Keep Moving Forward
Financial challenges are causing millennials and Gen Z's to delay major life decisions, such as purchasing a home or starting a family, according to financial expert Dave Ramsey's 2024 The State of Personal Finance report. When asked what mortgage rate would be the “magic number” for them to buy a home, respondents said 4.5%.
Rates at the time of this writing are 6.09% for a 15-year fixed mortgage and 6.87% for a 30-year fixed mortgage. There's quite a gap between "magic" and reality. Do you remember when the average 30-year fixed rate reached a record low of 2.65% in January 2021? Those were the days, my friend.
While the history of mortgage rates provides valuable context, it’s important to recognize that borrowers with healthy credit profiles and strong finances often get mortgage rates below the industry norm.
Ramsey offers what we at LifeandHomes consider to be sage advice. "The market shouldn’t determine your decision to buy a house. If you’re prepared financially, then it’s a good time to buy a home, even if inventory is limited and interest rates are high. If you’re not prepared financially, it’s not a good time, even if there’s plenty of inventory and rates are down." (ramseysolutions.com)
Rather than sitting idly by waiting for rates to drop, take action. “You can’t control the high cost of anything - whether it’s a house or an egg at the grocery store - but you can control your finances,” says Ramsey. “You work too hard to be broke. Get on a budget, get out of debt, live on less than you make, and build savings. If you stick to the plan, you’ll see the results."
“If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” - Martin Luther King Jr.
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Inspecting for Winter Roof Damage
During the winter months, the roof of your home can take a real beating. That's why you should take a close look at your roof as the weather starts to warm up. Signs that the winter weather might have caused damage include things like seeing pieces of broken shingles on your lawn or places where water is leaking into the house including damp spots on the ceiling.
When heavy snow and ice pile up on the roof, it puts a lot of pressure on it. This can make weak spots in the roof, which could lead to leaks. When snow melts and then freezes again, it can create ice dams along the edges of the roof. These dams can block water from draining properly, which can cause water to seep into the house. Poorly ventilated attics combined with ice dams during the winter often lead to moisture buildup, mold, and insulation damage. A close inspection may find water stains on ceilings, warped attic floorboards, or sagging insulation, all of which can indicate leaks that need attention.
Roof damage is not always immediately obvious, but when it goes unnoticed, it can create structural problems and can even devalue your property. Taking care of these problems early can prevent more costly fixes down the road. Hiring a professional roofing contractor to perform an inspection and recommend repairs is recommended for most homeowners.
During the inspection, check seams, flashing, the membrane, the condition of shingles, and more. Look for gashes in roofing material, missing or damaged shingles or caulking or the breakdown of roofing materials of any kind.
Beyond the obvious signs of damage, the hidden effects of winter weather can go deeper than what you can see on the surface. The cycle of freezing and thawing that happens during winter can damage roofing materials, wearing them down over time, making them weaker and more susceptible to future damage. Constant expansion and contraction of roofing materials as temperature changes can make existing problems worse, making the roof more likely to develop issues.
PHP Systems offers these "look for" tips when performing your spring roof inspection:
Damaged flashing.
Flashing is the layer of protection that fits around vents and other roof protrusions. Flashing may deteriorate and crack over time. Be on the lookout for rust, corrosion, cracking, and damaged or missing caulking. If you notice a problem, get help from a qualified roofer right away.
Torn seam.
Roofing membrane likely has a seam where one piece meets another. This seam can become torn over time, leaving the vulnerable roofing material beneath exposed. Some torn seams are easy to repair, especially in the early stages of damage. Contact a professional roofer to have the seam inspected. A small tear in the seam can likely be repaired, but if the tear spreads, your roof may need more dramatic intervention. To keep costs down, get help from a roofer as soon as possible.
Rusting and splitting seams.
Unlike membrane roofs, metal roofs can rust and split along their seams. Like a torn seam, the result can be damage to the vulnerable roofing material underneath, which can lead to structural damage, a leak in the ceiling and more. This type of damage may need to be repaired by replacing the metal panel. Talk to your roofing contractor to get further guidance on the matter.
Ponding water.
Water on a flat roof is meant to run to drains, but if the water is not draining, this could be an indication of a low spot in the roof and a clog in the drain. These problems need to be addressed as soon as possible, so contact a roofer if you're noticing puddles of water forming on your flat roof.
While it's great to regularly check and maintain the roof, many aspects of roof care are best left to professionals.
Professional roof inspections go beyond surfacelevel checks, addressing structural, material, and interior concerns specific to your home and local weather. A detailed roof inspection report should provide photographic evidence, repair recommendations, and actionable insights to protect your home and simplify insurance claims. When selling your home, an inspection report shows potential buyers your roof has been professionally maintained, giving them peace of mind and potentially increasing your home’s value.
A roof inspection isn’t just a formality; it’s your roadmap for maintaining a safe, long-lasting roof. After the winter we've had, a roof inspection should be at the top of your spring home maintenance list.
2260 State Highway 29A - Incredible opportunity to own a well-established, versatile property on 2 acres at the base of the stunning Adirondack Mountains, just outside the APA border. Currently operating as a charming restaurant, this space is brimming with potential. Whether you dream of continuing its culinary legacy, transforming it into a rustic brewery, bed & breakfast, rustic wedding venue or creating a cozy personal residence, the possibilities are endless. This prime location o ers year-round attractions for every season. Just minutes to Royal Mountain Ski area, local lakes, trails and hiking! There is truly something for everyone! Now is the time to bring your vision to life! 2260statehighway29a.howardhanna.com
OPPORTUNITY
28 E Main Street - Historic charm with endless possibilities located in the heart of Johnstown! This recently renovated turn-key restaurant/diner comes fully equipped with a meticulous kitchen, outdoor dining space, full bar, space for live music and a 2nd oor event area for up to 75 people.The main dining area is furnished with a mix of colorful seating & sleek tables, providing guests a place to relax and enjoy their meals. The exterior showcases a wonderfully restored facade keeping with the historic feel of the area. This is the perfect property for enjoying the hustle and bustle of the vibrant downtown atmosphere. 28emainstreet.howardhanna.com Johnstown $290,000
OPPORTUNITY
291 N Comrie Avenue - Invest in a prime commercial opportunity on Route 30A business district! This property boasts a prime location with high visibility and ample parking. Currently, it houses two successful businesses, a hair salon and a retail store, one of which is owner-occupied and the other a long-term tenant. Each unit has separate utilities, making this a great opportunity for investors looking for a commercial building. 291ncomrieavenue.howardhanna.com
Starter or Retirement Homes!
Gary Glebus Broker/Owner
1399 US Route 9 Schroon Lake, NY 12870 Listing & Selling Properties in the Adirondacks for 45 years Call 518-791-0075 (Mobile) or 518-532-7191 (Office)
FEATURED PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH!
$575,000!
Beautiful Contemporary Home within walking distance to sandy town beach on 9 mile Schroon Lake, featured is a rustic knotty pine interior with balcony overlooking the great room having a dining & living room , 1816 sq, of living area, recessed lighting, title flooring with radiant heat, instant how water on demand, granite countertops with recessed lighting in the kitchen, laundry room, covered and screened porch, fire pit, Generac for power outages, walk to General Store , post office, tennis & basketball courts, baseball diamond your grand kids will surely enjoy, short drive to state boat launch, 22’ X 50 ‘ barn for boat storage and a potential great recreational on the 2nd level. This home has a great rental history with Airbnb.
$379,000!
Pre-Civil War Brick Colonial Near Lake Champlain - 8 bedrooms or 4 Apartment’s currently, 4800 sq. ft of living area, gorgeous woodwork & staircase, commute to Vermont, launch your boat at Monitor Bay, town water & sewer, live in one Apt and let the other 3 pay your mortgage.
$360,000!
With 1
state
on
on 3 sides
sites, off grid, make a Forever Wild Campground or family compound. Big and small game hunting, town of Corinth, near Great Sacandaga Lake.
$269,000!
Schroon Lake All season cottage, detached garage with Apartment overhead , 250’ on Crane Pond Road, short drive to Pond & Hiking into Pharoh Lake Wilderness.
$279,000!
Amazing Views of Schroon Lake & the Adirondack Mts. & surrounding ponds, great hunting, borders state land on 2 sides, short drive to town beach in Adirondack, state boating launch, General Stroe, tennis & Basketball courts
Sheranda Wells R.E. Salesperson
$279,000!
Schroon Lake-Former Hermitage Motel
12 rental Units, 8 Motel & 4 efficiency units, new plumbing-entrance doors, showers, subflooring, windows. Includes office building, home site, pool needs work, or fill in and replace with fire pit. 1 acre, lake Rights for owner, town water, 1 mile to 700’ sandy beach on Schroon Lake and to restaurants, shops & stores.
$575,000!
Schroon Lake Colonial tucked away on 5 acres near snow mobile trails, 3,812 sq, living area, exposed beams, wood flooring, Bar & Lounge area with beautiful stone fireplace, 1.5 baths, 6 bedrooms, drilled well.
$195,000!
130 Acres Outstanding Views of Lake Champlain, the Adirondack & Green mts. of Vermont. deeded road access, spring, oak trees & other hardwoods, Town of Crown Point.
446 Acres-Secluded Off grid, borders state land, deeded 50’ ROW from public road, views of Hadley Mt. range, short dive to Great Sacandaga Lake, 19 miles from Saratoga.
$125,500! Listing & Selling Properties in the Adirondacks for 45 years
$379,000! At the Gate of High Peaks Region Enjoy vacationing a this 2008 Hornet Keystone Camper on 5.17 acres, with electric to Camper & screen house, septic, cistern, 22 acres of common area on the Schroon River. town of North Hudson. Build yourretirement home here!
Brenda Wells Associate Broker
370 Acres
mile
Daley Creek, surrounded
by
land, many home
What an idyllic lakeside setting. Your own private retreat! You must see the stately white pines that grace the waterfront. Enjoy private gated access with two entrances to this very secluded property! The surveyed 1.6 acres, has 250 feet of HRBRRD deep-water lake front! It truly is one of the most spectacular properties on the lake!
Current owner of 40 years lovingly transformed a traditional summer home into an incredible custom year-round home! Exquisitely designed for relaxing life on the lake while relishing the natural surroundings of this beautiful property. All rooms have spectacular expansive lake and mountain views.
With multiple indoor and outdoor gathering areas, there’s plenty of room for family and friends. Living space boasts four bedrooms, three baths, three replaces, (two propane, one wood burning) and a classic Adirondack room with open beams and knotty pine. The main living area features a great room accented with a propane replace, open kitchen and dining area, picture windows, and access to the lakeside decks and patio.
An elegant en-suite primary bedroom features replace, two walk-in closets, private bath and private balcony in its own wing of the house. Three additional bedrooms feature private lakeside balconies and two additional bathrooms. A separate laundry room and plenty of well-planned storage enhance this home!
The lower level has an additional room that opens to the lake. Currently used as a workshop, it could easily be more living space. Strategically placed skylights enhance the natural light inside and along the lakeside decks.
Enjoy decades of carefully planned terraced landscaping with season-long owering plants from the upper garage to the lake front retaining wall with easy access to the entire property. The dock can be easily put in and taken out. There is an attached two car garage plus a second detached two car garage with easy access storage upstairs.
Amenities include a whole house generator, whole house fan, drilled well, modern septic system, an Acorn stair lift, and more. A second outbuilding is perfect for storage or creating additional living space.
RENTAL
BUILDING
LOT
SALE PENDING
25 Marshall Street, Albany $1,750
This charming 3-bedroom rental offers ample space and a fully fenced backyard, perfect for privacy and outdoor enjoyment. Inside, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen, a dedicated dining room, and a versatile office space. The basement includes a washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy the outdoors with both front and back porches, ideal for relaxing on warm days. Pets may be considered with an additional security deposit, and tenants will be responsible for any pet-related damages. Don’t miss out on this fantastic rental opportunity.
3 Wesley Place, Voorheesville $399,900
This stunningly modern townhome in Voorheesville offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Featuring 2 spacious bedrooms, an open loft and 20-foot cathedral ceilings this home provides ample living space for families and individuals alike. Entertain with ease in the open-concept living area, complete with a finished basement wet bar, perfect for hosting gatherings. A 2-car garage provides secure parking and additional storage. Enjoy the ease of townhome living with the benefits of a private community, all while being conveniently located in the desirable Weatherfield neighborhood within the more recently built Chesterfield HOA. Enjoy true maintenance free living, with an HOA that takes care of snow removal and landscaping. Don’t miss this home!
4 Jani Lane, Voorheesville $115,000
Exceptional building lot offering serene wooded settings and stunning views of the Thatcher Park escarpment. Located off a private road, this lot combines the benefits of Guilderland taxes with the highly regarded Voorheesville School District. Nestled within the Black Creek Wildlife Management Area, this property provides a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty. A perfect opportunity to build your home in a private and picturesque setting! The road maintenance is shared between the 4 lots The septic layout is designed and plan is in documents. The property also comes with a building permit issued for the attached garage, which can be built immediately and a house later.
46 Cranbury Court, Voorheesville $350,000
Welcome to this beautifully maintained Colonial, located in a quiet cul-de-sac in Salem Hills neighborhood and adjacent to Town Park. Designed for both comfort and entertaining, this home offers a spacious eat-in kitchen, a formal dining room, a cozy family room, and an inviting living room w/ hardwood floors throughout. The full, unfinished basement provides endless possibilities for customization, while the attached one-car garage adds convenience. Step outside to enjoy a generous, fenced-in backyard-perfect for relaxation or gatherings
202 Wormer Road, Voorheesville $599,900
Discover this beautiful Colonial-style home located in the highly sought-after Weatherfield subdivision. Walk in to this spacious home that boasts timeless architectural details, a welcoming layout, and an ideal location. Spacious living areas, modern amenities, and a picturesque setting, this home offers comfort and elegance. Perfect for families or those who love to entertain, it features an in ground salt water pool and beautifully landscaped backyard. Come see this home and experience what exceptional potential it has to offer.
28 Sutton Hollow Road, Windham, $249,000
This charming Cape-style farmhouse boasts a cozy living room, ideal for unwinding by the warmth of the woodburning fireplace. Step out onto the back deck to take in the serene, wooded surroundings. A perfect spot to enjoy nature and peaceful moments. Conveniently located to Route 23, this home is just 5 miles from Windham Mountain Ski Resort and 10 miles from Hunter Mountain, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and year-round enjoyment. *Pending Cancellation Release Property is now being sold as is*
2839 State Route 203, Valatie $2,800,000
Own a piece of history with this unique mid-century modern designed clubhouse, nestled in a picturesque location. This well-established course features 18 holes, meticulously maintained greens, and breathtaking views, offering an ideal opportunity for golf enthusiasts. The state-of-the-art kitchen is equipped to host events of any size, making it an excellent venue for special occasions. The walkout basement leads from the locker rooms to the pool area, offering the perfect opportunity to restore the pool to its former glory and/or create a vibrant gathering space. There is a full walk up attic as well, so bring all your ideas.
75 Jackson Avenue, Cohoes $3,000
5000 sqft is available for rental. Back storage area the seller would like to keep for storage only. Zoned Commercial and was used for a commercial cleaning business and office space. Lessee to verify what other businesses would be allowed to rent. Garage door is over sized and can fit an suv/ van and plenty of parking inside building as well for landing purposes. CAMERAS on Property, please be considerate of owner. Appointment only.
828 Burdeck Street, Schenectady $3,000 COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE
Discover the ideal commercial property featuring a 3,320 sq. ft. office building Each space can serve different purposes, offering flexibility for businesses. The office space provides a professional environment with air conditioning. The office is equipped with gas furnace, a separate septic tanks and water line. Don’t miss this opportunity to lease a versatile, well-equipped office space in a prime location!
1084 Alheim Drive, Schenectady $225,000
Welcome to this beautiful Cape Cod-style home with a conveniently attached one car garage, perfect for family living! Freshly painted throughout, this home features 4 spacious bedrooms, a laundry room and a bright, modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The cozy family room opens to a large, fenced backyard, complete with a nice patio, ideal for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. This home is move-in ready and in excellent condition. Don’t miss this must-see gem!
435 US-20, New Lebanon $390,000
This unique property includes both a spacious 3,340 sq. ft. commercial building and a separate single-family home, offering the perfect chance to live and work in one location. The commercial space, which most recently operated as a thrift shop, features an open floor plan with flexibility for multiple uses. With potential to create at least three separate units, including a possible live-in apartment, this property allows you to shape it to your vision. The building currently includes a half bath and two additional baths, some with existing fixtures, including showers. Property being sold as is.
223 Route 10, Durham $2,300,000
This magnificent 3 story home is situated on 2 acres of pristine property. One of the many stunning features include uninterrupted views. As you enter the gates you can’t help but see the renowned design and exquisite originality outside, wait till you see inside. This estate exudes class with lighting, second story guest home (above garage) and 3 story panoramic views that makes this the perfect home for families and guests. The Catskills provide a range of year-round activities, hiking and antiquing in the warmer months to skiing at Windham Mountain. East Durham is charming w/ inns and family resorts like the Blackthorne Resort and Rose Resort, which offer unique cultural experiences. A rare blend of elegance, luxury, and seclusion awaits you.
2301 Western Avenue, Guilderland $475,000
Ample parking, main street, lots of traffic, able to advertise on Western. High ceilings, exposed beams, great location. Upstairs has 2 bathrooms, conference room, downstairs has kitchen and another bathroom.
Configurable: No need to invest all at once - expand your dock at a pace that works best for you!
Durable: No peeling docks or rotting wood because they are made from polyethylene material!
Portable & Versatile: Moving in the future or have a unique set up? No problem! EZ Docks are customizable to your needs and portable for easy moving!
Our distributors/dealers can deliver and install your dock all on the same day! Or if you want to tackle the install yourself, EZ Docks can easily be installed with just you and a helper. Large, Eyecatching, Versatile, Durable and perfect for every adventure on the water! Ready to learn more?
sbaisley@hbegroup.com
Trusted Commercial Lending
Amish-Made Custom Cabinets
Affordable Luxury From Our Country Workshop To Your Kitchen
Love the look of custom cabinetry but disappointed with the options at local stores? Our Amish craftsmen offer quality, handcrafted cabinets at prices often lower than factorymade cabinets you’ll find at local big box stores.
Crafted in our family-owned workshop, each cabinet is custom-crafted with skill and expertise passed down through the generations.
From the initial design and layout discussions to the custom creation and installation phases, our expert craftsmen will
work with you to ensure your kitchen, bath, office or other specialty cabinet reflects your tastes, fits your budget, and exceeds your expectations.
With a variety of select wood types, cabinet styles, and finishes to choose from, each piece is designed to last a lifetime. Made to order, our cabinets not only promise superior quality but also showcase affordability at its finest.
Check out your options at the big box store then let us show you what we can offer!