Enhancing Your Home's Curb Appeal

Curb appeal - that first glimpse of a property which can sometimes make or break a potential sale.  This important piece of the sales process is critical to success in selling.  It’s been said that curb appeal can mean as much as the interior of a home when it comes to making a sale.  As the saying goes, “You only have one chance to make a first impression.”

There are many ways to improve your curb appeal and make your home shine.  Some are quick and easy fixes, others may take more time and money, depending on the condition of the home.

The more expensive and intensive choices include things such as:

• Pouring a new walkway, steps, or driveway
• Painting the exterior
• Hiring a professional landscaper
• Installing a new garage door and opener
• Re-sodding a lawn

Less expensive options, easily accomplished by a homeowner are:

• Powerwashing the house
• Refreshing shutters with new paint
• Installing a new front door
• Adding flower borders
• Planting some trees
• Replacing a mailbox
• Using rocks for interest in planting beds
• Installing solar illumination on pathways

These suggestions can go a long way to improving the overall perception a prospective buyer has when viewing a home for the first time.  Don’t lose the chance to make the very best first impression!

At Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. we have a Certified Professional Stager on staff to assist our agents. Before you list contact us to help you obtain more money at the closing.

Spring in the Adirondacks

Bright sun, cool breezes, warmer days.  Spring has arrived in the Adirondacks!  It’s time to shake off winter and get outside, in the fresh, crisp air.

Luckily, the Adirondacks offer a plentiful selection of things to do in the great outdoors.  Ice and snow is melting away as the sun warms up, uncovering trails, lakes, streams, and mountains that are just waiting to be explored.

Spring hiking is in full swing and what better way to enjoy earth’s re-birth than taking to the trails.  adirondack.net features a full listing of various types of hikes, including information on current conditions, dog and kid friendly trails, and even a beginner’s guide to hiking.

If you’re looking for great places to fish, check out that same site for information on the best spots, license rules, and fishing seasons.  Then cast your line into a crystal clear lake or stream!

Did you know that you can find the best rapids when the snows melt?  Three main rivers - the Hudson, Sacandaga, and Moose rivers offer Class I-IV rapids.  Instruction in rafting, tubing, and kayaking are all available in the Adirondack Park!

Don’t forget there’s always the chance that spring skiing will be available. Many of the high peaks have snow well into the spring season.  This snow is more densely packed and easier to navigate, adding to the enjoyment.

Whatever your interest, you can find it in the Adirondacks - the Northeast’s Outdoor Playground!

If you're thinking of making the Adirondacks part of your life check out Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. to begin your search for a home or vacant land parcel

How Much House Can I Afford?

Determining how much house you can afford is a major component of the home buying process.  Lenders use a variety of tools to determine the size of a mortgage a buyer can afford.  

Lenders look at several different factors in making the determination.  They are:

Credit Score

This is probably the first thing people think of, when they consider a mortgage application.  A good credit score is important, since it signals the lender that you are responsibly paying your debts.  It is also important to you, as a buyer, as it can give you access to lower interest rates and more lender choices.

Debt-to-Income Ratio (Qualifying Income)

This is a comparison of how much you make, to how much you owe.  

It is an important part of your financial health, and is used to determine how much home you can afford to purchase.  Typically, 28% of one’s income should be spent on the expenses of housing.

Down Payments

Down payments are also an important part of the calculation.  Typically, the higher the down payment you make, the less of a risk you are to your lender.  It may also give you access to lower interest rates that can save you money over the life of the loan.

Assets

Lenders may also want to consider the assets you have, as assurance in a financial emergency.  These may include, checking & savings accounts, CDs, stocks, bonds, IRAs, and 401Ks, etc.

Keeping these things in mind will help you determine the right time to begin your home buying experience, and give you a good idea of how much home you can afford.

The real estate agents at Thomas J. Real Estate are ready to assist you and answer your questions. We are with you throughout the entire process. Give us a call today 518-863-4691

First Time Buyers

Buying your first home is an experience filled with excitement, but also a daunting challenge for those new to the real estate market.  How can you best be prepared?  Several steps can help you feel confident and ready for this big step.

Begin with an in-depth look at your finances.  This will help you understand the price range you can afford.  A check of your monthly expenses and your current credit score are important pieces to consider.  When looking at your available finances, remember to include an emergency fund in your calculations for unintended expenses that may crop up.  In the process of buying a home, there are several costs to consider including a down payment, home inspection, legal services, and closing costs.

In addition, there are several programs, loans, and tax breaks that states offer to first-time buyers.  The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers low-interest loans and programs for first-time qualified buyers. Achieving the Dream is their lowest interest rate program, helping you to get the most for your money with a minimum down payment.  There is also a low interest rate program, a Conventional Plus mortgage program, and an FHA Plus Program.  Visit hcr.ny.gov to learn more.

A variety of government programs also exist, such as FHA loans, programs for service members and veterans, and programs for rural residents, along with county-specific programs.

Go to www.usa.gov for information.

Above all, a competent realtor is your best bet in securing the home of your dreams.  The professionals at Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. will guide you as you make your way through the house hunting process.  Our agent are experienced, knowledge and ready to assist you!

Getting Your Home Ready for Spring

The weather is finally moderating, the grass is turning green, and the buds are ready to burst.  Spring is arriving!

Now that winter is behind us, here a few important things to do, both inside and outside the home.

1. Check the Roof -  look at the shingles, gutters, and downspouts,  Clean off any moss and remover debris from the gutters.

2. Check outside faucets and sprinkler systems, looking for possible leaks.

3. Give your deck, driveway, and concrete walkways a good inspection.  Repair cracks and reseal decking.

4. Get your yard ready for gardening by clearing beds of dead plant stalks and pruning shrubs that bloom in the summer.

5. Change the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Be sure fire extinguishers are full.

6. Don’t forget the A/C unit and the furnace, which may both need a checkup to insure they will run efficiently when switched on.

Finally, open the windows, let the fresh air and sunlight inside.  Do a thorough spring cleaning which will leave your home organized and renewed!

Self Storage Units

Whether you are moving, selling, or downsizing, self storage units are a great solution to keeping items safe and secure.  When there just isn’t time to organize, donate, or try to sell belongings, self storage can be the answer.

What are the benefits of a self storage unit?

The first and most important benefit is the protection and security they afford.  Most units have the very latest in surveillance, giving you added peace of mind.

Self storage units are personal, giving you the option to store whatever you need, in units that fit your lifestyle.

Self storage units are an excellent place to store seasonal items that could clutter up your garage or carport.  Snowblowers, tractor or truck mounted plows, and holiday decorations can be efficiently stored over the summer, and then swapped out in winter with riding mowers and lawn equipment.

If you have a home business, self storage units take the clutter out of your house, and can help you save and organize important files.  This area can also house unused office equipment and furniture.

The self storage industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the years, beginning in the 1980s.  The good news is that self storage facilities are now available in almost every area.  In the Adirondack/Capital Area, they are found in Amsterdam, Gloversville, Broadalbin, Northville, and Hadley, along with many in Albany, Schenectady, and surrounding towns.

If you’re looking to declutter, downsize, or store items efficiently, self storage units may be just what you need!

Winter is a great time to purchase your home!  

As of the beginning of February, 2023, mortgage rates have dropped to the 5% range for the first time since September, 2022. This is good news to perspective buyers!

This has given would-be buyers an impetus to move forward, and bring the prospect of homeownership into a clearer focus.

Home prices are typically less than they would be in the spring, giving buyers some leverage.  And, there are usually fewer buyers competing for homes, which means fewer chances of multiple offers on a single property. 

Home sellers are also usually more motivated, especially if the home has been on the market for a while during the winter months.  This could mean the sellers are willing to work with you, or you might find a seller who may accept a lower offer.

Winter also gives you a chance to see how the home, itself, reacts to the cold weather.  You can see how the furnace performs, which windows are drafty, how much shoveling the driveway will need, and how the roof is holding up.

Homes usually close faster in the winter, too, as banks, inspectors, and brokers are not servicing as many customers as in spring or summer.  This can lead to a quicker closing.

And remember, first-time buyers also qualify for extra help with policies from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, who offer discounts to those eligible.  Discounts also exist through the FHFA.

Whether you are a first-time buyer, or are returning to the real estate market, take advantage of this time of year to find the home of your dreams! The professionals at Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. are knowledgeable and highly experienced in the Great Sacandaga Lake & Capital Region real estate markets. 

Adirondack Leaf Peeping

It’s beginning!  The Fall Foliage Report (www.iloveny.com) is out - and many areas in the Adirondack and Capital Regions are at the “Just Changing” stage!  Time to plan your day trip/fall weekend!

The autumn season has begun, and where better to drink in the glorious colors than the Adirondack and Capital Regions!  Whether you view the colors from a mountain peak or a lake shore, the sights will not disappoint.

Hiking -  Trails await and can offer a quiet and peaceful way to enjoy the scenery.  Check out alltrails.com or skyaboveus.com for comprehensive listings.  The regions also abound in State Parks which are waiting to be explored and enjoyed.

By Rail -  What better way to enjoy the views than from a comfortable railway car!  Two historic railway companies offer fall tours - the Catskill Mountain Railroad (catskillmtrailroad.com) and the Adirondack Railroad (adirondack.com)

By Air  - How about a gondola ski ride over the gorgeous colors below?  Both Gore Mountain and Whiteface Mountain offer this experience.  Or, try a zip line at Hunter Mountain.

By Water -  Hudson River Cruises and Dutch Apple Cruises will delight you with spectacular and historic sights.  The Lake George Steamboat Company and the Minne-Ha-Ha Cruise also on Lake George are wonderful ways to see the colors.  Don’t forget the beautiful Great Scandaga Lake which never disappoints!

If you're looking to buy a home, trust the experts at Thomas J. Real Estate who know this area best!

For more information, visit these websites:

www.iloveny.com

visitadirondack.com

www.albany.com

www.newyorkupstate.com

Welcome to 580 State Hwy 30 Hope, NY 

Looking for a new home? Take a look at the ranch home for sale in Hope, NY. This home is located at 580 State Hwy 30  Hope, NY and offers 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath, combo living room & dining room, eat in kitchen and a full basement. The lot size is 1.10ac's. Current owner has kept up on the maintained. 

Asking price $229,000 MLS # 202226721 

If you're in the market to buy or sell a home in and around the Hamilton County, NY area contact Thomas J. McGroder, Lic. Real Estate Broker Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. 518-863-4691.

Employment and the Real Estate Market

One of the most important factors in homeownership is the availability of employment in the selected area.  Jobs create growth in wages and salaries, and are how people afford their homes. Having a strong job market is a definite plus.

Here in the Capital Region/Adirondack Area, we are fortunate to have many job opportunities available.  The New York State Government offers the prospect of a rewarding career in Albany and the surrounding areas.  Over 40,000 people work for New York State in the Albany/Schenectady,Troy area alone!

New York State also offers many valuable employment benefits, including, but not limited to: career mobility, health benefits, and a strong retirement system.

Many fine medical facilities, such as Albany Medical Center, exist in the area and offer a variety of employment choices.  Excellent school systems and respected colleges and universities dot the area and are great places to work.  Shopping malls, major retail chains, eateries, and recreational facilities are found in the region, along with smaller businesses.

It’s good to know there are many avenues from which to choose rewarding employment and expand your career!  

Homes and jobs go hand in hand. Choosing a good area with great prospects provides you with the security you need to comfortably enjoy homeownership!

When you're ready to relocate to the Capital Region, contact the Professionals at Thomas J. Real Estate, Inc. We are members of the Global MLS and have access to all the active real estate listings in the Capital Region.