home c ou n t ry
A Sullivan County Democrat publication APRIL, 2020
Voted
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HOME IN THE COUNTRY
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
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Recent Home Sales 2 BR / 2 BA Acres: 0.21 Sold For: $41,250 School Tax: $4,030 County Town $6,728
2. MLS 5097791 Thompson Township Raised Ranch 3 BR / 2 BA Village Tax: $3,043 Acres: 0.27 Built: 1940 Sold For: $69,100 Listed By: Carole Barotti, School Tax: $3,710 Elliott & Pomeroy, Inc. County Town $3,123 Sold By: Non-Member MLS Built: 1973
5. MLS 5090488 Mamakating Township Cape Cod 2 BR / 1 ½ BA Acres: 1.04 Sold For: $160,000 School Tax: $3,291 Town & County: $5,907 Built: 1974
Listed By: Sandra Cotthaus, 1st Independent Realty Group Sold By: Sandra Cotthaus, 1st Independent Realty Group
3 BR / 2 BA Acres: 2.24 Sold For: $189,000 School Tax: $2,202 Town & County: $3,036 Built: 1900
4. MLS 5128237 Bethel Contemporary Two Story Listed By: Myrna Ginsberg, Myrna Ginsberg Realty Sold By: Andrea Grossman, Keller Williams, Hudson Valley
7. MLS 5115979 Neversink Township Converted Barn
6. MLS 5047421 Tusten Township Cottage/Ranch Listed By: Lynelle D. Alessi, Keller Williams Hudson Valley Sold By: Susan R. Willett, John M. Morreale RE
3. MLS 4926180 Fallsburg Township Ranch 3 BR / 2 BA Acres: 0.23 Sold For: $90,000 School Tax: $1,567 Town & County Tax: $2,194 Built: 1960
Listed By: Myrna I. Persaud, Charles Rutenberg Realty Sold By: Barry Becker, Keller Williams Hudson Valley
3 BR / 2 BA Acres: 1.77 Sold For: $224,000 School Tax: $1,777 Town & County: $1,692 Built: 1960
3 BR / 2 BA Acres: 1.96 Sold For: $128,174 School Tax: $3,505 Town & County: $7,475
Built: 1991 Listed By: Carole Barotto, Elliott & Pomeroy, Inc. Sold By: Non-Member MLS
8. MLS 4808416 Bethel Township Estate Listed By: Cynthia L. Johnston, Catskill Brokers, Inc. Sold By: Jennifer Grimes, Country House Realty, Inc.
4 BR / 4 ½ BA Acres: 5.25 Sold For: $1,587,500 School Tax: $17,707 Town & County: $15,861 Built: 2011
Listed By: Christine Vande Vrede, Chapin Sotheby’s International Realty Sold By: Eileen Mullally, Chapin Sotheby’s International Realty
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IN MY VIEW
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
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Realizing the true importance of home BY TRAVIS O’DELL ASSOCIATE BROKER/OFFICE MANAGER, COLDWELL BANKER TIMBERLAND PROPERTIES
T
he first quarter of 2020 was off to a very healthy start and then March changed direction and decided it would go out like a proverbial Lion. At the time of writing this our world as we know it was recently turned upside down and our health and safety have been threatened by a global pandemic. Social distancing and quarantining have become the new norm, and now more than ever we are all realizing the true importance of home. During this time our homes have become much more than a place where we eat and sleep. Our homes have become our safe havens, our offices, and our children’s class-
rooms. The communities that we call home have rallied and supported those in need and our pride in our essential workforce is apparent. When the dust clears from this global crisis the entire experience will shift our perspective to what is truly important. This experience has reinforced the fact Travis O’Dell that our health and safety are weighed heavier than all else, as they should be. We are all very fortunate to live in an area that is so well suited to weather a catastrophe or pandemic such as COVID-19 in the healthiest and safest way possible. Most of us that call this region home have known this for quite some
time and our entire second home population has certainly caught on by now as well. Real estate, as we know it, here in the Catskills has all but ground to a halt in the short term. This turbulent time has seen some real estate deals fall apart due to job loss, financial market losses, and overall uncertainty. Simultaneously the phones have been ringing nonstop with short term rental requests and some immediate offers and sales from people wanting to get out of the city and isolated from other humans as quickly as possible. This is something we all can understand and should be able to empathize with. As we move forward it seems we still have some rocky weeks ahead of us. The downtime, the market chaos and overall uncertainty can make it difficult to see too far beyond today. However, experience tells us that
when down turns occur they always come back, and they come back stronger than ever. Our primary buyer demographic in this region has always been second homeowners and now more than ever this trend is expected to continue. An understandable rough start to the spring market should give way to a very bullish real estate market here in the Catskills through the summer and fall and carry well into 2021. All signs indicate that inventory will remain tight and buyer demand should remain strong and only increase. There is simply no better real estate to own for the security, beauty, distance and overall value when compared to our southern neighbors in the greater NYC area. During good times and bad, there is no better place to live and call home than our Catskill Mountains and Delaware River Valley.
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
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Real Estate: Essential versus non-essential BY CAROL MALEK, MANAGING BROKER AT MALEK PROPERTIES
live and work. We take our client relationships seriously and we work hard to help people realize their housing and other real estate goals. Decisions regarding real estate are some of the most important decisions an individual or family may make in their entire lifetime. We are here to help them through it, to make things seamless and keep things positive during what is generally a very stressful life event. Now, that is a big deal! Most people know that we have been unable to work with our wonderful clients in the manner we are accustomed to due to the current Coronavirus situation. We are marketing and doing whatever we can as instructed by the authorities. We cannot wait to get out there once it is safe to do so. Trust me, I am certain that I speak for all Realtors here… We want to get back to our essential business! We miss you! So, when this pandemic is over (hopefully soon!), and social distancing is a thing of the past, please don’t forget to hug a Realtor!
A TIMELINE OF EVENTS “Uncharted territory”, “business UN-usual”, the “new normal”… these are some of the coined phrases describing the changes in the Real Estate industry over the past month. Nearly every day there are new rules about what Realtors can and cannot do and opinions of what we should and should not do during this pandemic. New York State Association of
Realtors (NYSAR) has been constantly supporting the members and keeping them updated throughout this ordeal. Below is a timeline and some of the changes that occurred in the industry since March 7th: 3/7 Executive Order(EO) 202 declaring a disaster emergency for New York State 3/18 EO 202.6 requires non-essential businesses to reduce in-person workforce by 50% by March 20, 8:00 p.m. 3/19 EO 202.7 requires non-essential businesses to reduce in-person workforce by 75% by March 21, 8:00 p.m. 3/20 EO 202.8 requires non-essential businesses to reduce in-person workforce by 100% by March 22, 8:00 p.m. 3/20 Governor Cuomo issues guidance on essential businesses within “New York State on Pause” EO. The essential business list does not include real estate services. 3/22 8:00 pm – all non-essential business, including real estate, must close in-office personnel functions. 3/23 NYSAR and REBNY (Real Estate Board of New York)ask Governor Cuomo and Empire State Development (ESD) to include “real estate closings” and county clerks to be deemed essential. 3/23 NYSAR asks Governor Cuomo and ESD to amend EO 202.6 to include “services related to real estate transactions” as essential. 3/25 NYSAR and REBNY ask Governor Cuomo for clarity regarding permissible real estate activities. 3/28 NYSAR receives copies of emails from licensees where ESD has deemed them “essential” with no limiting language. 4/1 NYSAR receives copies of emails from licensees where ESD has deemed only certain functions of a licensee as essential. 4/1 ESD changes previous guidance to only allow virtual showings and remote work. Since the author wrote this article the "essential" status of Real Estate business was reversed by the Empire State Development agency. Gov. Cuomo deemed it nonessential with the original list of busnesses.
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ot to downplay the seriousness of this world-wide health and economic disaster, I just want to share some thoughts that, as a Realtor, I felt were important to note. We have all been gravely affected by this outbreak in ways we could never imagine. I pray that this will be behind us very soon and that we can all begin to heal ourselves, our families and our communities. As far as business is concerned, during this pandemic, one of the hardest things for me to accept was that “Real Estate Brokers” made the “non-essential” list. Maybe I was taking it personally, but I had a hard time with that label. I just could not accept that we were in the “not needed” or “not essential” category. I mean, housing in and of itself is an essential need. Why would I dedicate my life‘s career to something deemed non-essential? While I agree that our immediate services might not be “crucial to survival” in a national emergency, the Realtors’ role is very much essential to a thriving economy and especially to the people and the communities we serve. One real estate transaction can employ at least six and potentially more than ten people. Before the closing takes place
there are a lot of steps needed to get there. There will most likely be a seller’s and a buyer’s broker and a seller’s and buyer’s attorney as well as their paralegals to start the process. If there is a mortgage involved, there could also be a mortgage broker. The lending institution will generally have an attorney and several other individuals work on the loan. Then there are the title searchers, the inspectors, the appraiser, the surveyor, and the insurance brokers. Often times several other service providers will be Carol Malek hired for miscellaneous jobs before a transaction closes. Post-closing tends to lead to even more jobs as people fix-up their new homes. The new owners can now update the kitchen and baths, change fixtures, paint, landscape and more. A myriad of other home improvement projects can begin. The job of a Realtor is essential and very important. There are so many people who depend on us. As professionals in the real estate industry, Realtors proudly adhere to high professional and ethical standards. We maintain a strong commitment to serving the communities in which we
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HOME IN THE COUNTRY
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
‘Kind of’ open for business Real estate reacts to COVID-19 BY PATRICIO ROBAYO
W
hen Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered a “pause” on non-essential business and for folks to stay home, that included real estate agents. Just like that, many businesses in the county faced some very difficult days ahead. With the virus now spreading throughout the county, things are changing rapidly. While writing this story, real estate agents were not permitted to actively go out and solicit sales or even show homes or have home inspections, but that changed recently. Agents can now resume work but on a minimal basis. Before the recent change, we interviewed some agents in the county to see how they were dealing with the stop-work mandate. “When you get shut down, you are not making an income. We are all independent contractors, so that’s a
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The world of real estate is in flux due to the current COVID-19 crisis.
scary place,” said Travis O’Dell of Coldwell Banker. As a realtor, O’Dell said he is used to having downtime between sales. “I don’t think there’s any realtor that has not gone a couple of weeks, a month a couple of months without getting a check.” However, O’Dell, has some perspective on the crisis and is taking things in stride the best he can. “It’s actually nice to have a forced slow down,” said O’Dell. “You don’t always get that large chunks of time like this.” He has been spending more time with his family. Since O’Dell could not do any business, he said he has been fielding phone calls and making contacts, so when the industry does open up, he can continue his business. “You can always make more money. That’s what I live by,” he explained. “There are certain things you can make up for and certain things you can’t.”
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O’Dell, being optimistic, said the business lost would be made up once this crisis is over. Since the epicenter of the virus is in New York City, O’Dell said he had been inundated with calls for those looking to escape the city. “I think people are starting to see that the value that we [Sullivan County] do have,” said O’Dell. “I’m speculating that our entire market is going to shift. I think we will see more of those second homeowners turn [into] primary homeowners,” added O’Dell. Furthermore, O’Dell said a lot of companies would realize that their workforce can stay home and work
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
successfully. “The people that have a place up here don’t want the cost, the burden and the hassle of living in New York City or a congested metropolitan area. If they can do their same work, and if they’re making the same income up here with a fraction of the cost of living expenses in a much safer environment, I think that will help make the shift,” O’Dell stated. For Lynne Freda of Freda Realty, before some rules were lifted she said she was dead in the water. “Real estate in Sullivan County right now is stalled,” said Freda. She said most of their business is having face-to-face contact with peo-
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ple showing homes. “We’re in the people business,” said Freda. Freda said before the shutdown she had several clients who were in contract - somewhere either in the process of selling their home or buying. Since the shutdown, however, they are left in limbo. “Now it’s pure stress for them. Am I going to sell my house? And am I going to be able to find a place to live?” Freda said her clients are asking themselves. Since the COVID-19 crisis, she has been getting calls and emails every day from people in the city who want to escape.
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“We just have to tell them ‘we’re so sorry, we can’t show your homes right now,’” said Freda. She had been trying to apply for unemployment, which for the first time is now allowed under the new stimulus plan for independent contractors. Applying for unemployment has been stressful, said Freda, having tried multiple times only to be kicked off the website. Her “walk-by business” has also been lost. Based out of Callicoon, Freda’s office is right on Lower Main Street. Since the shutdown, Callicoon has looked like a ghost town. Please see REAL ESTATE, page 8H
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APRIL 2020
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She said weekenders would come up and see a home for sale in her windows and would want to see it right then and there. For Heather Quaintance of Country House Realty, she had just received her real estate license last summer and was looking forward to a busy upcoming summer season. When the shutdown happened, like most agents, everything stopped. Instead, she is using this time, like most agents, to field calls and emails of potential future clients. “Many of us are using this time to connect with existing clients via email and phone as well as educating ourselves and getting organized for when we are able to work again, but as far as bringing in any income, there isn’t much we can do,” said Quaintance. She is unsure what will happen after this crisis, adding that “I think there is so much uncertainty making
it really difficult to say. Sellers and buyers are on pause right now. Hopefully, when all of this is behind us, everyone will be ready to move forward with their plans.” However, recently New York State deemed real estate an essential business, and the agents could go back to work, but in a limited way. Cara Rieber of Rieber Realty said she is going to wait until the dust settles before making any drastic changes. “I don’t know if it’s gonna change again,” said Rieber. Rieber said there could be a time shortly when the spread of the virus gets worse that not only real estate, but everyone will have to stay home. But she said she is still there for clients, her sellers and buyers if they need her. “We’re doing everything we can under the circumstances,” said Rieber. Under the new guidelines, agents can now solicit new buyers but under
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL, 2020
the guidance of social distancing. Despite some restrictions being lifted, Rieber said she could see the chatter on social media that many agents are nervous about the crisis will opt out of showing homes and choose to stay home. She agrees with the other agents that after this crisis is over, there will be a massive departure from major cities to more rural areas.
WHAT CAN REAL ESTATE AGENTS DO?
According to the New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) and Empire State Development Corporation (ESD). Essential Businesses must continue to comply with the guidance and directives for maintaining a clean and safe work environment issued by the Department of Health. All showings must be conducted virtually or online to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Matthew Gordon, executive vice president, public affairs and communications for ESD, stated, “Being an ‘essential’ industry does not mean business as usual. Business can only be conducted if social distancing and other public health protocols are fol-
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lowed, and all must be doing everything they can to help stop the spread. For real estate, that means brokers can only transact business in their offices or show properties virtually, and anything else is off-limits.” According to Gordon, appraisers and inspectors can visit properties for inspection. Brokers can oversee transactions and signings at their offices while following social distancing protocols. Back-office real estate work is deemed essential, but is encouraged to utilize telecommuting or work from home procedures to the maximum extent possible. “Our industry has been given a great responsibility in this time of crisis to help meet the needs of New York’s residential and commercial property buyers and owners, and the overall welfare of the local and state economy,” said NYSAR President Jennifer Stevenson. “But our priority must be to the safety of our customers, clients and indeed for ourselves, as we all continue to practice socially responsible distancing that is helping to flatten the curve during this national health crisis. Our mantra must be ‘safety first, work second.”
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
The master bedroom has plenty of natural light with windows that overlook the yard.
APRIL 2020
The kitchen is spacious for evenings of cooking or weekends of baking.
New memories on Old Tacy Road W
hen looking for a home, we tend to go in with specific preferences already in mind, and oftentimes, privacy is one of them. Tucked into the trees on five acres of land is a private, yet elegant, home at 62 Old Tacy Rd in Bethel. “It has a warm and welcoming entrance foyer,” stated Real Estate Broker Carol Malek of Malek Properties in White Lake. “You immediately feel at home when you walk in.” As you pass through the front foyer there is a sweet breakfast nook to the right with large, open windows overlooking the yard –– the perfect space to enjoy your morning coffee or tea while watching the birds. Not much further is the classic-style kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters and plenty of space for cooking and entertaining. “Just off the kitchen is the dining-living room combo that spans the width of the house,” Malek said, “with a fireplace as well as a pellet stove, which is very efficient and great to have.” Continuing with the theme of space and entertainment, the Junior suite complete with
walk-in closet and full bath was converted into a lounge/music room with a custom built bar, great for hosting parties, watching your favorite sports, or inviting friends over for a movie. Although the bar is included, it can easily be removed so the room can once again be used as a fourth bedroom. “There’s also another half bath on this level, that could be used as a guest bathroom or powder room,” added Malek. Up the stairs on the second level is the Master suite along with two more bedrooms. The Master suite is spacious with a generous walk-in closet and a private bath complemented by a large tub, pristine stone-tiled shower and a double sink vanity. And the best yet? No more lugging armfuls of laundry up and down the stairs because the laundry room is conveniently located on the second level along with a second full bath. “The lower level of the house has huge storage along with a three-car garage,” stated Malek. “There’s space for a home gym, man or CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL 2020
The front foyer upon entering the house is warm and welcoming, leading into the kitchen or the hallway to the living/dining area.
BY AUTUMN SCHANIL
The house is set back from the road on five acres of land surrounded by trees and plenty of lawn for entertaining.
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The open floor plan combines the dining room and the living room, boasting a classic fireplace and an energy efficient pellet stove.
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
APRIL 2020
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woman-caves, a music room, or whatever hobbies someone might have.” A glass sliding door located at the back of the house just off the diningliving room area, leads out onto a 16-by-36 foot deck, perfect for summer barbecues or late night star gazing. And although the house is set back behind the trees, much of the property surrounding the house is spacious and open, allowing for activity and pets. “I think what’s great about the location is that although it’s private,” Malek said, “it’s also very close to places like Bethel Woods, ‘Restaurant Row’ in Kauneonga Lake, and of course the parks, lakes, and everything else this area has to offer.” If interested in viewing the home and property, you can contact Paul Martin of Malek Properties at (845) 583-6333 or you can visit www.MalekProperties.com.
A sliding glass door off of the dining/living area leads out to a back deck that is perfect for gazing at the stars or sitting out to listen to the sounds of the night.
Home Features List Price: $324,900 MLS Number: 6005116 Property Type: Single Family Sub Type: Detached Style: Colonial, Two Story Post Office: Swan Lake City: Town of Bethel Bedrooms: Four Bathrooms: 3.5 Rooms: Eight Sq Ft: 2,750 Year Built: 2003 Acres: 5 School District: Liberty
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APRIL, 2020
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APRIL, 2020
Catskill Concierge: Building life in Sullivan County STORY AND PHOTO BY SARAH CLARK
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Business founders and owners Alan and Anna Li first opened Catskill Concierge and their sister business, Catskill Home, six years ago when they offered advice to their friends on how to proceed with projects for their homes.
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econd homeowners offer communities opportunities for economic growth while also receiving relaxation, and as many weekenders within Sullivan County are from New York City, a calm place to escape from their busy lives is vital to the structure of their wellbeing. Business founders and owners Alan and Anna Li first opened Catskill Concierge and their sister business, Catskill Home, six years ago when they offered advice to their friends on how to proceed with projects for their homes. After their friends began recommending them to others around Sullivan County, Alan and Anna decided to create their business. When it started, they focused on serving Sullivan County residents and second homeowners to create spaces they could come home to and feel comfortable in, while also offer-
ing homeowner and personal services. “It really organically grew,” said Anna. “It grew and grew and grew until it became a full-time job, and this happened really quickly within a couple of months. We started from doing it for friends to a month later we had our first client.” Alan, the Owner and Head of Property Services, and Anna, Head of Property Design and Development, moved from northern Virginia to Manhattan, but the noisy New York life was hard for their child, who was just one-year-old when they made the move. This prompted Alan and Anna to find a home in Sparrow Bush, NY before they moved to Sullivan County. “Our first night here he slept through the night,” said Anna about her son. “I said to Alan ‘I can’t ever go back.’” Alan then began commuting daily to New York City, but after a while
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him and Anna decided to create a life in Sullivan County full-time for their family and he retired from his job in the city, which also allowed for quality time with their son. Since the start of their business, it has gained them over one thousand clients in Sullivan County and over two hundred in Ulster County. Their 24hour business has offered peace of mind for second homeowners, as their commitment to offering quality service for their clients gives them peace of mind while living elsewhere. “We basically allow New York City people to have a weekend home here and be able to enjoy it the way they want to,” Alan explained. “They come up here and they want to basically unplug and just relax and get ready for the next week.” Catskill Home also allows them to make sure the design and construction work runs seamlessly for their clients, as well as focusing on the upkeep of the houses for the second homeowners. “Because we do both sides to it we will give you a design that doesn’t involve doing the expensive things,” said Alan. “It doesn’t matter what your issues are, we’ll take care of it.” Through social encounters, Alan and Anna have fostered good relationships with professionals within the community that they hire for client projects. “I always try to use local contractors as much as I can because basically they’re my neighbors,” said Alan. “And of course I want to look after my neighbors because they’re part of building up the community.” Because of their dedication to finding good employees to work with on projects and in their offices, Alan and Anna have offered exceptional service to their clients, of who many of them are repeat customers. “It’s delivering a consistent high standard and anything it takes to do that,” said Anna. “As we’ve been able to grow, we’ve been able to bring people in.” Listening to their clients is another important component to the success of the business. Alan and Anna note how important it is to be attentive to their clients and listen to what qualities they love about their home, but also what they would like to change. This happens right from the initial consultation, and after measurements, rough drawings of plans, and working out a budget, the process begins to move by “going to contract” and starting the construction of their
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
homes. “It’s listening to what people mean and extracting from them,” said Anna. “My job is encouraging them to absolutely just make their home completely their own so when they sit in it they just feel the most relaxed and the most comfortable.” The advancement in technology has also allowed them to communicate with long distance clients. Alan and Anna send clients videos and picture updates on a regular basis, and during inclement whether they’re able to use drones to check in with homes that might have been damaged during storms. “What we do at Catskill Homes is enable them to do that from New York,” said Anna. “We use as much technology as we can to enable them that even though they are in the city or New Jersey or wherever they happen to be while we’re doing the remodel for them, they can be part of it and see what’s happening daily.” The county also benefits economically from second homeowners, as they help the communities by shopping at local stores and eateries. “Even on a very most basic level, it’s kind of understood that roughly ten percent of the seventy thousand that live in the county are made up of weekenders,” explained Anna. “They put money into the community on the weekends and are paying property tax.” Alan also added how second homeowners in Sullivan County also pay school taxes, and that also helps the county economically. “They are really attracted to the slower pace of life up here, and they really enjoy the casualness of things,” said Anna. “I think they like the idea that they get to enjoy the slowness of life in Sullivan County and all the charm of that, but at the same time have people pushing a project along and managing it and making sure there’s some end in sight and things can be kept to budget and timeline.” Alan and Anna show dedication and admiration for their business, and their love for satisfying the needs of their clients is evident with their passion for creating homes that people will enjoy coming back to. “For so many people, your house is going to be one of the biggest investments you ever make in your life,” said Anna. “To be trusted that we are going to take care of that, that’s a really lovely thing.”
HOME IN THE COUNTRY
15H
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FOR REMODELING YOUR WEEKEND HOME 3575 STATE ROUTE 55, KAUNEONGA LAKE, NY 12749 | (845) 288-2650 CATSKILL-HOME.COM | ALAN@CATSKILL-HOME.COM 72989
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HOME IN THE COUNTRY
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Martell Builders: Create your custom home from start to finish BY ISABEL BRAVERMAN PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY LIZ GENOVA - L.A. DESIGN, LLC
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artell Builders in Sparrowbush has been in business for over 30 years. The family-owned and operated home building company offers turnkey construction from beginning to end so you can create your dream home without lifting a finger. Since 1988, Martell Builders has specialized in premier new construction and remodeling. Their dedicated team of craftsmen is attuned to the smallest details of your project – from foundation to finish. They will guide you through the entire building process, working with you hand-in-hand to make your dreams a reality. And so you have peace of mind, every new Martell home comes with a 10-year warranty. Chad Martell and his wife Patti started the business and have been married for over 30 years. At the time, Chad worked as a subcontractor in the Poconos and had built his first home, which was a ranch-style modular home that he got from a company. After going through the process, he realized there were many things that the company didn’t tell him about and that he had to pay for. This inspired him to open his own business, that would offer turnkey construction and inform customers of their work every step of the way. This includes a variety of services such as lot clearing, building permits, well, septic, foundation and much more (go to their website to see the full list). They also come back after one year to do door alignment and fix sheetrock stress cracks after
the house “settles.” Patti says that most people who come to Martell Builders already have a piece of land on which they want to build a home. From there, customers work with the team to fully customize their home and bring their vision to life. “If you want a home, you know your life, your lifestyle, and what’s important to you,” Patti said. “To try and find a home that’s existing and to pour your life into somebody else’s house is different, because the people have the house for what they wanted.” They work with people who might have unique needs, or just any type of ideas they might have, such as wanting an artist studio or formal dining room. “My husband always says it’s usually your third home that is your ideal home, because you learn from your first two what you would do differently,” Patti said. She recommends writing down a list of ideas and things you want in the house, so that you don’t forget along the way. From going to home shows and hearing from customers, Patti says most people are looking for a one-level home. “The McMansions are a thing of the past, that is not what people are looking for nowadays. They’re looking for their forever home that is something livable. They want to be able to go and enjoy life and not be married to a house that they can’t afford,” she said. You can go to their website and look at all the models of houses they offer, such as ranch style, chalet, bi-level and Cape Cod style. In addition to building homes, Martell Builders also work on commercial projects and renovations. They are currently building the
Alec, Miranda, Marisa, Patti and Chad Martell have owned and operated Martell Builders for over 30 years.
Top right: The charming entryway leads to the openfloorpan home, and outside leads to a columned porch with views of the front yard.
At right: The bathroom features modern amenities and marble countertops.
HOME IN THE COUNTRY
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Martell Builders offers custom, new home and commercial construction in the Sullivan, Orange, Ulster and Pike counties area.
17H
Real Estate Specialists with over 30 years experieence
Savvy team with Local & NYC Connnections. Full access to all MLS Listing gs. Call for a free property price evalluation at Wurtsboro Firehouse and have done Jeff Bank in Loch Sheldrake. They work with local subcontractors that they have worked with for over 30 years and that specialize in certain things. Not only are customers knowing they’re getting verified subcontractors, they also don’t have to worry about meeting with them, which usually takes place during the work day. Martell Builders handles it all. Patti works in the office answering phones, doing bookkeeping and other odds and ends, while Chad and their son Alec go out and check sites, work on pricing, engineering and more. Much of their work comes from customer referrals, which you can read on their website. “We live local; our name is on the product so people know who we are—we are not Company ABC, we are Martell Builders and we are the Martells,” Patti said. Martell Builders is located at 1 Eagle Court in Sparrowbush, NY. Call (845) 856-7951 or visit www.martellhomebuilders.com.
845-250-4200
The kitchen features a large center island, ample counter space, plenty of cabinetry and access to the utility room.
2027 State Hwy 17B Bethel, NY 12720 www.woodstockw wayrre ealty.com
81715
Contact us at our Tyler Hill office: 570-224-6446
The great room features a large wall of windows and a floor to ceiling stone fireplace.
245 ACRE HUNTING CAMP! Located 4 miles outside of Hancock, NY on Sands Creek Road.
RoscoeLumberYard@yahoo.com
53835
$350,000 Give us a call, it won’t last long!
81889
Large cabin with room for the whole gang. Remodeled kitchen, large dining room, cozy gathering room with fireplace insert and a bunk room which sleeps 8 or more hunters. Trails for easy accessibility to all areas of the property.
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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
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Secluded Catskill home offers stunning mountain views BY ISABEL BRAVERMAN
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ff a back road in Livingston Manor and down a long driveway sits this four-bedroom, three-bathroom home perfect for large families or those seeking a country getaway. Located on 15 acres of property, this special home includes an in-ground heated pool, large wraparound deck and open concept living. The custom-built cedar home has hardwood floors throughout and beamed ceilings, giving it a modern touch. The house features a kitchen, dining room and living room on the main floor, for those who like an open-concept floor plan. The house was built in 1988 by the owner and has been well maintained. It has new windows and a new roof, as well as oil heating. It boasts cell phone service and Spectrum cable and Internet, so you don’t have to worry about being too remote. Upstairs are three bedrooms, each with French doors and balconies so
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Take some time to relax and take in the view of this spacious and private property.
you can step outside at any moment. The lower level has its own one bedroom, one bathroom and kitchen that can be used as a separate apartment
or caretakers quarters. Behind the home is a whimsical stone pathway through the woods that takes you to the pièce de résis-
tance of the home—the heated pool. It is 50-feet by 25-feet complete with a cedar deck (keeping in theme with the house), cabana, bathroom and storage. It would be perfect for entertaining on a summer evening. Large windows and glass doors throughout the home offer a unique indoor-outdoor living situation; and you’ll want to be outside to see the stunning views. The front of the house opens up to a view of the rolling mountains in the distance, offering beautiful vistas all-year round. The master bedroom is roomy, with an ensuite bathroom. The bedroom has a lot of space, including storage space with two closets. This house is minutes away from charming Livingston Manor, and is close to Roscoe (world famous fishing town) and Callicoon. There is a two-car garage attached to the home, with room for a workshop. The driveway is lined with custombuilt stone walls, making it a truly grand entrance.
Mulch • Beach Sand • Decorative Stone • Bluestone • Field Stone • Cultured Stone • Landscape Fabric • Retaining Walls • Patio Pavers • Cement Block • Coal • Wood Pellets • Grass Seed • Ballfield Clay • Much More ....
845-434-6690 Fax 845-434-6691 www.woodbournelandscapesupply.com
Home in the Country ‘Sullivan County’s Premier Real Estate Guide’ Published by
Catskill-Delaware Publications, Inc. Publishers of the
(845) 887-5200 Callicoon, NY 12723 April 10, 2020 • Vol. CXXVIX, No. 87
37802
PICK UP OR DELIVERY 5858 STATE RT. 42, WOODBOURNE, NY
38227
Publisher: Co- Editors: Editorial Assistants: Advertising Director: Assistant Advertising Director: Special Sections Coordinator: Advertising Coordinator: Business Manager: Assistant Business Manager: Telemarketing Coordinator: Monticello Office Manager: Classified Manager: Production Associates: Circulation & Distribution:
Fred W. Stabbert III Joseph Abraham and Matt Shortall Isabel Braverman, Margaret Bruetsch, Kathy Daley, Patricio Robayo, Richard Ross, Jeanne Sager, Ed Townsend Liz Tucker Barbara Matos Susan Panella Lillian Ferber Susan Owens Patricia Biedinger Michelle Reynolds Margaret Bruetsch Janet Will Elizabeth Finnegan, Nyssa Calkin, Petra Duffy, Katey Dnistrian, Jessica Roda, Rosalie Mycka Anthony Bertholf, John Fischer, Phil Grisafe
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HOME SPECS Sold by: Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties Address: 145 Old Danzer Road, Livingston Manor, NY MLS number: H5076642 Price: $499,000 Acres: 15.33 Bedrooms: Four Full bathrooms: Three Size: 3,774 square feet Call or text: 917-921-8892 for more info
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
This custom-built ceder home offers plenty of space and natural light.
SANITIZING SERVICES FOR YOUR HOME & BUSINESS
Building Traditions
Tri County
Specializing in Kitchens and Baths
buildingtraditions1@gmail.com
82404
Linda Lee Babicz 845-482-2021 SHOWROOM LOCATION 4886 State Route 52, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
Like us on Facebook @ Building Traditions
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Email: FBailey@timberlandproperties.net for more info
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MOLD
LD BUSTERS LLC Licensed â&#x20AC;¢ Insured Professional Mold
Remediation ~ Restoration ~ Prevention Residential | Commercial Foreclosures | Insurance Claims Licensed Contractor: Chris Vieiro Office Manager: Sayde Edwards
845-866-1326 EMAIL: tcmoldbusters@gmail.com
82396
59557
PHONE:
HOME IN THE COUNTRY
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“Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2019 Anderrssen Corporation. All rights reserved.
Your DDrream, You
Our Modular Constrruction. We manage permits & approvals, approvals site development and all finish and trim work.
Professional design services, engineering and surveying are always available.
Excellent customer service is provided provided, even after your project is completed.
MEET OUR BUILDERS
DREAM KITCHEN UPGRADE
Join us for a Factor y Tour Event on March 7th and May 2nd at 30 Reagans Mills Road in Wingdale, NY! This event goes from 10 AM to 2 PM and will show you our in-factor y process.
For a limited time only, get the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of with free Merillat Classic Series Cabinets. Call us today to take advantage of this offerr,, and you’ll see how easy it is to finally have a home that fits your vision.
Must be 18 to tour, rreeffrreshments will be ser ved.
WMHConstruction.com
642 International Blvd. Rock Tavern, NY. (Located by Stewar t Airpor t, off I-84, exit 32)
(845) 787- 0400
80884
20H