LifeandHomes Capital Region NY June 2023

Before Homeownership Was A Dream

June is finally here and it's National Homeownership Month. Common now, home ownership wasn't even a dream for most families not so long ago.

Did you know that prior to the 1800's, most Americans had no real way of owning a home? Mortgages only became common after the US banking system was birthed as a result of the 1860s National Bank Acts.

According to National Today, during the Great Depression banks didn't have money to lend and the average borrower didn’t have cash. Most people couldn’t afford to buy homes and those who did own one often failed to pay their debt. To stabilize the housing market, the U.S. government stepped in and created the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (1933), the Federal Housing Administration (1934), and the Federal National Mortgage Association (now known as Fannie Mae) in 1938. These institutions took homeownership to new heights and helped prevent a crash in the housing market.

The entire US housing market was boosted again by the implementation of the G.I. Bill of 1944, which provided subsidized mortgages for veterans of World War II, and The Fair Housing Act, banning discrimination in housing, which was passed in 1968.

Rising interest rates and inventory shortages are current causes for concern but, as proven in our history, help can be found even in a challenging market. Experienced real estate professionals, like those found within this issue and at LifeandHomes.com can help find the best deals for your budget and direct you to other assistance programs to help you move toward fulfilling your home ownership dream.

LifeandHomes is proud to be a source of empowering resources and a part of impacting our local housing markets.

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Summer Grilling Safety Tips

As summer approaches, the tantalizing aroma of barbecues fills the air, and families prepare to indulge in outdoor grilling. However, ensuring grilling safety is of utmost importance to prevent accidents, fire damage, and the need for home repairs.

Grill fires can happen due to various reasons, including:

• Grease buildup on the grill grates or in the drip tray

• Flare-ups caused by dripping fat or marinades.

• Improper use of lighter fluid or other flammable materials.

• Malfunctioning gas valves or propane tanks.

Preventing grill fires is critical to ensuring a safe and pleasant grilling experience for you and the whole family. Here are some preventive measures you can take.

• Clean your grill regularly to remove grease and food debris.

• Keep a safe distance between the grill and flammable objects, such as overhanging branches or patio furniture.

• Follow proper lighting procedures for charcoal grills, using the appropriate amount of starter fluid and allowing it to soak in before lighting.

• Check gas connections for leaks before using a gas grill, and always open the lid before lighting to prevent gas buildup.

In the event of a grill fire, it's essential to know how to respond quickly and efficiently. Follow these steps.

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure it is suitable for grease fires.

• If it's safe, turn off the gas supply or close the grill's vents to cut off the oxygen supply.

* Never use water to extinguish a grease fire, as it can cause the flames to spread. Instead, use a fire extinguisher.

• If you can't control the fire, evacuate the area and call emergency services immediately.

By being aware of the common causes of grill

fires, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to respond in case of a fire, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and your property while enjoying the wonderful experience of grilling. (Five Star Restoration/ einpresswire)

How To Decide If A Home Remodel Makes Financial Sense For You

There comes a time when every homeowner looks around at their house and ponders a few upgrades. Sometimes, those ideas turn into full-on renovations as you reimagine your space to better meet your lifestyle. But before you start calling contractors, ask yourself: Does remodeling make financial sense? Here are three tips to help you decide if a home renovation benefits your home and your finances.

Identify your wants vs. needs. How necessary are the improvements you want? Some home projects may end up costing you more than the value they provide. That doesn't mean certain projects aren't worthwhile.

"Home renovations come in all shapes and sizes. For some, it may be about the investment and increasing the home value, for a good few it might be about what looks the best, while others might not have a choice," says Adam Fingerman, Asst.VP of equity lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. "Whatever the reason, it's always a good idea to understand how a large renovation might impact your finances and the overall value of your home."

Know your budget. Consider creating a chart with all of your cost estimates, and include columns for high-, medium- and low-cost options. Don't forget supplies for do-it-yourself projects and always allocate a certain percentage for unexpected expenses. Also be sure to get estimates from different contractors and compare them. Carefully check references and business licenses.

Explore financing options. Ideally, you've already established a home improvement savings plan. But if you're planning to borrow, explore your financing options through your trusted bank or credit union.

"Think about the size of your project, whether or not you'll have ongoing expenses, and your current finances," says Fingerman. For example, Navy Federal offers members various options for funding home improvement projects, such as home equity loans, home equity line of credit, or personal expense loans. Members also have access to information to help them make informed decisions about the right financing products for their home improvement goals.

Home renovations of any size - large or smallcan be overwhelming. Consider these tips to help make it easier and more affordable in the long run. (BPT)

Consider Safety Before OpeningWindows

Opening windows in your home to enjoy the warmer temperatures may seem harmless, but windows have proven to be sources of injury and death for young children. An estimated 3,300 children five and younger are treated each year in U.S. hospital emergency departments after falling from a window.

"Window falls increase dramatically during the spring and summer months but they can be prevented," says Chrissy Cianflone, Director of Programs for Safe Kids USA. "It takes active supervision on the part of the parent or caregiver, and a device called a window guard. Screens are meant to keep bugs out, not kids in. Window guards are easy to install and have a release mechanism in the event of an emergency."

To help prevent injuries and tragedies, CPSC recommends the following safety tips:

•Safeguard your children by using window guards or window stops.

•Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of windows. (For windows on the 6th floor and below, install window guards that adults and older children can open easily in case of fire.)

•Install window stops so that windows open no more than 4 inches.

•Never depend on screens to keep children from falling out of windows.

•Whenever possible, open windows from the top - not the bottom.

•Keep furniture away from windows, to discourage children from climbing near windows.

• Some jurisdictions require landlords to install guards. Check your local regulations.

(U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission - CPSC)

3888 State Highway 10 - Situated on 90+ acres, this property, a former working cattle farm, is truly picturesque, w/incredible views in a private setting! Step inside, you’ll notice the updated kitchen & appliances, making cooking a breeze. Cozy up to the Gas fireplace in the living room on cool nights. Master bedroom ensuite includes a large walk-in shower. Enjoy the fresh air on the new front Trex deck or wrap-around side deck overlooking the nicely landscaped, fenced, in-ground pool area. The barn still has stanchions & the property still has pastures if you wanted to try your hand at raising cattle. Plenty of land to hunt! Attached 1 car garage & detached 2-4 car garage, offer tons of space for all seasonal tools & toys. Enjoy year round fun being close to Caroga Lake & Royal Mountain ski area. 3888statehighway10.howardhanna.com • www.howardhanna.com

Central Park Pool & Spray Park Update

Saratoga Associates worked with Aquattica Pools & Water Parks to assess the existing swimming area within Central Park. The swim area within Iroquois Lake attracts waterfowl and has become challenging to maintain. Saratoga Associates worked with a stakeholder committee to develop ideas for a new facility to be constructed in the location of the former tennis stadium.

Designed with Aquattica and Foit-Albert Associates, the new swimming pool design incorporates lap lanes, a zeroentry area, a wading area, a resistance walk, and spray features surrounded by patio space and turf. The pool facility also includes a new equipment and storage building and a bathhouse with restrooms, changing areas,

and an office. The bathhouse will also serve users of the tennis facilities, participants in special events, and other park patrons.

In addition to the swimming area, the project provides a new splash pad, seating and picnic space, bicycle racks, a new parking lot, and sidewalks that will be part of overall connectivity improvements within the park. New signage and lighting will help to integrate the new pool area into the park while also enhancing visitor safety and wayfinding. TW&A Construction Management is working with the City and the design team to guide the project through construction, with completion anticipated by the end of summer 2023.

24 Aitken Avenue, Hudson • $425,000

Two Family | 7 Bedrooms | 2 Baths

Fully rented large 2 family in Hudson is ready for its new owner. This very well-cared-for property has been maintained for over 30 years by the same family. Old charm, crown molding, tall ceilings and lots of sq footage will meet you as soon as you walk in. Separate entrance for basement. Nice size yard, paved driveway, off street parking and front porches to enjoy the upcoming summer nights.

190 Wes Brown Road, Cherry Valley • $399,900

3 Bedroom | 3 Bath | 1560 Sq. Ft.

As you drive down the road to this beautiful home you realize you are all by yourself with nature. Morning coffee on the covered porch as you take in the scenery on over 2 acres of land. Take a look at that garage w/ another bay as well, upstairs can be used as an office or storage. Whole house generator with designated propane tanks. Oil Hot air furnace and a wood furnace as well inside sources of heat. A/c units in home as well as heat and a/c in garage. Walk out basement for convenience and 2 driveways. Starlight internet system can be sold with home. Please refrain from walking around property or going without an appointment. Security system and surveillance 24/7.

2129 Central Ave, Schenectady • $690,000

Office Space | Rental Apartment | Warehouse Jamie Mazuryk Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 518-929-4475

jmazuryk@cmfox.com

Front Cover Featured Listing

18-Hole Golf Course With Fully Functioning Operations Offered at $4,200,000

A rare find 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 offers endless opportunities for the next owner.

The course benefits 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 offering guided showings of this one-of-a-kind gem. Proof of Finances is required before any confirmed showing. Call Jamie today to reserve your private showing. C: 518-929-4475

Fulton County Small Business Symposium

Hosted by Fulton County Center for Regional Growth

Learn from the Experts, Network with Businesses & Agencies

Tuesday, June 13, 2023 • 4:30 - 7 p.m.• Holiday Inn, 308 N. Comrie Ave. Johnstown NY 12095

This FREE event is designed to put Fulton County small businesses in the same room as the experts. It also allows business owners time to ask questions of local, regional, and state agencies, and network with other businesses.

The format includes participants visiting vendor tables and networking, as well as listening to presentations on business development and marketing.

• 4:30 to 5:25 p.m., Visit Vendor Tables and Network (The experts are here for you! Come meet them and ask questions one-on-one)

• 5:25 – 5:30 p.m., Ron Peters, President & CEO of CRG (Welcome Remarks)

• 5:30 – 5:50 p.m., Greg Chanese from the Small Business Development Center (What Is the Small Business Development Center and How Can It Help Your Business Grow)

• 5:50 – 6:10 p.m., Betsy Emery from Emery Designs (Best Marketing Strategies, How to Have a Better Footprint in the Digital World for Your Business)

• 6:10 to 7 p.m., Q&A, a word from our sponsors (Community Bank, Community Loan Fund, First Choice Financial Credit Union, Pursuit Lending), and more networking. We hope to see you there! RSVP to Jennifer Donovan at (518) 725-7700 ext. 4 or JennD@fccrg.org.

Enjoy comfort and convenience in this beautiful Raised Ranch! This 1796 square feet home has a spacious yard, lovely deck, and covered patio. The main level features living room, dining combo, nicely updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, 3 bright bedroom,s and 1.5 baths. Lower level offers a cozy spacious area to relax plus a laundry, refrigerator, and stove. Need extra flex space? The additional room is bright and boasts a gas fireplace.

Perfectly perched for incredible views! With over 4,000 +/- sf of quality, this beautiful home is set perfectly atop a hill. This 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home will delight the most discerning buyer.

On your approach, beautiful Leatherstocking Region views surround you. Upon entry, the apparent quality will pull you in. The gleaming hardwood floors and light-filled interior beckon

you through the perfect flow of spacious and open formal and informal spaces.

Delight in the quality and imagine yourself in this sanctuary with more land available. Not only do you have to “see this”, but you also have to “feel it” to understand. Priced well below replacement with all of the expected amenities.

Water Systems

315-484-5959

Pools/Spas

Water systems. Well drilling: new, cleaning, repair, low yield hydrofracking. Pump service: repair, pressure tank replacement. Water conditioning: softeners, filters, UV disinfection, storage systems. AmberWaterPros.com

High-Quality Local Amish-Made Custom Cabinets At Affordable Prices

Dreaming of the look of custom cabinetry but disappointed with the options at local big box stores? Our local Amish artisans are pleased to offer handmade cabinets, crafted in small local family shops, superior in quality, at prices often lower than the factory-made items found at big box stores.

You’ll admire the quality and uniqueness of custom handcrafted cabinets created by local Amish master craftsmen.

These expert craftsmen will work directly with you from design & layout to custom creation and installation of cabinetry that is both artistically pleasing and exceptionally functional for your kitchen, dining, bath, office, or other specialty areas.

Made to order with a variety of select wood types, cabinet styles, and finishes available, each custom piece will be a timeless product designed to last a lifetime.

You won’t find cabinets this well-built at such reasonable prices. Don’t settle for ordinary cabinets! Call Us Today!

Source Capital Consulting is here to guide you toward success. Our dedicated team understands the power of trust, e ective communication, and innovative problem-solving. 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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