North Shore Homes - February 9, 2023

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Saddle Road

4 BD 3 BA | $1,450,000

Located in Head of Harbor Village, this beautiful cape with Nantucket-style charm with complete masterful renovations. Gourmet chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, Viking appliances, formal dining room and living room/den with fireplace, coffered ceilings and wood floors. Sun-drenched sunroom with access to garage. The primary bedroom with bath is located on the main level. The lower level is complete with a kitchen, bedroom, bath, separate entrance. Exquisitely positioned on twixt pond with panoramic views of the pond and a backyard with patios, shed. Low taxes. Only seconds from historic Stony Brook village and all it has to offer including beach, restaurants, shops, post office, marina and more!

mls# 3378606 | port jefferson | $510,000

mls# 3402453 | port jefferson sta. | $515,000

mls# 3378463 | stony brook | $700,000

mls# 3391019 | old field | $2,675,000

mls# 3359730 | setauket | $1,625,000

mls# 3354917 | setauket | $680,000

Home inspections 101

The process of buying a home can be unlike any experience prospective buyers have ever had.

After finding a home they like and coming to an agreement on a sale price with the seller, buyers can expect to add many items to their to-do list. One of the first things to jot down on that list is scheduling a home inspection.

Home inspections are a vital part of the home buying process. Such inspections can protect buyers as they’re on the cusp of making what will likely be the most significant investment of their lives. Understanding the home inspection process can help buyers during an exciting yet potentially nervewracking time in their lives.

WHAT IS A HOME INSPECTION?

The American Society of Home Inspectors defines a home inspection as an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems

of a house. Inspectors will conduct visual examinations from the roof to the foundation of the home. Additional structures on the property, such as sheds or detached outdoor living areas, are not typically included in the examination.

WHAT DO INSPECTORS EXAMINE?

The ASHI notes that inspectors will examine the condition of various parts of the home. The heating system, central air conditioning unit, interior plumbing and electrical systems, roof (though inspectors will not climb onto the roof), attic and insulation will be examined. Inspectors also will examine walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, the foundation of the home, basement (or crawl space), and structural components.

CAN A HOME FAIL INSPECTION?

Homes cannot fail home inspections, which are just assessments of a home’s existing condition. Municipal inspections are

separate inspections conducted by government agencies to verify that a property is in compliance with local codes. Home inspectors will provide detailed reports describing the condition of a home and indicate if any repairs are in order.

DO I REALLY NEED A HOME INSPECTION?

A home inspection is a vital component that can help buyers make the most informed decision possible. Forgoing an inspection can leave buyers vulnerable to potentially costly repairs and issues with a home that might have been detected with a proper home inspection. In addition, some lenders insist that buyers have home inspections conducted before they will allow them to borrow money.

Home inspections can protect home buyers as they prepare to make the most significant financial investment of their lives. More information about inspections can be found at www.homeinspector.org.

Nissequogue Magni cent Col w/ Country Club yard, 2.04 acres, cul-desac. Meticulously renovated over the years. Co ered ceilings. Hdwd rs. LR w/fplc. Renovated Kit. 6 Burner Viking Stove. A Guest Br w/ensuite. Finisheed basement w/2 separate gym spaces, entertainment area, o ce, full bath. Too much to list! ML#34464253

$2,699,000

Port Je erson One-of-a-kind spacious contemporary. Designed for elegant entertaining as well as family living. 2 Br, full bath 1st . Hwd rs throughout. The lower level is above ground w/10’ ceilings, OSE. Short distance To PJ Village, Ferry to CT, Harbor, Restaurants Close to Stony Brook University and Hospital. ML#3451298 $875,000

Port Je erson Antique/Historical! Back to the Past! Once in a lifetime opportunity to own the Zachariah Hawkins House, a historic home in the desirable Village of Port Je erson. 4 Br, 2.5 Ba. Legal Accessory Studio Apartment (gas heat) which is above the detached 1.5 car garage on Franklin St. Very Low taxes. Close to Stony Brook Univ. & Hosp. ML#3396733 $850,000

Lake Grove Resort Style Living in 55+ Gated Community! 2 BR- 21/2

Bath Condo. Has It All. CAC, 1 Car

Gar. Spacious EIK. Outdoor Patio w/ Retractable Awning. Cathedral Ceilings. Award Winning Clubhouse. Close to Shopping. Pets Allowed! For Info. Call Port Je erson O ce 631-928-5484

ML#3454082 $625,000

Riverhead Condo-2 Br, 2 Ba. Saddle Lake – Captiva w/loft, 55+ Prime location. LR/Fpl. Dr. 2nd Br for o ce or den, second oor loft, basement/ playroom Amenities include: clubhouse, movie theater, gym, indoor & outdoor pool, bocce, shu eboard, tennis. Near shopping, restaurants, farm stands, wineries, & medical facilities. ML#3450214 $589,000

Westhampton Beach Rental - Memorial Day to Labor Day $50,000, July 1Labor Day $40,000, August-Labor Day $25,000, July only $25,000, June only $15,000. Spacious 2Br 2Bth Dune Road bayfront. Recently renovated. Views of Moriches Bay. Ocean and bay beach access, chair rack on beach; 3 Har Tru tennis courts, bay and ocean heated pools Walk to town.! ML#3452716

Old Field A triumph of Contemporary design! This 3-4Bed,4.5Bath home has been carefully remodeled into a unique property. Exceptional entertaining spaces, chef’s Kit/w Center island, master suite & luxurious bath, 2 Fireplaces, deeded beach rights, cul-de-sac. Enjoy the 2.5 acres of private and tranquil property.

ML#3451039 $1,949,000

Here you can list your home with confidence.

List your home with us 631.928.5484

Old Field Spacious updated 4 BR Ranch with access to private beach, HW oors, Andersen windows, skylites, oversized 2 car garage, full basement partially nished,3V schools, close to Stony brook Univ. ML#3422211

$950,000

Mt Sinai Beautiful Jack-O-Bean Hwd. Floors Thru out this Colonial. Full Fin. walk out bsmt. with private Gym, Family Room, Wet bar, 1/2 bath. In-ground pool w/ newer Liner/ lter, new loop lock cover. Updated EIK with New SS appl., Large Mstr. w/sitting area, new Master Bath. ML#3436173 $989,000

Lake Grove 2 BR- 21/2 Bath Condo. 1st Floor Mstr. Bdrm. w/Large Bth, Beautiful kitchen. FDR, LR w/Large Windows Cathedral Ceilings, Central Air w/Humidi er, Gas Heat, Washer/Dryer, 1 Car Garage Attached. Clubhouse w/Kitchen & Billiards, Gym, Sauna. ML#3454082 $625,000

Mt Sinai Views of Waterfront without any of the headaches of Bulkheading. Build your Dream home overlooking Mt. Sinai Harbor where you can enjoy mooring your boat, Fishing, Kayaking. Acres of beaches to walk, run or just sit back and relax. If you want to nd the perfect lot to build your dream home... this is it!

ML#3369323 $599,000

Sound Beach Contemporary home w/ soaring ceilings and open oor plan. 2100 sq ft plus it has a full n bsmt. approx 800 sq foot, 1 bdrm legal apt. Quiet block and quaint setting, 2/3 bedrooms upstairs with a mstr bath w/bath and shower. Loft area perfect for an o ce or additional bedroom.

ML#3436174 $499,999

Port Je erson Sta. Renovated 2 Bdrm, 2.5 Bth Condo. Updated kitchen with Quartz countertops. Gas FPL, Freshly Painted. Private Setting W/ Your Own Fenced-in Patio. Attached 1 Car Garage. Bonus Loft Area . Amenities Include Clubhouse, Swimming Pool, Tennis. ML#3452636 $3,300/mo

Simple tips to improve your status with mortgage lenders

Owning a home is a dream shared by millions of people. Investing in property that can be owned within 15 to 30 years of closing on the home makes more financial sense to many than continuing to rent and having little to show for it over time.

The first step to take when planning to enter the real estate market is to ensure that your finances are in order. Various factors will influence individuals’ ability to secure a mortgage, and these are some ways to make yourself more attractive to prospective lenders.

• Check your credit report. Lenders will check your credit report before deciding if you are a risk or a safe bet for a mortgage. So it makes sense to check your credit report prior to speaking with a lender. The Federal Trade

Commission says everyone can get one free credit report a year from each of the three credit reporting bureaus. If you split it up, you can get a credit report every four months so you are aware of anything that may adversely affect your ability to get a mortgage loan. A credit (FICO) score that’s too low may disqualify you from a mortgage. Each lender sets its own thresholds when they price and approve loans, but the higher your credit score, the better.

• Improve credit standing. One way to improve your status in the eyes of lenders is to pay down credit card balances to reduce your credit utilization ratio. A high utilization occurs when there is a high balance in relation to the credit limit, says Business Insider. Also, it may be wise to avoid any credit inquiries through new credit card applications for several months before applying for a loan, as these inquiries can affect your score.

• Be realistic about what you can afford. Do your homework and determine your target interest rate and monthly payment as well as what down payment you can afford. It will help you research potential lenders and provide an idea of what may be offered to you.

• Pay bills on time. Paying bills promptly not only helps you avoid late fees, but also positively affects your credit. The financial resource The Mortgage Reports urges diligence when paying rent, as late rent payments can bar you from getting a mortgage. Lenders look at rent history as the biggest indicator of whether you’ll make mortgage payments on time.

These are some of the ways to make a prospective home buyer look better in the eyes of mortgage lenders. Individuals can speak with financial professionals about what else they can do to improve the possibility of securing mortgages at the best rates possible.

What Influences A Home’s Value?

8 critical factors:

Rocky Point

$139,900

Absolutely move in ready spacious light and bright 1 bedroom 1 bath co-op, Open concept living dining, newer carpeting and bathroom. Balcony, Assigned Parking in front of the unit. Laundry on site. CAC. Close to shopping and public transportation. Don’t let this one slip by.

What are the differences between real estate agents and brokers?

Real estate transactions often involve significant amounts of money. As a result, it’s common for both buyers and sellers to enlist the services of a host of professionals with real estate experience. Both buyers and sellers may work with real estate agents and/or real estate brokers en route to buying or selling their homes. Agents

agents need to earn their licenses varies by state. Once individuals finish their required training, they must take a written exam that tests their knowledge of federal real estate laws and general principles as well as the laws specific to the state in which they want to become licensed. Only after passing this exam do individuals become recognized real estate agents. Investopedia notes that achieving agent status is the starting point for most real estate professionals.

REAL ESTATE BROKER

brokers goes into more depth than it does at the agent level.

Brokers also will study and learn about legal issues in regard to real estate. The legal issues brokers may learn about include brokerage operations, real estate investments, construction, and property management. Requirements vary, but Realtor.com notes that brokers often must work as licensed real estate agents for no less than three years before they can earn their broker’s license.

REAL ESTATE AGENT

According to Realtor.com, real estate agents are professionally licensed individuals who can help both buyers and sellers. Agents also may help property owners rent their homes. The amount of training real estate

Real estate brokers are those professionals who have continued their education past the agent level and obtained a broker’s license. Each state has its own requirements in regard to becoming a licensed broker, but education and examinations are necessary regardless of where a person lives.

Realtor.com notes that the extra coursework to earn a broker’s license focuses on various topics, including ethics, contracts, taxes, and insurance. Agents may learn about these topics as well, but coursework for prospective

There is more than one type of real estate broker. Principal/designated brokers oversee all agents at a given firm and ensure the agents act in compliance with all real estate laws. Managing brokers tend to focus on the hiring and training of agents. Associate brokers have their broker’s license but work directly under a managing broker.

Real estate agents and brokers can help buyers, sellers and investors successfully navigate real estate transactions, and each can serve their clients in different ways.

and brokers are not one and the same, and there are some important distinctions between the two.

PLUS: Buy an ad and send in your picture to loveourphotos@tbrnewsmedia.com and include: your name, business, town, and a one sentence quote from one of the following topics:

• Why did you choose this field or industry?

• If you had to do it again, would you and would you do it the same?

• What advice would you give to someone just starting out?

Mount Sinai | $649,900 | Web # 3442946

Custom built ranch in a secluded, wooded setting. This charming 3-bedroom home offers a large kitchen, Rosewood wood tile floor, laundry room with access to backyard boasting a no maintenance deck overlooking beautiful 16X36 with 12X12 T heated inground pool. The 2-car garage offers access to a full, partially finished basement, plus a woodshop set up with separate electric.

UNDER

Stony Brook | $649,900 | Web# 3432891

Rare opportunity for a cul-de-sac location in the ‘S’-section. Lovely sun- filled Devon ranch (largest ranch model) offering a brand-new kitchen, new floors, new baths, new sliding door, a few new windows and a brand-new roof. Also features central air conditioning, central vacuum, a spacious 2 car garage, inground sprinklers and one of the few homes in this community on sewers. Ideally located in one of the quietest areas of the S-Section, 1.5 blocks from Strathmore Park and athletic fields.

UNDER

The Lakes@Setauket a sought after 3 bedroom Devon Model.

Port Jefferson | $615,000 | Web# 3449643

Mt Sinai | $524,000 | Web # 3438047

Fully renovated home nestled in the woodland hills of Mt Sinai.

Medford | $485,000 | Web # 34333446

Spacious, exceptional Colonial in “The Pines.”

SOLD: 30 W. Pond SOLD: 16 Hartsdale Ave.

Smithtown | $465,000 | Web # 3419331

Coram | $449,000 | Web # 3423017

brick Contemporary.

110 WALT WHITMAN ROAD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NY 11746. 631.549.7401 | © 2020 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY elliman.com/longisland EAST SETAUKET OFFICE 3 00 M ain S treet 631.751.6000 2022 FOR THE NYS HOUSING DISCRIMINATION DISCLOSURE NOTICE & FORM. 110 WALT WHITMAN ROAD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NY 11746. 631.549.7401 © 2023 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REAL ESTATE BROKER, PLEASE DISREGARD THIS OFFER. IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO SOLICIT THE OFFERINGS OF OTHER REAL ESTATE BROKERS. WE COOPERATE WITH THEM FULLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. elliman.com/longisland ©128130