Date Archives: September 2021

Your home is your castle. When it's invaded by an uninvited pest that won't leave, our REALTORS® understand how frustrating that can be and how much of a disruption it can cause. Many pests are difficult to dislodge, and since changing the locks isn't an option, we strongly recommend taking preventative measures that will work.

Whether you buy Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, one of the first things you want to consider is pest control. The more effort you put into keeping pests out, the less effort you'll need to spend kicking them out down the road.

• Start by sealing any holes or cracks in the siding or masonry. Pay close attention to door jams and window frames where small cracks can form as the foundation settles. If you discover any cracks, apply the appropriate caulk, weatherstripping, or sealant to the surface. This will have the added advantage of improving the energy envelope around your home.
  
  
• It's also advisable to clean up your attic, garage, and crawlspace. These three areas are breeding grounds for ants, mosquitos, flies, mice, and other pests. The cleaner these three spaces, the less attractive they are for uninvited houseguests with wings or fur.
  
  
• Make sure to clean up the kitchen and pantry. It's best to secure food in airtight containers to help minimize the odors that can attract pests. You'll also want to make sure to keep these areas free of crumbs and other food debris that pests can munch on as they scout new places to move into.
  
  
• Skip the pet door and making sure Fido is regularly groomed. Pet doors create easy access for mice, roaches, raccoons, and other pests; removing the door denies them a potential point of entry. And, while you're removing the pet door, be sure to securely install the bug screen on the windows and patio doors. This will help keep bugs of all shapes and sizes from moving in. 
  
  
• Stay on top of your landscaping. Keep trees properly trimmed, mow the grass, and ensure that piles of leaves and other yard waste don't grow into small mountains. Left unattended, these piles will rot and attract all manner of pests that can easily multiply and move in when you're not looking.
  
  
• Speed up the process. Once you remove the breeding grounds and food sources, it can take a while for pests to disappear. Place traps and poison for them to nibble on, but be sure to put these traps and substances in locations where pets and children can't access them.
  
  
• Hire an exterminator. If you've tried all these pest-proofing measures, and the rats, mice, flies, and other pests still haven't taken the hint, hire the professionals to deliver a permanent eviction notice. Exterminators are highly effective at eliminating pests. But remember: If you don't solve the infestation's root cause(s), you can expect the pests to return in the future.

Are you looking for a new home? We can help. Contact us, and we'll do our best to give you the information you need.

There are few things better than enjoying dinner out with friends. After all, when you combine amazing food, a great atmosphere, and a handful of your favorite people, you're sure to have a great time.

If you've just moved to the area, you might feel overwhelmed by your choices and wonder how to find the best area restaurants to take your friends. No worries! Our REALTORS® love showing new residents around and helping them discover all the best local hot spots. Here's a quick round-up of five places that are perfect for a night out with friends.

1. Waterzooi: 850 Franklin Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
   Located not far from some of the best Garden City homes for sale, Belgian restaurant Waterzooi is always a great place to meet up with friends. Whether you want to grab a quick lunch, enjoy a more formal dinner, or head out for weekend brunch, you're going to love the menu! They offer seating in the dining room or more casual spots in the lounge or on the patio.  
   
   This sophisticated bistro has an incredible menu that features oysters, shellfish, lobster, crab, shrimp, and more. We recommend the Moules Pots, Wellington Burger, and the Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese.
   
   
2. Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas: 1002 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY 11530
   If you enjoy sharing small plates with friends, you'll love Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas. This trendy restaurant features authentic Italian small plates, and everything they make here is focused on fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients. They also work closely with several small area farms for many of their supplies.
   
   Wine lovers rejoice! Spuntino also has more than 55 wines by the glass, four on tap, and more than 350 wines by the bottle. They also offer three wine flights every day!
   
   On the menu, you'll find a wide selection of small plates as well as pasta, pizza, seven different types of bruschetta, and meat and seafood entrees. There's truly something for everyone here, making this the perfect place to bring a group of friends. 
    
3. Mesita: 212 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   What's more fun than heading out with friends to an authentic Mexican restaurant? Mesita serves authentic, modern Mexican cuisine in a fun atmosphere that everyone in your group is sure to love. If you can't decide what to eat, we recommend fajitas, tacos, or burritos. If you're feeling adventurous, you may also want to try their signature 54-oz. Mega Margarita. 
   
   There are some great neighborhoods nearby, so plan to take a drive around after dinner to check out some of the beautiful Rockville Centre homes for sale.
   
   
4. Crabtree's Restaurant: 226 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
   If you're ever in the area checking out Floral Park homes for sale, consider asking some friends to meet you at Crabtree's Restaurant. It was named one of the most beautiful restaurants in New York and is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch.
   
   You'll love this Mediterranian/American restaurants' diverse menu and great wine list. It includes items like grilled octopus, white truffle ravioli, and half roast duck a l'orange. If you can, plan to sit outside on the patio where you can enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful view.
   
   
5. Burgerology RVC: 226 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   If you're looking for something a bit more casual but still delicious, you can't go wrong with Burgerology RVC. This place serves amazing burgers, fries, shakes, and craft beers in a trendy warehouse setting. Don't miss their Bacon Mac, Cookie Dougnut Milkshake, or the Einstein Burger with braised short rib, caramelized onion, swiss cheese, and cabernet gravy. We promise you won't be disappointed! 

Finding the perfect home can be a challenge, but it's much easier when you have a great agent by your side! The experts at Coach Realtors are here to help. We specialize in homes in both Nassau County and Suffolk County and would love to help you find exactly what you're looking for. Contact us today to get started. 

These days, many of us are busy and pressed for time. When we do finally get the chance to be home and relax with family, we don't want to be burdened by chores and extra housework. Thankfully, the latest smart home technology is helping to address this issue. Our REALTORS® recommend considering the following devices to help simplify your at-home routine.

• Smart Speakers
  Adding a smart speaker to your living room or great room can make it so much easier to listen to the music and podcasts you love. When you're getting ready to do the dishes or tackle that email inbox, you can simply talk to the speaker and tell it what to play. Or, you can scroll through options via the speaker-coordinated app on your smartphone. You won't have to worry about losing the remote or getting up to adjust the volume.
  
  
• Smart Light Bulbs
  Isn't it annoying to be all settled in on your couch, and then realize you need to get up and adjust the lights? Smart light bulbs can fix this dilemma. You can use voice commands to turn the lights on and off or to dim the lights. Some smart light bulbs even light up different colors on command! Switching to smart light bulbs can save money on energy, too, since you're more likely to actually turn the lights off when you don't need them. 
  
  
• Smart Vacuums
  Robot vacuums have been around for a while, but more recently, smart vacuums have become an even more convenient way to keep your home clean. The vacuum will keep humming along and cleaning your carpet, regardless of whether or not you're home. It will send you a message on your smartphone if it gets stuck, if it finishes cleaning, or if it needs any other input from you. There are even smart vacuums made specifically for people with pets and those with hard floors.
  
  
• Pet Cameras
  When you're gone for long periods during the day, you might worry about your pet. Having to run home every few hours and check on them can become a burden. But a pet camera can allow you to check in on them from the convenience of your smartphone. Some smart pet cameras even let you talk to your pet remotely. This can help you calm your pet down during a storm or make them feel less lonely while you're away.
  
  
• Smart Coffee Maker
  Do you ever wish you could wake up to coffee, already made in your own kitchen? Maybe you could even sleep a little longer if you didn't have to spend 10 minutes making coffee every morning. A smart coffee maker can solve all of these problems. You can program it to make coffee for you at a certain time of day. If you're at work and know you'll want another cup as soon as you get home, you can use your smartphone app to tell the coffee maker to get working. Imagine how much you'll save on visits to the coffee shop!
  
  
• Smart TV
  The latest smart TVs let you change channels, turn up the volume, pause the show, and more — all with your voice. Of course, you can use an app on your phone for control, too, if that's what you prefer.  Your TV experience will be that much more relaxing.

What do you think of these smart home innovations for your Long Island home? If you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk county homes for sale, our agents can help. Contact us to learn more about our services.

If you love bread, then September is your month! Sourdough September is the perfect opportunity to slice into a loaf, spread it with butter, and dig in. Making your own sourdough is fun, but there are also plenty of great Long Island bakeries that sell this style of bread. Here are a few that our REALTORS® recommend visiting.

1. Marie Blachere: 550 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck, NY 11023
   If you're looking at homes for sale in Manhasset, this French bakery is a short drive away. While pastries are their main focus, they also make traditional breads, including an artisan sourdough that sells for $5.50 a loaf.
   
   Marie Blachere has a cozy dining room, so consider enjoying a meal on-site. They have a whole menu of sandwiches, some of which can be enjoyed on a sourdough roll. Their raspberry mint lemonade is also a fan favorite.
   
   
2. Roast Sandwich House: 100 Main St., Mineola, NY 11501
   Roast Sandwich House is a great place to visit if you prefer your sourdough in sandwich form. It's near homes for sale in Garden City, too. 
   
   The BBQ turkey grilled cheese is popular. It's made on fresh sourdough and stuffed with NY cheddar, pickled jalapenos, crispy onions, and southwest ranch. Consider pairing your sandwich with a side of the tomato bisque soup or loaded potato soup.
   
   
3. Flour Shoppe Cafe: 486 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   With a name like Flour Shoppe Cafe, they have to serve great sourdough! If you visit for breakfast, the Croque Madame sandwich is a good choice. It's made with incredible ham and aged cheddar. For lunch, try the Dewey, a sandwich consisting of turkey, avocado, maple pepper bacon, cheddar, Sriracha, and tomatoes on sourdough.
   
   This cafe is near plenty of homes for sale in Rockville Centre, and they have a nice, outdoor patio where guests can dine.
   
   
4. Duck Island Bread Company: 201-C East Main St., Huntington, NY 11743
   Duck Island Bread Company was founded by a baker who studied in France and Germany. They make their bread in small batches, so every loaf is special. Most of the breads here are naturally leavened, which means they're classified as sourdough.
   
   Bring home a baguette, some sandwich rolls, and maybe even some pastries. This bakery is conveniently located near homes for sale in Huntington.
   
   
5. Blondie's Bake Shop: 90 A Washington St. Ste. A, Centerport, NY 11721
   Blondie's Bake Shop is just a short drive from homes for sale in Northport. This classic bakery relies on traditional recipes and techniques to make some incredible creations. The sourdough boule is a popular choice. It's wonderful spread with butter or made into a sandwich.
   
   While you're visiting to celebrate Sourdough September, consider also trying the black pepper Romano biscuits or the apple pie sticky buns. The scones are also incredible. 
   
   
6. Park Bake Shop: 112 Main St., Kings Park, NY 11754
   Park Bake Shop is just north of many homes for sale in Commack. It's a small and inviting shop that makes a bit of everything, from bread to donuts. Their sourdough is crusty and tender — perfect for sandwiches.
   
   If you're stopping by for bread, you might as well try some cookies or donuts, too. The chocolate-covered pretzels are a great snack that you can take home for later.

If you're planning to look at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, feel free to contact us. Our real estate agents are ready to help.