Team Effort
It happens like clockwork every year - once the snow melts and that first warm breeze hits, more people start thinking about buying a home. And with that, the questions roll in: Where do I start? Who do I trust? What should I know before diving in?
Buying a home and finding the right mortgage can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to build a small team of trusted voices. And here’s the good news: they don’t all have to be professionals. Sometimes the best advice comes from a friend, a relative, or even a co-worker who’s recently gone through the process.
Think of three people you trust who’ve bought a home or refinanced in the past few years. They should be open, honest, and comfortable talking about money. Ask them what caught them off guard, what they learned, and what they might do differently next time.
Of course, real estate agents and loan officers are great resources— but they’re just part of the puzzle. Talk to others, gather different perspectives, and ask yourself, “Does this make sense for me?”
Big decisions like buying a home deserve a well-rounded view. The more insight you gather, the more confident you'll feel moving forward.
It's my hope you'll make LifeandHomes and the professionals reflected in this issue part of your team of trusted voices.
Get Your Home Ready for Spring - Essential Maintenance Tips
As spring arrives, Younger Exteriors of Golden Valley MN offers these essential tips for getting our homes spring ready while preventing costly repairs down the line.
Roof Inspection-
Winter weather can be tough on roofs, causing cracks, leaks, and other damage. It's recommended to inspect roofs for storm damage, including missing shingles or wear and tear from snow and freezing temperatures. If any issues are noticed, it's critical to address them right away. However, roof inspections should be left to the professionals.
Clean Gutters to Prevent Roof DamageLeaves, twigs, and debris can build up in gutters over the winter, leading to blockages and potential water damage. Be sure to check gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to seep into basements or foundations, leading to moisture buildup and water damage. Consider installing gutter guards to help prevent future blockages.
Check the Exterior for Signs of Siding and Roof Damage-
Inspect the home's exterior for cracks, loose siding, or peeling paint. As snow melts and rain arrives, moisture can build up and cause mold, mildew, or even structural damage. It's important to check windows, doors, and foundations for signs of damage. Addressing these issues early helps prevent further deterioration.
Service the HVAC System for EfficiencyWith warmer weather ahead, inspecting the HVAC system is a good idea. Change filters to maintain indoor air quality and ensure smooth operation.
Scheduling a bi-annual inspection helps avoid breakdowns and ensures the system can handle seasonal temperature changes.
Inspect Windows and Doors for Storm Damage-
Look for leaks or drafts that may have developed in windows and doors during winter. Replace worn weather stripping and clean the windows to remove built-up grime. Regular window maintenance can improve insulation, reduce energy costs, and prevent indoor moisture issues.
Maintain Landscaping to Prevent Storm Damage-
Spring is the ideal time to prep the yard to protect the property. Trim overgrown trees or bushes that could damage the roof during high winds and remove dead plants or debris. Taking care of the soil and improving drainage around the home prevents moisture buildup.
Check Plumbing for Leaks-
Inspect the plumbing system for leaks, clogs, or blockages that could cause water damage. Check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for signs of moisture. Excess water can infiltrate the property as snow melts, so watch for wet areas or cracks. Scheduling a professional inspection helps ensure the plumbing system is in top shape.
Clean Outdoor Spaces-
After a long winter, outdoor spaces may need attention. Remove clutter, sweep the deck or patio, and power wash surfaces to clear away dirt from snow and melting ice. A well-maintained yard ensures the outdoor space is ready for the season.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors-
Spring is a great time to check and replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are critical for protecting the home, and testing them twice a year is always a good practice.
Prepare Lawn Equipment-
Get lawn equipment ready for the season by sharpening blades, changing the oil, and checking for necessary repairs. Well-maintained tools make yard upkeep more manageable and efficient.
Spring home maintenance is crucial to ensuring homes stay safe, efficient, and comfortable throughout the spring season and beyond
(Source: Younger Exteriors / Streetinsider PR)
Spring Tree Care For Winter Damaged Trees
Due to cold weather and snowstorms, many trees have been damaged with snow and ice weakening the integrity of tree branches. After such harsh winter weather, some trees become a hazard in windy spring conditions. Although there are preemptive steps that can be taken to protect trees from the winter weather, spring is the ideal time to take stock of the damage done during winter and rejuvenate weakened trees.
Spring is best time of year to prune trees because they are not yet full of leaves, and weak branches can be eliminated without damaging the overall health of the trees. Eliminate potential hazards by pruning trees and shrubs in order to remove dead, dying, diseased, or damaged limbs, and increase light and air penetration by selective thinning. By removing dead and dying branches, trees are also much less susceptible to wood-boring insects, which can cause major damage to the health of trees and shrubs. Not only are pruned treas safer, but they are also much healthier and more aesthetically pleasing.
Proper pruning is important for the health of your trees and shrubs. The Arbor Day Foundation offers a series of “Ask an Arborist” how-to videos to show you the ABCs of pruning.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the most common tree-trimming accidents are electrocution, falling from a tree, or being struck by trees or limbs. When in doubt about safely trimming trees, hire a professional arborist.
Asking $349,000 • Reduced Price • Motivated Seller
Turn-Key & Profitable Seasonal Business Opportunity
Inside Scoop • 9005 State Route 365, Floyd NY
Immaculate, established ice cream parlor & mini golf course located on just under 4 acres on high visibility Route 365 in Floyd Strategically located on the popular main route to the Adirondacks, 1.5 miles from schools and 800 ft. from Dollar General. Currently run as a seasonal business. New owner could easily make this a profitable year-round business.
Natural gas, city water, low taxes. Fully equipped with everything needed to successfully operate this established, popular community gathering place.
• Black top parking lot for 25-30 cars w/ curbing
• Attached crushed stone parking lot for RVs/Trucks
• 8 x 10 outdoor storage shed
• 24 x 32 pillion w/ commercial round tables, electric & lighting
• 2 side patio w/ tables and chairs
• 24 x 32 covered patio addition w/ electric, concrete
• New 100 amp sub amp panel. Potential to enclose.
• 18 hole mini golf w/ 10 x 16 building
full electric, A/C, power, cash register, slushy machine, popcorn, huge assortment of clubs/balls.
• Beverage/ flurry station
• Assorted stainless commercial tables
• 3 bay stainless sink, sundae bar, refrigerator
• 2 C-712 Taylor ice cream machines
• Double head milkshake machine
• Pepsi fountain head machine w/ice station
• 2 Hershey 24 unit ice cream freezers
• 24 flavor ice cream machine
• New programable cash register
• POS system in tact
• Security system, 8 cameras, full DVR
• 2 lg. commercial fryers with built-in timers
• 4 foot flat top grill
• 6 foot sandwich prep table, new
• Assorted freezers and coolers
Plenty of space for extra events including band nights w/ chicken BBQ, Friday movie nights, kid’s day, classic car shows and more.
** Attention Realtors - Buyer Protected ** Owner also willing to train, if desired.
Creative Commercial Financing Available! Seller’s Financing Options. Contact us today!
Lease $3,400
Providing
Embracing the industrial office design inspired
Completely renovated in 2011, this property is a true statement piece that embodies the “life-work” blend of functionality, charm & uniqueness.
Two ground floor offices (total 2660 sqft) include common ADA restrooms & break room that caters well to the needs of businesses & ensuring accessibility for all.
The entire 2nd floor (2600sq ft) is a large residential loft boasting spacious living quarters, unique architectural features plus the inclusion of the rooftop terrace. An oversized 2 stall attached garage that’s rarely found in an urban setting.
The entire building has income potential via lease or Airbnb. A testament to design & revitalization efforts!
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 August 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
10080 Mallory Road Sauquoit, New York
$699,900
The rarest of finds! This one still feels new!
Fabulous design with apparent quality throughout. Over 4,000 sf on two levels, this contemporary has bright open rooms that surround you with the volume of a well-designed interior. Smashing kitchen with incredible fireplaced Great Room.
Bright bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, bonus room, gym, and a walk-out to the beautiful yard.
Thoughtful design in a convenient country setting. If you’ve been pricing new construction, this should be your next stop!
To schedule your private viewing, contact John Brown at 315-570-6640
Stress-Free Tax Season:
and stunning swimming holes for those hot summer days. Located just minutes from Woodgate Pines Golf Course and nearby snowmobile trails, this location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. All furnishings can stay for a negotiated price. -pack your bags and move right in!
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!
Reduced $549,000!
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
on 3
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. $379,000!
Reduced $120,000! Listing & Selling Properties in the Adirondacks for 45 years
Brenda Wells Associate Broker
370 Acres
1 mile on Daley Creek, surrounded
sides by state land, many home sites,
MLS DIRECTORY
Gina Hartman
Licensed R.E. Salesperson 315-717-5249 ginahartman55@yahoo.com
Bruce Ward & Co, Inc.
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.
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
Azza Giorgi
Lic. Assoc. RE Broker 315- 534-2709 azzagiorgi@gmail.com
Howard Hanna CNY IncUtica/New Hartford Office, NY
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
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.
Paul Sacco
Lic. RE Salesperson (315) 525-1377
paulsacco1013@gmail.com
Howard Hanna Utica/ New Hartford
Joel Siegfried Lic. R. E. Broker 315-796-2258
joelsiegfried@gmail.com SBG, Inc.
Carol Spisak
Lic. R.E. Salesperson 315-269-6933
carol1320@aol.com
Bruce Ward & Company, Inc.
Michelle Gorea Thompson
Lic. R. E. Salesperson 315-794-3260
saratogaunion@aol.com
Coldwell Banker Faith Properties - John Brown Tream
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.
Antiques/Estates
THE POTTING SHED ANTIQUES
315-736-5214
LifeandHomes Product & Service Directory
Flooring
Estate & house sales, appraisals, coins, vintage jewelry, antiques, glass, china, furniture, Americana, art, lighting and more. thepottingshedantiques.com
Cabinets
CABINET 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
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
NORTHERN GARAGE DOOR SERVICES COMPANY,
315-831-8624 or C: 315-368-7712
Garage door Installation, Repair, Service Professional, Dependable, Courteous Service. Joe Griswold, Owner
Home Inspection
ADVANCED HOME INSPECTION SERVICE, LLC
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
315-795-4900 Insurance
PROTECT NY INSURANCE AGENCY
Homeowners, Automobile, Business, Landlord Insurance. Jordan Roorda, Principal Agent. www.ProtectNY.com
315-865-5845
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 historic info.
Painting
URBANIK’S PAINT CO.
315-724-5129
315-336-0400
Member Since 07/15
Largest selection of paint and wallcovering in Central NY. Rentals: floor sanders, polishers, airless sprayers, power washers, edgers. 1420 Oriskany St. Utica
Configurable:
Durable:
Portable
