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Summer In Manhattan -- 7 Cool Things To Do!

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on May 9, 2016 - 5:58pm

We have so many great venues and events for art enthusiasts and foodies in the Hudson Valley, but we also enjoy spending time in Manhattan experiencing the unique offerings only found in New York City.

Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Summer in the city:

ROOFTOP BARS:  One of the highest rooftop bars in the city, Bar 54, is on the 54th floor of the Hyatt Times Square.  Along with the breathtaking view, they serve up lite bites and seasonal drink specialties created by their outstanding mixologists.  For a more bohemian-chic hangout, visit Jane Hotel's 6th floor rooftop lounge in the West Village.  Enjoy incredible views of the Hudson River while sipping on one of their many delicious signature cocktails.

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Some Of Hudson Valley's Best Fests For Foodies & Craft Brew Enthusiasts

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on April 30, 2016 - 6:32pm

The Hudson Valley is a go-to destination for local craft breweries and wineries as well as eclectic food and shopping.  The Spring, Summer and Fall are full of festivals and events that celebrate all that is unique about New York's Hudson Valley.  Check out a few of the special events to put on your no-miss list.

The Westchester Magazine Wine & Food Festival is a 5-day event starting on June 8 and is filled with unique dining experiences prepared by renowned chefs.  Over 100 restaurants and 200 wines are celebrated at several locations throughout the Valley.  There are even classes where kids can learn culinary skills.

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Attention Home Buyers - Important Video - Wire Fraud Alert

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on April 27, 2016 - 8:26pm

Please watch this if you will be purchasing a home any time soon.  A real estate agent and/or a title company will not put sensitive or private information, like account numbers for wiring funds, in an email message.  

Be very cautious and aware that scammers may be posing as your agent or other trusted advisor. 

Friday is Earth Day - Easy Ways to Live a Greener, More Sustainable Life

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on April 20, 2016 - 4:25pm

There are so many things you can do to embrace a 'greener' lifestyle . . . why not start now.

We are celebrating Earth Day on Friday!  It's more important than ever before that everyone does their part to ensure we have life-giving resources available for the future generations of humans and all life forms.  

View the link below for ideas of things you can easily do in and around your home to conserve valuable resources.  

Commit to Living a Greener, More Sustainable Life this Earth Day - With more than 1 billion people participating in Earth Day activities each year, it’s hard to fathom what we all did on April 22 prior to 1970—the year Senator Gaylord Nelson put into motion a movement that continues to motivate people into action when it comes to caring for—and protecting—our environment. Whether you’re a preservationist, or activist—or somewhere […] [RisMedia Consumer News]

National Real Estate Market Update March 2016

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on April 7, 2016 - 2:18pm

Real Estate Market Update - New York, Dutchess & Ulster

Submitted by Joseph Pettinella on March 31, 2016 - 6:25pm

Let's summarize some of the more important statistics from the latest real estate market report from the New York State Association of REALTORS®.  We're going to take a look at New York State, and then drill down to Dutchess and Ulster Counties numbers.

Overall the real estate market is healthy and it is a good time to sell and buy.  Because inventories of available homes are low, it is a sellers market, but so far this situation has not led to significant increases in sales prices.

State of New York - Year-to-date through February 2016, compared to the same period last year:

     • 7.9% more listings came on the market, but the inventory is still low in certain areas.

     • Pending contracts were up 19.6%.  These are properties that have accepted contracts but have not yet closed.

     • Closed sales were also up this year by 18.7%.  Based on the increase in pending contracts, it looks like we will also see a significant increase in closed sales for March.

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