Articles Tagged "Coach Realtors"

If you're unfamiliar with color therapy and color psychology, interior designers can assure you that both are used in home design to improve mental health and mood. Our REALTORS® also know how color choices impact a home's interior design appeal.

Color psychology indicates that colors can generate physiological changes like boosting your heart rate, hormone levels, and mood. It's pretty impressive that you can actually change body and mind functions as well as design appeal just by choosing the right room colors. The trick is to blend the colors you like into a pleasing combination for all the elements in your room.

Warm Colors

Warmer colors make a strong visual statement, so they're great choices for homeowners who aren't afraid to do something different and take a few risks.

• Red – Red, the most intense color in the spectrum, can increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. It stimulates the mind and evokes feelings of love, passion, and power. Red is a great color choice for living rooms, dining rooms, and family rooms where people gather.

• Orange – Orange promotes activity and creates feelings of enthusiasm and excitement. It's an energetic color that works great in exercise rooms, kitchens, and playrooms. Paired with shades of brown, tan, celery, and brick red, your room will feel more relaxing.

• Yellow – Yellow is a bright color that stimulates happiness and joy. This color works for any room in the house. To create depth and sophistication, add shades of brown, mustard, and gold in rugs, furnishings, and accessories.

Cool Colors

Cooler colors are relaxing because they remind us of things in nature, like blue oceans and skies, green grass and trees, and soft colors in flowers. Blues and greens are considered the most relaxing colors for home interiors.

• Blue – Shades of blue, even deeper shades, are calming and soothing. In contrast to red, they lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Soft blues in pastel shades, as well as dark blues like navy, are lovely mixed with textured and plaid upholstery and oyster or white paint.

• Green – Green is a color that most people like, and it's also the most relaxing color. Light shades like celery and seafoam create fresh spaces, while dark shades like emerald, hunter, and olive create intensity, but they can be toned down with white accents.

• Purple – As a cool color, shades of purple are relaxing but much more sophisticated. If you want a relaxing bedroom, think lavender or periwinkle. For depth and drama, think eggplant, mauve, or mulberry mixed with shades of pink, off-white, and gold or silver accents.

Neutral Colors

• Grey – Grey is warm, timeless, and versatile. It's more contemporary than brown and works well in almost any room in the house. Lighter shades like cloud and pearl create relaxing, classic spaces, while darker shades like charcoal and slate create edgy, modern spaces. Gray mixes well with warm and cool colors.

• White – You can't get more timeless and sophisticated than white. Not only is it clean and calming, but it makes any room feel more open and spacious. There are over 100 shades of white paint that pair beautifully with brown and beige, as well as brighter colors. Accessories in gold, silver, or black make great accents.

If you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, color psychology can help you create a stunning interior. Contact us so we can help you find your dream home.

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there is no place that does breakfast quite like Long Island. A good breakfast replenishes your energy every morning, so treating yourself to a delicious meal is definitely worth it. Everybody has a favorite breakfast dish, but our REALTORS® like a healthy and slightly indulgent breakfast, so we're big fans of avocado toast. Regardless of what you love, there are dozens of amazing breakfast locations across Long Island where you can find some excellent breakfast cuisine. Here are five of our favorites.

1. Flour Shoppe Cafe - 486 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   One of the best breakfast spots on Long Island is just around the corner from our favorite Rockville Centre homes for sale. Flour Shoppe Cafe serves some of the freshest and healthiest breakfast options around. The Avocado Toast is a big hit, or if you're looking for something savory, try the Apple Crumb Pancakes. The menu also has a variety of breakfast sandwiches and specialty drinks.
   
   
2. Organic Krush - 1111 NY-25A, Stony Brook, NY 11790
   This "lifestyle cafe" serves food free of pesticides, GMOs, hormones, and artificial ingredients, so you can be sure you're only eating the freshest, healthiest breakfast. Avocado Toast, frittatas, eggs, pancakes, and sweet potato hash are just a few of the highlights of the menu at Organic Krush. This great cafe is also conveniently located a few miles from some beautiful Stony Brook homes for sale.
   
   
3. Morning Rose Cafe - 317 Bedford Ave., Bellmore, NY 11710
   For some fresh, upscale breakfast and lunch entrees, you'll definitely want to try Morning Rose Cafe. No other cafe serves Avocado Toast quite like this restaurant. It consists of multi-grain bread topped with smashed avocado, marinated cherry heirloom tomato salad, arugula, and balsamic glaze. While prices may be a bit more than your traditional breakfast spot, the quality and taste of the food are well worth it!
   
   
4. Brownstones Coffee - 55 Merrick Rd., Amityville, NY 11701
   For a rich and indulgent breakfast, order some pancakes or French Toast at Brownstones Coffee. This coffee shop and breakfast spot has a huge breakfast menu, so you'll have no problem finding something for everyone. You'll also enjoy the vintage vibe and turn-of-the-century decor. After breakfast, schedule a tour of one of these local Suffolk County homes for sale or Nassau County homes for sale.
   
   
5. Toast Coffeehouse - 650 Patchogue Rd., Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
   A bright, cozy, and friendly coffeehouse and diner, Toast Coffeehouse is a popular local destination, especially on the weekends. With a mix of healthy bowls and indulgent dishes, the menu has plenty of options, but the waffles are absolutely delicious. Try the Tennessee Chicken & Waffle combination, which features a cinnamon sugar sweet potato waffle and spicy fried chicken. Don't forget to schedule a tour of one of these Port Jefferson homes for sale after your meal.

With so many amazing restaurants around Long Island, deciding where to eat can be challenging! Contact us today for more local business recommendations.

Buying a home is similar to writing a novel with many possible endings. Our REALTORS® will guide you through making an offer so that you are prepared for everything from the seller accepting your offer, to the seller making a counteroffer, to the seller requesting conditions that aren't in your best interests. With proper planning and execution, you'll end up owning the home you want, at the price you want to pay, and with conditions that are acceptable to all parties.

• When the Seller Accepts Your Offer
  When you find the right property within the Nassau County homes for sale and make a reasonable offer, the seller may accept the offer right away. However, this doesn't equate to a contract. That only occurs when the seller accepts all of the terms in the offer and puts it in writing with their signature and yours attached. This creates a binding contract for you to purchase the property at the agreed-upon price.

• When the Seller Counteroffers
  It's rare for sellers in any market, including Suffolk County homes for sale, to accept an offer outright. More often than not, sellers will make a counteroffer. They may request a higher price than your offer or a change to the closing or occupancy dates. Often, they will request changes to any purchase contract contingencies. When a seller counteroffers, a series of negotiations will begin.
  
  It's important to stay patient and optimistic during this process and to remember that a counteroffer isn't a rejection but rather an opportunity to find a middle ground where both buyer and seller are satisfied with the conditions of the sale. Negotiations can be swift, but they can also take a while. Market conditions, seller motivation, buyer interest, and other factors can influence whether the process moves quickly or gets bogged down. With proper planning and patience, the buyer will accept your offer, and you'll reach a contractual agreement to purchase the property.

• When the Seller Rejects the Offer
  There are many reasons a seller may reject your offer outright. The most common reason is that the offer is far lower than the seller wants to accept. When this happens, your real estate agent can reach out to the seller's agent to determine the reason for the rejection. At this point, you can submit a more attractive offer or move on to the next house. If the seller is fishing for a price that isn't supported by the market, or if the seller's wants would put you at a significant disadvantage were you to try and meet them (such as foregoing contingencies), it's usually best to move on down the road.

• Don't Forget the Escape Route
  Any offer should give you reasonable protection against significant problems with the property. As a buyer, you should never accept a deal that would put you at a disadvantage and potentially leave you with an expensive headache after the sale. Your offer should always include inspection contingencies and other protections that allow you to walk away should problems arise, such as structural problems with the roof or foundation, or legal problems, such as liens and property line disputes.

We encourage you to contact us to learn more about the offer process and the steps we take to help our clients navigate their way into the home they want. We are happy to answer your questions and help you develop the best strategy for your needs.

Once our REALTORS® have helped you find the right home for your needs, you may have a few projects in mind to make the house feel more like your own. Some simple tasks can be done yourself with a few tools and a free weekend. Others you might not be as comfortable with unless you're more experienced. And a few will require a professional's expertise.

The problem is that some tasks that look simple are more difficult than they seem, and while some jobs seem daunting, you could probably handle them on your own. How do you know the difference? Here are five common home projects and the skill level you need to undertake them.

1. Beginner - Painting
   Whether you're doing your walls, cabinets, outdoor furniture, or some other project, painting is one of the most basic DIY tasks you can undertake. First, choose a color that fits your decor and decide what finish you want (Pro Tip: Eggshell finish is modern and easy to clean.). Get rollers for the larger areas and brushes for baseboards and detail work. Put down a tarp to avoid getting paint on the floor, and put painter's tape over edges to keep them neat.
   
   
2. Beginner - Re-grouting
   The lines between your kitchen or bathroom floor tiles can get dirty easily. Redoing your grout is a relatively simple job, but it's time-consuming. You need to remove the old grout, then mix and lay down new grout, which can take the better part of a day. However, simply cleaning your grout is much easier and faster. A grout tile pen will remove grime from grout and leave it looking like new.
   
   
3. Intermediate - Laying Down Flooring
   Laying new flooring seems like the sort of job you would hire a professional for, but depending on the type of flooring you use, it's actually fairly simple. For one thing, it can be laid directly over the existing flooring in most cases, saving you the hassle of removing it. Just make sure the floor underneath is clean and level. Peel and stick tiles are self-adhesive and easy to put in place. Or you can use click-lock flooring, with tiles that fit together and lock into place like puzzle pieces, without any glue, nails, or anything other than the tiles themselves. Laying down vinyl or laminate tile requires a little prep work and a few basic tools, but there's no reason why you can't do the job yourself. On the other hand, if you're using real wood, stone, or ceramic, call a professional to ensure you get quality work.
   
   
4. Intermediate - Lawn Maintenance
   Mowing and weeding are fairly basic tasks, and planting flowers and trees or a vegetable garden can be done easily with a little gardening experience. Likewise, you can do light trimming and pruning of branches on your own. However, any major tree trimming can be dangerous and difficult and should be left to professionals.
   
   
5. Professional - Kitchen Remodel
   Most major changes to your kitchen, aside from flooring and painting (which we've already covered), will involve either your stove/oven (i.e., gas or electrical) or your sink (i.e., plumbing). Trained and licensed professionals should only do any task in either of these areas.

Whether you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, there are plenty of home projects of all skill levels that can help you make it your own. Contact us if you're ready to find your dream home.

Do you love starting your day with a rich creamy latte? This popular drink originated in Italy and is the perfect blend of espresso and steamed milk. You can order them hot or iced—either way, this delicious beverage can help to jump-start your morning.

Lattes are also the drink of choice for many of our REALTORS® you may run into at a local Long Island coffee shop on your way to work. If it's been a while since you've treated yourself to a delicious latte, now is the time to do it. Here are our five favorite coffee shops around Long Island:

1. A Latte Fun - 568 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, NY 11746
   This unique family-friendly coffee destination is a fantastic place to bring the little ones. A Latte Fun offers a safe place for kids to play while parents enjoy their favorite latte. There are numerous play areas suitable for crawlers to age 6, and snacks and lunch options are also available for the kids. There is also a full-service coffee bar so parents can order their favorite beverage. Birthday party packages are also available. While you're in the area, check out these beautiful Huntington homes for sale.
   
   
2. Southdown Coffee - 210-B Wall St., Huntington, NY 11743
   Southdown Coffee serves one of the best iced lattes on Long Island. Catch up with friends or get some work done at any of their six locations across the area. Healthy breakfast and lunch options, as well as online ordering, are available as well. The coffee shop opens at 7 a.m. daily.
   
   
3. Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea - 200 W. Main St., Smithtown, NY 11787
   With freshly brewed premium Abianno Espresso and fresh, steamed milk, Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea is one of our favorite places for a latte. This comfortable cafe has a clean interior, light eats, great coffee, and an artsy atmosphere. Order online if you want to beat the line, and drive-through pick-up is conveniently available. On your way home, swing by these Smithtown homes for sale.
   
   
4. Rivers Cafe - 304 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
   Rivers Cafe is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit. This small, quaint coffee shop offers some of the best coffee around Long Island. Order your latte any size, any milk, and choose from a wide range of flavors. This shop is family owned and operated and is just down the road from some fantastic Floral Park homes for sale.
   
   
5. Kookaburra Coffee Co. - 69 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   A local coffee shop with great lattes and delicious baked goods, Kookaburra Coffee Co. is a great place to visit any day of the week. With good service, reasonable prices, and amazing coffee, you'll want to keep coming back to this neighborhood favorite. If you'd like to enjoy a latte here every morning, it'll be easy if you buy one of these nearby Rockville Centre homes for sale.

Having some of the best local coffee in your own backyard is just another great benefit of living on Long Island. Contact us today to schedule a tour of one of our amazing local listings.

Yogurt has been around for thousands of years, but it wasn't until the 1970s that vendors started selling frozen yogurt. Frozen yogurt has become so popular that it has its own holiday. That's right: National Frozen Yogurt Day is coming up on February 6. All you need to do to celebrate is stop by a frozen yogurt shop and order your favorite flavor! Here are some of the local frozen yogurt shops our REALTORS® recommend.

1. Sundaes: 1074 NY-112, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
   Sundaes is a great place to stop if you're looking at Port Jefferson homes for sale nearby. They carry Hershey's ice cream along with custom-made frozen yogurt. Grab a cup, and walk from dispenser to dispenser, filling it with your favorite flavors and toppings.
   
   Sundaes has classic fro-yo flavors, like vanilla and chocolate, and some creative choices, like blackberry and cheesecake. Their toppings bar has more than 50 options.
   
   
2. Yogurt Fancy: 737 Fort Salonga Rd., Northport, NY 11768
   Yogurt Fancy is another self-serve frozen yogurt shop. Their yogurt contains only 25 calories per ounce, making it a low-guilt dessert option. They also have lots of healthy selections at their toppings bar. Vanilla frozen yogurt topped with blueberries and raspberries can be so refreshing.
   
   Yogurt Fancy also offers vegan swirls, acai bowls, and fresh fruit smoothies. Don't forget to look at some Northport homes for sale while you're in the neighborhood. 
   
   
3. Ice Cream Social: 1153 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY 11725
   This shop may be named Ice Cream Social, but they're worth visiting for their frozen yogurt. They serve the Only 8 brand of frozen yogurt, with two flavors "on tap" at all times. New flavors come in every Friday. Favorites include the Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel and Cappuccino.
   
   Ice Cream Social clearly labels the menu so you can tell which products are nut- and gluten-free. They have several vegan options, including tasty vegan ice cream. Enjoy your frozen dessert, then head out to look at some Commack homes for sale.
   
   
4. Lucky Penguin Ice Cream: 673 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head, NY 11545
   After a long day of looking at Nassau County homes for sale, some frozen yogurt from Lucky Penguin Ice Cream should really hit the spot. You can place your order online, so it's ready for pickup as soon as you arrive.
   
   The yogurt milkshakes are a tried-and-true favorite at Lucky Penguin. Guests love the Chocolate Peanut Butter Milkshake, which is thick and extra creamy. The Mint Chocolate Milkshake is a bit more refreshing, and the Cappuccino Milkshake is perfect if you're in the mood for both fro-yo and coffee.
   
   
5. Yo Go Wild - 536 Commack Rd., Deer Park, NY 11729
   Yo Go Wild is a self-serve frozen yogurt shop located near many Suffolk County homes for sale. Simply fill your cup with one or more of their 18 flavors of frozen yogurt, add toppings, and weigh and pay. You can also choose any frozen yogurt flavor to make into a shake.
   
   This shop also offers acai bowls with three fruits of your choice, granola, coconut, and honey, as well as delicious crepes in a variety of flavors topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream.

Long Island is a great place to enjoy frozen yogurt, even in February. The shops above are some of our favorites, but others are also worth visiting. Contact us if you are new to the area and still looking for a home. Our agents would love to help.

It might be winter, but that doesn't mean the kids can't get some exercise and enjoy their favorite sports and activities. Head on over to your local indoor sports complex, where there are plenty of leagues and camps going on all year long, including the cold winter months.

Not only can they participate in numerous sports, it's also a great way to meet people in the community. Here are five of our favorite indoor sports centers around Long Island recommended by our REALTORS®:

1. Long Island Sports Complex - 103 Mill Rd., Freeport, NY 11520
   The Long Island Sports Complex hosts many leagues and camps across several sports, including baseball, football, soccer, and lacrosse. Games are played on a 25,000-square-foot indoor turf field, and the sports center offers plenty of seating with full views of the field, making it easy for spectators to watch games. The Long Island Sports Center also offers birthday party packages. Plus, it's conveniently located near these Nassau County homes for sale.
   
   
2. All Island SportsPlex - 10 Dunton Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729
   This 11,000-square-foot indoor turf field has bright LED lighting and plenty of space. The All Island SportsPlex hosts trainings, camps, and clinics for kids and also offers special event rentals. Be sure to check out these nearby Suffolk County homes for sale.
   
   
3. Globall Sports Centers Nassau - 1 Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
   This unique sports center offers a 55-yard by 45-yard playing field, a 45-foot ceiling, and a comfortable bleacher viewing section. Globall Sports Centers Nassau has adult and youth soccer leagues and tournaments. Soccer, flag football, dodgeball, kickball, and wiffleball are all activities available for birthday parties. While you're in the neighborhood, take a drive by these Garden City homes for sale.
   
   
4. The Sports Arena - 620 Middle Country Rd., St. James, NY 11780
   Youth leagues, adult leagues, birth parties, and special events—The Sports Arena in St. James hosts it all. This community asset is a great place for kids to learn how to play their favorite sports. Equipped with a state-of-the-art indoor soccer field, ice rink, and gymnasium, plus concessions and an arcade, it has everything you need for a fun weekend.
   
   
5. Long Island Sports Hub - 165 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY 11791
   This expansive indoor sports complex is one of Long Island's most popular and is a central location for community baseball, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, and volleyball camps and leagues. Long Island Sports Hub is a state-of-the-art facility with a 72,000-square-foot turf field, a hardwood basketball court, and an ice hockey rink. The center hosts tons of programming for kids, and party and event rentals are also available. 

Our local indoor sports centers offer a safe place for kids to play their favorite sports in a climate-controlled environment. Contact us today to learn more about the great amenities on Long Island. 

Your home is likely your most valuable asset, so it's important to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs. To stay ahead of problems and keep your home safe, our REALTORS® recommend making a 2023 maintenance checklist organized by the month of the year.

• January
  During cold winter weather, concentrate on staying warm, checking for water damage and pests, and cleaning up your landscape. Freezing temperatures keep your heater running nonstop, so you need to change your furnace and filters.
  
  
• February
  February is an excellent time to catch up on indoor maintenance and repairs. Stay inside and tackle plumbing repairs and household maintenance. Refinish the floors, steam clean carpets, and give the walls a fresh coat of paint.
  
  
• March
  "Spring forward" means it's time to change your clocks and replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Next, head outside to inspect your roof for damage, powerwash your siding, shutters, windows, and driveway, and plant some colorful perennials.
  
  
• April
  When April arrives, it's time to open up the windows and start your spring cleaning. Sunshine, fresh air, and warm temperatures mean turning off your furnace, putting a HEPA filter in your air conditioner, and scheduling routine maintenance on your AC/HVAC system and swimming pool system.
  
  
• May
  After April showers end, May is a good time to check your drainage and sprinkler systems for leaks and standing water. Make time to clean out your gutters and downspouts, trim the trees and shrubs, and add new plants and fresh mulch to your garden.
  
  
• June
  In June, your landscape and garden are in full bloom, so pests can invade your landscape and home. Watch for mosquitoes, wasps, unwanted rodents, and termites that can damage wood fencing, siding, and floors. If you notice problems, schedule professional pest maintenance.
  
  
• July
  July around Long Island is hot and humid, so make sure your HVAC system is cooling properly and keep an out for moisture and mold around your home. Check your bathroom seals, replace old grout, clean your faucets and showerheads, and check the salt levels in your water softener.
  
  
• August
  August is often too hot to enjoy the outdoors, so focus on deep cleaning indoors. Clean your carpets and draperies, wash heavy bed linens, clean the washer and dryer, clean out your fridge, and check your freezer operation.
  
  
• September
  When fall arrives, it's time to get prepared for cold weather. Schedule an HVAC checkup by a professional to make sure your heater or boiler is working properly. If you have a fireplace, call a chimney sweep to clean your chimney and check for safe airflow before you light a fire.
  
  
• October
  In the fall, you can find some good deals on building materials. Maybe it's time to replace those old kitchen cabinets and countertops or install new bathroom flooring. Also, button up your home's exterior because critters will be looking for a cozy, warm home.
  
  
• November
  "Fall back" means it's once again time to change your clocks and check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. It's also time to schedule routine maintenance for your plumbing pipes, drains, and faucets. Wrap any exposed outdoor pipes to prevent freezing.
  
  
• December
  In December, inspect and clean outdoor light fixtures for safety, keep cold air out of the house by weather-stripping windows and doors, and check your attic insulation and ventilation to stay warm. Focus on energy-efficient products to reduce your heating and electric bills.

Are you interested in Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale? Contact us to find your dream home.

Huntington, NY, has earned the right to be called a popular foodie town, with many outstanding restaurants serving varied and delicious cuisine. Whether you're dining out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you'll find a restaurant where you can relax and enjoy a stellar meal.

Our REALTORS® suggest stopping by the following six restaurants in Huntington to treat yourself to breakfast, lunch, or dinner:

Breakfast

• Munday's - 259 Main St., Huntington, NY 11743
  Stop by Munday's, where breakfast is served all day, and the menu is filled with plenty of ways to customize your meal, including nine different bread choices for toast. Create your own omelet with your choice of meats, vegetables, and cheeses, or order your choice of buttermilk, pumpkin, multigrain, sweet potato, or whole wheat pancakes. You can also fill your pancakes with a wide range of ingredients, including blueberries, pecans, or rainbow sprinkles. 
  
  
• Hatch - 286 Main St., Huntington, NY 11743
  Hatch serves classic and creative breakfast items, including pancakes in yummy varieties, including blueberry danish, pineapple upside down, and apple-cinnamon buttermilk. If you just can't decide, order a flight of three different pancakes. The menu also has a section of healthier breakfast options, including the Hatch Power Bowl, which is loaded with quinoa, avocado, cremini mushrooms, eggplant caponata, and more. It's topped with two poached cage-free eggs and seasoning. 

Lunch

• The Shed - 54 New St., Huntington, NY 11743
  The lunch menu at The Shed offers dishes with a bright take on American comfort food served in a relaxed, rustic-chic atmosphere. Choose a salad (Cobb or Caesar) or bowl (veggie protein, beet, or The Shed Bowl with roasted chicken, sweet potatoes, arugula, and more). You can choose from many customizable add-ins, such as salmon, steak, or avocado. Traditional sandwiches and burgers are also available. 
  
  
• Besito - 402 New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
  Besito is known for its high–end interpretations of Mexican cuisine that have earned the restaurant numerous accolades, including being named as one of OpenTable's top 100 restaurants in America. Start your meal with Besito's Famous Guacamole, made fresh tableside. Then choose an entree such as Shrimp Jalisco or Sonora Ribs, or select one of several types of iron skillet tacos. 

Dinner

• Babalu NY - 286 New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
  A Cuban Mediterranean bistro, Babalu NY keeps its ingredients fresh and local. A prix fixe menu is available for dinner on Tuesday-Friday and Sundays, allowing you to choose from a special menu of tapas, entrees, and salads. Tapas include pasteles from a family recipe using green plantain, eddoe, potato, and tropical pumpkins wrapped in green banana. Entrees include roasted chicken or bacalao (filet of cod).
  
  
• Prime - 117 N. New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
  Treat yourself to dinner at Prime, known for its steak and seafood dishes and its views of Huntington Harbor through its custom-designed glass wall. Customer favorites include Prime's curated raw bar, sushi, and USDA Prime 35-day, dry-aged beef served as options such as a Porterhouse or New York Strip. And make sure to leave room for a layered s'mores brownie or movie theater sundae for dessert.

Contact us if you're looking for a home and want to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. Our company has a deep commitment to the community, our agents, and the people drawn to live in this wonderful area. 

Hosting a wine and cheese party can be a great way to bring friends or family together. You don't have to cook, and it's easy to have guests contribute. You can stand or sit around while you nibble, sip, and catch up on the latest events. A wine and cheese party works well for a housewarming party or even just a casual event. Below, our REALTORS® will share tips to help you plan a lovely, memorable gathering.

1. Offer a Variety of Cheeses
   People's tastes vary when it comes to cheese. Some will try anything, and others might only like mild, hard, or cheese made from a certain type of milk. If you offer a variety of cheeses, everyone will find something they enjoy. 
   
   Try picking a few cow's milk cheeses, a sheep's milk cheese, and one made from goat's milk. Include at least one hard, soft, and medium cheese, and vary your regions, too. For example, it could be fun to try one cheese from each continent.
   
   
2. Serve Cheese-Friendly Accompaniments
   Wine and cheese may be your party's base ingredients, but guests will want some other things to nibble, too. There are lots of foods, other than crackers, that pair well with cheese.
   
   Some snackable treats to consider are dried fruits, honey, jam, sliced fruit, and nuts. You could also serve a charcuterie board with assorted sausages and aged meats.
   
   
3. Serve at Least Three Different Wines
   You don't necessarily have to go overboard with a dozen different wines to pair with each cheese. But offering at least three different wines will ensure each guest can find something they enjoy.
   
   If you do serve only three wines, consider a Reisling, a Malbec, and a Merlot. This way, you have a good range from sweet to dry. 
   
   
4. Be Specific When Asking Guests to Contribute
   You can absolutely ask guests to contribute to your wine and cheese party. This can help keep the budget affordable. However, you should be specific when asking them what to bring. For example, you can ask one guest to bring soft cheese and another to bring a bottle of red wine.
   
   Another option is to ask each guest to bring wine and cheese to share. This way, you know you'll have great pairings.
   
   
5. Start the Party After Dinner Hours
   While wine and cheese can be filling, it is not a meal. Schedule your party after standard dinner hours to ensure guests have the right expectations. Starting at 7 p.m. tends to work well.
   
   You can also put an end time on the invitations to ensure guests head out at a reasonable hour. Or, if you're looking forward to sipping wine into the wee hours, don't include an end time.
   
   
6. Stock Up on Plastic Glasses
   If you have enough wine glasses, you can serve everyone their first glass of wine in a real glass. But after that, you might want to switch to plastic glasses. This tends to reduce the number of glass-breaking incidents. Some high-quality plastic glasses make it feel like you're sipping out of real glass.
   
   It's wise to go disposable with your plates and napkins, too. There are some beautiful, classy disposable appetizer plates available these days.

Hosting a wine and cheese party is a great way to enjoy your new home. If you're still looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, please contact us. Our agents will be happy to guide you through the house-hunting process. 

People often think of New Year's Eve as a reason to go out and party. But you might rather have a quiet celebration at home if you have kids. There's nothing wrong with this, and celebrating New Year's at home with family can be very enjoyable. In honor of 2022, our REALTORS® are excited to share some ideas for a memorable New Year's house party below.

• Have Your Own Balloon Drop
  Instead of watching a ball drop on television, consider organizing your own! The easiest way to do this is with a balloon. Visit a party store, and let your kids pick out the coolest balloons they can find. Give each family member their own balloon. Let them decorate their balloons with markers. When midnight is near, have everyone hold their balloons above their head and drop them when the clock strikes 12.
  
  If you have little kids and are worried they won't make it till midnight, try having your balloon drop at noon instead.
  
  
• Try a New Treat Every Hour
  Here's another fun way to count down to the New Year. Buy several different treats or snacks at the store. You can buy an assortment of family favorites or several snacks you've never tried before. Every hour on the hour, open a different snack and let everyone in the family try it.
  
  If your kids are a little older, you can let them rate the snacks against each other. At the end of the night, the snack that gets the most votes wins.
  
  
• Set Up a Photo Booth
  This is a great way to evoke some giggles and create new memories. Set up a photo booth in your living room, complete with a collection of silly hats, sunglasses, flashy jewelry, and other fun costume apparel. You and your kids can take turns dressing up, making silly faces, and capturing goofy pictures to share with family and friends. 
  
  
• Create a Time Capsule
  Think back on all the cool things you did in 2022. Wouldn't it be nice to reflect on them again a few years from now? Creating a time capsule is the perfect way to do this.
  
  Have each family member gather a couple of meaningful items from 2022. Also, have each family member write a note to their future self. Gather these things up, and put them in a shoe box. You can even decorate the shoe box if desired. Make a plan to re-open the time capsule on New Year's Eve 5 or 10 years from now.
  
  
• Countdown Around the World
  If your kids are a little older, this can be an exciting and educational way to celebrate. Keep track of when the New Year comes to various countries around the world. When the clock strikes 12 in each country, share some facts about that country. Or, celebrate like the people in that country.
  
  For example, for New Year's in Spain, celebrate by following along with a Flamenco dance together. When it's New Year's in England, celebrate by popping poppers—an English tradition. Have your kids research New Year's celebrations in various countries ahead of time so they can help you plan these mini-celebrations. 

Allow yourself to be inspired by the ideas above, and enjoy a lovely New Year's Eve at home with your family. If you're still looking at Suffolk County homes for sale or Nassau County homes for sale, we welcome you to contact us. We'll help you find the perfect house for the New Year. 

While it's the most wonderful time of the year, we all know preparing Christmas dinner can be a lot of work, especially if you're hosting lots of friends and family. While everyone love's a home-cooked meal, some years, it just makes sense to give the host a break. Whatever your situation, our REALTORS® can tell you many great Long Island restaurants are serving high-quality take-out meals for Christmas dinner, so you can make the holiday's a breeze.

If you'd like to enjoy the holidays without all of the work, we recommend taking a look at the holiday take-out menus at these Long Island restaurants:

1. Zorn's of Bethpage - 4321 Hempstead Turnpike, Bethpage, NY 11714
   Whether you're looking for a family-size meal or dinner for one, Zorn's of Bethpage has Christmas meals ready to pick up on Christmas Eve. Plus, they have many options to choose from, including trays of Chicken Parmigiana, Vegetable Lasagna, and Italian Sausage (just to name a few). The food is delicious, and prices are reasonable. If you're visiting from out of town, you may also be interested in these beautiful Nassau County homes for sale just down the road.
   
   
2. Prime - 117 N. New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
   Enjoy a dine-in Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas Day dinner to-go at Prime. Christmas Eve will feature a full menu plus holiday specials. Christmas to-go offers a 3-course, chef-prepared meal for eight to 10 people. Reservations can be made online, and while you're in the area, be sure to take a drive by some of our favorite Huntington homes for sale. 
   
   
3. The Jolly Fisherman & Steak House - 25 Main St., Roslyn, NY 11576
   If you'd prefer to dine out on Christmas day, The Jolly Fisherman & Steak House is often open for Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas lunch, and Christmas dinner. Meals are also available to go. This waterfront restaurant usually offers a special holiday menu and the food is delicious. You'll also enjoy a nice interior dining room decorated for the holidays.
   
   
4. The Milleridge Inn - 585 N. Broadway, Jericho, NY 11753
   Stop by The Milleridge Inn for a sit-down Prix Fixe dinner with turkey, prime rib, lamb, roast beef, ham, and tons of great desserts. There is also an extravagant Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet, which includes roasted turkey, prime rib, lamb roast beef, ham, a seafood bar, carving station, and more. This historic restaurant provides a great setting for a comfortable holiday meal. Reservations are required.
   
   
5. Wave Seafood Kitchen - 25 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   Wave Seafood Kitchen often hosts one of the best Christmas Day buffets around. With seafood, steak, and numerous holiday favorites, it's an easy and delicious option for the holidays. In addition to its spectacular food, you'll also love the amazing harbor views and the upscale, classy ambiance. Call ahead for reservations or more details, and don't forget to check out these Suffolk County homes for sale while you're in town.

The holidays should be time of joy, not stress. Long Island's amazing restaurants can help ensure you make the most of your Christmas this year. Contact us for more local recommendations.

Moving is a lot of work any time of the year, but it becomes especially complicated around the holidays when you're juggling activities with moving prep. Here are a few tips from our REALTORS® for making your holiday-season move as easy as possible.

1. Plan ahead.
   Once your offer has been accepted on one of the many beautiful Nassau County homes for sale, it's time to start planning for your move. Planning ahead is always important, especially around the busy holiday season. Sit down and make two separate lists of everything that needs to be done for each. You can find sample moving checklists online, which usually include things like lining up movers, as well as average time frames in which to have it done. Add deadlines to your own list to ensure everything gets done in plenty of time while ensuring the holiday planning doesn't get neglected.
   
   
2. If possible, avoid moving the weekend before Christmas Day.
   The weekend before Christmas Day can be incredibly difficult to schedule a moving truck or hire movers, so avoid moving that weekend if you can. If you can't, book as early as possible to avoid issues. The ideal time to move is the week after Christmas, as that's a reliably slow time for movers and truck rentals.
   
   
3. Prepare for the weather.
   Moving over the holidays also means moving in the winter, so you must be prepared for winter weather. Typically when moving, the recommendation is to keep a few boxes separate from the rest, which you can open immediately with your most important items. For a winter or holiday move, you'll need to include winter clothes and outerwear, snow shovels, and deicing salt. Also, pack things that can't get wet, such as books and electronics, in plastic bins, or if you have no choice but to use cardboard, pack them in plastic bags inside the boxes.
   
   
4. Pack all holiday items together and label them.
   If you are moving before the holidays, you'll want to be sure your decorations, presents, and other holiday items are easy to find once you move in. Depending on when you're moving, you may choose to pack up all the holiday stuff first so you make sure to have it all together, or if you want to maintain the holiday feels in your old place, you could plan on packing it last. Either way, keep it together, label the boxes well, and keep them with the "open first" boxes if you plan on decorating again in the new home once you move in.
   
   
5. Unpack holiday decorations first.
   If you're moving in before the holidays, prioritize unpacking the holiday decorations. The sooner you get decorations up at the new place, the sooner it will begin to feel like home! While it may not seem like the biggest priority, it will help create a festive feeling and energize everyone as you unpack the rest of the house.

If you are shopping for a new home for the holidays, contact us as soon as possible to start your search. With many beautiful Suffolk County homes for sale, you're sure to find your dream home. Even if it's too late to move in before the holidays, you can give yourself the best present this holiday season.

It's not easy getting into the holiday spirit when you've just moved to a new area. Cherished traditions like seeing holiday light displays are difficult when you're unsure where things are. Fortunately, whether you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, there are plenty of great holiday displays around Long Island to get you feeling festive - and to help you feel more at home. Here are a few of our favorites.

• Christmas House Long Island - 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove, NY 11755
  Christmas House is an immersive indoor display and experience designed to help bring Christmas to life in a host of engaging and imaginative ways. The 45-minute walkthrough experience in Suffolk has 12 different rooms, including the Snow Room, where it actually snows! Afterward, visit one of their baked-good stands for Christmas goodies.
  
  
• Shimmering Solstice - 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury, NY 11568
  The Shimmering Solstice walkthrough experience is like no other display you've seen. Located at Old Westbury Gardens in Nassau, you can tour the beautifully landscaped grounds, including the Walled Garden, Rose Garden, and South Lawn, enhanced by dazzling light displays created by some of the most talented visual designers in the world. There are interactive exhibits, an illuminated water display, and more. Running through January 1st, the sights are truly magical. Reservations are required, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. And if you go with that special someone, consider their Proposal Package, which includes special access to a private show area and a professional photographer.
  
  
• Suffolk Winter Lantern Festival - 239 E. Main St., Smithtown, NY 11787
  The lanterns at the Suffolk Winter Lantern Festival are simply astounding. Hand-crafted by local artisans, they're made to look like a host of animals and objects—many of them life-size. Make your way through a glowing garden of lantern flowers, trees, and mushrooms, then explore a lantern sea bed of brightly colored fish and a menagerie of beautiful, glowing animals, from ducks to goats to giraffes and even dinosaurs! Going on through January 8th at the Smithtown Historical Society near Smithtown homes for sale, the Winter Lantern Festival will transport you to another world.
  
  
• Winter Lantern Festival: Drive-Thru Adventure - One Museum Dr., Roslyn, NY 11576
  How would you like to spend the holidays in space? The Winter Lantern Festival's Drive-Thru Adventure is the next best thing. This Nassau County experience lets you drive your vehicle through a series of roads and tunnels decked out in Chinese lanterns, handcrafted to look like stars, planets, rocket ships, astronauts, and more! Held at the Nassau County Museum of Art, it's a stunning experience that's out of this world.
  
  
• Bright Lights: Celebrate the Season -  180 Little Neck Rd., Centerport, New York 11721
  Held at the Vanderbilt Museum in Suffolk, Bright Lights is a breathtaking candlelight tour where attendees can explore the beautifully decorated Vanderbilt Mansion. Wreaths, garlands, a larger-than-life tree, and thousands of soft, white lights are the hallmark of this impressive holiday display. You can also stop by the planetarium to see their light show, "Laser Holiday," then finish the evening by stopping by Santa's workshop. It's an experience the whole family will love.

This is just a taste of what the Long Island area has to offer. It's a vibrant and exciting place around the holidays and an amazing area to live year-round. Contact us if you're ready to make Long Island your new home. Our REALTORS® will help you find the home that's right for you.

We love our homes. Each is a place of safety, warmth, and comfort. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking it's the best place for us. Maybe it was once, but is it still? If you're not certain, it may be time to consider selling and finding a new home. But how do you decide? Where should you begin? Our REALTORS® have some ideas for you to consider.

• Is selling a good financial choice?
  If you purchased the house as a starter home to build some equity to put down on a nicer one, housing values are currently high. By selling now, you may have a tidy sum to put down on that dream home you have always wanted. You may even have enough left over to furnish it or pay off debts. You can get a good idea of your estimated profits by looking at recent sales of comparable houses in your neighborhood. Would you make enough to put a down payment on one of the Nassau County homes for sale? If so, then this may be the right time to sell. 
  
  
• Are you unhappy with the neighborhood you are in?
  If you have a long commute, perhaps one of the Suffolk County homes for sale may be a better option. Neighborhoods change with time, and it's possible that yours no longer meets your needs. It doesn't have to be on the decline for you to be attracted to a different one, but that could be one possibility. Another is that your children are getting older and better schools are in a different district. Maybe a new area offers amenities not available to you now. 
  
  
• Has your family changed in size?
  As children get older, they generally want the privacy of their own rooms rather than sharing with siblings. Or, if your children have grown up and left the nest, you may prefer to trade the maintenance on that big rambling house for the convenience of a condominium or townhouse. Whether your family is growing or shrinking, it may be time to change your environment. 
  
  
• Do you dream of a different home?
  If you don't enjoy your space, it is time to look around. Americans are spending more and more time at home, cooking instead of going to restaurants and entertaining at home. If you have a cramped kitchen and there is no room for guests to socialize comfortably, you'll want to make a change. When you compare remodeling your existing house to buying one that already offers the features you want, which is more economically feasible? It may make financial sense to relocate.
  
  
• Have you been stalling on putting the house on the market?
  If you have already decided that it's time to move, for whatever reason, but haven't initiated the process, you may feel anxious about whether you've missed your opportunity to make the best financial decision. If this is the case, don't keep dragging your feet. Do your research now to make the best choices while the prices are still up and the interest rates don't rise higher. But don't rush into poor decisions. Take a good look at your finances, the sales value of your home, and the price of the home you want. Armed with the facts, make a cohesive plan to move forward. 

Ultimately, only you can decide whether or not it's the time to sell. But having a licensed professional on your side to help you with the details can help you make the best choices. Contact us when you are ready to get started.

Big-box retailers have become popular places to shop, but that doesn't mean we should forget our local small businesses. The Saturday after Thanksgiving is designated as Small Business Saturday each year, and it falls on November 26 this year. It's a great reminder to support small businesses, many of which have been negatively affected by the pandemic. You'll be supporting your local economy and helping preserve unique businesses. And they're the perfect spots to pick up interesting holiday gifts or a treat for yourself.

Our REALTORS® recommend shopping small this holiday season at the following Nassau and Suffolk counties businesses:

• Port Salt Cave - Inspiration Wharf, 403 Main St. #3, Port Washington, NY 11050
  Port Salt Cave, located just around the corner from Port Washington homes for sale, offers products that focus on health and well-being. You'll find items from around the world, including hand-crafted jewelry, natural stones, and Himalayan salt lamps. If you find a gift you'd like to buy, pair it with a gift certificate for a visit to the shop's salt cave, which uses therapeutic salt imported from Poland. 
  
  
• Stony Brook Chocolate - 143 Main St., Stony Brook, NY 11790  
  Most people love chocolate, so you may be able to buy several gifts—as well as some for yourself and for entertaining—at Stony Brook Chocolate. The charming shop is located near Stony Brook homes for sale. Choose from a wide variety of the finest Belgian chocolate creations, including clusters, candies, patties, and turtles in your choice of milk, dark, or white chocolate. If you're looking for something delicious that also makes a beautiful presentation, consider the All-Occasion Gift Box, which comes with 16 assorted truffles and a large chocolate bar, all of which are intricately decorated.
  
  
• The Giftologist - 37 South Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570  
  The Giftologist has a huge variety of carefully curated gifts, including perfumes inspired by local beaches, adorable Jellycat-branded plush animals, accessories including bags and jewelry, and much more. If you're looking for holiday gifts, you'll probably be able to cross several names off your list at the shop, which is close to Rockville Centre homes for sale. It even carries products it puts in its "funny, snarky, and witty" category, including appropriately designed socks. They're definitely a different gift idea for that sarcastic coworker or eye-rolling teenager.
  
  
• Matty's Toy Shop - 19 Covert Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001, with two additional locations  
  From its modest beginnings in flea markets to its current three independent locations, Matty's Toy Shop has served the area since 1988. Located near Floral Park homes for sale, it's one of the largest independent toy retailers in the country. Reviewers praise its excellent customer service as well as its large selection, which includes educational toys. You'll find everything here, from specialty toys to the hottest toys of the year.
  
  
• The Gift Corner - 157 N. Country Rd., Mount Sinai, NY 11766
  The Gift Corner, located near Mount Sinai homes for sale, will get you in the holiday spirit if you're not there already. The shop carries plenty of festive items to help deck your halls for the holidays or give as gifts, including Christmas signs, ornaments, and Santas and snowmen galore. You can even find gifts for the Fluffies or Fidos on your list.

If you're looking for a home to buy in the area, contact us to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. For over 65 years, our business has helped countless homeowners achieve their dreams, and we look forward to serving you as well. 

If you have a big family or family out of town, the holidays probably mean that you're either traveling or hosting. Unless you host frequently, you'll most likely need to do a little prep work to prepare your home for house guests. Here are five tips from our REALTORS® on how to win at hosting for the holidays.

1. Deep clean.
   If you have guests coming, the first thing you'll want to do is clean the house. Even if you normally do light cleanings as time permits, consider this your chance for a deep clean! Start your thorough cleaning a week or two beforehand so you won't be rushed, saving the guest areas for last. The day before your guests arrive, walk through the house, put away any clutter, and do a light once-over of anything that's gotten dirty again.
2. Plan the sleeping arrangements.
   Unless you already have guest rooms with enough space for your extended family, you'll most likely need to plan to make sure everyone has a place to sleep. This is the perfect time to do a little tweaking to make the guest room work for an entire family by installing cots or making space for a Pack 'n Play. Refresh the sheets, prep the sofa bed, round up enough pillows, and set up conveniences, such as bedside lights that can be operated from the bed and a couple of empty drawers or closet space for unpacking.
3. Prep the bathrooms.
   While preparing sleeping areas for your guests, don't forget to prep the bathrooms! Pay special attention to the primary bathroom your guests will use, whether a shared one or a dedicated guest bathroom. Make sure you stock it with extra towels, washcloths, toilet paper, and hand soap. For a nice extra touch, fill a basket on the counter with a couple of new toothbrushes and sample bottles of products, just in case they've forgotten anything.
4. Stock the kitchen.
   Before your guests arrive, ask if they have any food allergies or preferences for you to be aware of. Then, plan your menu and make a trip to the grocery store. Be sure to stock up on snacks and other food to have on hand during their visit in addition to planned meals. You can arrange fruit and snacks in decorative baskets on the counter and in the pantry like you see staged in many Suffolk County homes for sale.
5. Set up a self-serve beverage station.
   Take a cue from Nassau County homes for sale, and if you don't have one in your kitchen already, set up a trendy hot beverage station. Carve out a dedicated area for the coffee maker and related appliances, then stock it with plenty of coffee, tea, mugs, sweetener, and everything else your guests might want. A coffee station will enable early risers to start their day even if you're not awake yet to play host.

There's nothing like a cozily crowded house around the holidays, but if it feels too crowded, it may be time for an upgrade. Contact us today if you're ready to start your search for a new home, and you could be hosting in style next holiday season.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat and some other grains. While most people can digest it without an issue, others react severely to it and therefore need to follow a gluten-free diet. Awareness around gluten-free diets has really grown over the past few years. November is now Gluten-Free Awareness Month, a chance to talk about gluten-free diets and also celebrate the many restaurants and food companies that have created delicious gluten-free foods. If you're looking for a Long Island restaurant to celebrate with a gluten-free meal, our REALTORS® have some suggestions.

1. San Remo: 328 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
   If you're looking at Rockville Centre homes for sale, stop by the nearby San Remo for a delicious meal. This authentic Italian restaurant has an extensive gluten-free menu. Choose from appetizers like Calamari Fritti, Stuffed Artichokes, and Minestrone Soup. The entrees are just as appealing. Guests love the Pollo Marsala, Gnocchi with Bolognese, and Penne Peppina.
   
   San Remo also has an extensive wine list, so treat yourself to a glass of Chianti or Malbec alongside your meal. This would be the perfect spot for a gluten-free date night.
   
   
2. Green Street Eatery: 7 Emerson Avenue, Levittown, NY 11756
   Green Street Eatery is the perfect place to grab a quick, fresh bite to eat while looking at Nassau County homes for sale. Order at the counter, and your meal will be ready in minutes. Green Street Eatery specializes in local, plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free foods. Everything on their menu is gluten-free.
   
   Choose from smoothies, bowls, sandwiches, and even tacos. The BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are a crowd favorite, as are the dark chocolate truffles.
   
   
3. Little Beet: 630 Old Country Road, Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City, NY 11530
   Little Beet has a few locations in New York, including this one in the Roosevelt Field Mall. Their goal is to create fresh food that promotes wellness. Guests love the modern, artistic appeal of their dining rooms.
   
   At Little Beet, you create your own bowl. Choose a base, such as Basmati rice. Add two veggies, a protein, and a sauce. There are plenty of gluten-free options, as well as lots of vegan and vegetarian options. Enjoy your bowl, then look at some Garden City homes for sale nearby.
   
   
4. No Gluten Kneaded: 1089 Smithtown Avenue, Bohemia, NY 11716
   Gluten-free baked goods can be hard to find, but not at No Gluten Kneaded. This incredible bake shop sells gluten-free cookies, muffins, cakes, brownies, and more. 
   
   Guests love the Apple Cider Donuts, Blueberry Muffins, and Cinnamon Rolls here. The Take-and-Bake Sicilian Pizza is perfect for a quick dinner. Don't forget to look at some West Islip homes for sale while you're in the area. 
   
   
5. Hatch: 286 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743
   If you're looking at Huntington homes for sale, then Hatch is just minutes away. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious, gluten-free brunch. They offer a few different types of pancakes, including Cinnamon Roll and Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes. They can be made gluten-free upon request.
   
   Another tasty option at Hatch is the Fall Buddha Bowl. Made with quinoa, butternut squash, chickpeas, avocado, and crimini mushrooms, it is both vegan and gluten-free. For something sweeter, try the Peanut Butter and Banana Overnight Oats.

Long Island sure has a lot to offer in terms of gluten-free eats. If you're new to the area and still looking for a place to call home, contact us soon. Our friendly agents will guide you through the buying process and help you find the best Nassau and Suffolk County homes for sale.

When you're selling a home, you may face challenges that have a big impact on your finances and profit. To protect your investment, our REALTORS® want to make you aware of some hidden costs that can take you by surprise.

Your home is likely the largest single investment you will make during your lifetime. Before you decide to list your home on the market or invest in a new home, you should be aware of fees and expenses that can reduce your bottom-line profits.

• Closing Costs
  Closing Costs involve a variety of fees incurred by buyers and sellers during the sales process. These fees can range from 3 to 7% of the sales price and include the following:

  • Loan processing fees

  • Title insurance fees

  • Mortgage insurance costs

  • Pro-rated property taxes

  • Property deed recording costs

Closing costs are often split between the buyer and seller and deducted from the money received at closing when final documents are signed.

• Title Liens
  If you're a homeowner, you probably have at least one title lien recorded against your property deed. Liens may include loans owed to banks for a home mortgage, loans owed to banks or other financial institutions for lines of credit, loans owed to private lenders for personal loans, and mechanics liens owed to licensed contractors. It's a good idea to check with your real estate agent or loan officer about title liens on your property.

• Vacant House Costs
  If your home is for sale, but you move before you sell it, you will probably encounter some vacant house costs. These are fees charged by a real estate company or a private party to keep your home in tip-top shape and protect it from vandalism and property damages. Vacant house fees usually include electricity and water bills to keep services on and property maintenance bills for yard work and winter snow removal in Suffolk County homes for sale.
  
  If your home doesn't show well empty, you may need to invest in professional home staging services that run between $250 and $600 per room per month, but a staged house sells 88% faster than an empty one. 

• Home Inspections
  Selling your home will require home inspections to check for various safety problems, including roof and plumbing leaks, faulty wiring, mold, and termites. If you're selling, you can get a pre-inspection so necessary repairs can be done before you list your home. In most areas, professional home inspections range from $250 to $650, but prices vary based on property location and unforeseen damages.

• Repairs and Upgrades
  Banks and mortgage lenders will not approve home loans for buyers unless the investment is sound. When repairs and upgrades are needed based on home inspections, real estate contracts often split the costs between the buyer and the seller up to a predetermined amount. If repair costs are higher, the buyer and seller can renegotiate, one party can pay the total cost, or either party can back out of the real estate deal.

Interested in Nassau County homes for sale? Contact us for information on available properties and prices.

Halloween is here, and we couldn't be more excited! Of course, with all the little kids running around the neighborhood, nothing is more important than safety. That's why our REALTORS® have put together some tips to help you keep trick-or-treaters safe.

• Make Outdoor Lights Bright
  Although darkness goes well with the Halloween vibe, it's not safe for kids approaching your home. Make sure your outdoor lights are as bright as they can be so little kids won't be scared, and bigger kids won't trip over anything. If you want to hang around outside and create a spooky atmosphere, you can dim the lights but maintain a well-lit path.
  
  
• Keep Your Walkways Clear
  Speaking of clear paths, the last thing you want is for kids to trip and fall as they walk up your driveway or along the pathway to your front door. Remove any possible obstructions that may get in their way, no matter how small. If you set up jack-o'-lanterns as part of the walkway, be sure that they're far on each side, so the kids don't get too close to them.
  
  
• Secure Your Pets Inside
  Although Halloween might not be as bad as fireworks on the 4th of July, some dogs can't handle all the excitement. You should keep your pets inside, so you don't have to worry about the animal being nervous or anxious. If you want to involve your pet later on, you can dress him or her up in a costume and take them trick-or-treating with kids, which is a lot more relaxing.
  
  
• Prop Open the Screen Door
  Screen doors and security doors are great in helping keep your home safe, but they act as an added obstruction when kids approach your home for candy. Even if the secondary door stays open on its own with the use of hydraulics, be sure that you secure it open to prevent it from accidentally being closed. This will make it easier for kids to assess your front door.
  
  
• LEDs in Jack-O'-Lanterns
  Jack-o'-lanterns are one of the best Halloween decorations because their design is limited only by your imagination and artistic skill. The problem is that many people put candles in jack-o'-lanterns, which can create a fire hazard if one gets knocked over by a child. To prevent this possibility, use LEDs or other electronic types of lights inside them. If candles are all you have, ensure you're outside at all times to keep kids from getting too close.
  
  
• Secure Railings and Steps
  Halloween is an awesome holiday; the last thing you want is for a child to injure themselves when they approach your home. First, ensure that any railings have been tightened so none of the kids fall. As for the steps, apply friction tape to keep kids from slipping and falling. This is especially important if it's recently rained because you might have a bit of moisture in front of your home, or they could have some on their shoes from other homes.

Halloween is a wonderful holiday that gives everyone a chance to embrace their inner child while also enjoying some spooky fun times. If you're looking for the perfect home to bring the holiday to life, there are plenty of Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale. Contact us, and we'll set you up with some property tours. 

What's better than a sweet, moist, perfectly frosted chocolate cupcake? An excuse to eat one, of course! October 18 is National Chocolate Cupcake Day, an occasion to celebrate with one of the most well-loved desserts of all time.

Our REALTORS® love cupcakes just as much as you do, and today they'll be sharing some of their favorite places to get them around Long Island. Make sure to head out and get one before the big day!

• Buttercooky Bakery - 217 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  The Buttercooky Bakery has been open for more than 50 years and is still a favorite of many people living near our Floral Park homes for sale. Their chocolate cupcakes are one of their specialties and can be ordered in singles or by the dozen.
  
  They offer basic gourmet cupcakes with buttercream frosting and delightful themed versions with characters like Spiderman, Elmo, and Minnie Mouse. If you want to get a bit more adventurous with your chocolate treat, try their Oreo or M&M cupcakes. Both give you that same rich chocolate taste with a little extra crunch. 
  
  
• Roger's Frigate – 99 Main Street A, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
  Rogers's Frigate is a must-see Long Island location for anyone with a sweet tooth. This sizable shop near our Port Jefferson homes for sale stocks every kind of sugary goodie imaginable, from homemade fudge and gelato to hard-to-find commercial candies and bulk options for all your favorites. 
  
  The Frigate's in-house bakery is refilled daily with fresh cookies, pastries, muffins, macarons, and of course, cupcakes. Their chocolate cupcakes are generously sized, swirled with buttercream, and topped with sprinkles, candies, or delicate gum paste flowers. Once you've ordered your treat, you can sit down to eat it in the shop's cheery dining area. Be sure to take a look at all the other fun goodies on the shelves before you leave! 
  
  
• Copenhagen Bakery - 75 Woodbine Avenue Ste A, Northport, NY 11768-2898
  Copenhagen Bakery is one of the top spots for baked goods around our Northport homes for sale. Looking at their gorgeous gourmet cupcakes piled high with fresh buttercream, it's easy to see why they're so popular!
  
  All their baked goods are made with the finest ingredients and made fresh every day. Themed cupcakes are sometimes available depending on what the bakers choose to create that day, so you may be able to snag one for your National Chocolate Cupcake Day celebration. To sweeten the deal even further, they occasionally offer special prices for national days like this, so you might be able to get your delicious treat at a discount!
  
  
• Front Street Bakery – 51 Front Street, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  While Front Street Bakery is most famous for goodies like their dot cookies and Danish crumb cakes, they were voted "Best Cupcake on Long Island" in 2022's Bethpage Best of Long Island competition for a reason: their cupcakes are unbelievably delicious. Moist, buttery, and with plenty of flavor, they're so good that they're sure to set your new standard for what a cupcake should be. 
  
  Their chocolate cupcakes are among their best, full of classic deep cocoa notes that perfectly balance the sweetness of the frosting. If you're in the area near our Rockville Centre homes for sale, stop by early to pick one up before they're all gone!
  
  
• Stanley's Bakery - 68 East Main Street, East Islip, NY 11730
  Stanley's Bakery may not look like much from the outside, but locals know better. In the estimation of many people living near our East Islip homes for sale, this is one of the best places to get cake on all of Long Island.
  
  This shop's chocolate cupcakes are perfect single-serving morsels to enjoy alongside a cup of coffee. Their staff is always experimenting with new ways to decorate this classic treat, so you never know what kind of sprinkles, toppings, or other additions you might find on your next visit.

Want easy access to all of these mouthwatering goodies all year long? If you move into one of our Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, you'll never be more than a few miles away. Contact us today to book a viewing appointment for any home in our Long Island roster and start looking for the perfect place to call your own. 

Just because summer is over doesn't mean the real estate market season is over. Fall is a favorite season for many and provides ample opportunity to stage a cozy, inviting atmosphere that will appeal to homebuyers. Here are a few tips from our REALTORS® to help you make the most of listing in the fall.

• Make it cozy.
  The first rule of thumb in Nassau County homes for sale in the fall is to make everything cozy. With the crisp feeling of fall in the air, focus your staging on extra touches like throw blankets and pillows, throw rugs to warm up cold floors, and warm fall colors. Create an atmosphere where your buyer can envision themselves curling up with a book and a blanket on a cool autumn day.
  
  
• Focus on the fireplace.
  Another tip for making your home cozy for fall is to focus on your staging on the fireplace. Instead of making the TV the focal point of your living room, for instance, turn the furniture to encircle the fireplace and stage it, so the fireplace looks ready to go at a moment's notice.
  
  
• Use seasonal scents to create a mood.
  People are sentimental about fall scents, so you can use that to create just the right mood in your home. Bake pumpkin spice cookies before a showing for a genuine aroma that doesn't smell fake or overwhelming. Simmering a pot of apple cider and adding a cinnamon stick or two is another way to fill your house with just the right amount of fall spice. You can even leave the goodies out for potential buyers as they walk through the house.
  
  
• Keep up with the curb appeal.
  Maintaining the exterior of your home can be a little more involved in the fall, but it's just as important as ever for your curb appeal to remain top-notch. Suffolk County homes for sale that present a tidy, welcoming exterior will get more showings and sell faster, so make sure fallen leaves are raked up regularly and add a little fall decor to the front porch and entryway. Fill a few planters with seasonal plants for a splash of fall color.
  
  
• Maximize lighting.
  With the sun setting earlier and summer's bright sunshine starting to wane, maximizing the light in your home is critical. Good light helps to sell a home, so open all the blinds and curtains before a showing. If you're able to, consider adding layered lighting by updating your fixtures and adding lamps.
  
  
• Sprinkle fall decor sparingly.
  While it's tempting to show your seasonal spirit by making your home an explosion of fall, remember that a little bit goes a long way. Fall decor is welcoming and helps to set the mood, but you don't want to overdo it. Instead, sprinkle your fall decor throughout the house sparingly, and use the other tips in this list to help set the mood.

Summer may be a popular time to list, but that doesn't mean you've missed your opportunity. Fall is a popular season for many homebuyers, creating an easy, natural way to make a property seem cozier. If you're ready to take advantage of the season and list your home this fall, contact us today, and ask us how to make your home more inviting to buyers.

If you started working from home during the pandemic, you probably had a lot of "making do" with your home setup, especially if it wasn't already set up for you to work from home. If you're still working from home today, you may or may not have ever gotten around to upgrading your home office setup. It's hard to remember that we're no longer "making do" and it's time to upgrade to something that just works. Here are five easy home office upgrades our REALTORS® recommend, and some of them may even help you sell your home.

1. Upgrade your outlets.
   When your home is also your office, don't forget you have full control over the tech and accessibility you have there. One convenient and easy upgrade to consider is replacing all of your outlet covers so that you have the ability to plug USB devices into the wall to charge. It's an especially nice, modernizing touch we're seeing in some Suffolk County homes for sale.
   
   
2. Install room-darkening window shades.
   It's nice to have that view out your window, but not so nice when it heats your home office or casts a glare on your screen. Room-darkening window shades are useful throughout your home, but especially in your home office to reduce the cost of cooling your home during the day. Plus, many Nassau County homes for sale are more appealing to buyers when they have energy-efficient window treatments installed.
   
   
3. Add an external monitor and keyboard.
   If you work on a company-issued laptop, you may get tired of using only your machine's small keyboard and screen. In addition, typing and viewing the screen on the same level isn't very ergonomic and can cause strain over time. Upgrade to an external monitor and full-size keyboard for a more comfortable work experience. 
   
   
4. Choose ergonomic seating.
   How is your desk chair? Could it be contributing to back pain, body aches, or fatigue? If you're spending a lot of time in your desk chair, it's important to assess your chair's ergonomics. If it's encouraging poor posture or failing to support your back properly, it may be time to choose a new one. Be sure to shop locally, so you can sit in the chair and make sure it will meet your needs.
   
   
5. Raise the bar with a sit-stand desk.
   Sometimes the best way to combat the effects of sitting all day long is with a convertible sit-stand desk that will allow you to change the height to suit you. If you're able to spring for the best, an electric sit-stand desk with presets will enable you to quickly put your desk wherever you want it. If that's not an option, there are also desktop units that sit on your existing desk and can be raised and lowered manually.

You spend the majority of your waking hours working, so even if you're working from home, it's important to ensure you'll be able to work comfortably. Tricking out your home office may even add to your home's appeal with buyers. For more information, contact us today.

Fall has officially arrived in Nassau and Suffolk counties, and runners all over Long Island look forward to this season. It's the perfect time of year to hit the pavement, and there are some great races coming up. 

Our REALTORS® are excited to share some of their favorite upcoming fall events on Long Island. So lace up your running shoes, and get ready for these races in Nassau and Suffolk counties!

• Blazing Trails for Autism 4 Mile Run - 341 Lakeville Rd, Lake Success, NY 11020
  Starting at 8 am on Sunday, October 2, 2022, the Blazing Trails for Autism 4 Mile Run is one of the first big races of the fall season on Long Island. This run/walk begins and ends on the campus of Great Neck South High School and follows a picturesque course through the North Shore village of Lake Success, not far from these Nassau County homes for sale. Blazing Trails for Autism supports a great cause and also marks the beginning of a month filled with great races. 
  
  
• Jake Koenigsdorf Foundation Zombie Run 5k - 625 Belmont Ave, West Babylon, NY 11704
  Mark your calendar for the Jake Koenigsdorf Foundation Zombie Run 5k on Saturday, October 8! The race kicks off at 8 am in the beautiful Babylon State Park, a short drive from many Suffolk County homes for sale. Proceeds benefit the Jake Koenigsdorf Foundation and its mission to reduce the barriers to recovery for those affected by addiction. All participants receive a complimentary long-sleeve t-shirt, and additional awards are given to top finishers and those with the best zombie-themed costumes.
  
  
• 8th Annual Suffolk County Marathon - Deer Park Avenue, Babylon, NY 11702
  Held over two days on October 22-23, the 8th Annual Catholic Health Suffolk County Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K is one of the most anticipated runs of the year. The marathon begins in the Village of Babylon and finishes in West Islip's Gardiner County Park, just minutes from these West Islip homes for sale. It follows a truly beautiful course along Long Island's South Shore, which includes running across the Robert Moses Causeway.
  
  
• Run 4 Beigel - Heckscher State Parkway, East Islip, NY 11730
  A celebration as well as a race, Run 4 Beigel is a bi-annual event that celebrates the life and impact of Scott J. Beigel, a beloved teacher, camp counselor, and cross-country coach. It also supports the Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund, which helps send kids affected by gun violence to summer sleep-away camp. This year's Run 4 Beigel takes place on October 22 and includes a 5k run/walk, 1k fun run/walk, and post-race games and barbecue. The race and accompanying festivities take place just a short drive from these East Islip homes for sale at Heckscher State Park.
  
  
• Rhatigan's Run 5k Run/Walk - 33 South Tyson Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001
  Kicking off at 9 am on October 29, Rhatigan's Run 5k Run/Walk is held by the Floral park Knights of Columbus in memory of Jim Rhatigan, who served the local community for many years The race route follows a scenic course through the residential streets of Floral Park, and you'll see some lovely Floral Park homes for sale along the way. A generous breakfast spread will be provided for all participants, and prizes are given to the top finisher in each age group. 

Contact us today to learn more about upcoming fall events in New York's Suffolk and Nassau counties. If you're looking for your dream home, our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you find it on Long Island. 

When looking for a new home, it's always a major selling point if there's space for your hobbies. Whether it's painting, crafting, music, fixing old cars, or something else, it's important to have an area of the house specifically outfitted for the activities that relax and engage you. Our REALTORS® can help you find a house with the perfect space for your hobby. Outfitting it for your specific needs is up to you. Here are a few tips.

• Choosing the Right Room. Which room in the house best fits your hobby? How much room do you need for what you do? Will it require a large room, or could you designate a small nook as your hobby space? Do you need a well-ventilated area? Do you want a window, or will that be a distraction? Your space is the garage for car-related hobbies, but how much of the garage? Do you plan to use the entire area, or will there be room to park there when you're not working? These questions must be considered when staking out a space for your hobby.
  
  
• Shelving and Storage. You'll need space in your hobby room for your tools of the trade. If you're crafting, you'll want shelves for easy access to scissors, paint, yarn, glue guns, etc. If you've got a music room, you may want to install hooks to mount and display certain instruments on the wall. You'll need sturdier metal shelves to hold toolboxes and other heavy-duty items if you're working on cars. Whatever your hobby is, take inventory of what tools you have. Think about how you want to store/display them and calculate how much room you need. Consider access, too. Tools you use frequently should be placed within easy reach, while tools you don't use as often or only use seasonally can be placed on the higher or more out-of-the-way shelves. Finally, when installing shelves or hooks or whatever you decide on, include a few extra to leave room for your hobby to grow and expand over time.
  
  
• Flooring. The type of floor in a room can significantly impact the activities you do there, so this can be a factor in choosing what room you use for your hobby—or you may decide to install a whole new floor to suit your needs. If you're working with paint, glue, or other messy substances, consider a vinyl floor, as it's waterproof and easy to clean. If you want a place to display your art, consider a hardwood floor, which lends a classy aesthetic and more elegant atmosphere. For a music room, cork laminate flooring is great for sound dampening and shock absorbing. For mechanics, your garage floor should be given a protective coating like epoxy, making cleaning up oil and other spills easier.
  
  
• Soundproofing. Not all hobbies require this, but it can be vital for some. If your hobby involves a lot of noise, you should look into soundproofing, in consideration of the other members of your household, as well as your neighbors. Foam soundproofing panels are relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to install. If you have a band, you might also consider a glass panel enclosure that keeps the music contained.

Your home is your sanctuary, and with a little work, you can turn it into everything you've ever dreamed of. Contact us if you're ready to find Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. We'll help you find the best home to meet your needs.

One of the most lovely things about autumn is the color-changing leaves. Just something about those gold, orange, and red tones makes you feel comfortable. The leaves in Long Island typically start changing in early September, and they grow more beautiful as the month goes on. Our REALTORS® know the area well and recommend visiting one of these top spots for fall leaf peeping.

• Bayard Cutting Arboretum: 440 Montauk Highway, Great River, NY 11739
  If you're looking at East Islip homes for sale, Bayard Cutting Arboretum is just minutes away. This 600+ acre property is essentially a museum of trees, so naturally, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the changing colors of fall.
  
  Bayard Cutting Arboretum charges an admission fee of $8 per vehicle. Once inside, you can spend hours strolling along the arboretum's paths. Make sure you spend some time in Oak Park, a section of the property with a collection of Black Oak trees. Another beautiful area is the Great Lawn, home to a 125-year-old beech tree.
  
  
• Heckscher State Park: Heckscher Parkway Field 1, East Islip, NY 11730
  Heckscher State Park is a state park on the south shore of Long Island. The park has miles of paved trails, so you can take a walk or a bike ride to admire the trees. You may also want to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under a picnic pavilion. Several are surrounded by beautiful trees, and you'll see birds and deer in the distance.
  
  Heckscher State Park is conveniently located near Suffolk County homes for sale. Dogs are permitted on nature trails but must be on a leash.
  
  
• Sands Point Preserve Conservancy: 127 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point, NY 11050
  Sands Point Preserve Conservancy encompasses 216 acres of land, including grasslands, shoreline, and woodlands. The place is brimming with wildlife, and it's fun to watch squirrels and chipmunks play against a backdrop of fall colors.
  
  The Conservancy has walking and hiking paths you can wander along. They also have a few planned, self-guided tours that take you past top attractions. When you're finished admiring the trees, look at a few Nassau County homes for sale nearby.
  
  
• Muttontown Preserve: 25A Muttontown Lane, East Norwich, NY 11732
  After looking at East Norwich homes for sale, Muttontown Preserve is the perfect place to admire fall leaves. The Preserve is comprised of three former estates. One of these, the Chelsea Estate, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  
  There is a lot of history to learn as you walk through this preserve, but the natural surroundings are also stunning. Not only will you see trees changing color, but also fall wildflowers, frogs, and birds. Maps are available inside the main office.
  
  
• Clark Botanic Garden: 193 I U Willets Rd., Albertson, NY 11507
  Clark Botanic Garden is a 12-ace property dedicated to celebrating plants and horticulture. On a walk through the gardens, you can see countless species of flowers but also many ornamental trees that are changing color for fall. Many birds call the gardens home, and you're sure to see some of them flitting about, too.
  
  Clark Botanic Garden is free to enter, but voluntary donations are encouraged. There's also an on-site gift shop where you can purchase various trinkets and gifts.

We hope you have a lovely time admiring fall leaves at these destinations. The Long Island area has so much to offer when it comes to natural beauty. Contact us if you're looking for a place to call home.

Craft beer has never been more popular, and it seems like great new breweries are often popping up around Long Island. It doesn't matter what style of beer you prefer; breweries provide an opportunity to try different types of beer in a fun environment. Plus, many of them have great food too! 

Our REALTORS® are always on the lookout for new local breweries. With National Beer Lover's Day coming up September 7, we recommend you honor the date by visiting one of our favorite Long Island beer destinations.

1. Sand City Brewing Co. - 60 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
   Sand City Brewing Co. makes more than 50 different types of beer, with many available to try at their Northport location. Five beers are available on draft each week, and the selection rotates every Monday. If you like the brewery, you can purchase beer or merchandise to go. On your way home, schedule a tour of these beautiful Northport homes for sale.
   
   
2. South Shore Craft Brewery - 3505 Hampton Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572
   You'll find some Long Island-made IPAs, ales, porters, and lagers on the draft list at South Shore Craft Brewery. Most ingredients in this local brewery's beer are grown right here in New York. You'll find a comfortable indoor bar area as well as a huge pet-friendly outdoor patio. If you're hungry, food trucks are often available throughout the week. This is one of Long Island's best breweries, and it's just around the corner from these Nassau County homes for sale.
   
   
3. Port Jeff Brewing Company - 22 Mill Creek Rd., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   Schedule a tour or a beer tasting at this sailor-themed microbrewery with a rotating tap selection. The Party Boat IPA and the Starboard Oatmeal Stout are two of the most popular beers at Port Jeff Brewing Company. The brewery also free live concerts, bingo on Mondays, and other special community events. It's also conveniently located near these Port Jefferson homes for sale.
   
   
4. Barrier Brewing Co. - 3001 New St. a2, Oceanside, NY 11572
   With more than 50 beers and a popular taproom, Barrier Brewing Co. is quickly becoming a staple on Long Island. The tap room has 20 beers on draft and 29 available in cans, and flights and growlers are both available. There is a comfortable patio area and a rotating food truck schedule making this a great weekend hangout destination. This brewery is just down the road from some amazing Hewlett homes for sale.
   
   
5. Saint James Brewery - 430-13 N. Country Rd., Saint James, NY 11780
   This awesome brewery has a tasting room not too far away from these Suffolk County homes for sale. You'll find traditional lagers and IPAs at Saint James Brewery, but they also specialize in Belgian-style beer. Not to mention, they're a certified farm brewery, meaning many ingredients used in the brewing process are grown in New York state. Flights and pints can be ordered in the tasting room, and growlers are available to go.

Head on out and celebrate National Beer Lover's Day on Long Island. You might just discover your new favorite brew. Contact us today for more brewery recommendations or to tour one of our local listings.

Everybody needs a break now and then, and you will as you settle into your home from among Suffolk County homes for sale or Nassau County homes for sale. One great way to get ready for a day of relaxing is to update your outdoor furniture.

Maybe your outdoor furniture has seen better days and is way overdue for an upgrade, or maybe you've planned to have something better as you get your new home in shape. Our REALTORS® are here to help you choose the right replacements.

Choose Furniture Materials

You have several materials to choose from, so consider carefully how much exposure to the elements there will be, how durable you need the furniture to be, and of course, affordability.

• Plastic or resin furniture is fairly inexpensive and easy to clean. Plus, these days, you may find some nice colors and designs. Just be aware it may not last very long if left under the UV rays.
• Metal furniture is certainly the most durable but also likely to be the most expensive.
• Steel or wrought iron furniture will stand up to the elements better but is also heavier if you decide to move it to shelter over winter.
• Synthetic rattan is made of plastic, coated woven strands, and is extremely durable, standing up to the elements. It's also affordable and easy to clean.
• Natural wicker furniture is beautiful and lightweight but needs to be stored in winter. It isn't very durable.
• Wooden furniture is one of the best choices, but it needs to be preserved so it will stand up to the elements. The best types of wood for outdoor purposes are teak, cypress, redwood, and cedar. Your wooden furniture will probably include upholstered cushions.

Think About What You'll Need 

Will you need just enough pieces for family get-togethers, or are you planning on extensive entertaining? How well will the number of pieces you have in mind fit in a particular space? Maybe you like the idea of a matched group of pieces or prefer a more casual look, where only some or no pieces match the others. Some pieces you will be looking at include chairs, a settee or loveseat, a bench, patio sectional, chaise lounge, and tables. Avoid crowding furniture; you want to keep your outdoor area aesthetically pleasing. You can buy plenty of extra inexpensive chairs to bring out when needed. 

Elements to Complement Your Furniture

Think about how your furniture choices will look in your space, but also how they might complement your bar, the outdoor kitchen, or the various pieces that make up your outdoor entertainment, dining, or garden area: pergola; umbrella and table and chairs; trellises; or patio walls of wood, stone, or brick. 

Have fun with your outdoor furniture upgrade. Go whimsical or sedate, sleekly modern or comfortably traditional. And remember, if you have questions about buying or selling a home in Suffolk or Nassau counties, our real estate staff is ready with answers. Contact us today. 

It's no secret that paint is one of the best ways to increase the value of your home, bringing a return on investment averaging 107%. But what you may not know is how a few simple tricks can elevate the interior of your home to exciting new levels. Our REALTORS® would like to share a few of those tricks with you:

• Use texture to add depth
  No, we don't mean popcorn ceilings or stenciled walls. Using sponges and brushes creatively can add subtle textures to surfaces that can add interest with little visibility. They can transform boring hallways into eye-catching spaces. Whether you select a neutral shade or a bold splash of color, the texture will provide a sophisticated element to your interior design.
  
  
• Define zones with contrasting finishes
  Some Nassau County homes for sale may offer open floor plans. This architectural style lends itself to comfortable spaciousness, but defining areas within them will contribute to a sense of order. While changing colors from one space to the next can be challenging, changing finishes using the same color is easy. You can create dramatic contrast by simply painting a matte finish next to a glossy one in the same color.
  
  
• Employ multiple shades to make the space appear larger
  In earlier times, we would expect to see dark kitchen cabinets in a white kitchen. Reversing that trend updates the appearance of the room. Consider painting cabinets below the work surfaces a dark shade but make the upper walls and cabinets significantly lighter. White ceilings, windows, and doors make the room look brighter and larger. This three-level color scheme offers a modern appeal to an older house. 
  
  
• Update the stairs with paint
  In some older Suffolk County homes for sale, you may find the staircases are more utilitarian than decorative. Why can't they be both? You have more than one inexpensive option to bring them into the 21st Century. One way is to paint only the handrails and banisters an exciting new color. You can opt for a classic black or a pristine white, whichever would look best with the rest of your decor. How about adding a bit of color to the stair treads? Darker colors work best for surfaces with a lot of foot traffic. The uprights that hold the treads and the spindles that hold the railings offer two more options to add visual interest to the room.
  
  
• Give the mantle a facelift
  Instead of letting the fireplace blend into the surrounding wall, consider making it stand out as an exciting feature of the room. The simplest choice is to just paint it in a color contrasting with the wall. This is a great choice if you use the mantle as a platform to display collectibles, a clock, or other small items of interest. But you can also make the fireplace the star of the show with a complete makeover. You can achieve the look of marble with a base of glossy white streaked with various shades of gray. Add streaks by dipping a feather into the gray paint and dragging it across the white surface. When you get the look you want, seal it with Minwax Polycrylic for a beautiful shine. 

Whether upgrading your house to sell or looking for a new home, our real estate professionals look forward to helping you. Contact us when you are ready to move forward. 

To fish, you need the right supplies. From bait to line, your equipment makes a difference in the fish you catch. Luckily, there are several excellent bait and tackle shops on Long Island. Our REALTORS® recommend stopping by one of the following shops before your next fishing adventure.

1. Hi-Hook Bait and Tackle: 33 New York Ave. Huntington, NY 11743
   Hi-Hook Bait and Tackle is a small but well-stocked bait and tackle shop located near many Huntington homes for sale. The store has a good selection of live bait, along with various lures, hooks, and lines. The owners are quite knowledgeable and can help you find what you need for a good day on the water.
   
   Hi-Hook Bait and Tackle listens to their customers and adds new items to their selection upon request. They cater to both saltwater and freshwater anglers.
   
   
2. Cow Harbor Bait & Tackle: 81 W. Fort Salonga Rd., Northport, NY 11731
   Cow Harbor Bait & Tackle is located inside the Brittania Yachting Center. They offer fresh bait, rod and reel repairs, and updated fishing reports. The shop employees know all the best local fishing spots and are happy to advise you if needed. The shop's selection of eel skins and plugs is also top-notch.
   
   Stop by this tackle shop after looking at some Northport homes for sale. They're open year-round.
   
   
3. East Coast Fishing Supply: 245-20 Northern Blvd., Little Neck, NY 11362
   If you're looking at Garden City homes for sale, then East Coast Fishing Supply is just minutes away. This store offers a great selection of rods and reels. They also sell all sorts of baits and lures, along with clothing made specifically for fishing. You'll find hats, coveralls, boots, and more.
   
   East Coast Fishing Supply has several experienced trout fishermen on staff. They're passionate about helping locals and visitors alike make their next big catch.
   
   
4. Atlantic Outfitters: 405 Main Street #2, Port Washington, NY 11050
   Stop by Atlantic Outfitters after a day of looking at Suffolk County homes for sale. This bait and tackle shop is one of the best-stocked in the area. They carry all the fishing gear and apparel you might need but also a good selection of gear for kayaking, SUP, and other water sports.
   
   Atlantic Outfitters even offers kayaking, fishing, and SUP lessons upon request. They've been a mainstay in the area since 2004 and have a loyal customer base.
   
   
5. Causeway Bait & Tackle: 3031 Merrick Rd., Wantagh, NY 11793
   Causeway Bait & Tackle is a small shop with a big selection of fresh and live bait. If you are heading out to the water, this is a good place to stop on your way. They're also conveniently located near Nassau County homes for sale.
   
   You'll find specialty items at Causeway Bait & Tackle, such as Spoon Fed Wireless Spoons, Blood Stream Top Predator Chum Kits, and more. If you like to be well equipped, this is a great place to expand your collection and prepare for anything.

Long Island is a great place to live if you enjoy fishing and spending time on the water. Not only are there many bait & tackle shops, but also lots of awesome fishing spots. If you're considering moving to the area, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll tell you more about our real estate services, and we can help you navigate the local market.

Summer is a wonderful time for adults and kids to enjoy the great outdoors, but what happens when the sun goes away and rain clouds are all you see? While many of us might retreat to our computer screens and streaming services, you should consider visiting one of the many indoor facilities on Long Island and the nearby areas.

To get you started, our REALTORS® have zeroed in on some of our favorites.

1. Lolli Bop Cafe & Play - 398 Central Ave., Lawrence, NY 11559
   If you're trying to find something for kids to do indoors on a summer day, head to the Lolli Bop Cafe & Play. This huge area has enough room for babies to safely crawl around and gives older kids access to a clubhouse, Lego wall, music section, and more, while the adults can enjoy free Wi-Fi and a magazine section. You can also pick up a wide range of treats, such as breakfast items, tacos, pasta, rice bowls, desserts, and cold drinks.
   
   
2. Woodmere Lanes - 948 Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598
   There are several bowling alleys in the area, but for our money, we're going to go with Woodmere Lanes. This family-friendly alley has adult leagues, youth leagues, and all-you-can-bowl Sundays. This is a popular spot to hold a kid's birthday party and has plenty of traditional bowling snacks like pizza, fries, chicken fingers, buffalo wings, and nachos, plus more "dinner-friendly" fare such as burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, beers, and wines.
   
   
3. Long Island Explorium - 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   Next stop, science! The Long Island Explorium features STEAM-based (think STEM but with art) programs, classes, and exhibits. While some museums near Port Jefferson homes for sale take a hands-off approach, touching is not only allowed but encouraged. Your children will have access to various interactive activities that will spark their imagination and creativity. Perfect for a warm summer's day!
   
   
4. RPM Raceway - 40 Daniel St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
   Time to get your motors running, ladies and gentlemen—and kids! This is the perfect place to beat the heat and let your children burn off a little steam and get some exercise. Don't worry—adults are welcome, too. In addition to high-speed go-karts, RPM Raceway also features bowling, billiards, virtual reality, 150+ arcade games, and a racing simulator. As for food and beverages, you'll find hand-crafted burgers, wood-fired pizzas, soft drinks, craft cocktails, and more.
   
   
5. Long Island Aquarium - 431 E. Main St., Riverhead, NY 11901
   Just in case the rain outside inspires you to think about water, it might be time to head down to the Long Island Aquarium. This amazing attraction includes an incredible 120,000-gallon shark tank, sea lion shows, penguins, and numerous places to touch some of the animals. You can even snorkel with tropical fish or explore the Lost City of Atlantis shark exhibit. Incredibly, these things are only a portion of what you'll find there.
   
   
6. Nassau County Aquatic Center - Merrick Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554
   We obviously can't make a list of fun things to do on a rainy summer day without telling you about a swimming pool. The Nassau County Aquatic Center, located at Eisenhower Park, is one of the premier swimming facilities in the entire country. In addition to the swimming opportunities, there's also a fitness center available along with courses certified by the Red Cross.

These are only a few amazing places to enjoy yourself on Long Island and nearby areas. Searching for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale that your family will love? Contact us today to find your ultimate dream home.

Spending a day with family is a great way to bond and re-focus on what's most important in life. If you're looking for something fun to do as a family, consider heading off to see wildlife on Long Island. From petting zoos to nature preserves, our REALTORS® can recommend some awesome places for a wildlife-focused family day.

• Holtsville Ecology Site: 249 Buckley Rd., Holtsville, NY 11742
  The Town of Brookhaven Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve is a publicly owned preserve built on a former landfill site. The town took ownership of the land in the 1970s and has been working ever since to preserve it in a way that benefits both people and native wildlife.
  
  Here, you and your family can walk along the exercise trail and tour the various ecology exhibits, which feature bobcats, eagles, and buffalo. There is a greenhouse where you can learn about plant life and composting. You can even take home some free compost if desired.
  
  The Holtsville Ecology Site is open from 10 am - 4 pm, seven days a week, until September 25th. 
  
  
• White Post Farms: 250 Old Country Rd., Melville, NY 11747
  White Post Farms is a popular petting zoo that has won numerous awards over the years. This would be a great family day destination for younger children. There are plenty of animals to pet and feed, including goats, giraffes, and lorikeets. Pony rides are also available for an extra charge.
  
  White Post Farms also offers a garden center, where you can shop for plants to fill your garden. Their gourmet farm market sells delicious jams, jellies, breads, and fruit. 
  
  The petting zoo is open seven days a week. Admission tickets are $25.95 per person, and children under 15 months are free. You can buy tickets online before your visit.
  
  
• Long Island Zoological Society: 296 Wading River Rd., Manorville, NY 11949
  Take a drive to Manorville, and visit the Long Island Zoological Society Animal Farm Petting Zoo. This non-profit petting zoo opened in 1981 and has become a favorite among the community.
  
  Most of the animals housed here have been rescued. You'll see llamas, deer, miniature cows, ducks, emus, and much more. The safari train ride is lots of fun, and there are pony rides for little ones.
  
  Long Island Zoological Society is open daily from 11 am - 5 pm. Admission tickets are sold on-site.
  
  
• Long Island Game Farm: 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville, NY 11949
  Long Island Game Farm is a children's zoo and wildlife park in a natural setting. You can walk the nature trails, seeing animals like baby deer and goats along the way. The zoo also has some more typical animals, such as lemurs, wallabies, and giraffes.
  
  Zebras named Zephyr and Thor are a big attraction here, and there's also a gift shop where you can buy stuffed animals, figurines, and other memorabilia. 
  
  Long Island Game Farm is open weekends from 10 am - 5 pm and weekdays from 10 am - 4 pm. Admission tickets are sold at the gate, and there are family fun packs available to help larger families save. 

Long Island has a lot to offer when it comes to wildlife experiences and family day activities in general. If you like it here and are looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll help you find the perfect place to call home.

Do you know that your home's indoor air quality greatly impacts your health? For home safety, our REALTORS® recommend regularly testing your indoor air quality and taking steps to reduce harmful pollutants in your home that can make you sick.

Taking steps to boost indoor air quality can help you lower your risk of developing serious health conditions and improve your quality of life. If you're considering buying Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, testing the air quality can ensure a healthy indoor environment. Here are some steps you can take to keep your family safe.

• Test Your Air Quality
  The first step to ensuring a healthy home is testing the indoor air quality  through DIY methods or calling in a professional:

• • DIY Testing – You can find a variety of air quality test kits online or at home improvement stores. However, some kits only test for one or two air pollutants like carbon dioxide and radon, both toxic gases.

• • Professional Testing – If you want a full panel of results, it's best to call in a pro. Many professionals who do air quality testing also specialize in mold prevention and removal, which is helpful in older homes and those with basements.
    
    
• Cut Down on Air Pollutants
  Most homes are filled with air pollutants that can cause a variety of medical conditions, including allergies, asthma, heart disease, pneumonia, skin rashes, and low birth weight in newborns. Young children and older adults are most vulnerable to illnesses due to poor indoor air quality. Common household pollutants include:

• • Cleaning products like glass cleaners, air fresheners, and bleach that contain toxic chemicals

  • Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas emitted by gas furnaces, space heaters, and stoves

  • Formaldehyde found in household items and composite wood products

  • Radon, a radioactive gas that seeps through cracks in floors and walls

  • Secondhand smoke from cigarettes and cigars

• Control Allergens
  It's common to find a host of allergens and irritants in the home that impact air quality. The major culprits include household dust, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. These allergens can cause a range of respiratory problems like coughing, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and watery eyes, as well as skin rashes and hives. Take these steps to reduce indoor allergens:

• • Dust furniture and vacuum rugs weekly

  • Wash bedding in hot water twice per month to eliminate dust mites

  • Buy mattress covers and hypoallergenic bed pillows

  • Bathe and brush pets regularly

  • Remove mold from sinks, tubs, and showers

  • Check attics, basements, and leaky pipes for moisture, mildew, and mold

• Control Moisture and Humidity
  Moist and humid indoor conditions breed mold and mildew. Using dehumidifiers during rainy weather and hot, humid summer weather can reduce the amount of moisture in the air and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. In bathrooms, installing ceiling fans and heat lamps will have the same effect.

• Improve Ventilation
  Good airflow in your home will help to prevent a buildup of air pollutants. On a nice day when pollen counts aren't high, open the windows to bring fresh air inside. You can also improve ventilation and air quality by:

• • Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter

  • Changing heating and air filters every month

  • Changing appliance filters regularly

  • Installing cooking vents in the kitchen

  • Ensuring air vents and chimneys are not obstructed

If you're interested in moving to the Long Island area, contact us for information or to schedule a tour of available homes that suit your lifestyle.

It's so exciting to move into your first home! For many new homeowners, it's also your first opportunity to get a pet. Our REALTORS® understand, and to make that experience a little easier for you, they have assembled a few tips for bringing home a new kitten. 

• Litter Box
  The very first thing a cat looks for in a new environment is a place to go. Small kittens may need a tiny box to access it. While older cats will find it on their own, kittens should probably be dropped directly into the box. Soon, they will be digging with gusto. Unfortunately, this means they will send some litter flying and create a mess around the box. You can make clean-up easier by placing a disposable pet pad under the box. Cats like to do their business in private, so you'll want to replace the tiny starter box with a larger covered box to contain the mess. Use liners that will contain the litter and let you toss a closed bag to empty it. You may be tempted to invest in a self-cleaning box, but many cats are frightened by the noise it makes.
  
  
• Water Source
  Cats are very particular about their water. They like it cold and moving, so don't be shocked if they climb into the toilet to drink when they have a perfectly clean bowl of water next to their food. That's another problem. They don't like their food and water to be served next to each other. No one knows why, but most cats will ignore water placed too close to their food. Their preferred source is a fountain, but once again, noise may upset them. Look for a fountain that runs quietly and place it several feet away from food.
  
  
• Cat Tree
  Sharpening claws and climbing trees are in your cat's nature. You can give them what they need while preserving your furniture by providing a cat tree. If you opt for a taller unit, be sure that it is secure and cannot tip over. Once it does, the cat will never climb it again. You can find small trees for single kittens or go for broke with a ceiling-high model sporting multiple shelves and hiding places. Prices range from very inexpensive to fairly costly, so you may want to start small to see if your cat enjoys using it before making a big investment. If your cat persists in trying to claw furniture even though you provided a tree, you can buy glue-on claw guards at your local pet store to avoid painful and crippling de-clawing.
  
  
• Bedding
  The pictures in the ads show Kitty snuggling in a bed made just for her, but that is not at all realistic. Most will sleep on the floor right next to it. But cats universally love boxes! That includes the lions and tigers at your local zoo. In the wild, cats hunker down in closely fitting spaces to hide and feel safe. They bring those instincts when they move in. They are generally happy with an old cardboard box, but you may not find that particularly attractive. They don't often care for plastic boxes due to the chemical smell, so wood is a good option. You can paint it to make it match your decor, but avoid chemicals.

• Toys
  Cats love to play. Their favorite toys are catnip mice, balls with bells inside, strings, and feathers.

If you're looking into Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, contact us. We'll help you find the perfect house for both you and your cat!

If you have a small yard or a hilly landscape, you can still enjoy container gardening year-round. Growing potted plants is a little harder than growing plants in the ground, but our REALTORS® have some gardening tips to help you develop a green thumb in no time. Are you ready to grab your gardening gloves and start planting?

1. Make a List of Plants You Like
   Before you head to the nursery, think about how you want your container garden to look. Do you want drought-tolerant succulents, leafy green ferns, colorful blooms, or a variety of different plants? If you're a beginning gardener, go online to get ideas of plants you like, then make a list or take pictures with you to the nursery.

2. Evaluate Your Light
   Light is important for healthy plants. The amount of light needed varies between types of plants, but all plants require some amount of sunlight to thrive. To determine the amount of sunlight you get during the day in Nassau County homes for sale, choose a spot in the yard and watch for morning sun, afternoon sun, or full sun most of the day.

3. Choose Your Plants
   When choosing your plants, it's important to read the tag on the plant that shows growth requirements for best results. The tag will note requirements for sunlight (full-sun, partial-sun, or shade), watering (keep moist, allow to dry out), and soil (clay, loam, peat, sandy). Different soils have different pH levels that impact plant growth.

4. Save Your Plant Tags
   Plant tags are critical, so save them. They tell you how much light, water, and food your plant needs, how big your plant will grow, and how to care for your plant. Tags also tell you if plants are annuals or perennials which relates to planting and blooming seasons. You can check the planting zones for Suffolk County homes for sale.

5. Choose Containers With Drainage
   Since you're planting in pots rather than the ground, your containers need good drainage. Whether you choose clay, ceramic, plastic, or wooden pots, drainage holes on the bottom need to be 1/2-inch to 1-inch in diameter. If you choose pots without drainage holes, you'll need to drill them. Good drainage means life or death to potted plants.

6. Don't Skimp on Potting Soil
   Healthy plants need good, rich potting soil to thrive. Don't be fooled by tricks like adding peanuts, pebbles, and food scraps to increase plant moisture and nutrition. The more potting soil you use in your pots, the more water your plants will retain in their roots. When the potting soil in containers gets low or dries out, add a fresh supply to make sure plants stay moist and healthy.

7. Feed Your Plants
   Most types of potting soil don't contain plant nutrients, so you need to add fertilizer to your potted plants. A slow-release organic fertilizer can be added into the potting mix. It's best to empty a big batch of potting soil into a bucket, mix the fertilizer into the soil, then fill your container for planting. After the initial planting, you should fertilize weekly or bi-weekly with a good liquid fertilizer.

8. Plant Good Neighbors
   When planting container gardens, make sure all of the plants in the garden have similar growth requirements. Don't plant succulents that need full sunlight and little water in the same area with plants that need shade and moist soil. For a healthy, thriving garden, always combine plants with similar care and growth requirements.

If you're interested in Long Island real estate, contact us for information on available properties and prices that fit your lifestyle.

When George Gershwin wrote "Summertime, and the livin' is easy," he wasn't thinking about homeowners.  But the sooner you get summer maintenance out of the way, the sooner your summertime blues will fly away, and you can finally relax. Our REALTORS® have compiled a list of things to tackle in the early part of the season to help you keep your home looking its best and save you money in the long run by resolving issues while they're still small.

• HVAC Inspection and Tune-Up
  Before you turn on the air conditioning, clear the unit of any debris that may have accumulated in or around the unit. Clean the coils, inspect the wiring and change the filter. You may find it worth the price to pay a professional to clean and tune up the unit annually, especially if your unit is on the roof. A licensed technician will do more than inspect for damages. He will check elements for wear and tear, lubricate moving parts, and advise you as to the expected life and efficiency of the unit. If you wait until the weather is hot and the unit fails, you may wait for days for costly repairs!
  
  
• Clean the Exterior
  Power wash the outside of the house, garage, patios, and decks. Make sure windows sparkle inside and out to let in the glorious summer sun. Check the deck as it dries to see if the water forms puddles or is absorbed by dry wood. If the water doesn't bead, reseal the deck to prevent damage. Check for any signs of moisture or pest damage. Watch for standing water anywhere around the edges of the buildings to make sure you have appropriate drainage, making adjustments as necessary. Now is the time to upgrade if you have planned to build an outdoor room, add a water feature, build a pergola, or do any other major project.
  
  
• Inspect, Inspect, Inspect
  Carefully make note of any repairs and replacements you need to make, from damaged screens to burned-out light bulbs. Now is the time to check for any signs of roof damage. Sagging sections, broken shingles, and granules around the perimeter are sure signs you need a professional to inspect the roof and determine the level of repairs it needs. Check for clogged gutters and cracked retaining walls. Check insulation to make sure you have no gaps that you need to seal. Schedule major repair work at your earliest opportunity as you may have to wait for an appointment.
  
  
• Make Minor Repairs
  Spruce up trim with a fresh coat of paint. Replace damaged sprinkler heads. Replace broken or bent hinges. Lubricate gate springs and hinges on gates, doors, and garage doors to ensure smooth operation without any annoying squeaks. Clean up the lawnmower, replace spark plugs, clean out debris, and take it in for servicing if the blades are dull.
  
  
• Perform Garden Maintenance
  Prune bushes and trim trees as necessary. Make sure plants are not encroaching on sidewalks, the air conditioner, windows, or the roof. You still have time to plant and add flowers to your garden. Add a final layer of mulch to hold in moisture and give your garden a well-groomed look. Take a trip to your local nursery for fresh ideas to update your landscaping.

Summer home maintenance may not be a lot of fun, but the results are worth it. Just look at all the gorgeous Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale to see what we mean. If you'd like a closer look, contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Father's Day will be here on June 19th, and there are many different places in Nassau County and Suffolk County where you can take dear ol' dad for a wonderful meal. There are hundreds of great restaurants out there, and our REALTORS® have nailed down a few of their favorites:

• Revel Restaurant & Bar — 835 Franklin Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
  If you're looking for a Father's Day restaurant that's a little on the fancy side, then the Revel Restaurant & Bar should be at the top of your list. Not only is the interior gorgeous, but the food is some of the tastiest in the area. Located near many Garden City homes for sale, the owners pride themselves on a selection of inventive dishes that are made from locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients. And since it has a fully functional bar, you'll find a wide variety of craft beers, wines, and spirits. Their motto is "sophisticated, yet unpretentious," and they definitely live up to that philosophy.
  
  
• Jerry and the Mermaid — 469 E. Main St., Riverhead, NY 11901
  Jerry and the Mermaid has been around for multiple generations and is now a mix of classic dishes and modern culinary delights. If you're looking for a seafood feast, this restaurant has just about anything you could ask for. From their coconut shrimp and crab cakes to the blackened fish sandwich and lobster roll, you might find it difficult to pick just one or two favorites. Plus, they have a great selection of drinks like their toasted coconut margarita, and watermelon and mint mojito.
  
  
• The View Grill — 111 Lattingtown Rd., Glen Cove, NY 11542
  Gourmet food. Beautiful landscape. What else can you ask for to make Father's Day extra special? The View Grill features many different selections, from grilled steak and poached lobster tails to BBQ burgers and sesame chicken. Headed up by executive chef Jeanine Dimenna, who was recently celebrated by the Long Island Herald, this is a wonderful restaurant to celebrate any day of the week.
  
  
• Love Lane Kitchen — 240 Love Lane, Mattituck, NY 11952
  The always delightful Love Lane Kitchen is a favorite of the locals and visitors to the area. Many people make it a tradition to stop by during their Burger and Beer Night every Monday. With dinner selections that include littleneck clams, risotto, duck tagine, lobster rolls, and many other delicious types of food, you'll never leave this place unsatisfied.
  
  
• Gregorio's Pizzeria & Trattoria — 4656 Merrick Rd., Massapequa, NY 11758
  Pizza is a favorite of fathers and pretty much everyone else all around the world, and there's nothing quite like Gregorio's Pizza & Trattoria. With more than three dozen types of pizza on the menu, including a breakfast pizza with seasoned scrambled eggs and a mac & cheese pizza that's almost too good to be true, there's something for everyone. And if pizza isn't your thing, they have many other Italian dishes to satisfy anyone in your party.
  
  
• Farm Country Kitchen — 513 W. Main St., Riverhead, NY 11901
  You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone in the area who wouldn't give Farm Country Kitchen a glowing review. Their menu is filled with favorites such as their park bench salad, BBQ shrimp, mussels, crab cake sandwich, New Orleans scallops, and more. They're also a popular place for catering and even feature a pre-selected dinner for four to-go special. Whether dining in or taking food home, give this place a try.

Whether you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we can find you your dream home. Contact us today to get started!

Paddlesports are not only great exercise, but they're also a great way to relax, connect with nature, and enjoy all the outdoor beauty Long Island has to offer. Living in an area surrounded by water means ample opportunity for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Paddlesports happen to be some of our REALTORS® favorite summer hobbies. Here are some of our favorite places to kayak around Long Island:

• Hempstead Lake State Park - 1000 Lake Drive, West Hempstead, NY 11552
  Located just south of these great Garden City homes for sale is Hempstead Lake State Park, which has three ponds that are great for kayaking and paddleboarding. The park has a nice boat launch and dock, so water access is easy. The whole park is calm and serene and an excellent place to find some peace and quiet.
  
  
• Wantagh Park - 1 King Rd., Wantagh, NY 11793
  Wantagh Park is a small but beautiful local amenity equipped with a boat launch that makes it easy to paddle around and explore the East Bay. You'll love the beautiful views and natural scenery all around—and the best part is, this spot usually isn't very crowded.
  
  
• Idlewild Kayak / Canoe Launch - Craft Avenue and Huxley Street, Rosedale, NY 11422
  Idlewild Kayak / Canoe Launch provides easy access to the calm waters of beautiful Hook Creek Park. Paddle your way along this picturesque creek and catch some stunning views of the local wildlife. We're lucky to have this amazing urban nature retreat in our own backyard. If you'd like to live nearby, check out these Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Blydenburgh County Park - Veteran's Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11788
  Come explore Blydenburgh Lake, also known as Stump Pond, at Blydenburgh County Park. This lake covers about 100 acres and is about 8 feet deep. There are two boat launches: one near the rowboat rental area and one near the Historic District. Kayaking on this lake is a lot of fun in the summer, but it's also worth coming back when fall foliage is in full swing. After you're done paddling, swing by one of these nearby Smithtown homes for sale.
  
  
• Stony Brook Harbor- 51 Shore Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  Stony Brook Harbor offers some of the most scenic kayaking experiences on Long Island. It provides access to the nearby Porpoise Channel Inlet, between Stony Brook and Smithtown Bay. Need a boat? Stony Brook Kayak Rentals is conveniently located onshore, just down the street from some beautiful Stony Brook homes for sale.
  
  
• Mount Sinai Harbor - 244 Harbor Beach Rd., Mt Sinai, NY 11766
  Mount Sinai Harbor is located near some spectacular Mount Sinai homes for sale. Between the harbor and the nearby beaches, there are plenty of places to launch. Paddle around the harbor or, if you're more experienced, head on out to the Long Island Sound. 

Kayaking around Long Island gives you a unique perspective on all the local wonders and beauty. Looking for more summertime activities? Contact us today for more local recommendations.

After listing your house with our REALTORS®, you've found a buyer and are closing soon. You're finally ready to finish up with your old home as you prepare to move on. The selling process involves a lot of emotions, and it can be stressful wondering how to clean the house one final time after selling. While the temptation to skip out on the remaining cleaning chores can be strong, cleaning after selling your home is important. Here are some tips on what to clean.

1. The Kitchen
   This is the most-used area of your house and among the toughest to clean. Clean out the cupboards, cabinets, and other storage areas. Clear out your personal items and clean every inch, including any grease or stains on surfaces.
   
   As you clean, remember to pull aside the appliances and clean the area beneath and behind them. These areas are often forgotten, and they accumulate a lot of dirt. Finish off by scrubbing baseboards, worktops, and other fixtures before vacuuming and mopping for a sparkling finish.
   
   
2. Work on the Living Room
   People spend a lot of their time in the living room. So, before moving out, remember to sort out the living room. Move the furniture around, and deep clean your carpet. If you have any furry pets, vacuum well to remove any pet hair and any stains on the carpet.
   
   You can also seek professional cleaning services for a thorough final touch. Remember to dust and wipe down the tables, stands, shelves, cabinets, the fireplace, and fixtures. You can also wipe down the walls, windows, and window sills.
   
   
3. Clean and Disinfect the Bathroom
   Before moving on, you need to give your bathroom a good scrub and disinfect it. Your main focus should be on the toilet, shower, sinks, and bathtub. The cleaning will take a shorter time if you previously cleaned before listing your home.
   
   Don't forget to clean metallic surfaces like taps, which are susceptible to mold and limescale. So, as you clean, check out for mold, and clean the areas appropriately. Remember to also check the plug holes in the sink and bathtub. Get drain cleaning surfaces if necessary to ensure the water flows easily.
   
   
4. Touch Up Your Yard
   It's common to forget about your garden as the most focus is on the interior of your home. However, your yard matters too. Clean the garden and take out any leaves or rubbish on the surface. If there are weeds, pull them out, and prune any trees to make the garden appear neat.
   
   Mow your lawn, cut shrubs to a shorter length, and take care of any other mess around the yard that shouldn't be there. 

Are you still looking for the ideal home to move into after selling? Go through our Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale to find a new house today. You can contact us today with specifics of what you need in a home to make your home-buying process easier.

You've decided to buy your dream home. The real estate market is exciting with numerous options to choose from and marks the beginning of realizing your dream. However, navigating through the market and finding a home you wish to purchase can be difficult. Sometimes, the buying process takes longer than expected. Our REALTORS® have put together these five tips to help you remain positive during the buying process.

1. Decide Your Wants, Needs, and Deal Breakers
   Before reviewing the hundreds of homes on sale, start by developing a checklist. What do you want or need from a perfect home for you? Having preset goals and wants will save you time, and so does identifying your deal-breakers and non-negotiables. Additionally, identifying non-negotiables will save you from disappointment later.
   
   As you decide on what you want or need, consider the stage of life you are currently at. Are you looking to plan a family soon, or will you be downsizing? Would you like to start a home business after a few years, or might you change your career path? Identifying where you are and what you are working towards will also help you find the best home.
   
   
2. Get Pre-Qualified
   You wouldn't want to find a home, make an offer, and realize you cannot raise your quoted amount. So, it is important to get pre-qualified before beginning your search. It is an easy process that helps you determine how much you can borrow and how much you can afford. It is a fast and free process that will not reflect your credit score.
   
   When you know how much you can spend, you can bargain a better deal and narrow down your search to homes within your budget. Getting pre-qualified before beginning your search also gives you a competitive edge over other buyers.
   
   
3. Be Realistic
   You want a home that matches the house you have always imagined. However, you need to be realistic with your expectations. After going through tens of houses, you might need to readjust your preferences and make them more realistic.
   
   For example, is the house you want matching your budget? Are your needs or wants realistic? Unrealistic expectations could delay the process further.
   
   
4. Work With an Agent
   The process would be easier and smoother if you hired a real estate agent to work with you. Besides, you are making a significant financial commitment, and you need to ensure you are making the right decision.
   
   A real estate agent can make the difference between finding what you need and experiencing disappointment from an emotional purchase later. Your agent will guide you on the home buying process and ensure you get the best deal possible. Working with an agent also prevents you from making mistakes like emotional bargaining.
   
   
5. Don't Seek Opinion From Too Many People
   It is essential to seek opinions from people who have bought houses before, especially if you feel overwhelmed. However, this could lead to further frustrations. Although your friends and family want the best for you and would like to offer good advice, talking to too many people could be misleading.
   
   Instead, discuss your house-hunting strategies and issues with a real estate agent. An agent understands the market and has facts about it. Furthermore, everyone has a different experience, and others' processes might have been straightforward, which could dampen your spirits.

Buying a home is an exciting milestone that can attract immense pressure with so much to do. Being patient with yourself can make the entire process more bearable. Go through our Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale. Contact us if you find a home matching your needs and wants.

There's no better time to sample a new local brew than National American Craft Beer Week. That's why our REALTORS® have put together a list of our favorite breweries in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

1. Oyster Bay Brewing Company — 36 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY 11771
   In the past, Oyster Bay Brewing Company has been recognized as the best craft beer brewery on Long Island, and it's easy to see why. This amazing brewery has tons of tasty selections, with their famous honey ale and Barn Rocker session ale topping the list. They take great pride in Long Island's nautical history and are dedicated to producing the highest quality beer available. Their wonderful selection also includes a summer brew, pumpkin ale, hard seltzers, and more.
   
   
2. Barrage Brewing Company — 32 Allen Blvd. Unit E, Farmingdale, NY 11735
   The Barrage Brewing Company has perhaps the most unique history in all of Long Island. What started with just two taps in a family room has transformed into over two dozen beers. They continue to test recipes with hops, yeasts, and other ingredients to create more varieties. Some of the best include a porter made with cappuccino and tiramisu milk, salted caramel and fudge porter, and their infamous brown ale known as the Yada Yada Yada. 
   
   
3. Lost Farmer Brewing Company — 63 E. 2nd St. A, Mineola, NY 11501
   Locals just can't decide whether they prefer the Lost Farmer Brewing Company's delicious beer, tasty pizzas, or steaming hot Bavarian pretzels. Oh, who are we kidding? Of course, it's the beer! Not only that, but the place is dripping with '80s and '90s music that will keep everyone entertained. There's only one large table inside if you have a big group, but there's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating for friends and family.
   
   
4. Blue Point Brewing Company — 225 W. Main St., Patchogue, NY 11772
   This unique brewing company has developed a cult following thanks to their amazing selection of tasty craft beers that feature local ingredients such as seaweed, oysters, and beach plums. Many locals and visitors swing by the Blue Point Brewing Company to try their flagship beer known as the Toasted Lager, the proud winner of two World Beer Cup medals. And for the past few years, customers have enjoyed their new facility down the street that includes a restaurant and has a 60,000-barrel capacity.
   
   
5. Montauk Brewing Co. — 62 S. Erie Ave., Montauk NY 11954
   Take a quick jaunt to the local beaches during the summer, and you'll be sure to see people guzzling down the signature blue cans of Montauk Summer Ale. Although the Montauk Brewing Company hasn't been around as long as others on this list, it's quickly become one of the favorites of many locals and travelers. Their taproom may be small, but you'll find a relaxing outdoor patio and picnic tables that project the area's mellow vibe.
   
   
6. Sand City Brewing Company — 60 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
   The Sand City Brewing Company, near these Northport homes for sale, is another brewer who's only been around for a few years but has enjoyed great success with residents and tourists. Many people in the area feel that their IPAs are the best on Long Island, so feel free to try a few and tell us what you think. When you arrive, you'll be greeted with a welcoming sign hung up between two buildings that will lead you to the tasting room, where you'll always find pints, flights, and growlers ready to be enjoyed.

If you're searching for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, our agents can help. Contact us to find your dream home.

Spring is here, and that means it's time to break out the dust mops, clear away the cobwebs, and most importantly, get your garage organized. Of all the spring cleaning chores you will tackle, our REALTORS® know that cleaning the garage is one of the most challenging because it's typically the least organized space. Fortunately, with a little planning and a touch of elbow grease, you can use the following tips to finally get it organized!

1. Make a Plan, Stan
   Start by determining where you want to put everything. Bicycles, gardening gear, sports equipment, tools, etc. should be well organized by category and zone. You will want to determine how much of each category you need space for, and determine the best way to maximize the use of your garage space by dedicating sufficient space for each required zone.
   
   
2. Tackle it in Stages
   You don't have to do it all at once. Dividing it into stages can make the task less daunting. When we show Nassau County homes for sale we can always tell which homeowners took the time to clean out the garage in stages and do the job right. For example:
   ​​​​​​​
   • Clean out the clutter
   • Organize items into their appropriate categories.
   • Clean the freed spaces of dust, debris, cobwebs, etc.
   • Install storage systems (i.e. pegboard, shelving, cabinets, etc.)
   • Put things in their proper place
     
     
3. Detach Yourself and Declutter
   Do you really need to keep it? Is it something you've used once and never again? Is it something you've never used and may never need? One of the biggest problems with garage cleanouts is that garages become a storage closet for all the things we think we'll need, and all the things our heartstrings won't let us let go of. The reality is that most of the things in your garage can go and you will never miss them. If it's old, damaged, broken, outdated, or a specialty item you are not likely to use again, then get rid of it. Sell it on eBay, put it on Craigslist, or simply donate it to Goodwill. 
   
   
4. Invest in Quality Storage Solutions
   We show many Suffolk County homes for sale, and we can't stress enough just how important it is to invest in high-quality storage solutions. Not only do these look better during a showing, but they add real value to the home. Homebuyers love to see well-organized cabinets, shelves, pegboards, etc. It helps keep the space cleaner and more open, but more importantly, it shows that the homeowner cared about details and thus the rest of the home is also likely to be well taken care of. Organizing systems made of steel, wood, and other durable materials are well worth the investment in this regard.
   
   
5. Don't Be Afraid to Look Up
   Overhead storage systems are fantastic inclusions during any garage organization project. They are ideal for holiday decor, seasonal sports equipment, and other items you rarely use. Installing ceiling systems can free up the rest of the garage and give you enough space for a workbench, additional car, etc. 

We're happy to give you more ideas on ways you can organize your garage this spring. Contact us and we will be happy to tell you about some of the features and systems we see installed in homes throughout the area. 

Sweet, savory, filling, and satisfying, acai bowls are a favorite breakfast choice for some of our REALTORS®. Not only are acai bowls tasty, they have loads of health benefits. Acai berries have strong antioxidant properties, and when adding extra fruit, oatmeal, or peanut butter, you can also get some extra protein, fiber, and Vitamin C in your diet.

Because acai bowls often have many ingredients, making them at home isn't always convenient. However, if you're lucky enough to live in an urban area like Long Island, you can easily find several great local smoothie shops that make some fantastic acai bowls. Here are some of our favorites.

• Bare Naked Bowl - 2565 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY 11554
  One of the top Long Island destinations for acai bowls, Bare Naked Bowl uses fresh, organic ingredients and gives you the option to customize your bowl any way you like it. They offer six bases, four types of granola, and 23 superfood toppings. If you don't feel like customizing, you can easily choose from one of their six signature bowls. The menu also features smoothies, snacks, and coffee. On your way home, make sure to check out these Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Food For Thought - 154 7th St., Garden City, NY 11530
  This health food cafe is just down the street from some beautiful Garden City homes for sale and also happens to serve some of the best acai bowls around. Try the Original AB, The Dynamic Duo, Mango Madness, or create your own acai bowl. There are tons of toppings to choose from. Looking for something different? The menu at Food For Thought also features tons of other healthy eats.
  
  
• Acai Beach Bowls - 917 W. Beech St., Long Beach, NY 11561
  Acai Beach Bowls is a great spot on Long Island for a healthy snack. Choose from organic acai, banana, or apple juice for the base of your acai bowl and add in your favorite toppings. There are five pre-made variations on the menu if you need some inspiration. You'll also find some great Rockville Centre homes for sale not too far away.
  
  
• Brekky - 2 Sound Rd., Wading River, NY 11792
  Brekky is a small cafe with a large number of healthy food options. Choose from 13 acai bowls or create your own. We recommend the Yoga Bowl, acai, Greek yogurt, granola, coconut, honey, and any three toppings. 
  
  
• Bango Bowls - 199 Main St., Setauket-East Setauket, NY 11733
  You can find some of the tastiest acai bowls on Long Island at Bango Bowls. Choose from an acai, pitaya, or green base, add in oats & honey, vanilla nut, or chocolate granola, and choose from over 25 toppings. The menu also features poke bowls, warm bowls, and salads. If you like the area, there are some beautiful Stony Brook homes for sale nearby.
  
  
• Sarikopa Coffee and Tea - 226 Riverleigh Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901
  Sarikopa Coffee and Tea might be known for their brewed beverages, but they make a great acai bowl as well. Top your both with strawberries, blueberries, banana, coconut flakes, and granola. They also have a fantastic breakfast menu. Afterward, be sure to swing by these amazing Suffolk County homes for sale.

Acai is known as the superfood of superfoods, so it's not surprising these delicious bowls have become so popular in recent years. Luckily, they're easy to find around Long Island. Contact us today for more local recommendations.

March 30 is Take a Walk in the Park Day, and with winter's ice grip finally beginning to loosen, our REALTORS® are excited to do just that. Luckily, we have a lot of great places to go for a hike here on Long Island. 

Walk in the Park in Nassau County

Located just a short drive from New York City, Nassau County offers some lovely parks and trails on western Long Island. These great hiking spots are also convenient to many Nassau County homes for sale.

• Hempstead Harbor Shoreline Park - Port Washington, New York
  Overlooking the southwest side of Hempstead Harbor, Hempstead Harbor Shoreline Park is a great place for a hike on a crisp spring day. The park features a 2-mile trail with easy terrain and great views of the water, with benches and gazebos along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery. It's just minutes from these Port Washington homes for sale. 
  
  
• Manhasset Valley Park - 461 Maple St., Manhasset, NY 11030
  A picturesque park that spans the valley separating the Great Neck and Cow Neck peninsulas, Manhasset Valley Park is a beautiful green space within walking distance of many Manhasset homes for sale. The park spans 26 acres and includes well-manicured walking paths that wind among woods, meadows, ponds, and streams. 
  
  
• Hempstead Lake State Park - Eagle Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552
  Hempstead Lake State Park is one of the largest parks in Nassau County and a hub for all kinds of outdoor recreation. This 737-acre park includes 8 miles of hiking trails, including a picturesque 3-mile path that encircles Hempstead Lake. The park is also popular for fishing, kayaking, and horseback riding and is only a short drive from these Rockville Centre homes for sale. 

Walk in the Park in Suffolk County

Suffolk County encompasses the eastern two-thirds of Long Island. In addition to these lovely Suffolk County homes for sale, you'll find some truly perfect places for a leisurely stroll or an energetic hike in Suffolk County. 

• Blydenburgh County Park - Veteran's Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11788
  Encompassing 627 acres of wooded hills and valleys surrounding Stump Pond, Blydenburgh County Park is one of Long Island's best-kept secrets. A 5.7-mile loop trail traverses the pond's shoreline, and the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference often offers guided hikes. The park is just minutes from numerous Smithtown homes for sale and also offers camping from April through November. 
  
  
• West Meadow Wetlands Reserve - 44 W. Meadow Ln., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  Featuring a mile-long beach and 88 acres of tidal marshes, wetlands, and maritime forests, West Meadow Wetlands Reserve is a perfect place to enjoy the scenery overlooking Long Island Sound. The reserve is walkable from many of these Stony Brook homes for sale and is a great place to spot dozens of native shorebird and songbird species that frequent the area. 
  
  
• West Hills County Park - Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington Station, NY 11747
  West Hills County Park is a beautiful park spanning 800-plus acres, with well-groomed hiking trails that meander among dense woodlands. It's one of the best places on Long Island to immerse yourself in nature, despite being near many Huntington Station homes for sale. A highlight of the Park is the Walk Whitman Trail, which crosses the highest point on the island. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Nassau and Suffolk counties. When you're ready to find your dream home on Long Island, our agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Getting a new puppy is exciting for everyone in the family, but it's also a big responsibility everyone needs to tackle. To celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23rd, let's talk about how to puppy-proof your house from your newest addition to the family! Here are a few tips from our REALTORS® for keeping your puppy safe and your home chaos-free.

• Keep your trash secured. Trash is one of the number one puppy magnets in your house. Not only does it smell good (to your pup), but it's like a huge toy box full of things to explore and smell and eat! Trash cans that tuck away into drawers are popular in Nassau County homes for sale, but if you don't have one, you can invest in a heavy-duty trash can with a lid. Smaller trash cans with lids and foot pedals can also be purchased for bathrooms and bedrooms.
  
  
• Tape up or cover up your cords. Cords are perfect for chewing, or at least so thinks a teething puppy! You can prevent your pup from a dangerous situation by making electrical cords inaccessible. While it's not possible to put most cords out of your puppy's reach, you can cover them with heavy-duty cord protectors or tape them to the baseboards.
  
  
• Store drugs and chemicals out of reach. Unless you have small children (the two-legged variety) and still have child locks installed on the cupboard doors, your best bet for keeping your pup safe is to store medications and dangerous chemicals up high. Utilize upper cupboards and medicine cabinets, even if it's something you'd normally keep under the sink. Don't keep hazardous drugs and chemicals on top of countertops, even if that seems high enough to keep out of the puppy's reach, as bottles can get knocked over and roll onto the floor where the puppy would have access.
  
  
• Keep things off the floor and out of reach. It's time to start training everyone in the house not to keep anything on the floor, as anything within the puppy's reach could quickly be carried off or chewed up. This includes shoes, laundry, and even kids' toys. Many Suffolk County homes for sale have plenty of cupboards and closet space for organizing things that shouldn't be on the floor, but be sure to discuss with your children how important it is to put things away properly after using them.
  
  
• Use baby gates to limit movement. It's difficult to puppy-proof the entire house, but fortunately, you can utilize baby gates to keep the pup confined to a safe area when you're too busy or distracted to supervise. For instance, if the kids' bedrooms aren't puppy-proofed, a baby gate on the stairs can keep pup downstairs with you during the day. A puppy playpen is also great for keeping the pup on hard floor for easy cleanup or to keep him away from hazards elsewhere in the room.
  
  
• Provide plenty of toys. Puppies have a legitimate need to chew as their adult teeth come in, so providing dedicated dog toys can protect your possessions from damage by giving your pup something he's allowed to chew. If you catch him chewing something he shouldn't be, firmly tell him "no," and then give him one of his own toys to chew on instead.

Like with raising kids, puppies need lots of space to burn off excess energy. Has your little family outgrown your current home? Contact us today to start searching for your (and your pup's) dream home.

National Wedding Planning Day is March 1, so if you're a bride-to-be, it's the perfect time to start planning the wedding of your dreams. One of the most important elements to decide on is your bridal gown, and you'll find many shops in Nassau and Suffolk counties that can help you turn your dreams into a reality.

Our REALTORS®  suggest visiting one of the following Long Island shops to find the perfect dress for your Big Day.

Nassau County

• The Wedding Plaza - 216 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  If you're looking for a designer wedding gown, stop by The Wedding Plaza, located near Floral Park homes for sale. The shop, serving area brides since 1988, has a large selection of dresses from designers including Kitty Chen, Pronovias, and Justin Alexander. And if you have a specific designer you love, schedule a visit during one of the shop's frequent trunk shows that highlight their collection. 
  
  
• Blossom Brides - 230 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  You'll find the latest in bridal looks and accessories at Blossom Brides, located just around the corner from Rockville Centre homes for sale. And when you find a gown to love, you can have the shop employ some of their original and unique customization options to create a one-of-a-kind look. Custom tailoring and design work are offered, and after your big day, the shop can even clean and preserve your gown for you.
  
  
• Karen Sabag New York - 1685-87 Northern Blvd., Manhasset, NY 11030
  If you're a bride-to-be who will be in the area looking at Manhasset homes for sale, schedule an appointment with Karen Sabag New York to discuss the vision you have for your gown. The atelier will work closely with you from design conception to completion to take your gown from sketch to reality, reflecting hundreds of hours of work as various artisans create your dress.

Suffolk County

• Angel Bridals - 39 W. Main St., East Islip NY 11730
  For over 30 years, Angel Bridals, located just around the corner from East Islip homes for sale, has helped brides get ready for their big day. Couture bridal gowns are available from sizes 2 to 32, and you'll also be able to find everything you might need to accessorize your gown, including custom headpieces, jewelry collections, and undergarments. The shop also offers expert alterations, gown restoration, and customizing, which is their forte. 
  
  
• Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique - 3 Crooked Hill Rd., Commack, NY 11725
  No matter your style, you're likely to find the right bridal gown at Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique. Located near Commack homes for sale, the boutique carries traditional gowns as well as those in styles such as boho chic. For a fun experience, gather friends and family to accompany you on Princess Package at the shop, including champagne, stylists, light snacks, and a credit toward a bridal gown purchase.
  
  
• Bridal Salon of Dix Hills - 1870 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11743
  Bridal Salon of Dix Hills, a full-service bridal boutique located near Huntington homes for sale, aims to make your fairytale wedding a dream come true. The shop carries dresses in sizes 2-32W and specializes in figure-flattering gowns for any bride. Their experienced staff will guide you through the process of finding the perfect gown for you.

Contact us to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. Since 1954, our brokerage has helped clients who have been drawn to live on Long Island find their dream homes, and we'd love to help you as well! 

If you're ready to give your home a thorough cleaning, our REALTORS® suggest you start with a bottle of distilled white vinegar. It's an affordable, natural cleaner that easily cuts through grime, bacteria, and mildew, and it's perfectly safe to use on a variety of household surfaces throughout your home.

• Make Your Kitchen Sparkle
  Your kitchen is a busy place. In addition to a buildup of grease, grime, and bacteria on appliances and surfaces, your kitchen may have lingering odors from your stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, disposal, and trash cans. Cleaning your dirty kitchen with white vinegar is easy and fast with these cleaning tips.

  • Stove and Oven – Vinegar's acidity cuts right through grease and grime. Mix ½ vinegar and ½ water in a spray bottle, spray your stovetop and the inside of your oven and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then remove with soapy water.

  • Microwave – Clean your microwave by placing ½ cup vinegar and ½ cup water in a glass bowl. Heat the liquid for 2-3 minutes until it boils, then wipe away food spatters.

  • Refrigerator – Throw out the toxic chemical cleaners around food. Use equal parts vinegar and water on a dampened cloth to clean your refrigerator shelves, racks, and crisper drawers.

  • Dishwasher – Vinegar dissolves food debris and mineral deposits. Pour 1 cup of vinegar on the dishwasher floor (beneath the racks), then run the dishwasher through one cycle while empty.

  • Disposal – Pour vinegar onto a small scrub brush. Sprinkle baking soda on the brush and into the disposal, then scrub to remove built-up grime and stinky odors.

  • Trash Cans – Before adding a new trash bag, spritz the can and lid with a vinegar and water mixture, then wipe clean. This routine will get rid of smelly trash can odors for good.

You can even clean stainless steel and enamel pots and pans with equal parts vinegar and water. Pour the mixture in, bring it to a boil, and old stains will disappear.

• Disinfect Your Bathroom
  When cleaning your bathroom, full-strength vinegar or slightly diluted vinegar will eliminate bacteria around toilets, tub and shower drains, and fixtures.

  • Toilets – Pour 1 cup vinegar in the bowl and let sit overnight. The next morning, sprinkle the toilet bowl with baking soda or Borax powder, scrub the bowl, then flush.

  • Tub and Shower Drains – To kill bacteria, pour ½ cup distilled white vinegar down the drain and let sit for several hours. Pour hot water down the drain and clean the area with soapy water.

  • Showerheads and Faucets – If you have sediment buildup on showerheads and faucets, pour white vinegar into a plastic bag, then secure the bag to showerheads and faucets with a twist-tie or rubber band. Ensure the vinegar covers the fixture opening and leave the bag on overnight.

• Refresh Your Floors and Rugs
  Vinegar provides a natural, chemical-free solution that removes dirt, grime, and pet odors from floors and rugs.

  • Wood and Tile Floors – Add ½ cup vinegar to 1 gallon of water to clean wood, laminated, and ceramic tile floors. Vinegar should be avoided on natural stone floors and countertops due to high acidity, which will etch into the stone. 

  • Rugs and Carpets – To remove unpleasant pet odors from rugs and carpets, mix ½ cup vinegar to 1 gallon of water, spray the rug/carpet, then sprinkle it with baking soda. Let it dry overnight, then vacuum.

If you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, contact us to help you find the perfect fit.

Owning a home means taking care of minor problems before they become major difficulties. When you buy a new home, however, getting to know everything about it can lead to a few surprises. Our REALTORS® offer the following tips to help you handle some of the more common emergencies you may find yourself dealing with.

• Know Where Your Shut-off Valves
  When you find a home you like out of the many Nassau County homes for sale, one of the first things you will want to do is find shut-off valves. These will include the main shut-off valve for water, as well as the gas line if your home has one. If the home is all-electric, know where the fuse box is located. In many situations, especially with broken pipes, knowing where the main shut-off valve is the best way to stop the water so damage will be kept to a minimum.
  
  
• Keep a List of Professional Technicians/Contractors Close at Hand
  Every agent has a list of professional technicians or contractors to repair the different features in your home. When you're thinking of buying one of these Suffolk County homes for sale, ask your agent for repair techs and contractors they recommend. Having a plumber, roofer, electrician, and an HVAC repairman on speed dial is the best way to get repairs underway before too much damage can be done.
  
  
• Make Sure to Keep a Well-Stocked Tool Box
  Many people prefer not to work on the things in their homes. Some, however, love to tinker around and are quite capable of making small repairs on their own. Always have a fully stocked toolbox on hand with a hammer, mallet, screwdrivers, pliers, and any other useful tool you can think of. They will come in handy if you ever have to put something together or try to make a few quick repairs until a professional can make it out to your home.
  
  
• Teach Your Family Safety First
  Whenever you move, the first thing you should do is talk to your family about safety. Discuss the best exit routes from various areas of the house and designate a safe space to meet outside your home. Have a list of phone numbers ready if they would ever have to call a technician or repairman. Always teach your family safety first.
  
  
• Know When to Call for Help
  There are times when emergencies take place that are simply outside of our capabilities to fix. Know when to call for help. Usually, a quick glance will tell you whether or not you should even attempt the job. Calling in a repairman isn't admitting defeat. It's simply deferring the job to someone who has had more training.

When you are ready to find the house of your dreams, call the realty agency that will always put you and your family first. Contact us so we can get the process started!

It's crunchy. It's chewy. It's cheesy! What could be better than pizza? Many people share our opinion of pizza because there's a national holiday dedicated to this food. National Pizza Day is February 9th, 2022, and our REALTORS® have some awesome pizza restaurants to recommend in honor of the occasion. 

• Rustica Brick Oven Cafe: 1 Nassau Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
  Rustica Brick Oven Cafe is a great place to grab a pizza when you're looking at Garden City homes for sale. Offerings include 8" personal pizzas, along with 12" and 17"pizzas for sharing.
  
  A favorite here is the Rustica pizza, which comes topped with tomato basil sauce, roasted red peppers, pepperoni, tomatoes, olives, and house-made mozzarella. The BLT pizza is also awesome if you're in the mood for something more creative.
  
  
• Village Pizzeria: 169 Tulip Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001
  If you're in the area looking at Floral Park homes for sale, stop by Village Pizzeria for a traditional Italian experience. The restaurant uses top-quality ingredients and old family recipes to create fantastic pizza.
  
  Top menu items here include the Neapolitan, Sicilian, and Margherita pizzas. Most are sold by the pie and by the slice.
  
  
• Gino's Pizzeria: 48 Main St., Port Washington, NY 11050
  Gino's Pizzeria is a great place to celebrate National Pizza Day. It's a family-owned restaurant that uses recipes directly from Southern Italy. Pizzas are made with real San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella for a truly indulgent experience.
  
  If you're looking at Port Washington homes for sale, Gino's is just minutes away. The Marinara and Pizza Bianca are local favorites, and the Mac-n-Cheese pizza is a creation everyone deserves to try at least once. 
  
  
• Giovanni's Pizza: 149 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Commack, NY 11725
  Giovanni's Pizza is known for its friendly service and great food. The pizza offerings are creative, including the BBQ Chicken and Buffalo Chicken pizzas. The restaurant also has a good selection of calzones for those who prefer their pizzas in pocket form.
  
  Giovanni's would be a convenient place to stop if you're looking at Commack homes for sale. With plenty of soups, salads, heroes, and pasta dishes on the menu, it's a great choice for families, too.
  
  
• Emilio's: 2201 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY 11725
  If you prefer to dine in a high-energy atmosphere, Emilio's is a good place to grab a pizza. The destination features a full bar, televisions on the wall, and upbeat servers. 
  
  While Emilio's does offer some incredible seafood dishes, you have to try the pizza on National Pizza Day. The Old World Pies are made on classic, thin Italian crusts. There's also a delicious baked cheese calzone, along with a delightful roasted cauliflower pizza.
  
  
• Nina's Pizzeria: 487 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
  Nina's Pizza is a cozy restaurant located in what used to be a private home. When the weather is nice, you can dine on the front patio. Nina's is known for its Caprese Salad, which can round out your pizza order.
  
  One of the top pies to order here is the Spicy Thai Chicken pizza. The sweet and spicy sauce is incredible. Make sure you allow some time to look at East Northport homes for sale after your meal. 

National Pizza Day could not be easier to celebrate. Grab yourself a slice at one of the above restaurants and enjoy. If you'd like help viewing Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we're ready to help. Contact us to learn more about our real estate services. 

Who doesn't love gadgets? From the electric can opener to the microwave oven, we've been obsessed with small appliances for decades. With so many options to choose from, we can easily overwhelm the storage space in our kitchens. To maximize the space in cabinets and on counters, our REALTORS® suggest selecting appliances that do double duty. Here are their top picks:

• Multicooker
  Hands down, this gem beats all the competition for versatility. Far from that sickly avocado-green crockpot that used to reside in the little cabinet above grandma's refrigerator, this appliance allows you to brown meat, cook quickly with pressure, slow-cook while you're at work, cook perfect rice, ferment cheeses and yogurt, and even hard-boil eggs. If the most sophisticated model is a little more expensive than a less adaptable version, consider the number of appliances it will replace. Be sure to retain the recipe book that will likely come in the package for ideas you may not even have considered.
  
  
• Immersion blender
  Perfect for entertaining, this handy tool allows you to go from yuletide eggnog to summer margaritas without that bulky blender taking up counter space for the six months in between. It's perfect for quick healthy smoothies for breakfast on the go. Most regular blenders don't incorporate enough air to whip cream or beat egg whites. The immersion blender will make that process quick and easy with a fraction of the cleanup efforts. Add a simple attachment, and it will even chop herbs. It's happy hiding in a drawer instead of taking up the corner of the counter. You can even get a cordless model!
  
  
• Toaster oven/air fryer combination
  You can make your toast for breakfast, heat up last night's pizza for lunch, and roast a chicken with vegetables all in this unique oven without heating up the house like a conventional oven. It's also much friendlier to your energy bill. It's perfect for cooking meals for one or two people and can serve as additional cooking space for large gatherings. You can enjoy air-fried foods in a fraction of the time and with a fraction of the calories. Healthier fried snacks? Who wouldn't appreciate that?
  
  
• Indoor grill
  Imagine grilled meat and veggies on a cold New York Sunday afternoon. You might be too engrossed in that football game to appreciate the delicious grill marks on your panini, but you'll definitely taste the difference. Switch between a griddle for eggs and pancakes to a grill for greasy meats. From full breakfasts to steaks or pork chops for dinner, the indoor grill can handle it all, and without creating a pile of dirty pots and pans. Its relatively small size makes it easy to store.
  
  
• Stand mixer
  Bulkier than some of our other options, the stand mixer can be excused for its size because it's such an important asset for anyone who bakes. A high-end model will have a generous array of attachments designed to process specific foods, from a dough hook for kneading heavy bread doughs to a wire whip meant for high air incorporation. Some models include pasta makers and meat grinders. An added bonus is that it will likely be available in a variety of colors to compliment the kitchen decor, letting it grace the countertop beautifully.

Whether you are considering one of the lovely Nassau County homes for sale or one of the Suffolk County homes for sale, these appliances will all be welcome additions to the perfect kitchen. Contact us when you're ready to find the perfect place to install these and other handy new devices. 

Our REALTORS® will give you a tour of open houses if you're visiting Long Island in search of a home. But if you want a real taste of Long Island hospitality, make sure to reserve an igloo for dinner.

An igloo dining experience allows you to curl up in a cozy bubble as you dine and stave off the winter weather for a few hours. Igloo dinners are perfect for a family outing or a winter date. Our REALTORS® suggest coming out of the cold and enjoying the unique dining experience that the following places have to offer.

1. Uncle Bacala's – 2370 Jericho Turnpike, Garden City Park, NY 11040
   Located in the vicinity of our Garden City homes for sale, this restaurant offers excellent views afforded from its picturesque outdoor deck. Whether you're looking for a quiet sunset date or an unforgettable experience with family and friends, Uncle Bacala's is the place to be. The Igloos come in various sizes, so you can bring the whole family to enjoy hearty Italian meals or a date for a romantic dinner.

2. 317 Main Street – 317 Main St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
   East Norwich is a charming place to call home, as proved by its array of neighborhood parks, entertainment centers, and restaurants. One such restaurant is 317 Main Street in Farmingdale, located just a few minutes from these stunning East Norwich homes for sale. Their restaurant offers live entertainment, distinctive cocktails, and an unbeatable menu.
   
   Moreover, you can find several igloos lining the sidewalk that are heated and equipped with Bluetooth speakers. Nothing beats the view, and the fact that you can bring your own music makes for a magical night.

3. Smuggler Jack's – 157 Forest Ave., Massapequa, NY 11758
   Smuggler Jack's is a waterfront restaurant and bar that offers an unmatched dining experience that's bound to make you forget the crisp chill of winter. You can experience waterside dining all year round in the clear domed structures that come complete with comfortable furniture and a fireplace that keeps the space toasty even in the depths of winter.
   
   
4. Maxwell's - 501 Main St., Islip, NY 11751 Islip
   Get cozy in the heart of Islip just a few minutes from these East Islip homes for sale at Maxwell's. It's a casual dining spot that offers the best of everything from an innovative menu to an outdoor igloo outfitted with twinkling lights, fur blankets, and cozy seating. These igloos sit up to eight people, making them perfect for a get-together or a family outing.
   
   
5. Wave Seafood & Steak Restaurant – 25 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   After a day taking in some Port Jefferson homes for sale, you can spend your evening indulging in a delectable dinner at Wave Seafood & Steak Restaurant. The restaurant offers seasonal menu items ranging from fresh salads to delicious seafood. Perched along the Port Jefferson harbor, an igloo dinner at Wave is accompanied by a breathtaking water view—especially at sunset—and a cozy fireplace.

Ready to Make Long Island Home?

Long Island is one of the best places to live in America—it's home to friendly neighborhoods, great schools, and has some of the best recreational centers this side of the Atlantic. If you're ready to find your forever home in Long Island, have a look at our Nassau County and Suffolk County homes for sale. Contact us today so we can set up a house tour and get you started on your home-purchasing journey.

Putting up your Christmas tree and lights was fun, but the fun stops, and stress kicks in when it's time to take them down. Storing holiday decorations can easily go from full-blown fun to frustrating. However, Our REALTORS® have compiled five simple and practical tips to help you correctly store your holiday decorations.

• Buy an Ornament Chest for Your Christmas Ornaments
  An ornament chest is the best way to store your Christmas tree decorations and ornaments since it contains several layers that allow you to categorize each item. These layers offer easy access to the ornaments when needed.
  
  Before putting your decorations in, consider placing a cloth on the chest to prevent the movement of the ornaments. You can also use padding or tissue paper to prevent the decorations from brushing against the chest surface and scratching.
  
  
• Get a Box for Artificial Christmas Trees
  If you bought your artificial Christmas tree during the holidays, the highest chances are that the tree came packed in a box. Since the box is already a correct fit for your tree, you can use it to store the tree.
  
  When packing the tree, you will be using opposite steps as you did when unpacking it. Bundle up each branch and ensure the tree remains straight as you pack it in. Alternatively, you can use ceiling hooks to hang your tree in the garage.
  
  
• Storing Ceramic Houses and Figurines
  Undoubtedly festive ceramic houses and figurines add a gorgeous display during the holidays. However, they can be challenging to pack. Similar to ornaments, they are fragile and are sometimes attached to lights. Therefore, packing them needs you to pay attention to detail to avoid damage or breakage.
  
  Ceramic houses, figurines, and other glass ornaments should be handled and stored as fragile items. Get bubble wraps, carefully wrap them in, and keep them in a box. Seal the box tightly and if possible, remember to label it as fragile and store the box on other bulky boxes.
  
  
• Ensure Your Lights Are Tangle Free
  Christmas lights can be hard to store since they are long and contain little garlands. No matter how carefully you roll them up, they will end up tangled. When storing them, you should ensure they are tangle-free to prevent interfering with the wiring or making ends. You can use delivery boxes to keep your lights.
  
  Cut your box or cardboard into rectangular shapes. Hang the rectangular pieces and wind your lights around the craps. Otherwise, you can use water bottles as storage for beaded garlands. You can also try using a pill organizer to store any spare light bulbs you have.
  
  
• Storing Wrapping Paper and Other Supplies
  Did you know that those garment bags you use to store wreaths can have a different use? Use a garment bag to hang up your wrapping paper and other supplies. Besides making them easy to access, they will remain dust-free during the year. 
  
  When it comes to storing supplies like ribbons and tapes, you can use a shoebox to keep everything organized and in one location. A shoe box makes it easy to color organize ribbons and notice when the tape supply runs low. 

Ready to own your home in Long Island? Go through Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale to find an ideal home for you. Contact us once you do and get started with the buying process. 

Heritage Treasures Day was established in 2017 in the UK as a way to explore and preserve historical sites. It takes place every year on January 11 and has grown in popularity worldwide. There are many great places to celebrate this unique day near Suffolk County homes for sale and Nassau County homes for sale, with museums and preserved historical sites dating back to American history's earliest days. Our REALTORS® have all the details on five fascinating destinations for Heritage Treasures Day around Long Island.

1. Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate – 135 West Gate Dr., Huntington, NY 11743
   The Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate is one of Long Island's most famous historical treasures and is conveniently located near Huntington homes for sale. Oheka Castle is a slice of historic Europe in the heart of Long Island, serving today as a luxury hotel, wedding venue, dining destination, and event space. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay at the amazing hotel, grab a meal at the OHK Bar & Restaurant, or stop by for a tour to experience all that the estate has to offer.
   
   
2. Country House Restaurant – 1175 N. Country Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
   The Country House Restaurant was built circa 1710 near Stony Brook homes for sale, and it's still in operation today. Sit down for an amazing meal in a beautifully preserved historic home, and experience Long Island history in the present day. The menu changes monthly with new things to try, and there are also special menus available for many of the year's biggest holidays.
   
   
3. Cradle of Aviation Museum – Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
   Located near Garden City homes for sale, the Cradle of Aviation Museum tells the story of how humanity took to the skies and beyond. It's a great place to learn all about the history of flight in the United States and features some excellent space travel exhibits. The museum features eight galleries with more than 75 air and spacecraft, along with fun exhibits on retro games and a state-of-the-art planetarium that has unique shows all day long.
   
   
4. Stony Brook Grist Mill – 100 Harbor Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
   The Stony Brook Grist Mill was built in 1751 and served as an active mill for local farmers until the 1950s. Today, it has been converted into a historical site where you can learn about the mill's history and discover how wheat was processed in the past. It's open every Sunday for guided tours, with a miller on-site and a gift shop where you can find fun souvenirs.
   
   
5. Long Island Traditions – 382 Main St. #G02, Port Washington, NY 11050
   If you're interested in getting involved with preserving local heritage sites yourself, then Long Island Traditions is the perfect organization to help you pursue your passions. Located near Port Washington homes for sale, Long Island Traditions works to preserve historic architecture, historic sites, and structures that tell the story of Long Island, as well as amplifying the voices of local artists who create works about historical sites. Long Island Traditions also has the Honoring Traditions program, which focuses on the music, dance, crafts, and art of cultures that have called Long Island home.

Are you searching for a home that makes it easy to explore all of the fascinating historical and cultural destinations around Long Island? Let our local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Long Island communities.

You may think that once the snow begins to fall, it's too late to start on home improvements, but our REALTORS® would advise you otherwise. You may not be able to do much outdoors, but inside is another story. In fact, if the work you need requires a contractor, you may be able to find one offering lower rates as available jobs dwindle. Whether you have just purchased your home or are getting the house ready for sale in the spring, several projects will make you more comfortable now and increase your profits later. 

• Insulating the Attic
  You may not even need to hire a contractor to make your home more comfortable, decrease energy costs and get a great return on your investment. The ROI comes in at a whopping 116.9 percent. Add to that a tax credit of up to $500. If you thought this project was too pricy, you might be surprised that it could cost under $400 to purchase and install. With numbers like that, you are looking at a project that literally pays for itself.
  
  
• Update the Thermostat
  This is a project that works for any budget. Prices for programmable thermostats range anywhere from $30 to $300 but will save you from $10 to $20 a month. There are plenty of options available, some even offering remote control. You can reduce energy consumption when no one is home and adjust the temperature to your comfort level so that you walk into pre-programmed comfort. A seasoned do-it-yourselfer may be able to install one, but most homeowners will need the services of an electrician. The good news is that the cost will be minimal as the process takes minutes to complete. 
  
  
• Stop Air Leaks
  You can reduce the cost of heating and cooling your home by simply sealing air leaks with caulking or weatherstripping. For just a few dollars, you can eliminate most drafts. You'll want to caulk spaces around doors and window frames, paying attention to pipes and vents as well. Add or update the weather stripping to seal moveable components such as sliding glass doors and windows. This project takes a little time but doesn't require particular skills or experience. For less than $30, you can dramatically affect the comfort and energy efficiency of your home.
  
  
• Repaint the Interior
  If you are selling soon, this is a great time to inspect the walls and fill in any dings or holes. Choose white or another neutral color that will work with any color scheme, so potential buyers can readily picture their own belongings in the house. You may find this easier if you declutter the rooms first, putting collections and other personal items you are not using in storage. This will give you a good jump start on your own move, too. The size of the house and the quality of paint will dictate the cost, but on average, you can paint for under $500 and make the home look larger and cleaner to potential buyers.
  
  
• Give Doors a Facelift
  What's the first thing a buyer will see when entering the house? Inside and out, doors take a beating. Fingerprints and scuff marks make them look old and tired. A fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or even just cleaning up aging brass can make the entire home look more inviting. This cost-effective project will cost between $30 and $200.

If you're thinking of adding your house to the Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, contact us for more ways to boost your profits.

Monday, December 13th is an important day, especially for music lovers. It's Violin Day! Invented in the 1500s, the violin has since become an important instrument across various genres of music, from classical to hard rock. What better way to honor it than by visiting one of the great music shops on Long Island. Here are some top music shops our REALTORS® recommend.

• Lewis Music: 278 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501
  Lewis Music is a locally owned music store not far from many Garden City homes for sale. They sell string instruments, including violins. Some are new, and others are used on consignment. The store also sells bows and offers bow repair services.
  
  Lewis Music also sells guitars and band instruments, and they offer both in-person and virtual music lessons. If you're not quite ready to buy your own instrument, ask about their rental program.
  
  
• Laconia Music Center: 410 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040
  Laconia Music Center is a music store just minutes from Floral Park homes for sale. They opened in 1960 and have been serving the Long Island community ever since.
  
  This store offers violins and other orchestra string instruments with straightforward pricing. They're also known for their selection of less-common instruments, including tubas, bassoons, and contrabasses. Aspiring musicians of all ages can take lessons at their modern studio.
  
  
• Poppa's Music Music: 168 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501
  Take a break from looking at Nassau County homes for sale, and stop by Poppa's Music Music to look at the instruments. They have an impressive selection of guitars, pianos, and woodwinds.
  
  Poppa's Music Music also offers rentals, including violins and larger string instruments like cellos. They have some smaller instruments to suit school children, too. If you already own a violin or other instrument and need it fixed, visit their repair center.
  
  
• Munro Music: 416 Larkfield Rd., East Northport, NY 11731
  Munro Music is within easy reach of East Northport homes for sale. They offer violin and viola lessons for all ages. You could even learn how to play the cello, the bass version of the violin. Their one-on-one, private teaching style makes it easier to learn at your own pace.
  
  Munro Music also sells sheet music, and they rent band and orchestra instruments for the school year and summer. 
  
  
• The Instrument Store: 81H E. Jeftyn Blvd., Deer Park, NY 11729
  If you're looking at Dix Hills homes for sale, then The Instrument Store is a good place to celebrate Violin Day. They've been in business since 1991, and they carry a great selection of instruments, from saxophones to guitars.
  
  The Instrument Store often offers open box deals, which are a good way to save when buying an instrument. If they have to order an instrument for you, they always offer free shipping. 
  
  
• The Music Zoo: 123 Smith St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
  The Music Zoo has such a creative name, and its employees are just as creative and lovely. Open since 1994, this is a great music shop to visit if you're looking at West Islip homes for sale.
  
  The Music Zoo sells some of the best brands, from Gibson to Taylor. They're also a great place to pick up amps and various musical accessories. 

Whether you play the violin, have always wanted to learn, or just like admiring the art behind these gorgeous string instruments, stopping at one of these music shops is sure to be enjoyable. Contact us if you need help finding homes for sale nearby.

Nothing makes a man look and feel better than a well-fitted suit and tie. Since December is National Tie Month, why not take some inspiration from it to upgrade your wardrobe? To help you get started, our REALTORS® have rounded up six of the best menswear shops around Long Island in the list below. 

• Bertalia - 15 N. Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570 
  Bertalia has been helping men around our Rockville Centre homes for sale dress to impress since 2002. Their suit department is extensive and includes a multitude of tie options in both colorful and subdued designs. Their expert staff is always on hand to provide fashion advice to shoppers who need it, and they even offer in-house tailoring services upon request.
  
  
• Joseph & Joseph - 132 7th St., Garden City, NY 11530 
  If you're looking for one-on-one guidance while shopping for your suits and ties, Joseph & Joseph is the place to go. This small menswear shop doesn't even have their own website, but they get more than enough business through word-of-mouth to sustain themselves. The shop is owned and operated by the same two Josephs for whom the business is named. They are known for their excellent, knowledgeable service and a willingness to go above and beyond for their customers.
  
  
• Giorgenti New York - 1325 Franklin Ave., Suite 255, Garden City, NY 11530 
  Giorgenti New York is an independent menswear retailer located near many of our Garden City homes for sale. From shirts and dress pants to sports coats, overcoats, vests, tuxedos, and (of course) ties, you'll find everything you need to look your best all in one place.  Notably, this goes for women as well as men – Giorgenti is happy to provide tailoring services for women's suits and menswear-inspired items as well. All of the business's pricing is listed on their website, making this an excellent place to find bespoke menswear on a budget. 
  
  
• Milano Men's Attire - 245 W. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11746 
  Milano Men's Attire caters to men who prefer the slim and stylish fit of Italian suits over the boxier American style. Run by an experienced tailor with over 20 years in the business, this shop offers suits and ties from popular Italian brands like Ferrante and Dolce Punta and is frequented by high-profile clients like David Ortiz. Located just minutes away from many of our Huntington homes for sale, it's a great place to add a little European flair to your wardrobe with a piece of clothing made just for you.  
  
  
• Edward Alan Big and Tall - 10-2020 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY 11725 
  Shopping for clothes can frustrating for people who rarely fit into the standard range of menswear sizes but don't have the budget for custom clothing. Luckily, there's a solution located close to our Commack homes for sale. Edward Alan Big and Tall carries both casual and formal menswear in larger sizes than you'll find on the rack at most other retailers. If you still can't find the right fit, this shop offers free alterations with any purchase to help you look your best.
  
  
• Thomas Mitchell Clothiers - 24 Gerard St., Huntington, NY 11743 
  Instead of trying to keep up with fast-changing modern fashions, Thomas Mitchell Clothiers has taken a different approach to menswear. Their shop is designed to mimic the look of a British haberdashery, and their clothing emphasizes that same old-fashioned appeal. The shop stocks a variety of slim-fitting traditional British menswear in luxurious fabrics like wool, cashmere, tweed, and more. They offer custom sizing to ensure optimal fit, but if you prefer to shop off the rack, they also employ a full-time tailor who can alter their pre-made garments to better conform to your measurements.  

A new suit can make you feel like a whole new you, and it's never hard to get one on Long Island. There are so many quality clothing retailers around our Nassau County homes for sale and our Suffolk County homes for sale that you'll always have a place to shop for any occasion. If you've been thinking about making this area your home, contact us today; we'll be happy to help you find a local property that meets your needs.

Upgrading your appliances will make everything from cooking to cleaning a little easier and a little more energy-efficient. There's no question that when it comes to appliances, some are worth their weight in gold. And, some will add a little gold to your bank account when you sell your home. As you consider your options, our REALTORS® recommend closely looking at the following appliances that will give you a significant return on your investment. 

• Air Conditioner
  Hot and muggy summer days are not a good time to find out the AC isn't up to the task of keeping you cool and comfortable. Across generations, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers alike all agree that a high-efficiency air conditioner is a premium selling point. Installing a new air conditioner will enhance your comfort, lower your utility bills, and attract buyers when you put the home on the market.
  
  
• Energy-Efficient Furnace
  Most furnaces last between 10-15 years. Over time, they lose efficiency and require increasingly frequent (and costly) repairs. Upgrading your furnace before you sell your home puts a prospective buyer's mind at ease. It also shows that you care about the home's condition and have invested in systems that enhance comfort and reduce utility costs.
  
  
• Built-In Stove
  Standalone stoves are so 1990. As homes and technology have evolved, so too have the ways we use the kitchen. Built-in stoves are designed to minimize the mess and streamline the kitchen. When the stove is not in use, it blends into the background and becomes out of sight, out of mind. 
  
  
• Energy-Efficient Washers and Dryers
  Washing machines and dryers are the hardest-working appliances in your family's home. They're also the two machines that suck up the most energy. Upgrading to a high-efficiency washing machine and dryer isn't cheap, but it's worth it. Not only will you save money on your monthly utility bills, but they will also do a better job of keeping your clothes clean and in good condition, thus keeping your wardrobe nice and sharp.
  
  
• Modern, High-Efficiency Refrigerator
  Water and ice dispensers are nice, but almost every refrigerator has these. If you want your refrigerator to stand out, you'll want to select one that has French doors and an Energy Star rating. As with washers and dryers, refrigerators consume significant quantities of energy each day. Every little bit you can trim pays off in the long run.

Are you noticing a trend? That's because there is an overarching trend that relates to all appliances. Whatever you choose to install, pay close attention to the energy efficiency of the system. As utility rates continue to rise and eco-consciousness grows, the desire for increasingly efficient appliances is a trend that is guaranteed to gain steam in the future.  

Are you considering which appliances to bring into your life? Contact us, and we will be happy to tell you what our clients are eager to see and the trends we see emerging within Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale.

We can all use a little help staying in shape when the holidays roll around. It's hard to motivate yourself to go for a run when it's cold outside, and who can turn down all that stuffing and pumpkin pie? Our REALTORS® understand the struggle.

Luckily, the holiday season also brings plenty of opportunities to hit the pavement on Long Island. Check out these fun 5K runs and walks in Nassau and Suffolk Counties this season! They all offer an opportunity to stay active and support a worthy cause.

• Nassau County Turkey Trot - 1899 Park Blvd., Westbury, NY 11590
  On Sunday, November 14th, the annual Nassau County Turkey Trot returns to Westbury, NY. This event includes both 5K and 10K races, and the 5K is stroller-friendly. All participants are encouraged to bring food donations for those in need, either to the race site or pre-race check-ins. The run takes place in beautiful Eisenhower Park, convenient to many Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Smithtown Kickers Turkey Trot - 51 Lawrence Ave., Smithtown, NY 11787
  With all proceeds going to Angela's House and Smithtown Children Foundation, the Smithtown Kickers Turkey Trot has become a beloved annual tradition. This year's race takes place on Thanksgiving Day, November 25th. It's a 5K run/walk that begins at Smithtown Elementary School and follows a course through the heart of the city, near many Smithtown homes for sale. The event also includes a 1-mile kids' fun run, with prizes for top finishers in various age groups. 
  
  
• Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run - Manorhaven Blvd., Port Washington, NY 11050
  A 5-mile race through the rolling hills of Nassau County, the Port Washington Thanksgiving Day Run has been going strong for over 40 years now. After being held as a virtual event in 2020, the race is back in its true form this year. Expect some great views across the bay as you near the finish line in Manorhaven Park, a stone's throw from these Port Washington homes for sale.
  
  
• Conquer the Hills 5K - 501 Horseblock Rd., Farmingville, NY 11738
  Farmingville's Conquer the Hills 5K takes place on November 26th this year, better known as Black Friday! The race begins and ends in Farmingville Hills County Park, a beautiful green space just minutes from many Suffolk County homes for sale. In addition to the 5K race, this event also includes a 2.6K hike, which is a great option for participants who want to experience the park at their own pace. 
  
  
• Santa's 5K Toy Trot - 49 Smith St, Patchogue, NY 11772
  Like many races, Santa's 5K Toy Trot had to be a virtual event last year. But this venerable tradition is back for 2021, returning to Patchogue's Shorefront Park on December 5th. Santa's 5K Toy Trot is a run/walk that offers great views of Great South Bay and a chance to support a great cause. Proceeds benefit the Kiwanis Foundation, and participants are asked to bring one unwrapped toy for their annual community toy drive.
  
  
• Jingle Bell Run - 1000 Hempstead Turnpike, Hempstead, NY 11549
  On Saturday, December 11th, lace up your shoes and put on your most festive holiday costume to participate in the annual Jingle Bell Run. The race takes place at Hofstra University in the Nassau County community of Hempstead, and 100% of the proceeds go toward the Arthritis Foundation and its goal of fighting arthritis. It's a fun, festive 5K that helps support a great cause. 

Looking for more information on life on Long Island? Contact us today, and be sure to ask our agents about finding your dream home in Nassau and Suffolk counties. 

The holidays will be here before you know it, and this year there are plenty of great ways to get into the holiday spirit! This time of year, our REALTORS® love visiting local craft fairs, watching holiday performances, and more. They also enjoy sharing all the best upcoming events with new residents. 

To make sure you don't miss out on any of the fun, we've gathered a list of five local holiday events you won't want to miss. So mark your calendars, gather up your family and friends, and head out to enjoy all the great things Long Island has to offer!

1. East Islip Craft Fair: East Islip High School - 1 Redmen St. Islip Terrace, NY 11752 
   If you've been checking out Nassau County homes for sale, you might already be familiar with East Islip High School. Not only is it a great place to send your kids, but it's also the location of the East Islip Craft Fair. This is one of the best places to shop local for your holiday gifts. 
   
   The event will be held on Saturday, November 13th from 10 am to 4 pm and will feature many exhibitors with handmade items. Refreshments will also be available for purchase.
   
   
2. The Great All Nighter: Bizarre Bazaar: Cradle of Aviation Museum - Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City, NY 11530
   A unique spin on the traditional craft fair, the Bizarre Bazaar features a curated collection of items from some of Long Island's most talented makers. Here you'll find antiques, art, records, handmade goods, and more. 
   
   This event is scheduled for Friday, November 26th from 7 pm to midnight and Saturday, the 27th from 10 am to 5 pm. While you're in the area, we recommend taking a drive around so you can get a look at some of the great Garden City homes for sale. 

3. 42nd Annual Holiday Festival: Stony Brook Village Center - 111 Main St., Stony Brook, NY 11790
   If you've been thinking about buying one of the beautiful Stony Brook homes for sale, you'll want to pay a visit to the city's 42nd Annual Holiday Festival. There will be a Legends & Spies Puppet Procession, holiday train display, carolers and live music, a tree decorating contest, a chance to sit and chat with Santa, and more.
   
   The event will be held on Sunday, December 5th from noon to 6 pm. There will also be a tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 pm on the Village Green.

4. A Christmas Carol: Theatre Three - 412 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   Theatre Three is located just a short drive away from some of the best Port Jefferson homes for sale. On Sunday, December 5th, you can head over to the theater to see a live performance of Charles Dickons' A Christmas Carol. This production is in its 36th year, and it was chosen as Newsday's number-one holiday theatrical event.
   
   Performances are scheduled for select weekend dates beginning on November 13th and continuing through December 26th.
   
   
5. Port Jefferson Santa Parade: Main St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   There's tons of holiday fun in Port Jefferson this year! Their 2021 Santa Parade is scheduled for Sunday, November 28th from 3 pm to 4 pm. This free event will feature a variety of floats, vintage cars, and, of course, an appearance by the Big Guy himself. If you have kids or are a kid at heart, this is an event you won't want to miss. 

Is a gorgeous new home on your holiday wish list this year? The experts at Coach Realtors can help. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. 

Soaking in a warm, relaxing bath is something everyone looks forward to after a long day. When showing properties, our REALTORS® are always asked about bathroom upgrades with spa-like features seen in many of these Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale.

If you're considering a bathroom remodel, you have many bathtub styles to choose from for your space. Before you make your final selection, consider the size of your bathroom, your personal needs, and the finished look you want to achieve.

• Drop-In Tubs
  Drop-in tubs are the most common type found in homes. The tub shell is fitted inside a framed enclosure that may be surrounded by sheetrock walls or tiles. With drop-in rectangular tubs, three sides are sealed in and one long side is open so you can step into the tub.
  
  Undermount drop-in tubs are installed where the top of the tub sits at floor level creating a very modern bathroom. Most drop-in tubs are made of porcelain, acrylic, or fiberglass, the least expensive options.

• Corner Tubs
  Corner tubs are similar to drop-ins, but they're much larger and wider. Their large, square proportions make them great for dual bathing. To accommodate the size and shape, you need a large corner area in your bathroom for installation. If you have an area near a large window, this may be the perfect place for a relaxing bath while enjoying a beautiful view of the garden.
  
  
• Freestanding Tubs
  Freestanding tubs feature solid bases or cradles and sculpted bathing bowls. They come in many shapes including rectangular, square, oval, and round. One advantage of freestanding tubs is they can sit anywhere in the bathroom and don't have to be connected to walls for stability. However, you need a larger bathroom because the tub will take up open floor space. Freestanding tubs are most popular in porcelain and acrylic, but they also come in copper, stainless steel, and colors for a higher price.
  
  
• Clawfoot Tubs
  Although clawfoot tubs made out of cast iron date back to the Victorian era, they are still very popular with homeowners today. Their freestanding style, oval shape, and brass or chrome claw feet create a reminiscent eclectic style that works in both traditional and contemporary homes. Most clawfoot tubs are especially deep, so they're perfect for those long bubble bath soaks.

• Special Features
  Most bathtub manufacturers offer a variety of options for special features, especially for their top-of-the-line products. If you want ultimate relaxation and health benefits, you don't have to look far for a lot of great options:

  • Whirlpool Jets – By choosing a tub with whirlpool jets, you can relax in water with various heat settings, foot massage jets, multi-speed bubbles, and silent motor technology.

  • Chromatherapy – Whether you prefer peaceful pink or soothing blue, chromatherapy includes underwater LED lights that change color to suit your mood.

  • Music – With resonant speaker panels that attach to the tub and send sound through the water, you can relax to your favorite playlist while soaking.

  • Digital Controls – A built-in digital touchpad lets you easily control water temperature, jet direction, water color, and your favorite tunes.

If you're planning to buy or sell a home, contact us for information and real estate advice from our professionals.

Shopping local isn't always easy. Our REALTORS® certainly understand the convenience of big box stores and online mega-retailers, but there's something about buying locally-made goods from a locally-owned business that just feels better. 

Shift10 Day is a great reminder to support local businesses, and, in honor of the occasion, we're sharing some of our favorite places to shop local on Long Island!

• Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market - 307-369 National Blvd., Long Beach, NY 11561
  One of the best places to get fresh, local produce on Long Island, the Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through November. In addition to locally grown fruits and veggies, you'll find an amazing variety of local, handmade goods ranging from soaps and candles to baked goods and preserves. The market is located in Long Beach, convenient to many Nassau County homes for sale. 
  
  
• Aldo's Coffee Company - 103-105 Front St., Greenport, NY 11944
  Aldo Maiorana has been roasting coffee and baking biscotti at Aldo's Coffee Company since 1987. It's become a staple of the Greenport Community, and one of Long Island's truly great coffee shops. To this day, every cup of coffee you get at Aldo's is made using beans roasted in-house in small batches. They make a perfect cappuccino too, and the shop is located near many beautiful Suffolk County homes for sale.
  
  
• The Giftologist - 37 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  You never know what you'll find at The Giftologist, but if you're looking for a unique gift for someone special, something is bound to catch your eye. Carrying a wide and ever-changing selection of gifts, this shop is carefully curated and well-stocked with locally made products. Located a stone's throw from many Rockville Centre homes for sale, The Giftologist also offers monogrammed and customized gifts, along with complimentary wrapping. 
  
  
• Hengstenberg's Florist - 39 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
  Serving the North Shore of Long Island for more than 70 years, the folks at Hengstenberg's Florist have the skills that can only come from decades of experience, handed down through generations. Located within walking distance of many Northport homes for sale, Hengstenberg's Florist is the perfect place to get a unique flower arrangement for a special occasion or any old day. 
  
  
• Port Jeff Brewing Company - 22 Mill Creek Rd., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
  Why drink the same old beer when you could be sipping craft ales, lagers, and stouts brewed right here on Long Island? Port Jeff Brewing Company has been one of Long Island's best local microbrewers since they opened their doors in 2011, serving expertly crafted beers in their cozy taproom by the waterside. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a location convenient to many Port Jefferson homes for sale, this is a place you're definitely going to want to visit again and again. 
  
  
• The Dolphin Bookshop - 299 Main St., Port Washington, NY 11050
  Big chain booksellers can never match the charm and personal attention you get at a local store like The Dolphin Bookshop. They've been in business since 1946, and you don't get to that point without offering the best selection and customer service around! With an on-site cafe and a great section of books by local authors, The Dolphin Bookshop is one of the best places to find your next great read near these Port Washington homes for sale. 

Long Island is an amazing place to live if you like to shop local! Contact us today to learn more about life in Suffolk and Nassau counties and talk to our agents about finding your dream home on Long Island.

National Cake Decorating Day is celebrated on October 10 to recognize the skill and creativity of those who can turn a cake into an artistic masterpiece. Long Island is home to some excellent cake decorators, so why not celebrate the day by ordering a custom cake at a local bakery?

Our REALTORS® suggest dropping by one of the following Long Island bakeries that offer custom cakes.

Nassau County 

• Buttercooky Bakery - 217 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  Buttercooky Bakery, located near Floral Park homes for sale, has helped Long Island make sweet memories for over 50 years. The third generation of owners is still supplying fresh cookies, pastries, and custom cakes for every day as well as special occasions. Use their on-the-menu options like Banana Vanilla or Silk and Satan (chocolate mousse and New York cheesecake as inspiration), or go with a unique idea.
  
  
• The Sweet Peace Specialty Cakes & Boutique Bakery 26A Atlantic Ave., Lynbrook, NY 11563  
  Located near Nassau County homes for sale, The Sweet Peace Specialty Bakes & Boutique Bakery creates custom cakes as well as other delicious treats. The chef and her trained staff will work with you to make sure you get the custom cake you'll love. And while you're placing your order, make sure to take a look at the bakery counter and treat yourself to some mini cupcakes, truffles, or doughnuts.
  
  
• Dortoni Bakery and Pastry Shoppe 3264 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY 11756 
  Dortoni Bakery and Pastry Shoppe opened its doors in 1976, starting with a nod to the traditional yet simple pastry shops in Naples, Italy. Today, it has expanded to use the highest quality ingredients to bake delicious European tortes, Italian pastries, cakes, and more. Their custom cakes are beautifully designed and created using your choice of over 30 flavors of fillings made of the fresh, highest quality ingredients. Whatever type of cake you can imagine, Dortoni's takes pride in making it a delicious reality.

Suffolk County

• Alpine Pastry - Shoppe 59 Route 111, Smithtown, NY 11787  
  Whether you're planning a celebration for your child's sports team or an elaborate upscale wedding, you're in good hands with Alpine Pastry Shoppe. Open for over 30 years, the bakery has been continuously owned and operated by the Cuccia family. It's conveniently located just around the corner from Smithtown homes for sale and offers a long list of cake and filling flavors you can choose from. 
    
• Fanny Cakes Custom Cakes & Gourmet Desserts - 127 Smithtown Blvd., Suite 10, Nesconset, NY 11767 
  Fanny Cakes Custom Cakes & Gourmet Desserts was named in honor of the owner/baker's grandmother, who nurtured her love of baking. She creates sweets using the finest all-natural ingredients like Madagascar bourbon vanilla, fresh fruits, and sweet creamery butter. And if you're feeling inspired to create your own at a later date, the bakery offers baking and decorating classes for every age group.
  
  
• Rustik Cake Studios - 39 Tuckahoe Rd., Southampton, NY 11968
  Rustik Cake Studios is known for its artistry as well as its tasty creations, having won prizes at competitions such as The Ithaca New York Cake Competition and the Atlantic Bakery Expo. Check out the studio's website to see their online portfolio for inspiration as well as a list of flavors and fillings. You'll find the shop conveniently located just around the corner from Suffolk County homes for sale.

Contact us if you'd like to buy or sell a home in Nassau and Suffolk counties and to find out about the bakeries and other small businesses that help make the area unique. 

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.

The time has finally arrived when you're ready to purchase a home. You found the perfect property, your finances are in order, and you're ready to make an offer. There's only one problem, so is every other buyer that's looking for their dream home. In a seller's market, our REALTORS® can help you move to the front of the line.

In a seller's market, buyers outnumber available homes for sale. Buyers often face bidding wars and full-price offers for Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale that don't sit on the market very long. You need to make your offer stand out so sellers will take notice!

• Make a Clean Offer
  A clean offer means that it shouldn't be contingent on the sale of another property, have financial constraints, or ask for seller concessions like discounts or paid closing costs. In a competitive market, sellers don't need to make contingency sales or offer discounts. They want well-qualified buyers with pre-approved loans and few risks that may jeopardize the sale.
  
  
• Offer Above-Asking Price
  When buyers outnumber available homes, it's not the time to make low offers. If you want the house, you may have to go above the asking price. Even an offer of $3,000 - $5,000 more will show the seller that you're a serious buyer. A reasonable offer above the asking price won't change your mortgage payment much, but it may get you into your dream home.
  
  
• Put Down More Earnest Money
  When buying a home, earnest money deposits (EMDs) prove that you're a good-faith buyer. On average, EMDs are 1-3% of the purchase price, but you can make a larger deposit. Your agent will hold on to your deposit, which will go toward your down payment and closing costs. However, if you sign the contract and don't buy the home, the seller can keep your deposit.
  
  
• Make a Larger Down Payment
  Making a larger down payment than required by your lender will send a message of good faith to the seller. By putting more money down, you're showing the seller that you're a serious buyer who is capable of meeting all financial obligations. A larger down payment assures the seller that the loan is not at risk and the sale won't fall through.
  
  
• Pay with Cash
  Cash offers are very appealing to eager sellers because they aren't subject to loan approvals, financing contingencies, and lending procedures by banks. Lenders require property inspections and appraisal contingencies prior to loan approvals to protect their interests. Cash offers keep the sale between the buyer and the seller, so the deal moves quickly without a long process.
  
  
• Get a Pre-Approved Mortgage
  In a tight seller's market, multiple offers are often entered on the same home within just a few hours. This can lead to a bidding war where the seller will have to choose the most qualified buyer. A pre-approval letter from a lender that states the amount of money you can borrow for a mortgage will significantly increase your chances of moving to the front of the line.
  
  
• Add an Escalation Clause
  An escalation clause means that your offer will outbid other offers up to a maximum price. Keep in mind, even with an escalation clause the seller can still make a counteroffer. Instead of accepting your escalation clause, the seller can raise the listing price. At that point, you can decide the best way to close the deal.

If you're thinking about buying or selling on Long Island, contact us for information and prices on available properties that meet your needs.

Moving from state to state is exciting. It's an opportunity to enjoy new foods and places. It's an opportunity to make new friends and memories. As you get ready to make your move to Long Island, Our REALTORS® have some tips that will help you cross state lines and settle into your new home with minimal effort.

• Work with a local agent.
  Working with a local agent gives you a significant advantage when perusing Suffolk County homes for sale. They know the real estate market, regional trends, best schools, most popular neighborhoods, etc. A local real estate agent can help make the process faster and makes it easier to find the perfect home for your family. This also gives you significant protection against online scams and deals that are "too good to be true."
  
  
• Get financing locally.
  It's always best to secure financing from a local bank, but this can be difficult unless you visit in person. However, if you have an account with a national bank with a branch in the city/town you want to move into, this can make it easier.
  
  
• Give yourself time...and make a trip!
  Before you make your move, take some time to visit the city/town you want to move into. This will help you "get the lay of the land." It will also give you an opportunity to meet with real estate agents, lenders, your peers at a new job, etc. These contacts can all make it easier to settle in once you arrive. As a general rule, you should start your pre-move planning and preparation about 3-6 months before you intend to move.
  
  
• Secure title insurance from a national company. 
  Securing a title from a national title company can make it easier to secure the loan. It will also make it easier to find a local office to visit when it comes time to sign the papers and get everything notarized.
  
  
• Close on your current home before closing on your new home.
  Give yourself a few days at least between the closing on your current home and the closing on your new home. This gives some time for the papers to get processed and gives you a cushion if there are any hiccups that need to be addressed.
  
  
• Contact utilities, schools, post office, etc.
  Before you leave your current home, make sure to contact the utility providers so that the heat, lights, and water will be on when you arrive. You will also want to get ahold of the school district and get your children registered. Finally, don't forget to put in the change of address form with the post office.
  
  
• Plan the logistics.
  Whether you're renting a van and moving yourself, or hiring a moving company, make sure that you have everything in order on the date of your move. This means making sure the vehicle is available, everything is packed up, and you're ready to hit the road at a certain time.
  
  
• Let it go and lighten the load.
  When you're moving from another state into any of the fabulous Nassau County homes for sale, the last thing you want to do is haul your "old junk" with you. Moving is a fabulous opportunity to declutter and free yourself from the bonds of old high school trophies, clothes that no longer fit, and knick-knacks that won't match the new decor.

Contact us for more information about our services. It's our pleasure to help you make Long Island your new home!

National Fajita Day is coming up on August 18th. How are you planning to celebrate? Our REALTORS® highly recommend stopping by one of these Mexican restaurants on Long Island and ordering yourself some delicious fajitas. Throw in some margaritas and a few friends, and you'll have a real party! Here are some of the top restaurants to visit on National Fajita Day.

• Oaxaca Mexican Food Treasure: 385 New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
  Oaxaca Mexican Food Treasure is near many great Huntington homes for sale. This authentic Mexican restaurant was named one of the Top 10 Restaurants on Long Island by Newsday.
  
  Fajitas Rio Bravo is well worth ordering here. You can get it with beef, chicken, pork, or shrimp. The peppers and onions are always tasty and well-seasoned. If you save room for dessert, the free flan is incredible.
  
  
• Pico Tequila Grill: 1930 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport, NY 11731
  If you're looking at East Northport homes for sale, stop by Pico Tequila Grill for some fajitas. Everything on the menu is made fresh, and they offer Happy Hour specials daily.
  
  The Fajitas Platter here is a popular order. You can order it with vegetables, chicken, steak, or shrimp. The fajitas come with lime rice and black beans, and you can choose between corn and flour tortillas.
  
  
• Gracia's Taqueria & More: 285 Commack Rd., Commack, NY 11725
  They may have named themselves after tacos, but Gracia's Taqueria & More has some amazing fajitas, too. You can order Fajitas de Pollo, Fajitas de Carne, or Fajitas de Camaron. Or, you can get a combo platter and enjoy one of each.
  
  Gracia's is near Commack homes for sale. They also have a lot of sharable appetizers, like the Andale Queso Fundito and Fiesta Nachos Cheese.
  
  
• El Guapo Tacos & Tequila: 52 Old Country Rd., Mineola, NY 11501
  El Guapo Tacos & Tequila is just minutes from many Garden City homes for sale. They offer takeout, so you can order your fajitas to-go if you're in a hurry.
  
  In addition to fajitas, El Guapo has excellent chips and salsa, so make sure you enjoy them while waiting for your order. Their guacamole is also exceptional.
  
  
• Habanero Mexican Grill: 465 Atlantic Ave., East Rockway, NY 11518
  This modern Mexican restaurant is near Hewlett homes for sale. They're open for lunch and dinner, so you can enjoy your fajitas whenever it is convenient. 
  
  Habanero Mexican Grill hasn't always offered fajitas, but they recently added them to the menu. The chicken and shrimp fajitas are a fan favorite! If you want to round out your meal, you can add a side of cilantro rice or cheese fries to your order. The 3-milk cake is the perfect dessert!
  
  
• Margarita's Cafe: 97 Manorhaven Blvd., Port Washington, NY 11050
  If you're looking at Port Washington homes for sale, then this is a great place to get your fajita fix. Margarita's Cafe even offers salmon fajitas, which are unique and delicious. Their vegetarian fajitas, made with seasonal veggies and squash, are also popular.
  
  As the name would suggest, this restaurant has a great selection of margaritas. The Mar Azul, made with blue agave tequila, will really please your taste buds. The coconut margaritas are delicious, too. Don't forget a round of guacamole for the table, either! It's made fresh to order.

Whether you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, stopping to celebrate National Fajita Day is sure to add to the fun. Enjoy your meal, and don't forget to contact us if you're looking for a real estate agent on Long Island.

Are you looking for a home in the Long Island area? Our REALTORS® can help you find the perfect home. Long Island is also home to some great coffee shops, with roasters setting up cozy cafes to serve residents well-brewed, fresh cups of coffee.

Here are some Long Island coffee shops you must try.

• The French Workshop, 191 7th St., Garden City, NY
  The French Workshop holds your attention from the moment you walk in. It's one of the more beautiful Long Island coffee shops that boasts some of the best pastries, this side of the Atlantic.
  
  Sunday morning at this popular French café offers eye-catching specialty espresso drinks. It's a throwback to old-school café culture where writers, poets, and artists alike would spend their days waiting for their muse strike. Located just up the road from these Garden City homes for sale, the French Workshop is a great place to spend the day or grab a quick coffee.
  
  
• Toast Coffeehouse,  242 E. Main St., Port Jefferson, NY
  If you enjoy sitting in a cosy coffee shop enjoying a book while sipping on hot chocolate or an impeccably brewed latte, you'll find Toast Coffeehouse to be the perfect spot.
  
  Toast Coffeehouse opened its doors in Port Jefferson in 2002 and has become an integral part of the community. Located near these Port Jefferson homes for sale, this café is a perfect place to get your next coffee fix.
  
  
• For Five Coffee, 292 Plandome Rd., Manhasset, NY
  If you're a coffee-lover, you probably want to buy coffee from people who appreciate the bean as much as you do. For Five Coffee believes that every good coffee starts when the green bean is picked, fresh off the coffee trees. You'll be hardpressed to find a coffee shop that values the coffee harvesting, roasting, and brewing processes as much as For Five Coffee.
  
  With its bright, modern design reminiscent of these Manhasset homes for sale, For Five Coffee always strives to deliver the finest coffee in every cup.
  
  
• Dortoni Bakery and Café, 11 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack, NY
  With the tagline "If you can dream it, we can create it," there's no better place to get heavenly pastries and a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Its homey, warm and welcoming interior will draw you in. And the fresh food and good coffee will keep you coming back for more.
  
  Come and experience the results of endless research at Dortoni bakery and pass by these Commack homes for sale for a feel of what this great town has to offer
  
  
• Kookaburra Coffee Co., 69 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre, NY
  There's nothing quite like a cup of coffee brewed by baristas with a sincere love of good coffee. From its owner to the roasters, Kookaburra Coffee is dedicated to delivering expertly curated beans. Depending on your preferences, this warm, cozy café can whip up delicious lavender lattes, iced coffee, and even lemonade.
  
  Located a few blocks from these Rockville Centre homes for sale, Kookaburra Coffee Co. is renowned for its fabulous services and enjoyable atmosphere.
  
  

Long Island Runs on Coffee

Whether you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, you're guaranteed to find excellent coffee in the neighborhood. Contact us to help you find a home in a neighborhood with everything you need.

For some people, there's something alluring and almost whimsical about living in an old house. It's the history, the craftsmanship, and the nostalgic factor that you can't find in a newer build. If you're looking for a home whose walls are filled with history, our REALTORS® can help you find the home of your dreams.

It's no secret that old houses carry a lot of charm and character. They just don't build them like they used to anymore. But for all their charms, buying an older house is a complicated affair. You must be prepared to spend more money long-term than your initial listing price. Even then, you might run into some issues.

Here are a few things you need to look out for when buying an old house.

What Counts As an Older Home?

Age is subjective when it comes to houses. As a general rule of thumb, an old house is one that's fifty years or older, and one built before 1920 is considered antique. But again, housing age is subjective – it's a condition based on numerous factors, including location, architectural style, and even local climate and geology.

For instance, houses in urban cores across the country, such as New York and Massachusetts, tend to be older, averaging over 50 years old.

To help you do your due diligence, here are the factors you need to consider when buying an older home.

• Construction Style
  In most cases, the construction style of a home is an indicator of its quality. Prefabricated homes are generally constructed to lower quality standards than custom-built new homes. Homes constructed in the Tudor, Craftsman, Victorian, or Queen Anne styles are usually solidly built, more durable, and can handle several rounds of repairs and renovations.

• Climate and Geology
  Certain climates can age a home. Houses in desert areas and places that experience extreme weather conditions tend to age faster. A house in Chicago will need repairs sooner than one in milder climates. Geological factors such as earthquakes, sinkholes, and high water tables can also accelerate the aging process. Homes in geologically active areas will require more repair and maintenance over their lifetime as such activities can lead to structural damage.

Things to Pay Attention to When Buying an Old House

If the age of a home is subjective, what are the factors you should pay attention to more? Here's a breakdown.

• Foundation Issues
  When buying an old home, two inspections are better than one. A structural inspection can reveal the extent of foundation issues if any. These issues could range from small settlement cracks to damaged support footings. Look out for wall cracks, windows that won't open, and doors that won't latch. Such minor issues could indicate a larger, more inherent problem.
  
  
• Lead and Asbestos
  Lead and asbestos are neurotoxic materials that were used in piping systems and insulations until relatively very recently. Lead is common in many pre-World War II plumbing systems and in paints made before 1978. Asbestos wasn't banned in residential applications until the late 1980s. In addition, you have to look out for toxic gases, such as Radon, that could severely impact air quality. These issues also necessitate a rigorous inspection process.
  
  
• Previous Renovations
  Old homes have likely changed hands many times over. An inspection could highlight recent renovations and ensure that the house is up to code and industry standards. Some old and antique houses have been updated so many times that it's difficult to determine their age. Sometimes the only remaining original components are the foundation and exterior of the house.

Looking for Some Old School Charm?

Buying an old house has its challenges. With smart planning and the right realtor by your side, you can find a property that's well worth the hassle. Check out our Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale to find vintage homes with some of that old-school charm. Contact us, and we can help you navigate the hurdles that come with buying an older home.

Grabbing lunch or dinner at a food truck is such a great way to get out there and experience a new cuisine. Or, of course, you can enjoy a tried-and-true favorite. The Long Island area has quite a bustling food truck scene. You could try a new truck every day for a month, but here are some top trucks our REALTORS® recommend visiting first.

• Better Burger: 473 CR 111, Manorville NY, 11949
  If you're looking at Suffolk County homes for sale, stop by Better Burger for a delicious pick-me-up. They offer a great selection of signature burgers and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. The breakfast grilled cheese is a fan favorite.
  
  Better Burger has plenty of picnic tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal around the food truck. Their shakes are a delicious way to end the evening.
  
  
• Good Eats Grill: 110 W. 9th St., Huntington NY, 11746
  Good Eats Grill is a food truck that conveniently operates near Huntington homes for sale. They update their location often on their social media pages, so they're easy to track down.
  
  This food truck is known for its macaroni and cheese balls, which are gooey and delicious. They rotate through tons of other delicious options, from lobster tails, to grilled steaks, to egg rolls. 
  
  
• Katie's Food Truck: 145 W. Main St., Smithtown NY, 11787
  If you're looking at Stony Brook homes for sale, stop by Katie's Food Truck for lunch or dinner. The focus here is on California cuisine, and tacos are a fan favorite. The macaroni and cheese cones are also a hit.
  
  Katie's updates their location often on social media. They often serve outside their main location, but you'll sometimes find the truck at the Riverheads Outlets or the Walt Whitman Mall.
  
  
• Island Empanada: 314 Commack Rd., Commack NY, 11725
  For something a little different, stop by Island Empanada, a food truck operating near Commack homes for sale. You'll see their truck at a lot of local carnivals and car shows, too.
  
  In addition to empanadas, this truck serves other Mexican and Latin American favorites like tostones and fried plantains. They even offer plant-based empanadas, a vegetarian-friendly option. 
  
  
• Picante Tex Mex: 5507 Nesconet Hyw. Ste 16, Mount Sinai NY, 11766
  If you're out looking at Mount Sanai homes for sale and find yourself in the mood for Tex-Mex cuisine, Picante Tex Mex is the place to go. They travel all over Long Island, bringing delicious food along for the ride.
  
  A favorite at Picante Tex Med is the nachos. You can have them topped with your choice of protein, along with lettuce, jalapeno peppers, sour cream, guac, and pico de gallo. Their chimichangas and chalupas are also to die for. 
  
  
• Taste Buddyz: 226 Westbury Ave., Carle Place NY, 11514
  Taste Buddyz is a food truck worth visiting after a long day of looking at Nassau County homes for sale. They consider themselves to be street food specialists, and it certainly tastes like it!
  
  Favorites at Taste Buddyz include the chopped cheese empanada and the barbecue pulled pork sandwich. They also serve jalapeno poppers, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and an array of other treats. The apple caramel empanadas are the perfect way to end a meal.

Stopping by a food truck is the perfect option after a long day of house hunting. Plus, it allows you to explore the area a bit more and dive into the local cuisine. If you are searching for homes on Long Island and are looking for a real estate agent, don't hesitate to contact us.

As pet owners, the last thing we want to think about is our furry family members getting hurt in a fire. Sadly, over half a million pets are affected by house fires each year, and over 1,000 of those house fire incidents are started by pets. Having a pet fire safety plan is an invaluable and essential way to save your home and your pet. July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day, and our REALTORS® have put together these tips to inspire you to develop a fire safety plan that includes your pets.

Preventing Your Pet from Starting a Fire

• Extinguish Open Flames
  Never leave pets unattended around open flames on candles and fireplaces. Candles are great for a relaxed evening, but with a curious furry pal or a wagging tail, they can be quite the danger. You may want to switch to a battery-operated flameless candle to save your pet and property from needless harm. If your pet loves to cozy up near the fireplace, consider an enclosed gas fireplace or pet gate to ensure they keep a safe distance.
  
  
• Remove Stove Knob
  A stove or cooktop is a major cause of fires started by pets. A curious pet who climbs around the kitchen can hit a stove knob, turning up a flame or turning on the gas. Be sure to remove knobs or use knob covers before leaving the house. Secure young or untrained pets in crates or behind baby gates to keep them away from potential hazards when you're away from home.
  
  
• Secure Electrical Cords
  Electrical cords can be tempting to a playful kitty or pup. And sometimes, pets think that the cords are chew toys. Of course, your best bet would be training them to stay away, but securing the wires and cords will ensure they'll have no chance of sparking a fire or electrocuting your pet. Use ties to bundle cords or enclose them in a conduit. Also, dispose of or repair damaged cords.

Prepare in Case of Fire

• Upgrade Your Smoke Detectors
  While it's obviously important to ensure your home has functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, you may want to think about using monitored smoke detectors for pet fire safety. These devices are connected to a monitoring center. In a situation where a fire breaks out when you're not at home, emergency responders would be alerted and dispatched immediately to rescue your furry companion.
  
  
• Make an Emergency Plan
  If a fire starts, you may have as little as two minutes to evacuate your home. As such, it's important to create and practice a fire evacuation plan with your pet. Identify all the exits for your escape route, place one family member in charge of the pets, and have leashes and pet emergency items stored near an exit. Run a scenario where you find your pet and get them out of the house and also practice exit open access drills. This will help them get used to coming outside when their name is called out.
  
  
• ID Your Pet
  It's important to microchip your pet or get them a collar with an ID tag. Proper and updated information can help ensure your pet is found and returned home safely if they flee because of the noise and danger of house fire.
  
  
• Keep Your Pet Near an Exit
  You may enjoy giving your pet a free run of the house, but keeping them in a designated area close to the exit provides a better chance of getting out in case of fire. You can achieve this by crating your pet or creating a space in the foyer. If you don't crate, you need to know where your pet likes to nap or hide when stressed or scared.
  
  
• Get Pet Fire Safety Stickers
  Place pet fire stickers on the front and back windows of your home. These will let the firefighters know how many and what kind of pets are in the house.

If you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we understand that you'll be making your pet part of the home-buying process. Our REALTORS® love animals and can help you find a home that's perfect for all family members, including four-legged ones. Contact us today to learn more.

Wednesday, July 7th, is World Chocolate Day! You should celebrate with a trip to a chocolate shop, to get some good, high-quality chocolate. Our REALTORS® can help you find the perfect home for you, but where can you find delicious chocolate in the Long Island area? Here are our picks for the best candy shops and chocolatiers to help you celebrate Chocolate Day the right way.

• Kilwins Chocolates - 109D Main St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
  Kilwins prides itself on both high-quality chocolate and great customer care. With locations all around the country, there's one in Port Jefferson that features both in-store shopping and DoorDash delivery. Their selection includes delicious, hand-paddled fudge (buy two slices, get one free), their signature rich, creamy ice cream, and of course, a variety of chocolates and truffles of all types. Their products are all lovingly made on-site and a treat for anyone who stops by.
  
  
• Chocolate Works - 160 Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington Station, NY 11746
  With several locations around Long Island, including one in Walt Whitman Shops mall in Huntington Station, Chocolate Works has something for every taste and price range. That includes gourmet, Belgian chocolate truffles, hand-dipped, chocolate-covered cinnamon bun pretzels, and a variety of delicious sugar-free options, from vanilla caramels to cognac cherries. You can even special order a chocolate pizza for parties and events. Plus, they offer chocolate workshops, where you and your family can learn to make sweet treats of your own!
  
  
• Sugared Up - 522 Main St., Islip, NY 11751. This Islip gem has both a candy shop and a cafe, which provide a plethora of amazing chocolate products. The candy shop features fresh truffles, chocolate-covered pretzels, and much more, all lovingly handmade. They also do beautiful gift baskets for every occasion. The cafe includes a wide assortment of hand-dipped milkshakes, in every flavor you can imagine, from birthday cake to cookie butter to Nutella and more. So whether you go to the shop, the cafe, or both, Sugared Up is the perfect place to get your chocolate fix.
  
  
• Jacques Torres Chocolate - 630 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY 11530
  Widely known as Mr. Chocolate, Jacques Torres is one of the best chocolatiers anywhere. You may have seen him as the head judge on Netflix's Nailed It! He has several Jacques Torres Chocolate shops around New York, including one in the Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City. There are chocolate chip cookies, macarons, a bonbon counter, and of course, Jacques Torres's signature hot chocolate.
  
  
• Minty's Candies and Treats - 33 S. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815
  Minty's Candies and Treats is a wonderful, locally-owned candy shop in Norwich. Open Tuesday through Saturday, they sell a variety of chocolates and truffles, as well as four different types of fudge: chocolate, peanut butter, chocolate peanut butter, and chocolate nut. They also sell several different types of chocolate pizza, both whole and by the slice - and don't forget the chocolate wings! Minty's even sells a selection of retro candies that many customers may remember from their youth, such as Mallo Cups and Charleston Chew bars. Whatever you're looking for, Minty's has just about everything you need to celebrate World Chocolate Day.

Whether you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, there's guaranteed to be some excellent chocolate nearby. Contact us to help you find a home in the area that's convenient to everything you need.

Finding a new home is always a difficult proposition, not just for the home itself but for the neighborhood. There are plenty of Nassau County homes for sale, but when you move in, will you be able to go horseback riding regularly, like you used to? Don't worry. Here are just a few amazing horseback riding trails and facilities in and around Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the Long Island area.

• Nassau Equestrian Center - 62 Route 106, Jericho, NY 11753
  The Nassau Equestrian Center is a great place for both beginner and expert riders. They have a variety of beautiful paths to ride, plus lessons for all skill levels, in either English or Western saddle style, beginning at 6 years old. Nassau Equestrian Center prides itself on happy horses and clean, comfortable facilities. They also offer riding parties for children, providing horses, riding assistants, and more to make your child's birthday or other event one to remember.
  
  
• Big River Barn Rescue - 1864 Muttontown Rd., Syosset, NY 11791
  The trails at Big River Barn Rescue are by appointment only, but they're well worth the extra effort. Their riding trails feature beautiful woods and meadows, and other amazing scenery. As their name implies, they also function as a horse rescue, helping rehabilitate racehorses and other types of horses from injuries. Any horse you ride at Big River Barn will be a rescue. Rides can range from just over an hour to over four hours and are available to riders of all skill levels.
  
  
• Bethpage Equestrian Center - 499 Winding Rd., Old Bethpage, NY 11804
  While Big River Barn rehabilitates horses, Bethpage Equestrian Center uses horses as therapy for people. Their therapeutic riding program teaches both children and adults how to ride, to provide physical exercise, as well as social and emotional well-being. The beautiful park also offers regular lessons in English and Western styles, as well as camps, birthday parties, and more. It's a beautiful and relaxing place to come and bring your kids or just yourself.
  
  
• Babylon Riding Center - 1500 Peconic Ave., West Babylon, NY 11704
  Available by appointment only, Babylon Riding Center is a great spot for beginners, providing lessons in either 30- or 60-minute blocks. They also have beautiful trail rides – either guided tours or on your own. The guided tours also include riding instruction, plus a photo of you in front of the lake.
  
  
• Suffolk Equestrian Academy - 188 Bellport Ave., Medford, NY 11756
  Suffolk Equestrian Academy is a gorgeous, 10-acre facility, perfect for both experienced and beginning riders alike. They provide lessons for children as well as adults and have horse leasing programs for students to get more riding time on their own. They also offer summer camps and other seasonal camp programs, plus party services.
  
  
• Knoll Farm - 849 Suffolk Ave., Brentwood, NY 11717
  In addition to great trails, Knoll Farm has top-notch boarding services for people looking for a place for their own horse. Horses are turned out every day and can be given grooming, bathing, tacking, and whatever else they may need. Or, if you don't have your own horse, Knoll Farm has them available for lease. They have both indoor and outdoor facilities and offer lessons for all skill levels. You can learn basic riding, or competition riding, jumping, and more.

Whether you're looking for Nassau or Suffolk County homes for sale, we can provide you with just what you need, with great options for horseback riding and other activities, right at your fingertips. Contact us to find a home that's right for you.

With mortgage rates at historic lows, 2021 is a great time to buy a home. If you fall in love with a property, you should definitely consider making an early offer, or you might lose out, considering the market is a strong seller's market. Our REALTORS® can help you craft the perfect proposal, one that couples financial details with the nuances of negotiations to help you close on the house of your dreams.

Currently, the housing market remains open, and the demand to buy is high. But housing inventory is low, and it's easy to find yourself in a bidding war with other homebuyers. The offer of purchase opens the communication channels that lead to the final deal.

Making an offer is not a choice you should make lightly. But just how long should you wait before you make an offer?

Here's everything you need to know about making an early offer.

The Early Bid Gets the Worm

When you're in the market for a new home, you shouldn't wait too long after finding a house that's a good fit before making an offer. You should submit a bid as soon as you're sure you want to buy it.

Typically in a seller's market, sellers prefer to keep their houses longer on the open market to give buyers plenty of time to visit and bid on the home. Knowing this, many buyers hesitate to make an early offer thinking they're at a disadvantage. However, in a fast-moving market, a pre-emptive offer may get you the house that you want. Remember, good homes get snatched up pretty quickly.

When is an early offer your best bet? If you have preapproval and have done your research, then you should make an early bid. There's no point in waiting if you have everything in order. You never know who else is interested.

A popular saying in real estate is: the first offer is the best offer. There's no other point when a house is most attractive than when it's first listed. And this works in favor of those who make early offers.

House-hunting tip: To make your offer attractive, shorten the contingency period to a week or so. This way, you won't constrain the seller's marketing time if the deal fails to go through.

Use Caution with Early Offers

While an early offer may get you the house, you're unlikely to make a bargain in the process. For pre-emptive offers to be considered, they must be high to garner attention. You must be willing to pay a higher price when you make an early offer so you can't have any doubts about the house.

It's clear that your bid will have to stand out when competing against other buyers. You'll need to be strategic, and a personal touch could give you the edge you need.

• Write a personal letter. Most people have a special attachment to their homes, and a heartfelt letter could make your offer more attractive.
  
  
• If you can, offer to absorb a few of the closing cost fees. This will stick in the seller's mind and can sometimes be the difference between you and other buyers.
  
  
• Submit a clean, fair proposal and back it up with the required documentation such as preapproval letters and proof of funds.

Make an Offer on a House the Right Way

Don't shy away from making an offer on a house you love just because the market is competitive. It doesn't cost a thing to make an offer. The right real estate agent will guide you through the process and work to find you the right home for you.

Ready to make an offer on a new home? We can help. Contact us today and tour our beautiful Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale.

Are you a nature lover or a photography buff? If so, you're going to love exploring the Long Island area! Nature Photography Day is June 15th, making now the perfect time to experiment with this fun hobby. Whether you've got a ton of fancy equipment or just your smartphone, there are plenty of opportunities to get some great shots. 

While showing new residents around the area, Our REALTORS® often point out some of their favorite places to capture incredible nature photos. Here are a few you'll want to check out. 

• Sands Point Preserve: 127 Middle Neck Rd., Port Washington, NY 11050
  A historic site where you'll find plenty of walking trails and gorgeous views, Sands Point Preserve is the perfect place to spend a few peaceful hours practicing your photography skills. In addition to wildlife, there are also plenty of spots to get some beautiful waterfront snapshots as well as old and interesting buildings to photograph.
  
  If you're considering purchasing one of the beautiful Port Washington homes for sale, you're going to want to make this a regular stop. They often host learning adventures for children and families, cultural events, and more!
  
  
• Muttontown Preserve: 25A west of Jericho-Oyster Bay Rd., Muttontown Lane East Norwich, NY 11732
  The 550-acre Muttontown Preserve is the largest nature preserve in Nassau County. This beautiful setting features ponds, woodlands, and fields where you're bound to come across plenty of animals in their natural habitat.
  
  Next time you're in the area looking at East Norwich homes for sale, take a break and wander the preserve's miles of marked trails. This is a great spot to capture stunning shots of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other animals, as well as beautiful trees and wildflowers. 

• Centennial Gardens: 251 Floral Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11001
  If you've been looking at Floral Park homes for sale, you're going to love living near Centennial Gardens. This is an incredible location for capturing images of flowers, shrubs, and trees, as well as various wildlife. Take some time to visit the well-maintained gardens or head out to explore the walking trails and see what kinds of things you might come across.
  
  
• South Shore Nature Center: 130 Bayview Ave, East Islip, NY 11730
  The South Shore Nature Center is a 200-acre preserve that features freshwater wetlands, mature forests, and an extensive salt marsh. Try exploring the network of trails and taking some photographs from the boardwalks. 
  
  If you're nearby looking at East Islip homes for sale, this is the perfect spot to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
  
  
• Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve: 25 Lloyd Harbor Road Huntington, NY 11743
  Ideal for capturing beautiful photos of a wide variety of birds, flowers, and small wildlife, Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. You'll enjoy the beautiful gardens as well as the rest of these impressive grounds. 
  
  After you're done with your photography session, we highly recommend taking a drive around so you can get a look at some of the wonderful Huntington homes for sale nearby.
  
  
• Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve: 200 New Hwy, Commack, NY 11725
  When we're showing Commack homes for sale to our clients, we always like to tell them about Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve. Not only is this an excellent destination for nature photography, but it also features a museum, playground, water park, and more. The preserve is also home to a concert series, education programs, and other exciting events. 

If you're interested in exploring Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we're here to help! We've assisted many clients in finding their dream homes, and we can do the same for you. Contact us today to get started. 

If you're a baby boomer who's close to retirement or already retired, it may be time to sell your home. With current home prices at an all-time high and multiple buyers competing for properties, our REALTORS® are witnessing a seller's market that's booming. Downsizing right now may be a great decision for your golden years.

In Nassau and Suffolk counties, home sales are competitive. Buyers are flooding the market looking for properties that suit their lifestyle and finances. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median price for all types of homes has jumped 14.6% from prices just one year ago, especially in the suburbs where low inventory is pushing prices up even higher. If retirement is on the horizon, selling your home could provide many benefits.

Selling Your Home

Selling your home in such a competitive market can actually save you money. With so many buyers looking for homes, you may save money on home repairs and upgrades. You don't need to do a major renovation to attract interested buyers, just concentrate on necessities.

• Check the Roof
  The roof is an important home feature that protects against inclement weather conditions and interior damages. Before listing your home, inspect your roof for damages such as cracked or missing shingles, water leaks, sun damage, rusted gutters, and signs of tree and insect damages. There's no need to replace your roof just because it's old.
  
  
• Check Mechanical Systems
  It's important to make sure major mechanical systems are working properly. This includes your heating and air conditioning system (HVAC), hot water heater, and all major appliances. Homebuyers are often hesitant to purchase a home with mechanical problems because repairs can be quite costly. If you have mechanical issues, some buyers will accept a home warranty at closing that covers the first year.
  
  
• Invest in Minor Upgrades
  Homebuyers place a lot of emphasis on a home's upkeep. If a home looks run down, buyers may assume the home has major unseen problems, as well as visible cosmetic problems. Before you list your home, spend some time and money on minor repairs and upgrades that buyers will notice. Waxing floors, shampooing carpets, painting walls and trim, and re-caulking sinks and tubs can make a big difference.
  
  
• Declutter Your House
  If you're approaching retirement, you may have lived in your current home for 20 or 30 years. You've likely accumulated a variety of household items that are filling your cabinets, closets, and storage areas. Homes that feel cluttered and unorganized can send potential buyers right out the door. To make sure your home feels comfortable and appealing, get rid of unwanted items, clean out cabinets and closets, replace worn-out rugs and window treatments, and give your home a good cleaning before you put it on the market.
  
  Selling your home may be a good way to fund your lifestyle during retirement. Downsizing to a smaller home may allow you to pay cash for the property and put some money aside for things you want to do such as decorating a new home, buying a new car or boat, visiting family and friends, exploring new hobbies, and traveling to favorite destinations.

If you're interested in Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we can help you find available properties that fit your lifestyle and finances. Contact us to see how downsizing can create an easier, less stressful, and more enjoyable retirement.

When you live in an area, having a deep understanding of its geography will help you navigate it and acquire a profound appreciation for its culture and history. Map Reading Week is the perfect opportunity to explore your community, so get out your print maps May 24th and refresh your map-reading skills.

As you get to discover the gorgeous properties and the rich history of Long Island, here are some places our REALTORS® have compiled that are definitely worth a stop.

• Muttontown Preserve - 6191 NY-25A, East Norwich, NY 11732
  With its woodlands, ponds, and estate grounds, Muttontown Preserve is Nassau's County's largest nature preserve. For history lovers, Muttontown Preserve is cobbled from three separate estates dating back hundreds of years and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  
  So whether you want to explore miles of marked nature trails or explore these East Norwich homes for sale located in the vibrant community that's the Village of Muttontown, you should give this place a visit.
  
  
• Centennial Gardens - 251 Floral Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11001
  Centennial Gardens is possibly one of the most serene places on Long Island. The Gardens were custom-made by volunteers and the Floral Park Conservation Society, transforming what was once a formerly debris-strewn storm basin into a scenic garden featuring scores of flowers and trees, as well as a magnificent bird sanctuary.
  
  Conveniently located near these Floral Park homes for sale on the western edge of Nassau County, Centennial Gardens is a great place to learn a thing or two about flowers, birds, and gardening.
  
  
• Old Westbury Gardens - 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury, NY 11568
  Old Westbury Gardens is an elegant estate with formal gardens sprawling over 200 acres. It's a spectacular estate that has been featured in dozen of movies and TV shows. You're welcome to explore the gardens and the English manor house furnished with priceless antiques and decorative artwork.
  
  Like these other Garden City homes for sale, the Old Westbury gardens feature some of the most serene and beautiful gardens in the world. What's more, their Café in the woods is reopening just in time for Map Reading Week.
  
  
• Blydenburgh County Park - Veteran's Memorial Hwy., Smithtown, NY 11788
  With its richly forested hills at the headwaters of the Nissequogue River, Blydenburgh County Park is great for hiking, trail running, picnicking, camping, and freshwater fishing for pumpkinseed sunfish and large-mouth bass.
  
  Horseback riders can trailer their mounts on the extensive bridle path system or take them to the practice ring. Located in Smithtown, just a few miles from these Smithtown homes for sale, there's no better place to relax on a lovely warm summer afternoon.
  
  
• Cedar Beach nature Center - Harbor Beach Rd., Mt Sinai, 11766
  Located within the town of Brookhaven, Cedar Beach Nature Center provides residents with a place to experience and enjoy the natural environment. You can take a walk along the 700-foot boardwalk within the dune system that's a critical habitat for marine plants and animals.
  
  The nature center has living displays, including aquariums and an outdoor touch tank. You can also experience an animated view of marine life through interactive interior displays. The walking trail and fishing pier will draw you in, whereas the wildlife will leave you enamored. Located in the hamlet of Mount Sinai close to these Mount Sinai homes for sale, the Cedar Beach Nature Preserve is a great place to visit for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
  
  
• Avalon Nature Preserve - Harbor Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  Avalon Nature preserve is home to some of the most enchanting nature trails in New York. By taking a walk through the preserve, you'll be able to discover scenic spaces that will leave you in absolute awe. Avalon's breath-taking meadows and woodlands provide essential habitats protecting the local watershed and plant plus wildlife species.
  
  In the town of Stony Brook, natural wonders and beauty are in abundance. With so much to explore, including these Stony Brook homes for sale, this little slice of Suffolk County is a wonderful place to explore and call home.

Making Long Island Home

Contact us today to learn more about life and home in Long Island. Our team is always on call to help you find the perfect Suffolk County homes for sale or Nassau County homes for sale.

Burgers are the mainstay of many restaurants, and whether you prefer a simple, classic patty or a burger made with prime meats and garnished with upscale toppings, you'll find what you love at a local restaurant. And with the entire month of May designated as Burger Month, you'll have plenty of time to scope out Long Island burger destinations and add some to your list of favorites.
  
Our REALTORS® suggest ordering a burger off the menu of some of these Long Island restaurants during Burger Month:  

• The Burger Spot – 150 7th St., Garden City, NY 11530
  The Burger Spot, located near Garden City homes for sale, serves made-to-order gourmet burgers in a casual, comfortable setting. They're made using the finest quality grass-fed USDA Angus beef that's fresh and never frozen. Even the brioche and ciabatta buns are baked daily at a local artisan bakery. Classic and creative signature burgers are available, with selections like the Athenian, topped with feta, lettuce, red onion, tomato, cucumber, extra-virgin olive oil, and herbs.
  
  
• The Rex Burger & Lobster – 524 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501  
  You might find the menu at The Rex Burger & Lobster, located near Nassau County homes for sale, to be more limited than your typical burger restaurant. That's because their goal is to make their food extraordinarily delicious and judging by the awards, their burgers and lobster dishes have received, that's just what they're doing. Treat yourself to The Rex Burger, made with all-natural angus beef and topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, grilled onions, and Rex sauce. 
    
• Black Label Burgers – 683 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590
  It all starts with the beef at Black Label Burgers, and they don't just use any ordinary type. It's USDA prime beef from a farm in Washington state that's known for its responsible practices and superior beef. As good as it is, you can upgrade to aged beef, which is even more tender and flavorful. Try a burger and its beer recommendation paired with truffle fries or sweet potato fries and a side of the restaurant's marshmallow sauce. 
    
• Gourmet Burger Bistro – 5 Mill Creek Rd., Port Jefferson, NY 11777  
  Gourmet Burger Bistro, located just around the corner from Port Jefferson homes for sale, aims for the feel of an upscale bistro that offers traditional and new-world burgers. The selection of gourmet burgers is long, and you'll be able to choose from a brioche, sesame, 7-grain, or pretzel bun. Each burger comes with fried onion strings, but you can substitute roasted fingerling potatoes or mixed vegetables. 
    
• Go Burger – 271 Route 25A Mount Sinai, NY 11766  
  Located near Mount Sinai homes for sale, Go Burger keeps their burgers simple and tasty. Try a single burger with a 5-ounce patty, or double it up with two patties. Garden burgers are also available if you'd like to avoid meat. Sides included sweet potato fries and loaded chili cheese fries, and you can finish off your meal with an egg cream. 
  
  
• Prime Burger Bar – 6092 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY 11725  
  Prime Burger Bar, located near Commack homes for sale, is a popular neighborhood spot that's comfortable and welcoming. You'll be able to build your own burger with the restaurant's proprietary blend of USDA Prime chuck, short rib, and ribeye steaks. If you'd prefer to skip the beef, you can choose turkey, ahi tuna, lamb, or vegan Beyond burgers.

Contact us to see Nassau and Suffolk County homes for sale. Our agents know the area well and can help your transaction proceed smoothly so you can buy your dream home as quickly as possible.

Giving your home's interior a fresh coat of paint is a quick, affordable way to update design style, even when you have a limited budget. Our REALTORS® know that new paint can quickly transform a drab, outdated room into a room with spectacular ambiance and style that appeals to homebuyers.

Choosing the right paint color is essential for a well-designed space, but it can be a difficult task. With thousands of colors that range from pale neutrals to bright bold hues, finding the perfect paint color is often a frustrating and costly experience that leads to repainting. To get it right the first time, interior design pros recommend these important design tips.

• Don't Start With the Paint
  Choosing your paint color first may seem like an easy way to get things started, but it's not a good idea unless your room is completely empty. Most people have existing furnishings and accessories they plan to keep, so paint must coordinate with existing items. Unless you're starting with an empty house, it's much easier to choose a paint color that complements your existing décor, rather than choosing new décor that works with your paint color.
  
  
• Work With Testers
  Working with testers helps you choose the right color the first time, so you don't waste time and money on repainting. Most paint brands now have small test cans of paint available for only a few bucks. You can paint tester strips directly on the wall or on separate pieces of poster board that can be moved around the room. Whichever method you choose, leave the test areas up for a week to see how colors change at different times of day and in different light.
  
  
• Consider Undertones
  All paints have undertones that reflect different tints and shades, depending on how they are mixed. White paint comes in at least 100 different shades with undertones of yellow, orange, red, green, blue, and violet. A white paint with red undertones may appear pink on the wall, while green undertones may give white paint a hint of mint or lime. Dark colors may also have undertones that impact light and density.
  
  
• Consider the Light
  When choosing a paint color, it's essential to consider the amount of natural light the room gets during the day. If your room has several windows for sunlight, dark bold colors will be easier to live with, because the natural light will make them feel a little softer. If your room has no windows or minimal sunlight, you must rely on interior lighting, which can change paint colors due to incandescent, fluorescent, or halogen light bulbs.
  
  
• Choose the Right Finish
  Paint finish is important because any sheen in the paint will accent flaws in the wall. When choosing a paint color, make sure you get the right finish for areas you are painting:

  • Flat Paint – Matte finishes are good for walls and ceilings because they have no sheen at all. They are recommended for stucco and textured walls and ceilings with uneven surfaces where paint colors can look distorted due to a build-up of paint.

  • Enamel Paint – These come in flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finishes. Eggshell and satin finishes have a little sheen, while semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes have a lot. While sheen helps with cleaning, it also reflects light and highlights flaws.

If you're looking for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we can help you find your dream home. Contact us for opportunities in those areas.

A short getaway to experience nature can help you feel refreshed while also allowing you to get in a bit of exercise along the way. Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island have several spots that serve as an oasis where you can get away in gardens and nature preserves that are conveniently close by.
  
Our REALTORS® suggest visiting the following destinations to help you enjoy the great outdoors in Long Island.    

1. Centennial Gardens – 251 Floral Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11001  
   Centennial Gardens contains eight different gardens, allowing you to experience several types within the same location. Situated near Floral Park homes for sale, the gardens range from formal planted settings to individual plantings and gardens in a more natural setting. And since walking paths include ones that are hilly and provide a good workout, and those that can easily be navigated with strollers or wheelchairs, you can choose the ones that best suits you. As you explore the gardens, you can also enjoy a waterfall as well as a beautiful wooden walking bridge.
     
2. Champlin Creek Nature Preserve – 50 Irish Lane, East Islip, NY 11730   
   Champlin Creek Nature Preserve flows between Islip and East Islip and is home to a fish and wildlife habitat that's about 3.5 miles long. Located near East Islip homes for sale, the creek is a free-flowing freshwater stream bordered by wet forest land in some areas. It's known for having conditions favorable to brook trout, and brown and rainbow trout are also stocked in the stream.
     
3. Elderfields – 200 Port Washington Blvd., Manhasset NY 11030  
   Elderfields is not only a nature preserve but also a historic museum and farm, so it has plenty to see and do. It comprises four acres and is located near Manhasset homes for sale. You'll find a walled garden on the property, which is also home to the Hewlett-Munson-Williams House from the 17th century, making it one of the oldest existing homes in the area. Elderfields also houses an arts center with a museum of antique decorative arts, studio space, arts classrooms, and more. Art shows are regularly scheduled at the center.
     
4. Muttontown Preserve – 25A West of Jericho-Oyster Bay Road, Muttontown Lane, East Norwich, NY 11732  
   Nassau County's largest nature preserve, Muttontown Preserve has marked trails that stretch for miles and is located near East Norwich homes for sale. Before you start, pick up a map and brochure that include descriptions of the areas along the trails. You'll be able to see wildflowers, trees, and birds along the way and may also spot some mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
     
5. Islip Meadows County Nature Preserve – 350 Bayview Ave., East Islip, NY 11730  
   If you're looking for a bit of untouched nature, head to Islip Meadows County Nature Preserve, which comprises over 87 acres. It includes tall grasses, wetlands, and a small beach to enjoy. You can also walk 1.75 miles of trails and see wildlife, including waterfowl, along the way at this preserve.

Contact us if you'd like to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. We can help you find one that's near the destinations you'll most enjoy. 

Moving your home isn't as easy as hiring professional movers, and voila, everything is done. No matter how competent the movers are, there are still several tasks to take care of before the crew makes an appearance on the scheduled moving day. Our REALTORS® know that starting the moving preparations well in advance can give your moving adventure considerable momentum and make for a pleasant experience. Following are the top five things you still need to do before the moving company arrives.

1. Declutter, Clean, and Organize
   Let's not drag dust, dirt, and unused items from your old home to your new one. Before moving day, unplug and clean electrical appliances, remove batteries from devices, empty drawers, bookshelves, and cupboards, wash and dry clothes and linens, throw out garbage and wash trash cans, drain the fuel out of any-fuel powered tools, and wipe surfaces clean. Pre-pack small and valuable items to ensure they don't go missing during the move. Also, go through your things and set aside items you haven't used in the past year. Give some to close friends and family members, have a yard sale, donate to charity organizations, or get rid of worthless stuff. This will lighten the load and cut your moving costs considerably.
   
   
2. Establish a No-Pack Zone
   Before movers arrive, take all the items that you don't want your movers to pack or load on the truck into a separate room. These items include valuables of all kinds, essentials boxes, personal documents, and small electronic devices of crucial importance. Just to be safe, mark that room as a no-pack or no-entry zone and consider locking it. If you can't afford to spare an entire room for such items, cordon off one section of a room and make it identifiable as a no-pack zone. Also, be sure to mark any household items that won't be relocated to your new home.
   
   
3. Plan for Kids and Pets
   As movers march in and out of your house, carrying furniture and heavy boxes, the conditions in your home will be downright dangerous for your pets and kids. They could be trapped, stepped on, injured, or crushed in the commotion. Their routine will be disturbed, and they may get scared or upset by the activities and new faces. Your furry family members could also slip out through an open door. As such, it's important to leave your pets and small kids with a relative, close friend, or a sitter. That way, you won't have to constantly keep an eye on your curious toddler or snoopy dog and will be able to focus on the urgent matters at hand.
   
   
4. Prepare Your Home for the Movers
   You want to make sure the movers can easily maneuver your items around and leave your home in good condition. Cover floors, carpets, stairs, and walls with protective materials, place doormats in front of entrances, take decorations from the wall, add foam padding to your door frames, and use corner guards to prevent denting or chipping. You should also check your rugs and floors for anything that could be hazardous during the move, like slack or bunched carpeting or loose floorboards. Also, measure all doorways and hallways that your appliances, furniture, and other large items will pass through to ensure they will fit. You may have to remove trim or take doors off of their hinges to make spaces wider.
   
   
5. Inventory All Your Possessions
   Keep an itemized checklist of everything you're moving. This will serve as proof of the contents of your household shipment if something goes missing or gets damaged during the move. It's a good idea to take photos of expensive items to prove their condition before they're loaded on the moving truck. After packing, make sure to label each box based on its corresponding room in your new home. This will make unpacking easier.

Ready to put your house on the market among Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale? We encourage you to contact us and find out how we can help.

You've probably heard this before, but a contractor can make or break your remodeling or home addition project. Finding the right contractor will determine the timeliness and quality of work, and the amount of financial and emotional stress you'll have to deal with. Before paying thousands of dollars for the job, you'll want to carefully screen potential contractors and make sure they know what they're doing. Our REALTORS® have collated a list of questions to ask before you hire a contractor.

• How Long Have You Been Working in This Town?
  When hiring a contractor, you want to know how much experience they have and how long they've been working in your local area. A contractor who has been around the block for a few years is more likely to have a proven track record. They're a safer bet than a contractor planning to commute to your home from 50 miles away.
  
  
• Are You a Licensed Contractor?
  Licensing is an important element in the construction industry. A licensed contractor will have extensive knowledge about local building laws, follow proper safety guidelines, and complete your work on time. If you hire an unlicensed contractor, they may disappear after doing half the work, and you'll be on your own when it comes to resolving the issue. And it's not just important to have a license; you want to make sure it's applicable to the types of project you're looking to have completed.
  
  
• Are You Insured?
  In response to this question, you want to hear that the contractor has general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. The last thing you need is to pay for repairs when a worker hits a water line and floods your house or pay for the medical expenses of a worker who got injured while working on your property. Ask to see a copy of the contractor's insurance policy to ascertain that they have insurance, and it's enough to cover your home if things go sour.
  
  
• How Long Will the Remodeling Take?
  An experienced contractor should give you a projected timeline for the completion of the project. But it's also worth noting that construction isn't always cut and dry. Behind existing walls or floors might be hidden damage or problems that call for additional work. Ask your contractor about the possibility of delays and how necessary changes to the timeline will be addressed.
  
  
• Would You Itemize Your Bid?
  There are so many things to keep track of during a remodel. Some contractors will give you a bottom-line quote for your project, but this will leave you in the dark about payment breakdown for each aspect of the job. You'll stay saner and more secure if you're given an itemized bid that shows the cost for all elements of the job. Also, make sure you discuss the payment terms before the work begins. Do not pay a large sum of money upfront.
  
  
• Got References?
  Speaking to past clients and gathering their input is one of the best ways to find out about a contractor's work. Call and ask questions about the contractor's quality of work, adherence to budget and timeline, ease of communication, willingness to fix projects after the project is completed, and how they keep the work area clean.
  
  
• Who Will be Doing the Work?
  Ideally, the contractor should handle the entire project with just their own crew. You'll want to know if the same team will be working on your home each day and whether the contractor works with subcontractors. Find out if they've had their background checked and covered by the contractor's workers' comp and liability insurance. Don't forget to ask about site-management and the point of contact between you and the company.

This is not an all-encompassing list, but it will help you get the conversation started. Remodeling your home or building an addition can make your home a more enjoyable place to live. And if you decide to add your home to the pool of Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk homes for sale, the right improvements can really separate your home in the market. Contact us today to learn more.

What's the best thing to do when you settle into a new house? If you are like our REALTORS®, you will fall into your favorite chair and pick up a book to relax. With National Library Week scheduled for April 4-10, there is plenty of time to browse the local libraries' shelves for the perfect book to read. 

Suffolk County Libraries

• Commack Public Library - 18 Hauppauge Rd., Commack, NY 11725
  Located in the heart of Huntington near Commack homes for sale, the Commack Public Library is a great place to kick up your heels and dig into a delicious book. It's the perfect place to find books about decorating, how-to-repairs, and much more.
  
  
• Huntington Public Library - 338 Main St., Huntington, NY 11743
  Hunting for the perfect book is easy at the Huntington Public Library, conveniently located near these Huntington homes for sale. The library holds a vast selection of children's books, classics, how-to books, and so much more. All you have to do is decide which ones pique your interest the most.
  
  
• Port Jefferson Free Library - 100 Thompson St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777-1897
  After buying any of the fabulous Suffolk County homes for sale, the favorite word of most new homeowners is "free!" At the Port Jefferson Free Library, you'll find plenty of books and other media that won't cost you a dime. Well, unless you bring them back late. 

Nassau County Libraries

• Floral Park Public Library - 17 Caroline Pl., Floral Park, NY 11001
  The Floral Park Library is ideal for finding a book and enjoying some beautiful scenery when you're done looking at Floral Park homes for sale. The library features a broad selection of children's books, how-to books, teen books, and books for every interest and desire.
  
  
• Hewlett - Woodmere Public Library - 1125 Broadway, Hewlett, NY 11557
  The Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library is a regional favorite. Their vast collection of books is one of the best in the region. The library also offers a busy social calendar packed with classes and activities, and it's easy to see why so many families enjoy spending time here after they find the perfect Hewlett homes for sale to move into.
  
  
• Manhasset Public Library - 30 Onderdonk Avenue, Manhasset, NY 11030
  Searching for Nassau County homes for sale can be exhausting. When you want to catch your breath, stop by the stately Manhasset Public Library. You will find friendly service and helpful librarians who can cater to every interest you can imagine. 

Notes About Library Visits

Pandemic protocols are in place at every library in Suffolk and Nassau counties. This means libraries may close, may limit access, and may request visitors limit the duration of their visits. For the time being, it's advisable to call ahead to make sure the library is open. And, what if you don't feel like driving in? No problem, because most are offering home delivery services! 

It is also tax season, and many libraries are offering community tax clinics from now through mid-April. This may increase foot traffic and limit access. However, it's also a great opportunity to ask those last-minute tax questions you may have. 

We invite you to contact us when you are ready to learn more about the homes we have for sale. It's our pleasure to tell you more about the communities we serve and help you find the perfect home for you and your family.

Communities across Long Island have always held a deep love for history, culture, the arts, and scientific discovery, so it's no surprise that our area is home to a wide variety of fascinating museums for all ages. Exploring museums near Suffolk County homes for sale is a great way to discover new things, and many Long Island museums are currently open with online reservations for timed entry. Our REALTORS® have the exciting details on six one-of-a-kind museums that you definitely won't want to miss around Long Island.

1. Science Museum of Long Island – 1526 N. Plandome Rd., Manhasset, NY 11030
   Located on the beautiful Leeds Pond Preserve near Manhasset homes for sale, you'll find the Science Museum of Long Island. Programs at the Science Museum of Long Island are designed to help children discover and fall in love with science through interactive learning. There are after-school workshops every weekday, and the museum is also open for fun events like birthday parties.

2. Cradle of Aviation Museum – Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
   Conveniently located near Garden City homes for sale, the Cradle of Aviation Museum is a must-see for anyone who's interested in aviation. Visitors of all ages will love exploring the more than 75 air and spacecraft on display at the museum, as well as fun displays like the Back to the Future exhibit. This museum is also home to a state-of-the-art planetarium, where you can take a journey to the stars.

3. Long Island Children's Museum – 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, NY 11530
   Kids near Nassau County homes for sale are sure to love a trip to the Long Island Children's Museum, where they can learn, play, and discover through exciting, interactive exhibits. There are 14 unique exhibits for kids to explore, along with live theater, arts programs, play spaces, and special events throughout the year.

4. Long Island Museum – 1200 NY-25A, Stony Brook, NY 11790
   Commonly shortened to the Long Island Museum, the Long Island Museum of Art, History, and Carriages is a great place to learn about local history near Stony Brook homes for sale. The Long Island Museum is located on a large, scenic estate, with living history exhibits like a historic schoolhouse, blacksmith, and carriage shed. There's also an art museum on-site, and beautiful gardens to explore as you move from one exhibit to the next.

5. Hecksher Museum of Art – 2 Prime Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
   There are a variety of art museums close to Huntington homes for sale, and the Hecksher Museum of Art is one of the best. With exhibits displaying a mix of emerging, contemporary artists and famed artists from throughout history, the Hecksher Museum of Art offers something for every art lover. There are also a variety of art classes available, including programs for kids.

6. Long Island Explorium – 101 E Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   If you're looking for a fun, educational way to entertain the kids around Port Jefferson homes for sale, your whole family will love visiting the Long Island Explorium. With programs built on a detailed curriculum that's crafted to inspire learning, creativity, and problem-solving, the Long Island Explorium strives to make learning a fun, engaging experience for children. There are also 19 interactive exhibits, designed for hands-on learning.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to explore all that Long Island has to offer? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Long Island, NY area.

If you're planning to put your Long Island home on the market, you'll want to highlight available space to potential buyers. Our REALTORS® are familiar with ways to squeeze every last bit of utility out of any space. In fact, there are many rooms in your house that can do double-duty to appeal to buyers.

• Double Down in the Dining Room
  The dining room gets used for special events and holidays. The rest of the year it sits fairly empty. Adding book cabinets and a secretary desk can turn it into a cozy library or office space that buyers will appreciate when you decide to sell.
  
  
• Craft Away in the Laundry Room
  Like the dining room, the laundry room can be so much more. It is the perfect space to transform into a craft area, workshop, or even an ad hoc home office. Cabinets, counters, built-in desks, and good lighting are the keys to making this double-duty transformation work.
  
  
• Disappearing Guest Rooms
  If you have an extra bedroom dedicated as a guest bedroom, it is probably not a room you use all too often. While friends and family may come to visit from time to time, the rest of the time, the room goes unused. An easy fix is to transform it into a home office with a murphy bed inset within the walls. This allows you to use it as a comfortable home office throughout the year and convert it into a guest bedroom for that handful of days when family and friends are in town.
  
  
• Fully Functional Family Rooms
  Kids need a place to play but not quite ready to sacrifice the living room? You can have both by building a play center in the corner of your family room. This allows the kids to swing, slide, climb, and more while you watch your favorite programs, spend time together, and more.
  
  
• Home Gyms Double-up as Children's Daycare
  If you install mats, good lighting, a television, and a decent sound system, you can get twice the bang out of your home gym. Add in some cubbies for toys and books, a fold-down table, tiny chairs, etc., and you can get your workout before work, and the kids can take over the space while you are away for the day. Indeed, you will see this in many Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Build the Sunroom You Desire
  Sunrooms are the ultimate fun rooms buyers love. They can be used as an ad hoc library, TV room, breakfast room, family room, craft space, tea room, greenhouse, and anything you desire. These are some of the easiest additions to build, right on top of existing patio space.

Looking to put your house on the market among Suffolk County homes for sale? Contact us, and it will be our pleasure to help.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and sometimes it's good to give in to your heart's desires. Remodeling your kitchen is a tried and tested way to breathe fresh life into your home. It's a project that our REALTORS® guarantee will go a long way toward enhancing your comfort and adding to your home's resale value. As you consider all the options, be certain to note the following kitchen trends for 2021.

• Marble Beats Granite
  Granite was the go-to stone of the '90s and the start of the new millennium. However, as tastes have evolved, marble has emerged as the trendiest stone for kitchens and bathrooms. Heavily veined marble is the epitome of luxury and will give a durable finish to your counters, backsplashes, and more.

• Wood is Back in Style
  Wood is undergoing a revival, and while cherry and oak have held the title of most popular in the past, modern homes are opting for the inclusion of subtle-grained ash and other lighter woods. When choosing wood, choose one with a well-defined grain and light finish that will add an airy, sophisticated ambiance to your remodeled kitchen.

• Enjoy the Lush Luxury of Dark Walls
  Dark-colored walls create a sharp contrast against light-grained woods and white marble countertops. Black or brown paint, or dark-colored tiles, can create a luxurious backdrop for family gatherings and everyday living.

• Islands Emerge From the Floor
  If you have a larger kitchen, islands are fabulous to create a focal point for gatherings in the kitchen. If you have a large kitchen, double islands are a feature worth exploring. However, be careful not to try and put an island or a double island in a small kitchen as this can make the room feel closed in and cluttered.

• The Jetson's Meet the Jones'
  The inclusion of technology in the kitchen is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Installing smart screens, smart appliances, and other smart home technology will make it easier to listen to your favorite music while you cook, pull up recipes, and even manage your pantry and shopping lists.

• Storage Takes Center Stage
  Storage space is always at a premium in the kitchen. That will never change. What has changed is that many older kitchens have plenty of wasted space that is now being converted into usable storage for appliances, spices, foodstuffs, linens, etc. In fact, you will see many Nassau County homes for sale where interior designers have found some creative ways to add shelves and cabinets to the kitchen to open the space up while providing ample storage in the process.

• Pantry Space is at a Premium
  One thing the pandemic has done is change the way we shop. Many families have prioritized having a ready supply of food on hand "just in case." Of course, more food requires more space, which is why you will see plenty of Suffolk County homes for sale where the owners have converted closets and other spaces into walk-in pantries. Not only does this create ample space for storage, but it also makes it easier to organize your foodstuffs.

We invite you to contact us to learn more about the kitchen trends we recommend our clients incorporate in their properties. It is our pleasure to answer your questions and help you find the best kitchen design team to create the kitchen of your dreams. 

Alright, who wants coffee? Our REALTORS® count themselves lucky to live on Long Island, a place with more great coffee shops than just about anywhere. 

In honor of National Barista Day—coming right up on March 1st—we thought we'd give a shout-out to some of our favorite places to get a cup of Joe in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. While you're there, be sure to thank your barista for helping you make it through the day!

• Kookaburra Coffee Co. - 69 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  Founded in 2007, Kookaburra Coffee Co. offers an expertly curated selection of fine coffees from all around the world. Their baristas can always be counted on for a vibrant, flavorful pour-over or a rich, frothy espresso. In addition to their main location near these Rockville Centre homes for sale, Kookaburra Coffee Co. also has a second shop in Malverne, NY.
  
  
• Cafe Revue - 313 New York Ave., Huntington, NY 11743
  Equal parts bookstore, coffee shop, and lunch hangout, Cafe Revue is a one-of-a-kind spot, to say the least. This cozy, welcoming space is one of Long Island's best destinations to relax with a cup of coffee and a good book. Cafe Revue brews locally-roasted coffee from Southdown Coffee Roasters, located just up the road from many Huntington homes for sale. They also serve a variety of gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts. 
  
  
• Rivers Cafe USA - 304 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  Family-owned Rivers Cafe USA serves authentic Central American coffees, sourced from the Chinchontepec mountain range in El Salvador. Every cup is perfectly balanced. Their espresso is next-level too, and you'd have a hard time finding a better latte, macchiato, or cappuccino. With their convenient location near these Floral Park homes for sale, Rivers Cafe offers some truly unique and original coffee flavors. 
  
  
• Pipeline Coffee Co. - 1887 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh, NY 11793
  With a focus on fresh, local, sustainable coffee roasted right here on Long Island, Pipeline Coffee Co. is one of the best places around to get a freshly brewed cup of joe from a skilled barista. All their coffee beans are roasted in-house. You can order a cup for takeout, or have freshly roasted beans shipped right to your doorstep. Pipeline Coffee Co. is located in the community of Wantagh, with a second location in Rockville Center. 
  
  
• Village Coffee Market - 131 Main St., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  For coffee lovers, browsing the Village Coffee Market is like being a kid in a candy store. In addition to serving top-shelf coffees and lattes, they also offer an amazing selection of coffee beans, K-cups, snacks, and coffee-related gifts. Village Coffee Market is located a stone's throw from these Stony Brook homes for sale, but you can also order beans to be shipped right to your door.
  
  
• Tend Coffee - 924 Montauk Hwy., Shirley, NY 11967
  Offering an amazing variety of house-roasted certified organic coffees, Tend Coffee opened its doors in 2011, and quickly earned a reputation as one of Suffolk County's best coffee shops. This is a great place to not only sip a cup of coffee but learn more about the flavors you're enjoying. They make some of the best coffee around, including flavorful blends and complex single-origin coffees. The folks at Tend Coffee also ship their coffee anywhere in the USA. 

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

When it comes to setting the mood, our REALTORS® know that good lighting, good friends, and good music are the best ways to enjoy your new home. Whether you are hosting a party or relaxing after a long day at work, installing a solid sound system will go a long way toward making your home more comfortable. The more music, the merrier, and the following are some steps you can take to enjoy great sound throughout your home.

• Get Ready to Rock the 21st Century!
  Whether you enjoy classical, jazz, country, or modern rock, the best sound systems are built around modern home automation. Upgrading the wiring and WiFi in your home will allow you to enjoy the security and comfort home automation systems offer. Whether you choose a wired or wireless sound system, you will want to establish a central hub to control each speaker. It would be best if you chose a hub that works with all the devices you want to utilize, including the lighting, security, audio, systems you want to install.
  
  
• Choose Your Speakers Carefully
  Different rooms have different acoustic properties. One speaker might work great in a large living room with vaulted ceilings, but it will be overpowering in a smaller room such as a bedroom or bathroom. Thus, choose speakers built for the size of the room. Not only will they fit in better with the decor, but they will also sound better as your favorite tunes waft through the space.
  
  A variety of manufacturers offer a solid range of speakers that you can add to every room in your home. While many home automation recommendations suggest purchasing speakers from the same manufacturer, that's not necessary. What's more important is making sure that each speaker is compatible with your primary home automation system.
  
  
• Create a Steady Stream of Music
  A variety of streaming services have massive libraries of music you can stream into every room in your house. For a nominal fee, you can enjoy the benefit of having a vast array of music at your disposal without having to fill wall upon wall with CDs. 
  
  Of course, you are likely to have some old CDs or MP3s lurking about. Compiling these and uploading them into a streaming service can make it easy to access these without ever having to touch a CD player. 
  
  And, if you're a music purist, there's no doubt you have an old vinyl collection you love to show off to your friends. When it comes to vinyl, better is always best. Don't skip on purchasing a high-quality record player. Choosing one with a carbon fiber tonearm, heavy plinth, and steel or acrylic platter will give you the best sound. A high-quality record player will cost you about twice as much as a low-end option, but it's worth every penny for the sound quality you will enjoy.

There are some amazing Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale that are wired for incredible sound. We encourage you to contact us to learn more about these fabulous properties and the many amenities they have to offer.  

Valentine's Day might be a bit different this year, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy a romantic evening with your special someone. Our REALTORS® love re-creating the intimate atmosphere of a fine restaurant at home, and they say it's easier than you might think!

Just set the table, dim the lights, put on some soft music, and light a few candles. Then, order take-out from one of the area's best restaurants and let them handle the rest! Here are a few of your best options for an unforgettable Valentine's Day feast. 

1. Gatsby's Landing: 1362 Old Northern Blvd. Roslyn, NY 11576
   If you've been thinking about buying one of the beautiful Nassau County homes for sale, you'll definitely want to get to know Gatsby's Landing. This trendy restaurant and bar offers both indoor and outdoor dining with heaters and plexiglass walls. You'll love the stunning view and elegant ambiance!
   
   If you're planning on avoiding the crowds this Valentine's Day, you'll be glad to know that they also offer takeout and delivery so you can enjoy the globally-inspired menu from the comfort of your home. During the entire Valentine's weekend (Thursday through Sunday), they're offering an al la carte dinner menu all day and chef specials.
   
   
2. Waterzooi: 850 Franklin Ave. Garden City, NY 11530
   If you and your love enjoy seafood, you'll definitely want to consider ordering takeout or delivery from Waterzooi. This Belgian bistro and oyster bar offers an innovative, seafood-focused menu.
   
   Choose from a wide selection of oysters, shellfish, mussels pots, and more! They also have excellent items from the land. Some of our favorites are the Steak Au Poivre and the Wellington Burger made with USDA prime beef and truffled mushrooms sauteed in foie gras mousse.
   
   
3. Crabtree's Restaurant: 226 Jericho Turnpike Floral Park, NY 11001
   The award-winning Crarbtree's Restaurant is another Nassau County favorite. Many would argue that it's one of the best restaurants in New York.
   
   They offer both pickup and delivery. The menu features items like a Grilled Baby Quail Appetizer, Escargots Bourgogne, Half Roast Duck a L'Orange, and Grilled Medallions of Lamb.
     
4. Tellers Chophouse: 605 Main St. Islip, NY 11751
   Meat lovers, rejoice! You're going to love Teller's Chophouse. This refined steakhouse offers the finest quality you'll find outside of Manhattan. We recommend starting with the Duck Fat Fries and Waygo Beef Carpaccio. For dinner, consider the Filet Mignon Wellington with Brie Fondue or the 21-Day-Dry-Aged Porterhouse for Two. No matter what you choose, you won't be disappointed.
   
   Tellers Chophouse is also located not far from some of the best Suffolk County homes for sale. You may want to take the scenic route home so you can get to know some of the great neighborhoods nearby. 

5. Le Soir: 825 Montauk Hwy Bayport, NY 11705
   Nothing says romance quite like fine French cuisine. Le Soir Restaurant offers all the classic items you would expect to see at a high-end French restaurant, including hors d'oeuvers like Pâté de Campagne, Saumon Fumé Escargots Bourguignonne. For dinner, you'll have a choice of entrees like Jumbo Shrimp Risotto with asparagus, sun-dried tomato, and vermouth sauce, Sauteed Lobster, or a Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin stuffed with apples and topped with cider sauce. 
   
   
6. Orto: 90 N. County Rd. Miller Place, NY 11764
   Fans of Italian food will love ordering takeout or delivery from Orto. This rustic restaurant was ranked among the "10 Best Italian Restaurants on Long Island" and has been praised in many local and national publications.
   
   Choose from a selection of delicious appetizers and entrees, or select the two-course prix fixe menu. Some of the most popular menu items include the Tomato-Braised Pork Braciola with creamy polenta and greens, Ricotta Gnocchi with braised chicken and tomato, and the Monkfish with cranberry beans, chorizo, and calamari a la plancha. Don't forget to add their incredible New York Style Cheesecake or House-Made Doughnuts with chocolate sauce for dessert!