Date Archives: January 2021

With the chilly winter temperatures and short days, winter is a fantastic time to organize your home. If you're ready to put your home on the market, our REALTORS® recommend decluttering your spaces so that your home is more appealing to potential buyers. Here are a few tasks to add to your to-do list so that your home looks its best. 

1. Go Through Your Seasonal Stuff
   Start by going through your seasonal items, like holiday decor, yard tools, and weather-specific clothing. If you haven't used an item in the past year, consider if it's contributing to the life you want to live. Once you've pared down your seasonal belongings, store them in plastic storage boxes so that they'll be protected from the elements when not in use. Make sure to label what's in each box so you don't have to open several boxes to locate an item. Seldom-used seasonal items can take up a lot of space in your home and even make it appear smaller. If possible, transport the items to another location, like a storage unit or storage shed, when it's time to sell your home.

2. Downsize Your Bedding and Bath Linens
   If you've been hanging onto all your old mismatched sheets and worn towels, it's time to downsize your collection. It's reasonable to keep three sets of bedding for each bed; this ensures that you have sheets and a backup set of bedding when one set is in the wash. Some individuals change their pillowcases more frequently than the rest of their bedding; if so, hold onto a few extra pillowcases. For your towels, aim to have three towels per person in your household. If someone likes to use a separate towel to dry their hair, it's reasonable to add two to three towels for this individual. Have three hand towels for each bathroom, and aim for five washcloths per person in your home. 

3. Empty Out Your Kitchen Cabinets and Pantry
   Take everything out of your kitchen cabinets and pantry so that you can see exactly what you have. Get rid of anything that you haven't used in a year, anything that's worn out, or any item that you clearly have too many of. Tupperware or cookware that's missing a lid should also be tossed. For the remaining items, consider investing in cabinet shelves to better organize your belongings. This will make it easier to find what you're looking for and allow you to maximize the space in your cabinets. 

4. Clear Our Your Toiletries and Cosmetics
   Don't let a surplus of makeup, lotions, and soaps overrun your bathroom. Instead, go through your personal care items and keep only the items that you love and regularly use. Check the expiration dates for your makeup to ensure that it isn't expired. Store what's left in a dedicated case or bag to keep your counter space clear. 

Ready to add your home to the list of Nassau County homes for sale? Interested in a home with more space? Contact us today to get started and start exploring Suffolk County homes for sale!

Mark your calendars and don't spoil your appetite. Wednesday, January 20th is National Cheese Lovers Day, and we're ready to celebrate. 

Our REALTORS® happen to believe that just about anything is better if you put a little cheese on it. Or a lot of cheese. If you agree, you might want to check out some of these amazing Long Island specialty cheese shops.

• Village Cheese Merchant - 28 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  Offering an amazing selection of gourmet cheeses and charcuterie from all corners of the globe, Village Cheese Merchant is one of Long Island's great cheese shops. Whether you're looking for buttery truffle gouda from Holland, six-month aged Manchego from Spain, or goat's milk cheese from a farm in Upstate New York, you'll find it here. The shop is conveniently located less than a mile from many Rockville Centre Homes for Sale, and the knowledgeable shopkeepers are always happy to make recommendations for the perfect cheese in any situation.
  
  
• Brew Cheese - 127 Main St., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  It's no secret that beer and cheese are a match made in Heaven. That match is the secret to success at Brew Cheese, a Stony Brook staple that offers an incredible cheese-centric menu and ever-changing selection of craft beers and ales on tap. A stone's throw from these Stony Brook Homes for Sale, Brew Cheese offers cheese boards, fondues, and some seriously next-level grilled cheese sandwiches. Be sure to ask for their weekly pairing recommendations and featured grilled cheese. 
  
  
• Cavaniola Gourmet Cheese - 89 Division St., Sag Harbor, NY 11963
  Whether you're on the hunt for something special for a party or gathering, or simply looking for an opportunity to satisfy your own craving, Cavaniola Gourmet Cheese in Suffolk County is a great resource. The store is staffed by friendly experts who can help you create the perfect pairing with any cheese. Choose among a varied selection of domestic and imported cheeses, or ask them to put together a cheese board, charcuterie assortment, or gift basket together for you. They have a great wine cellar too!
  
  
• Cheese Store of Cedarhurst - 532 Central Ave., Cedarhurst, NY 11516
  Ever since it opened its doors in 1977, Cheese Store of Cedarhurst has been one of Long Island's go-to specialty food stores. And while their focus is, and has always been, on offering gourmet cheeses of exceptional quality, they also have an amazing selection of other goods worth checking out. Be sure to browse their selection of specialty coffees, fruit and nuts, candy, and desserts. The Cheese Store's cheesecake is some of the best you're ever likely to taste, and they create spectacular cheese platters and gourmet food baskets for all occasions. 
  
  
• Babylon Cheese Cellar - 51 Deer Park Ave., Babylon, NY 11702
  A specialty food and artisan cheese boutique located in the heart of the charming Babylon Village, Babylon Cheese Cellar can always be counted on to offer something special and unique. Their cheese platters and specialty gift baskets are great for any occasion, and the shop is overstuffed with a dizzying selection of fine cheeses from across the country and around the world. You'll also find just about anything you could want to serve with your favorite cheese, from crackers, jams, and pates to balsamic glazes, olives, and chocolate.

Contact us today to learn more about life on Long Island. If you're looking for more information on Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, our team is here to help.

They say you shouldn't work hard; you should work smarter. We believe it's a suggestion that equally applies to daily life. When you are ready to work less and live smarter, our REALTORS® recommend giving your home a smart upgrade. Installing smart home systems is a smart way to start the new year off on the right foot. If you're wondering how to start and what to look for, the following tips and suggestions will help you take the first steps to a more convenient lifestyle.

Consider the Features and Functions

Do you want to listen to the radio, control the thermostat, or enhance your home security? Smart home systems can perform these functions, and much more. Some of the most popular smart home functions we see in Nassau County homes for sale include:

• Smart Home Assistants
• Smart Speakers
• Smart Home Security Systems
• Smart Thermostats
• Smart Lighting
• Smart Doorbells & Door Locks
• Smart Vacuum Cleaners

Getting started requires first identifying the level of convenience, comfort, and security you want to enjoy. Smart home technology can help you trim your monthly utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint. They can make it easier to entertain guests and enjoy "downtime." They can improve your home security and give you total control over your home even when you're thousands of miles away.

Set a Budget & Choose a Brand

Always buy quality when purchasing a smart home system. Further, choose brands with a solid track record of growth and innovation. This will help ensure the system you choose will still be serviceable in the future. 

Remember, smart home technology is an investment. When you invest in high-quality smart thermostats and home security systems, you're investing in both comfort and safety. Moreover, smart home systems will enhance your home's curb appeal. When you decide to put it on the market, these systems can give you an advantage over a competing property.

Finally, make sure to choose devices that are compatible with one another. This helps maximize the convenience and functionality you can enjoy. It also eliminates the need to learn multiple controls.

Install What You can and Hire the Best for the Rest

Many smart home systems are ready to use right out of the box. However, more advanced systems require customized installation and set up. Thus, you should set up the devices you can (i.e., Amazon or Google speakers) and hire a professional to install and program your Nest thermostat, Nexx garage door opener, home security system, etc. When hiring a contractor to perform these services, make sure that they have specific experience with your system.

Start Small Before You Buy it All

Most homeowners we encounter when showing Suffolk County homes for sale start with one or two systems before adding more smart devices to their home. Most start with speakers and smart lighting as these are easy to install and can help familiarize the family with the best ways to integrate smart home technology into daily life. Once everyone is comfortable, gradually introduce additional systems. 

We recommend staying up-to-date with smart home technology. It's a rapidly evolving field, and the features and functions are rapidly expanding. If you can dream it, you can bet it's on the horizon.

Are you in the market for a new home where you can live smarter and more comfortably in 2021? Contact us, and we will be happy to show you some of the properties we have available. It is our pleasure to help you and your family find the perfect home for a fabulous future.

National Tempura Day is January 7, which means there couldn't be a better time to try one of Long Island's many Japanese dining establishments. Tempura is a popular Japanese cooking style that involves lightly frying with a batter made from soft wheat and cold water. Whether you prefer tempura with shrimp, scallops, crab, or vegetables, almost everyone can agree that food tastes a little bit better when made Tempura style.

Take the time to celebrate National Tempura Day by trying one of these fantastic Long Island Japanese restaurants recommended by our REALTORS®.

• Inatome Japanese Steak + Sushi - 6 5th St, Valley Stream, NY 11581
  A short drive away from some beautiful Hewlett homes for sale is Inatome Japanese Steak + Sushi. This classic Japanese staple has been serving delicious tempura in Long Island since 1975. Their menu features various tempuras, including shrimp, vegetable, calamari, scallop, and soft shell crab. They also have fantastic sushi and hibachi, along with a great selection of beer and sake. Dine-in or order online for takeout.
  
  
• Watawa - 164 Hicksville Rd, Bethpage, NY 11714
  This awesome contemporary Japanese-fusion restaurant serves up some fantastic vegetable and shrimp tempura made with fresh ingredients. Watawa offers a fun and friendly atmosphere with a contemporary vibe. They serve a variety of classic Japanese dishes and also have a delicious sushi bar. Beers, wines, and sake are available to drink. Best of all, Watawa is just a short drive from some of these fantastic Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Kumo Japanese of Stony Brook - 2548 Nesconset Hwy, Stony Brook, NY 11790
  Signature sushi rolls, hibachi, and mouth-watering tempura can all be had at Kumo Japanese of Stony Brook. This trendy Japanese steakhouse and bar offers delicious light and crispy tempura, and you can choose between chicken & vegetables, shrimp and vegetables, or vegetarian. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 pm., and you can enjoy a refreshing glass of beer or wine at Kumo's neon-lit bar. Best of all, the restaurant is conveniently located near these Stony Brook homes for sale.
  
  
• Kaiyo - 92 Main St, Mineola, NY 11501
  A great place to get your tempura fix near these Garden City homes for sale is Kaiyo, a small Japanese restaurant offering high-quality sushi, crispy tempura dishes, and fresh kitchen entrees. This place is definitely a local favorite. Dine-in or order takeout online—either way, you won't be disappointed.
  
  
• Izumi Sushi and Hibachi Steakhouse - 5745 Sunrise Hwy, Holbrook, NY 11741
  After you visit these Suffolk County homes for sale, stop by Izumi Sushi and Hibachi Steakhouse for some of the best shrimp tempura on Long Island. Open for lunch and dinner, Izumi serves high-quality sushi, lightly breaded tempura, hibachi, and a variety of kitchen entrees in a vibrant dining room.
  
  
• Midori Sushi & Steakhouse - 271-6 NY-25A, Mt Sinai, NY 11766
  For one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in Suffolk County, try Midori Sushi & Steakhouse. Midori's has a sleek, trendy dine-in experience and a large menu of traditional Japanese favorites. If you're looking for a classic date night location, Midori's is a lot of fun. If you'd prefer takeout, you can also order online. Check out these Mount Sinai homes for sale on your way to pick up your order.

One of the best parts about living in Long Island is easy access to world-class cuisine. There's always a new restaurant to try! For more recommendations on local businesses, contact us today.