May 17, 2012

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Spectacular Hudson River Views

May 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Just Listed: Ulster County Home For Sale With Beautiful Hudson River Views

Outstanding 180 degree panoramic views of the Hudson River including the Rondout Lighthouse and Rhinecliff Bridge from this custom built Contemporary. Beautifully landscaped, this home features a bright easy flowing layout with a large kitchen, and a spacious dining room w/ sliders out to a large deck which is perfect for entertaining while overlooking the Hudson. With gleaming wood floors, and a fireplace, the living room has French Doors leading into the family room which also opens to the deck. The upstairs offers 4 bedrooms, all with views of either the river, or the beautifully landscaped yard. The finished basement includes a 2-room suite w/ Auxiliary Kitchen and separate entrance on ground floor, which is not included in the square footage. This home is complete with a stone wall in front, a beautiful walkway, flower gardens, shed, and above-ground pool. Call for an appointment today!!

Click here to view the full listing details!

Ulster County Real Estate: Catskills Real Estate, Hudson Valley Real Estate, Upstate NY Real Estate, New York Real Estate, Ulster County Homes For Sale

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10 Things To Consider When Buying A Condo

April 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Many people op to purchase a condo for various reasons. It could be the location is close to work,
maybe it’s in an urban area, or simply the low maintenance that traditionally comes along with condos. Whatever the reason, consider these ten things before deciding to make the investment.

PRICE   Typically, condos can be found in a wide variety of price ranges, suiting the budget of just about everyone. The attributes that will drive the price up are location and what kind of upgrades have been done.

LOCATION   If you want a condo that is close to schools or your work place, look for buildings that are in walking distance. This will save you time and money on transportation. Or look for buildings that are close to public transportation.

OTHER OWNERS   While you are looking, you may want to do some research regarding who is living in the building. Most likely if you are older, you probably are not going to want to live with condos full of younger adults. Same goes for younger adults that may not want to live in a building with seniors. Do your research!

ASSOCIATION FEES   Let’s face it, you’ve found the condo of your dreams, it’s near the top of your budget, but you can make it work if the home owners association fees are reasonable. Guess what, they aren’t! Make sure that you ask this question before you look at the condo. Fees can range from $100′s-$1,000′s every month depending on the building and location.

AMENITIES   Many buildings offer pools, spas, gyms, laundry facilities, etc. If you are looking for specific things make sure you tell your real estate agent these details, so they are not wasting anyone’s time.

ASSOCIATION RULES   When you purchase a condo, you may be doing so for an investment and to rent out. Some buildings do not allow more than a certain percentage of units to be rented out to anyone, they must be owner occupied. Also, rules may include what kind and the size of the pet that you may keep. There are breed restrictions, so be sure to find that out before hand as well.

SIZE   This is crucial. Make sure you know the condo you are about to purchase is big enough for you, whomever else, and all your belongings. You will not be able to build an addition!

STORAGE   If you are going to need extra storage, you may want to look at buildings that have storage lockers in the basement for your convenience.

MAINTENANCE   Appearance is important, look around at the grounds of the building and ask yourself those simple questions. Is the grass cut? Are the hedges maintained? Are there flowers? Is the outside of the building in good shape? Is the paint fresh and clean?

INTERIOR LOCATION   The location of a condo within the building is important to some people. Corner units may be the most quiet, while condos on higher levels may provide the best views. On the other hand, a ground-level unit may be best if there is not an elevator in the building and you do not want to walk up six flights of stairs multiple times a day.

If you are thinking about purchasing a condo, contact one of our professionals today! View our listings here.

 

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Antiques Road Show in Woodstock!

April 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

If Antiques Roadshow is one of your favorite TV shows, this Saturday will be heaven for you.

Tomorrow, April 21st, the Mescal Hornbeck Community Center on Rock City Road will be hosting an Antiques Road Show to benefit the Woodstock Library.

Time to get all those treasures out of the attic and see if they are worth anything, there will be eight antiques and art experts on staff. The event is a fundraiser for the library, no reservations are required and admission is free. Appraisal fees are $5 for the first item and $2 for each additional item.

There will also be readings and live acoustic music at the Woodstock Library on Saturday.

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April 28th and 29th, TAP New York!

April 18, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Mark your calendars! April 28th starts two days of TAP New York Craft Beer and Fine Food Festival in Hunter Mountain. This festival is from Saturday, April 28th to Sunday, April 29th and has become one of New York’s largest craft beer festivals. It is not just beer, but also great foods that pair with the taste of the beer. You will learn that it’s not just wine that compliments the flavors of food, but different tastes of different beers as well.

This festival is not about the corporate giants, but rather the people that pour their heart and soul into making a quality batch of beer. It’s about great friends coming together for fun, good food and what else? Some of the best beer you will ever taste. If you are from the area and have never been, I suggest you purchase tickets now, if you are from out of the area, plan to make a weekend out of it, it will definitely not disappoint.

Visit TAP New York’s website to purchase tickets and choose where to stay.

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Explore Dutchess County

April 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment

It is evident that Ulster County has so much to offer tourists and residents, especially during the spring and summer months. However, if you are visiting the area, why not take a little road trip and head across the river to Dutchess County. Here you will find so much history and places to explore. Take a day trip to Vanderbilt Mansion or Mills Mansion, where you can tour the home built by the some what were the areas most famous people. The grounds alone on both of these grand estates are something to marvel at with views of rolling hills and the mighty Hudson River. There are even rose gardens when in bloom, are a sight to see. Take a frisbee and a picnic lunch to enjoy the acres and acres of beautiful grounds. Don’t forget your camera as there are many amazing things to take photos of!!

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The Ashokan Reservoir

April 11, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Driving along the banks during sunset might undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful views in Ulster County NY: The Ashokan Reservoir.

The Ashokan Reservoir is one of several reservoirs that was created to provide New York City with water. It is located at the eastern end of Ulster County, constructed during 1907-1915. While creating this deep reservoir, communities along its banks were relocated, some are still in existence, including West Shokan, Olivebridge, Ashokan and Shokan. Others are just remembered as historical markers along the roads that boarder the water.

Due to the need to ensure the safety of the water system and to make sure the damn on the Ashokan stays intact, limited activities are permitted. These include fishing and logging, both of which require a special license. If you do not have a public access permit to boat or fish that was issued after 2002, the permit is not valid and you are not allowed to partake in these activities. In an effort to keep the waterway as clean as possible, no swimming or gas powered motor craft are allowed.

Of course there are always politics that go along with a creation of this kind. Upstate, small town folk certainly do not mind providing clean water to the residents of NYC, but there is always a feeling they are being pushed around and taken advantage of. This always has been part of the reservoir’s history.

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Exploring Your Mortgage Loan Options

April 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Purchasing a home is a very exciting time in anyone’s life, but it can also be a confusing process. This is particularly true when it comes to exploring mortgage loan options. Prior to searching for a home, many people do not realize that there are many different types of mortgage loans available to select from. Therefore, whether interested in Bethesda condos or a home in Ulster County, you should take some time to learn more about the mortgage loan options you can choose from.

Fixed-Rate Mortgage

The most common type of mortgage loan taken out by homebuyers is the fixed-rate mortgage. As the name implies, fixed-rate mortgages are those that maintain the same interest rate throughout the duration of the loan. Typically, fixed-rate mortgage loans are in place for 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 or even 50 years.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

Adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, are those with interest rates that change over time. When and how the interest rate changes depends upon the exact type of loan taken out. While the interest rate of some ARMs may change on a monthly basis, others may change once per year. Yet others remain fixed for the first several years before they begin changing on a regular basis.

Interest-Only Mortgage

With interest-only loans, the borrower pays toward only the interest for a certain period of time. After this predetermined amount of time has passed, the borrower is required to pay off the balance of the original loan balance.

Combo/Piggyback Mortgage

A combo/piggyback mortgage is one that involve taking out two loans. These loans may both be fixed-rate or adjustable-rate, or they may be a combination of the two. This type of loan is most commonly selected by those who do not have 20% to apply toward a down payment. By taking out one loan to pay the down payment, the borrower can successfully avoid paying private mortgage insurance.

FHA Loans

FHA loans provide another option for those who do not have enough money to make a 20% down payment. FHA loans, which are insured by the government, are offered to first-time homebuyers who do not have the funds necessary for a conventional loan. Not only are the down payment requirements reduced, but credit scores are not an issue when taking out an FHA loan.

VA Loan

Another government loan option is available through the Department of Veteran Affairs. While the VA loan is only available to those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, it is a guaranteed loan that does not require a large down payment.

About The Author – Kevin Koitz is a Bethesda real estate specialist and a Maryland Realtor with The Koitz Group.

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Visit Ulster County New York!

April 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Ulster County New York is the gem of New York State. With activities ranging from camping to eating in upscale restaurants, the area offers something to everyone in every season. In the video posted here, a four time Grammy winner, Levon Helm, shares his love for Ulster County. Even if you are a resident of the area, you can use your weekends to become a tourist in your own area and discover new things to do and places to see.

With an increase in popularity and its proximity to NYC, Ulster County is a popular weekend destination. Many people are choosing to buy a second home in the area as a way to get out of the busy, distracting life of the city. There is a magical force in the air that will draw you back again and again, whether it be the mountains, the river, or just the creative energy you feel when you are here!!

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Beautiful Home For Sale In New Paltz NY

April 5, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Ulster County Real Estate: Outstanding Mountain Views On Over 21 Acres

Are you looking for peace and tranquility? Need to get away? Welcome to the top of the world. panoramic views of the infamous Catskills and of the gorgeous Shawangunks. Long private driveway leads you to this large cape with wrap around porch on 21 acres.

Click here to view the full listing details.

Some additional features include gas fireplace in living room, vaulted ceilings in both the master bedroom and living room. Gleaming hardwood floors, breakfast room, country kitchen, high efficiency stainless steel appliances. Master bedroom suite on first floor with Jacuzzi tub, double vanity sinks and much more. Property is located between New Paltz and Kingston, it is 20 minutes to the Mid-Hudson bridge, great for commuting. So are you ready for some unbelievable sunsets? Make your appointment today!!

Ulster County Real Estate: Catskills Real Estate, Hudson Valley Real Estate, Upstate NY Real Estate, New York Real Estate, Ulster County Homes For Sale

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Historic Buildings of the Stockade District, Kingston NY

April 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

There is a rich history throughout Kingston NY, but perhaps the area most rich in historical value is the Stockade District. If you are visiting the area there are some key homes and buildings that are a must see.

  • The Hoffman House is located at 94 North Front Street and dates back to 1679. Its construction is of “American-Dutch Rubble” and is truly unique. Currently, The Hoffman House is a restaurant that is open for lunch and dinner.
  • On the corner of North Front Street and Clinton Avenue is the Senate House. It was built circa 1676 of limestone and housed the first meeting of New York’s newly formed State Senate. Take a guided tour!
  • The Kingston Academy is next on the list. It has had many owners and uses over the years like many of the other buildings in the Stockade district. Located at 82 John Street, currently a restaurant exists on the first floor and the building is open to the public.
  • In 1789 the Ulster County Courthouse was constructed. The building has gone through amazing million dollar renovations with out compromising the historic integrity. The building is obviously still open to the public as it functions as a regular courthouse, it just has certain access restrictions. 285 Wall Street.
  • By appointment only, you can see the Henry Sleight House. It was, like most of the Stockade District built before 1695, but burned down by the British and rebuilt again. Located at 3 Crown Street.
  • Another great home built in 1812 is the Fred J. Johnston House at 63 Main Street. This home is of the beautiful Federal style and houses an exquisit antique collection. It is open to the public.
  • Near the Fred Johnston House is the Old Dutch Church located at 272 Wall Street. The church was built in 1852 in the center of the Stockade District, there is also a historic cemetary and monuments on the church grounds. Tours are available by appointment.

There are more historic homes that dot the Stockade District of Kingston like Mathhew Jansen House, Franz P. Roggen House and the Matthew Person House, but these happen to be privately owned and not open to the public. However, they are all located in close proximity to each other. It is worth it to take your camera and stroll around these beautiful streets to see all the wonderful pieces of history that this area has to offer.

 

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