functionality, especially in smaller bathrooms.

Durable surfacing that can be utilized for flooring and shower walls - as well as built-in seating and storage to optimize the space - can leave your bathroom feeling luxurious and worry free. Make sure your contractor is experienced in creating a well-designed wet room, including proper drainage, lighting and non-slip flooring to ensure safety.

4. Rediscover industrials

Renewed interest in urban materials like unfinished

concrete is largely driven by the desire for clean lines and calm spaces. However, today's industrials are softened by combining concrete with natural elements like wood, stone and plants.

If this aesthetic appeals to you, check out the Silestone Urban Crush collection out next month, inspired by the diverse textures of industrial and urban style. Materials like concrete, limestone, bronze and ash inspired four new colors with different shades of gray.

5. Explore mixed metals

Using metallic accents in a variety of materials and colors provides visual interest and elevates any room. Thoughtfully choose mixed metals for hardware, lighting fixtures, mirrors or picture frames. Even metallic accessories like vases, trays or artwork can enhance your space. Just a few touches of mixed metals go a long way.

Don't match metals, but stick with the same family. For the most pleasing effect, choose only from the cool family (like brushed nickel or chrome) or the warm family (bronze, polished nickel, brass) - plus black, which can go with either family.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Learn more about innovative collections for the home at Cosentino.com. (BPT) -

18-Hole Golf Course With Fully Functioning Operations $3,500,000

A rare nd in Upstate NY with so much history behind it. Family-owned and operated since its inception, this 18-hole 177-acre golf course, with its mature trees and rolling hills, is absolutely breathtaking and o ers endless opportunities for the next owner.

The course bene ts from the massive, vaulted ceiling clubhouse featuring storage over the main bar kitchen, a Pro Shop on the lower level, convenient locker rooms, and 6 bathrooms/2 with handicap accessibility. Exit the walkout basement from the locker rooms directly to the pool. Reimagine

that space and bring the pool back to its heyday. The potential for this outdoor entertaining space is nearly unlimited.

Guests enjoy the original bar area which is in pristine condition with built-in oak refrigerators, classic design, and function. The state-of-the-art kitchen and spacious celebration space are designed to accommodate events large or small.

Now o ering guided showings of this one-of-a-kind gem. Proof of Finances is required before any con rmed showing. Call Jamie today to reserve your private showing. C: 518-929-4475

Welcome To Your Equestrian Retreat

5 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | 2,850 Sq.Ft. | 16 Acres 2980 State Highway 67, Amsterdam $599,995

Welcome to this equestrian retreat which includes a spacious 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial settled on 16 sprawling acres of incredible at land. Desirable 1st- oor primary bedroom suite w/ patio doors leading to deck.

Entertain in the light- lled 2-story family room with a cozy gas replace or move the party to the formal dining room or intimate living room. Imagine dinners prepared in the open kitchen complete with granite countertop or enjoying morning co ee in the sun-drenched breakfast nook. Located on 16 private acres, it’s the ideal place to enjoy the outdoors with the screened-in gazebo on the back deck overlooking the grounds, a fenced-in yard with an above-ground pool, and a lovely pond.

Equipped with a new furnace, new pump for the 500 ft. well, and two 750 gal septic tanks with a new pump, this property is ready for the next owner to move right in. To complete your little piece of paradise, this outstanding property includes a 30X40 barn with a 4 ft overhead and over 4 10x10 stalls that open to both the inside barn and outside pasture for ultimate convenience. 2-3 acres of electric fencing is in place and the fenced in paddock is divided. Could easily put up an indoor arena.

Conveniently located only 10 minutes to the NYS Thruway & train station and 30 minutes to Schenectady, this lovely home is awaiting your touch. Call Michele today at (518) 527-9770 for your private appointment.

518-527-9770

Our tournament provides the funding for our annual (4) $1,000 scholarships, which are an important part of the Chamber’s mission. In addition to our scholarship program, we are working towards a fundraising goal of $50,000 for our chamber o ce. We are looking to renovate our building as we are in Historic downtown Gloversville

and with the recent and future growth of the area, we are hopeful to continue to be a staple in our community.

To register please email Nicole Tennant at info@fultonmontgomeryny. org, call (518) 725-0641, or visit https://www.fultonmontgomeryny. org/2023-golf-classic/

renovated with new kitchen, bath, floors, windows! Close to Royal Mt. Minutes to Lakes, golf, summer music series and more! Sited on 1 acre!

Adirondack Off the grid getaway! $118,000

Peaceful location borders trout stream, across road is state land, 4x4, snowmobile trails! All set up for O Grid living!! Phone and Internet available!

$229,000 Deeded West Caroga Lake access just a short walk from this year round 3BR/1BA totally renovated home! Walk to summer concerts, enjoy the Adirondacks from this dead end street!

NEW! Adirondack Home! Top of Bleecker Mt. 12+ Acres! $229,900

Beautiful year round cabin with 2+ Bedrooms, 1 Bath! Hardwood floors, Big rooms, too many updates to list-Quiet Year round Town maintained road. Excellent vacation rental history! Nothing to do but ENJOY!!!

$75,000- E. Caroga Lake Access E. Caroga Lake Access via ECLAssoc. Beach ($80/yr) well and septic in place. Build here or use as base to get on the lake!

$155,500

Darling 3BR/1BA cottage in the avenues! Walk to deeded E Caroga Lake access! High ceilings enhance this freshly painted home, fenced yard, new roof, ready for year round fun!

$119,777- Real Log cabin! 1BR/1BA w/ loft, open interior, fully insulated for year round enjoyment! Deck to enjoy the Southern Adks! 1 Acre, Close to Lapland Lake XC Ski, Northville & Caroga Lakes!

This newly listed 2-family home presents a fantastic opportunity for comfortable living. Situated in the Sauquoit Valley School district, with convenient off-road parking, this property is a great income generator.

Charming side-by-side duplex located in the heart of Sauquoit. Each unit boasts three bedrooms, complete with convenient laundry hookups and separate utilities. Recently renovated, perfect for living in or as a valuable addition to your rental portfolio.

Delightful 2-family home. Excellent incomegenerating investment. Located in a serene and family-friendly neighborhood. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity!

Well cared for 2 unit, offering versatile living options. The property sits on an expansive lot and offers off-street parking.

Charming single-family home nestled in a serene location. This private home offers a peaceful retreat, making it the perfect spot for country living. Situated in the soughtafter Sauquoit Valley School district.

Pools/Spas

Real

Water

Pump service: repair, pressure tank replacement. Water conditioning: softeners, filters, UV disinfection, storage systems. AmberWaterPros.com

Green Sage Capital is here to guide you toward success. Our dedicated team understands the power of trust, e ective communication, and innovative problemsolving. Whether you’re a large institution or an individual investor, we’re committed to working closely with you. We’ll grasp your unique needs and provide tailored

solutions that align with your specific commercial real estate requirements. Why settle for ordinary investment options? With access to some of the nation’s largest commercial lenders and a network of private investors, we open doors to exceptional opportunities. It’s time to achieve your investment goals and unlock your full potential.

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