Mike Liess's Blog

Re/Max launches full service real estate brokerage

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 20:58:15 -0700

Re/Max of New York Inc. has announced the opening of Re/Max Custom, a full service real estate brokerage in Rochester.

The company’s office will be located on Empire Boulevard and run by Mike Liess, a former associate broker for Re/Max First and former principal broker and owner of Custom Realty Group Inc.

“My vision for Re/Max Custom is to form a tight-knit team of real estate professionals that separate us from our competition with unmatched professionalism, customer service and experience,” said Liess, in a statement. “Currently we have half a dozen agents, and look forward to growing our team.”

Henry Weber, president and regional director of Re/Max of New York Inc., said Liess’ ambition is commendable.

“We are always proud to see our agents take the next step in their career to open their own office,” said Weber. “He is an experienced professional agent who will continue to provide local homebuyers and sellers with the world-class customer service, training and experience Re/Max is known for.”

2012 Rochester Business Journal.

By TROY L. SMITH

Rochester Business Journal

April 11, 2012

Bradley Newton Joins RE/MAX Custom

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:56:47 -0800

RE/MAX Custom welcomes Bradley Newton.

Bradley Newton

Real Estate Salesperson

574 Empire Blvd.

Rochester, NY 14609

Office 585-671-1111

BradleyNewton@remaxcustom.com

Bradley possesses strong managerial skills where he has over 15 years of professional and supervisory experience, while working in the human services field. Prior to RE/MAX Custom Bradley worked with Custom Realty Group Inc., in their property management division. His drive to help others and his unparalleled attention to detail is a great asset to RE/MAX Custom and every one of Bradley’s clients.

City Living Sundays 2012 - Rochester NY

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 19:04:24 -0800

Realize your dream of home ownership

Learn how easy and truly affordable it is to own a home.

City living provides you with world-class services, convenience
and great values on beautiful homes! Qualities you just won't find
anywhere else.

Join us for:

"How to Buy" Seminars
Affordability Counseling by lending experts
Loan Details
School and Neighborhood information
Open Houses - Over 100 homes in the City will be open
for your inspection

It's a one-stop, start to finish home buying experience in a fair-like atmosphere, complete with fantastic door prizes!

2012 City Living Sundays

Download the Brochure

EAST SIDE
March 18, 2012
East High School
1801 E Main Street
Map available here

WEST SIDE
March 25, 2012
Theodore Roosevelt School #43
1305 Lyell Avenue
Map available here

Neighborhood Previews

Preview the neighborhoods at the FREE Landmark Society of WNY Bus Tour.

Registration is required. Please call (585)546-7029 Extension 10 to register.

When:

Saturday, March 17, 2012 and Saturday, March 24, 2012

RE/MAX Custom Launches this week

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 21:08:32 -0800

It is official RE/MAX Custom is open for business. We will be moving into our new location at 574 Empire Blvd, in the upcoming weeks.

RE/MAX Custom is be centrally located and is just a quick drive to either end of Monroe County and the surrounding areas.

RE/MAX Custom is a full service real estate brokerage located centrally in Monroe County. RE/MAX Custom effectively services all of Monroe and the surrounding counties. With a group of agents that specialize in several areas of real estate: Single Family homes, New Construction, Town Homes, Multi- Family properties, Investment properties, Rental leasing, and property management.

Specialties

Residential Homes, Investment Property, Commercial real estate, property management

Phone Office: 585-671-1111 or email info@remaxcustom.com

Changing Home Trends in 2012

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 19:13:50 -0800

Kiss These 10 Once-Popular Home Features Goodbye

By Steve Kerch | MarketWatch – Fri, Feb 17, 2012 4:52 PM EST

Times are tough in the home-building industry, meaning the 500,000 or so new single-family homes expected to be built this year are going to include more practical and value-conscious features and fewer wish-list items.

Outdoor Kitchens & Outdoor Fireplaces

Along with outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces aren’t expected to be in such great demand. They are the second least-likely feature to be included in new homes in 2012, according to a survey from the National Association of Home Builders.

Photo: Exteriors UnlimitedSunrooms

Sunrooms are also on the wane. “Builders are focusing on features that add immediate value and make a home more practical,” said Rose Quint, assistant vice president of survey research, economics and housing for the NAHB. What’s more practical? Things like walk-in closets, linen closets and laundry rooms.

Two-Story Family Room

The family room itself may be making a comeback as a gathering center of the home, but the two-story family room is getting cut off at the knees. On a scale of 1 to 5, builders gave it only a 2.2 as a feature for new homes in 2012.

Photo: The Toni Everett Co.Media Room

Even with all the options in home entertainment today, the media room isn’t high on the list for home builders. You’re much more likely to find a charging station for all your devices hidden away in a kitchen-island cabinet in 2012.

Two-Story Foyer

Like the two-story family room, the two-story foyer is on the way out. Blame utility bills: Home buyers are more focused on energy-saving windows and appliances than on soaring spaces in 2012.

Master-Planned Developments

Master-planned developments like Lago Estancia in Phoenix often tout their walking and jogging trails as a community attraction. But such amenities will not be popular this year, home builders say.

Luxury Master Bathrooms

Luxury master bathrooms with multiple-head showers will be getting toned down in 2012. Something more practical — say, a double sink in the kitchen — is much more likely to be included in new homes this year.

Photo: Buchanan Designs Inc.Formal Living Room

The demise of the formal living room is predicted once again in 2012. Home buyers are much more likely to request a great room that combines the kitchen, family room and living room into one large open space at the center of the home.

Whirlpool Tubs

As with the multiple-head showers, whirlpool tubs in the master suite are also on the wane. You are more likely to see stand-alone tubs, in classic or contemporary styles, that make a design statement in the master bath, said Jill Waage, editorial director/home for Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

RE/MAX First and RE/MAX Realty Group Merge

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:36:28 -0800

Rochester’s largest ReMax real estate franchise merged Wednesday with the third largest area ReMax franchise.

ReMax Realty Group inked a deal with ReMax First of Greater Rochester, creating an agency with up to 150 agents.

The new office will retain the ReMax Realty Group brand, with the ReMax First office on Allens Creek Road in Brighton closing to move into ReMax Realty Group’s Pittsford office. The combined ReMax agency will retain its westside office in Greece.

“Our goal is to be the No. 1 ReMax in the market,” said Michael Haymes, president of ReMax Realty Group, who will now share the managing broker title with his current partner Jeffrey Hoffman and with Tom Schnorr, former president of ReMax First.

The agencies had always been friendly competitors, Schnorr said, noting that the three managing brokers started in business at the same time in the early 1980s. The merger made sense as more realty firms are using economies of scale to their advantage, Schnorr said.

Combined, the two agencies would have had $445 million in sales in 2011.

Real estate agents are independent contractors, but Schnorr said his agents were positive about the move.

The merger will provide agents and customers with better technology, he said. There will be 17 support staffers, including IT support, social media experts and creative development staff.

The two ReMax Realty Group locations under the merger are at Grove Street in Pittsford and Canal Landing Boulevard in Greece.

ReMax Realty Group has been the No.1 ReMax franchise in the state, Haymes said. The merger places the agency in the top one percent of ReMax franchises internationally, Schnorr said.

Written by MARY CHAO Democrat and Chornicle

Rochester NY - Single Family only $49,900

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:59:09 -0800

This Colonial house in the City of Rochester is perfect for either an owner occupant or an investor looking for an income property. Featuring hardwoods, and tons of 1920's charm. This property is only $49,900

Rochester Investment Property - Assumable Loan

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:32:48 -0800

This two family home in the City of Rochester's 19th ward is a great investment property opportunity. Offer for $59,900 the sale of his investment property is subject to Bank and Short sale approval. For a qualified buyer and bank approval the current loan may be assumable.

Currently rented for $650 & $700 plus utilities this is a cash flowing property.

NEIGHBORHOODS: Little-noticed cuts may hurt neighborhoods

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:15:59 -0800

NEIGHBORHOODS: Little-noticed cuts may hurt neighborhoods

By Jeremy Moule on January 24, 2012

Governor Andrew Cuomo's state budget proposal for 2012-2013 eliminates a pair of programs that directly impact urban neighborhoods.

Cuomo's plan cuts funding for the state's Rural and Neighborhood Preservation Programs grants, which partially fund neighborhood groups like the South Wedge Planning Committee, Group 14621, North East Area Development, and South East Area Coalition. The budget also creates a new Foreclosure Relief Unit within the Department of Financial Services, seemingly at the expense of foreclosure legal assistance programs.

The new unit would provide counseling and mediation services to help homeowners stay in their homes, say budget materials. David Newstadt, a spokesperson for the Department of Financial Services, says the program is still in the planning stages.

The state's Foreclosure Prevention Services Program provided grants to legal aid groups and housing organizations to assist homeowners facing foreclosure. The program's out of money, however, and Cuomo's proposal doesn't include new funding.

Subsequently, the legal aid group Empire Justice Center has dismissed two paralegals, says Becky Case, supervising attorney of the organization's Foreclosure Prevention Unit. One paralegal worked cases, she says, while the other handled client intake and supported the attorneys.

"We're accepting very few clients from now on," Case says.

Foreclosures are often the result of financial problems, which also means that the homeowner might not be able to afford legal assistance, Case says. If homeowners can't afford attorneys, she says, they are at a disadvantage right from the start of proceedings.

The cuts to the Rural and Neighborhood Preservation Programs will set back grassroots community improvement efforts, says Joan Roby-Davison, who served as executive director of Group 14621 for more than a decade. The city has 11 neighborhood preservation corporations, as they're called.

"This is going to leave neighborhoods in Rochester really without staff to support their efforts," says Roby-Davison, now the executive director of Sector 4 Community Development Corporation, which does not receive Neighborhood Preservation Program funding.

Roby-Davison says the programs have been cut before and then restored, and that there will be a lobbying effort to get the funding back

PENFIELD OPEN HOUSE - 1 to 3pm in Penfield - 2014 Five Mile Line Rd.

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 10:03:30 -0800

OPEN HOUSE 1-3pm in Penfield - 2014 Five Mile Line Rd.

2014 Five Mile Line located in Penfield NY - Price just reduced! Only $159,900 over 3,200 Sqft

This colonial offers over 3,200 Sqft. Featuring a remodeled gourmet kitchen w/tile counter tops, stunning master bedroom suite, master bath w/jacuzzi and shower, sitting room leading to balcony. Stone fireplace and mantle,Two car garage and barn, this house is a must see. Owner is contracting to do seveal more updates, this could be a great opportunity to build your own equity prior to additional updates!!! Located in the heart of Penfield, close to Penfield High School, walking distence to the four corners, what a great location. Search homes for sale in Penfield NY

OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY 1 to 3pm in Penfield - 2014 Five Mile Line Rd.

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:21:12 -0800

2014 Five Mile Line located in Penfield NY - Price just reduced! Only $159,900 over 3,200 Sqft

Hilton Open House today - 220 Dunbar Rd from 1- 3pm

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 09:17:13 -0800

PLease feel free to visit us at our open house this afternoon in Parma / Hilton Shools from 1 to 3 pm. If you are looking for land and a newer house this could be the one.

This four bedroom colonial, features nice open floor plan with a natural flow from the eat-in kitchen to a very large great room. The kitchen features hardwood floors and tons of nature lighting. Looking for land? This 1.8 acres offer a very large lot backing up to a creek perfect for someone looking for privacy.

To view more information on 220 Dunbar or other homes for sale click here

Is your assessment fair? If not, your property taxes may be too high.

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 23:42:06 -0800

January 6, 2012 by remaxfirstroc

This is the time of year for all property owners to ask themselves this simple question. Or is it a simple question?

In order to answer the question fairly one must know two things about the property:

1. The “Assessed Value” as determined by the Municipalities Assessor.

2. “Fair Market Value” what the property would sell for today if it were made available for sale in the open market.

In theory: Assessed Value is supposed to equal Fair Market Value.

The Assessor’s primary responsibility is to fairly assess all property so that the taxpayer pays only their fair share of taxes.

However, the Assessed Value is periodically reviewed by the Assessor with lapses in time sometimes measured in years. Those years can have seen swings in value, up or down making the assessed value no longer fair.

Fair Market Value is subject to the dynamic economic forces of the marketplace and is subject to change.

Therefore, Assessed Value does not always equal Fair Market Value but there should be a reasonable (5%) correlation between the two.

If your Assessed Value is within a 0 to 5% range of Fair Market Value then your property taxes are arguably fair.

If your Assessed Value is greater than Fair Market Value and exceeding a 5% range then your taxes are too high.

When your taxes are too high, two things occur. First, you will pay more than your fair share in property taxes every year. Second, when you sell your property, you will likely receive less than Fair Market Value since properties with higher taxes than competing properties tend to be less desirable.

These 2 things are not fair to a property owner and there is something you can do about it.

The “Burden of Proof” rests with the property owner to take action and to prove the Assessed Value is not fair.

Fair Market Value will need to be determined and can be supported by any one of the following: recent activity of the property in the market, recent appraisal and or recent comparable or “like” properties that have sold. Note: the further you go back in time the less accurate the information will be relative to today. It is always recommended to discuss timelines with the assessor to maximize any due diligence.

First, property owners should try to arrange an informal review with the assessor. Generally it is easiest to coordinate an appointment well in advance of “Grievance Day.”

If the Assessor does not grant the meeting or if the Assessed Value is not adjusted as a result of the meeting then the property owner can and should file a Formal Grievance.

The deadline for filing a formal grievance is quickly approaching is generally in May however you should confirm with your local municipality.

A formal grievance form can be obtained from the Assessor’s Office or by visiting:

http://www.tax.ny.gov/pdf/current_forms/orpts/rp524_1117.pdf

Please check with the Assessor’s office to confirm the number of full copies they require when submitting all documentation supporting the formal grievance.

You can represent yourself or you can appoint a representative to represent you before the Assessor or Grievance Review Board. This must be reflected on the RP-524 form

Again, this is the time of year for all property owners to ask “Are your property taxes fair or too high”?

If you are still unsure how to resolve this question or what to do next, contact your REALTOR today for professional guidance.

For more information please see: http://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/contest/completegriev.htm

Contributed by: Ken Currie, RE/MAX

Rochester NY area HSBC bank to become First Niagara and Key Bank branches

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 21:51:56 -0800

according to the Democrat and Chronicle, Rochester area customers of HSBC finally are getting clarity about what will happen when First Niagara Bank purchases HSBC's branches in upstate New York.

After announcing last summer its intention to buy 195 HSBC branches, First Niagara said Thursday it will sell 37 of those locations in western New York to Key Bank. The deal includes 11 branches in Monroe County

HSBCn locations to Key Bank

These HSBC branches in Monroe County will become Key Bank branches after June 30.
12 Courtney Drive, Perinton.
3177 Latta Road, Greece NY
3636 Dewey Ave., Greece NY.
980 Ridge Road, Webster NY.
184 S. Union St., Spencerport NY.
1005 Elmgrove Road, Gates NY.
525 Titus Ave., Irondequoit NY.
3230 Chili Ave., Chili NY.
1475 Mt. Hope Ave., Rochester NY
1848 Empire Blvd., Penfield NY
835 Fairport Road, East Rochester NY

University of Rochester Medical Center Nationally Ranked Hospital

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 01:23:22 -0800

University of Rochester Medical Center Nationally Ranked Hospital

Nationally Ranked

#32 in Gynecology
#48 in Neurology & Neurosurgery
#39 in Urology
#42 in Nephrology

High-Performing

in Cancer
in Cardiology & Heart Surgery
in Diabetes & Endocrinology
in Ear, Nose & Throat

in Gastroenterology
in Geriatrics
in Orthopedics
in Pulmonology

Other Specialties

in Ophthalmology
in Psychiatry
in Rheumatology

See adult ranking details

Monroe County Schools fair well in Business First School rankings

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 01:07:00 -0800

Business First has rated the academic performances of 431 public school districts in the 48 counties of Upstate New York, based on four years of test data from the New York State Education Department. (Click here to learn how the rankings were calculated.)

The following list contains the full standings from top to bottom. And there's a second way to view the Upstate rankings: Click here to access a sortable database. Business First has also divided the Upstate ratings into separate standings for eight regions of the state. Click here to see those regional rankings.

Below are the 431 Upstate school districts in order of academic rank. Each is followed by the names of its county and its region:

• 1. Pittsford (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 2. Fayetteville-Manlius (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 3. Brighton (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 4. Williamsville (Erie County, Western New York)

• 5. Skaneateles (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 6. Honeoye Falls-Lima (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 7. New Hartford (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 8. Niskayuna (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 9. Cazenovia (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 10. Clarence (Erie County, Western New York)

• 11. Voorheesville (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 12. Bethlehem (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 13. East Aurora (Erie County, Western New York)

• 14. North Colonie (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 15. Guilderland (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 16. West Irondequoit (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 17. Jamesville-Dewitt (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 18. Westhill (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 19. Victor (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 20. Orchard Park (Erie County, Western New York)

• 21. Penfield (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 22. Alfred-Almond (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 23. Marcellus (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 24. Amherst (Erie County, Western New York)

• 25. Vestal (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 26. Maine-Endwell (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 27. Alden (Erie County, Western New York)

• 28. East Greenbush (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 29. Grand Island (Erie County, Western New York)

• 30. Shenendehowa (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 31. Bemus Point (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 32. Lansing (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 33. Clinton (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 34. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 35. Lewiston-Porter (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 36. Iroquois (Erie County, Western New York)

• 37. Hamburg (Erie County, Western New York)

• 38. Baldwinsville (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 39. West Genesee (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 40. Potsdam (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 41. Fabius-Pompey (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 42. Canandaigua (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 43. Saratoga Springs (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 44. Chazy (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 45. Lancaster (Erie County, Western New York)

• 46. Fairport (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 47. Webster (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 48. Avon (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 49. Weedsport (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 50. West Seneca (Erie County, Western New York)

• 51. Spencerport (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 52. Lake George (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 53. Frontier (Erie County, Western New York)

• 54. Akron (Erie County, Western New York)

• 55. South Colonie (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 56. Cambridge (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 57. Barker (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 58. Ithaca (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 59. Holland (Erie County, Western New York)

• 60. Hilton (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 61. Caledonia-Mumford (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 62. Town of Webb (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 63. Eden (Erie County, Western New York)

• 64. Tully (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 65. Gananda (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 66. Geneseo (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 67. Schodack (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 68. Beaver River (Lewis County, Watertown Area)

• 69. Southwestern (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 70. Queensbury (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 71. Bloomfield (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 72. Chenango Forks (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 73. Wayne (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 74. Niagara-Wheatfield (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 75. Sweet Home (Erie County, Western New York)

• 76. Chautauqua Lake (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 77. Whitesboro (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 78. Wilson (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 79. Owego-Apalachin (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 80. Pembroke (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 81. Rush-Henrietta (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 82. Starpoint (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 83. Schuylerville (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 84. Greene (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 85. Liverpool (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 86. Ballston Spa (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 87. Stillwater (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 88. Salem (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 89. Chittenango (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 90. Saranac Lake (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 91. Churchville-Chili (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 92. Naples (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 93. Scotia-Glenville (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 94. Duanesburg (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 95. Schalmont (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 96. Springville-Griffith Institute (Erie County, Western New York)

• 97. Depew (Erie County, Western New York)

• 98. Sherman (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 99. Honeoye (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 100. Hamilton (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 101. Horseheads (Chemung County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 102. Williamson (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 103. Westmoreland (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 104. Sherrill (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 105. Onondaga (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 106. Glens Falls (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 107. LeRoy (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 108. Colton-Pierrepont (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 109. Parishville-Hopkinton (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 110. Westport (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 111. Averill Park (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 112. Fredonia (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 113. Lake Placid (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 114. Seneca Falls (Seneca County, Rochester Area)

• 115. Arkport (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 116. Pavilion (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 117. Greenwich (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 118. Canton (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 119. Westfield (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 120. South Glens Falls (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 121. New York Mills (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 122. Warrensburg (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 123. Fonda-Fultonville (Montgomery County, Albany Area)

• 124. West Canada Valley (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 125. Wheatland-Chili (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 126. Manchester-Shortsville (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 127. Sauquoit Valley (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 128. Attica (Wyoming County, Western New York)

• 129. Oneonta (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 130. Delhi (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 131. Windsor (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 132. Brunswick (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 133. North Syracuse (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 134. West Valley (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 135. Newfane (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 136. Thousand Islands (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 137. Sackets Harbor (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 138. Gates Chili (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 139. Lowville Academy (Lewis County, Watertown Area)

• 140. Clymer (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 141. Union-Endicott (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 142. Canajoharie (Montgomery County, Albany Area)

• 143. Byron-Bergen (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 144. Tioga (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 145. Tonawanda (Erie County, Western New York)

• 146. Chenango Valley (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 147. Brockport (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 148. Alexander (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 149. North Warren (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 150. General Brown (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 151. Marcus Whitman (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 152. North Collins (Erie County, Western New York)

• 153. Oriskany (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 154. Holland Patent (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 155. Prattsburgh (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 156. Bath (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 157. Johnsburg (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 158. Copenhagen (Lewis County, Watertown Area)

• 159. Palmyra-Macedon (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 160. Homer (Cortland County, Syracuse Area)

• 161. Letchworth (Wyoming County, Western New York)

• 162. Oakfield-Alabama (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 163. Phelps-Clifton Springs (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 164. Ellicottville (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 165. Kenmore-Tonawanda (Erie County, Western New York)

• 166. Union Springs (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 167. Allegany-Limestone (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 168. Elba (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 169. Red Creek (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 170. Kinderhook (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 171. Albion (Orleans County, Western New York)

• 172. Cheektowaga-Maryvale (Erie County, Western New York)

• 173. Windham-Ashland-Jewett (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 174. Broadalbin-Perth (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 175. Susquehanna Valley (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 176. Romulus (Seneca County, Rochester Area)

• 177. Plattsburgh (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 178. Waterville (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 179. Ticonderoga (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 180. Trumansburg (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 181. Mechanicville (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 182. Milford (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 183. Batavia (Genesee County, Western New York)

• 184. Coxsackie-Athens (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 185. Frewsburg (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 186. Mayfield (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 187. Royalton-Hartland (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 188. Hammondsport (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 189. Alexandria (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 190. Lyndonville (Orleans County, Western New York)

• 191. Dalton-Nunda (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 192. Newfield (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 193. Cleveland Hill (Erie County, Western New York)

• 194. North Tonawanda (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 195. East Syracuse-Minoa (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 196. Lockport (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 197. New Lebanon (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 198. Worcester (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 199. Cobleskill-Richmondville (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 200. Cooperstown (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 201. Greece (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 202. Dryden (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 203. Germantown (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 204. Johnson City (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 205. Pine Valley (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 206. Bolivar-Richburg (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 207. South Jefferson (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 208. Evans-Brant (Erie County, Western New York)

• 209. Yorkshire-Pioneer (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 210. Perry (Wyoming County, Western New York)

• 211. Norwood-Norfolk (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 212. Pulaski (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 213. LaFayette (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 214. Saranac (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 215. Chateaugay (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 216. Wayland-Cohocton (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 217. Sandy Creek (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 218. Penn Yan (Yates County, Rochester Area)

• 219. Cuba-Rushford (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 220. Falconer (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 221. Chatham (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 222. Portville (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 223. Gilbertsville-Mount Upton (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 224. Livonia (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 225. Deposit (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 226. Lyons (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 227. Hunter-Tannersville (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 228. Hoosick Falls (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 229. Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 230. Kendall (Orleans County, Western New York)

• 231. Whitney Point (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 232. Warsaw (Wyoming County, Western New York)

• 233. Medina (Orleans County, Western New York)

• 234. Jordan-Elbridge (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 235. Central Square (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 236. Lyme (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 237. Marion (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 238. Rotterdam-Mohonasen (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 239. Massena (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 240. Margaretville (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 241. Cassadaga Valley (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 242. Belfast (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 243. York (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 244. Moravia (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 245. Oneida (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 246. Cortland (Cortland County, Syracuse Area)

• 247. Poland (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 248. Bainbridge-Guilford (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 249. Norwich (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 250. Ogdensburg (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 251. Belleville Henderson (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 252. Downsville (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 253. Morristown (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 254. Carthage (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 255. Taconic Hills (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 256. Galway (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 257. Waterford-Halfmoon (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 258. Adirondack (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 259. East Rochester (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 260. Greenville (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 261. Morris (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 262. Sharon Springs (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 263. Geneva (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 264. Solvay (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 265. Harrisville (Lewis County, Watertown Area)

• 266. Cheektowaga (Erie County, Western New York)

• 267. Johnstown (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 268. Hermon-DeKalb (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 269. Phoenix (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 270. Wellsville (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 271. Oswego (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 272. Cheektowaga-Sloan (Erie County, Western New York)

• 273. Fulton (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 274. Dundee (Yates County, Rochester Area)

• 275. Dansville (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 276. Stockbridge Valley (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 277. South Lewis (Lewis County, Watertown Area)

• 278. Olean (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 279. Unatego (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 280. Randolph (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 281. Camden (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 282. Newark Valley (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 283. Elizabethtown-Lewis (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 284. Auburn (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 285. Clifton-Fine (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 286. Madison (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 287. Silver Creek (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 288. De Ruyter (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 289. Jefferson (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 290. Schoharie (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 291. Panama (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 292. Beekmantown (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 293. Corinth (Saratoga County, Albany Area)

• 294. Middleburgh (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 295. Fillmore (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 296. Little Falls (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 297. Whitesville (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 298. Laurens (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 299. Edmeston (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 300. Avoca (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 301. Hoosic Valley (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 302. Hadley-Luzerne (Warren County, Albany Area)

• 303. Corning-Painted Post (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 304. Ripley (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 305. Lisbon (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 306. Granville (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 307. Andover (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 308. La Fargeville (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 309. Cato-Meridian (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 310. Frankfort-Schuyler (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 311. Cincinnatus (Cortland County, Syracuse Area)

• 312. Mohawk (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 313. Madrid-Waddington (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 314. Southern Cayuga (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 315. Gouverneur (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 316. Waterloo (Seneca County, Rochester Area)

• 317. Berne-Knox-Westerlo (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 318. Richfield Springs (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 319. Schenevus (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 320. Spencer-Van Etten (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 321. Morrisville-Eaton (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 322. Peru (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 323. Fort Edward (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 324. East Irondequoit (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 325. Franklinville (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 326. Jasper-Troupsburg (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 327. Tupper Lake (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 328. Northeastern Clinton (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 329. South Kortright (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 330. Stamford (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 331. Marathon (Cortland County, Syracuse Area)

• 332. Mexico (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 333. Sherburne-Earlville (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 334. Gowanda (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 335. Indian River (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 336. Brocton (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 337. Georgetown-South Otselic (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 338. Sodus (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 339. Hartford (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 340. Newark (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 341. Heuvelton (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 342. Harpursville (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 343. Cattaraugus-Little Valley (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 344. Hammond (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 345. Fort Ann (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 346. Cherry Valley-Springfield (Otsego County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 347. Clyde-Savannah (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 348. Gilboa-Conesville (Schoharie County, Albany Area)

• 349. Mount Markham (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 350. Hornell (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 351. Northville (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 352. Fort Plain (Montgomery County, Albany Area)

• 353. Elmira Heights (Chemung County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 354. Waverly (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 355. Dolgeville (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 356. Unadilla Valley (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 357. Groton (Tompkins County, Syracuse Area)

• 358. Saint Regis Falls (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 359. Genesee Valley (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 360. Gloversville (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 361. Jamestown (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 362. Roxbury (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 363. Malone (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 364. Remsen (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 365. Scio (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 366. Hudson Falls (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 367. Argyle (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 368. Rome (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 369. Saint Johnsville (Montgomery County, Albany Area)

• 370. Mount Morris (Livingston County, Rochester Area)

• 371. Canisteo-Greenwood (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 372. McGraw (Cortland County, Syracuse Area)

• 373. Oxford Academy (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 374. Berlin (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 375. Edwards-Knox (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 376. Brasher Falls (St. Lawrence County, Watertown Area)

• 377. Charlotte Valley (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 378. Rensselaer (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 379. Whitehall (Washington County, Albany Area)

• 380. Hinsdale (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 381. Cohoes (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 382. Watervliet (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 383. Hannibal (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 384. Watkins Glen (Schuyler County, Rochester Area)

• 385. Hancock (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 386. Ausable Valley (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 387. Herkimer (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 388. Sidney (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 389. Catskill (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 390. Canastota (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 391. Watertown (Jefferson County, Watertown Area)

• 392. Willsboro (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 393. Candor (Tioga County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 394. Northern Adirondack (Clinton County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 395. Oppenheim-Ephratah (Fulton County, Albany Area)

• 396. Odessa-Montour (Schuyler County, Rochester Area)

• 397. Altmar-Parish-Williamstown (Oswego County, Syracuse Area)

• 398. Holley (Orleans County, Western New York)

• 399. Port Byron (Cayuga County, Syracuse Area)

• 400. Campbell-Savona (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 401. Afton (Chenango County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 402. Niagara Falls (Niagara County, Western New York)

• 403. Forestville (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 404. North Rose-Wolcott (Wayne County, Rochester Area)

• 405. Cairo-Durham (Greene County, Albany Area)

• 406. Ilion (Herkimer County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 407. Salmon River (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 408. Friendship (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 409. Walton (Delaware County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 410. Brushton-Moira (Franklin County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 411. Binghamton (Broome County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 412. Moriah (Essex County, Plattsburgh Area)

• 413. Lansingburgh (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 414. Bradford (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 415. Salamanca (Cattaraugus County, Western New York)

• 416. South Seneca (Seneca County, Rochester Area)

• 417. Amsterdam (Montgomery County, Albany Area)

• 418. Troy (Rensselaer County, Albany Area)

• 419. Green Island (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 420. Canaseraga (Allegany County, Western New York)

• 421. Dunkirk (Chautauqua County, Western New York)

• 422. Elmira (Chemung County, Binghamton-Elmira Area)

• 423. Hudson (Columbia County, Albany Area)

• 424. Lackawanna (Erie County, Western New York)

• 425. Utica (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 426. Addison (Steuben County, Rochester Area)

• 427. Schenectady (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 428. Albany (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 429. Buffalo (Erie County, Western New York)

• 430. Syracuse (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 431. Rochester (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

West Irondequoit School District Ranks 16th Among other NY Schools in 2011

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:56:05 -0800

According to Business First the West Irondequoit School District ranks high (16) in NY for test score performance.

• 1. Pittsford (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 2. Fayetteville-Manlius (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 3. Brighton (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 4. Williamsville (Erie County, Western New York)

• 5. Skaneateles (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 6. Honeoye Falls-Lima (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 7. New Hartford (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 8. Niskayuna (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 9. Cazenovia (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 10. Clarence (Erie County, Western New York)

• 11. Voorheesville (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 12. Bethlehem (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 13. East Aurora (Erie County, Western New York)

• 14. North Colonie (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 15. Guilderland (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 16. West Irondequoit (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 17. Jamesville-Dewitt (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 18. Westhill (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 19. Victor (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 20. Orchard Park (Erie County, Western New York)

Brighton School District Ranks High Among other NY Schools in 2011

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:51:36 -0800

According to Business First Brighton Central School District ranks third in NY for test score performance.

• 1. Pittsford (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 2. Fayetteville-Manlius (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 3. Brighton (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 4. Williamsville (Erie County, Western New York)

• 5. Skaneateles (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 6. Honeoye Falls-Lima (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 7. New Hartford (Oneida County, Utica-Rome Area)

• 8. Niskayuna (Schenectady County, Albany Area)

• 9. Cazenovia (Madison County, Syracuse Area)

• 10. Clarence (Erie County, Western New York)

• 11. Voorheesville (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 12. Bethlehem (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 13. East Aurora (Erie County, Western New York)

• 14. North Colonie (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 15. Guilderland (Albany County, Albany Area)

• 16. West Irondequoit (Monroe County, Rochester Area)

• 17. Jamesville-Dewitt (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 18. Westhill (Onondaga County, Syracuse Area)

• 19. Victor (Ontario County, Rochester Area)

• 20. Orchard Park (Erie County, Western New York)

Pittsford Schools District Ranks highest in NY

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:43:57 -0800

According to Business First Pittsford's school district scores in English/foreign languages, science and social studies are Upstate's best, according to Business First's breakdown of test scores in those subjects from fourth grade through high school.

The University of Rochester is still Rochester's largest employer

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:18:46 -0800

The area’s largest employers registered 20,340 workers on December 31, 2011. According to abc wham's Rachal Barhart "The U of R’s impact on the regional economy goes far beyond its own payroll. A 2010 Center for Governmental Research study says the college is responsible for 47,000 direct and indirect jobs, which pay $2.3 billion in wages. The U of R’s challenges as it grows will be to maintain funding levels and manage infrastructure. The Route 390 Interchange project begins to address some of the needs regarding access to campus."

How Much did you Spend in Gas in 2011?

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:20:37 -0800

In an article written in the Democrat and Chronicle in late December the typical American household will have spent $4,155 filling up in 2011, a record.

According to the D&C in 2011, gasoline prices in the Rochester NY area never got within 15 cents a gallon of the all-time high for regular $4.25 that was hit in the summer of 2008. But neither have prices stayed so far above $3 as long as they have this year. $4155, is 8.4 percent of what the median family in Rochester NY takes in per household, the highest share since 1981.

Fairport NY and Spencerport Ny to recieve State Funds for Canal

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:59:28 -0800

Canalway Communities to Share $1.5M in State Grants

Full story: Oneida County Courier

Communities across Upstate New York will share $1.5 million in Canal Corporation funding for improvements along the New York State Canal system as part of Governor's 2011 Regional Economic Development Council Initiative.

The Canal Corporation awards are:

• $74,992.50 to the Village of Spencerport (Monroe County) toward construction of a new heritage trail and park, which will complement existing canalside improvements and add space for additional festival vendors. There also will be a link to an adjacent segment being constructed by the Town of Ogden with CFA funding.

• $134,238 to the Village of Fairport (Monroe County) for waterfront improvements to the harbor area which receives approximately 250,000 visitors annually and represents more than $5 million in private investment. This grant will go toward landscaping, boater services, and other canalside improvements.

To search Real Estate in Fairport or Spencerport click here

Rochester NY ranks as one of 10 cities "poised for greatness in 2012."

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:07:32 -0800

Diana Carter of the Democrat and Chronicle writes: A Siena College survey showed consumer confidence here is the highest in the state, and a financial news website labeled Rochester as one of 10 cities "poised for greatness in 2012."

TheStreet.com, a widely followed site, mentioned the region's job growth and stable real estate market.

"Sure, there are cold winters, lake-effect snow and a sky that turns gray in October and usually stays that way until April," wrote Jason Notte, a Boston-based writer. "But the city that's been shrinking since the 1960s feels downright cozy in the treat-stocked aisles of a Wegmans supermarket, over a cheeseburger-and-mac-salad garbage plate at Nick Tahou's or with a Genny Cream Ale and a rack of ribs at Dinosaur Barbecue.

"It's shockingly stable, and that's about the best any city can ask for in 2012."

Other cities on the list, all more populous than Rochester, include Chicago, Houston, Tampa, San Jose, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Austin, New Orleans and one international giant, London, which hosts the Summer Olympics this year.

In the Siena Research Institute survey, Rochester led the state in overall consumer confidence with an index reading of 70.7, the highest for this metropolitan area since the financial crisis in late 2008. The Flower City also topped the charts for current and future confidence.

The poll measures consumer intentions to spend, particularly on large-ticket items such as homes, cars, appliances and furniture.

“Rochester, despite Kodak’s out-of-focus picture, is more confident than any other area of the state, and along with Buffalo and Albany, the only areas in which confidence is greater today than it was this time last year,” according to Don Levy, SRI’s director.

Despite numbers being on the rise generally, nowhere are consumers “truly upbeat,” Levy noted. “More accurately, the new year opens on a less pessimistic note.”

The news follows the Rochester Business Alliance’s release on Monday of a business confidence poll showing a more upbeat — or at least cautiously optimistic — feeling about the year ahead

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Search homes and real estate for sales in Rochester NY

$100 Million for Interstate 390 in Rochester NY

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:47:54 -0800

In an article written by JOSEPH SPECTOR of the Albany bureau chief Joseph writes Rochester leaders on Friday hailed a pending announcement by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to fund a $100 million upgrade to Interstate 390 in the city, calling it a transformative project that will bolster the region's economy.

The Interstate 390 project has been on the drawing board for years but has struggled to secure state and federal funding. The project has been viewed as critical to providing better access to the city's largest employer, the University of Rochester, as well as the nearby Monroe Community College and Rochester Institute of Technology.

The project will begin this year, Cuomo's office told Gannett's Albany Bureau on Friday. The new interchange on Interstate 390 at Kendrick Road will include new access ramps, expanded lanes, a new bridge and ramp relocation, the governor's office said.

"It is a critical economic-development project," said Sandy Parker, president of the Rochester Business Alliance. "All of that area is extremely congested, so without this project coming into being, it would restrict further expansion of the University of Rochester and RIT."

To search Real Estate and homes for sale

‘Potential mountain’ of foreclosures in New York

Mike Liess (Remax Custom) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:12:15 -0800

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Rick Karlin, Capitol bureau in Real Estate, Wall Street Rick writes regarding Gov. Andrew Cuomo's plan for helping people in foreclosure.

Dept. of Financial Services Superintendent Benjamin Lawsky fears a “potential mountain of foreclosures” is looming in New York. To forestall it, he’s launching a unit that will help people avoid losing their homes, if possible, and crack down on foreclosure abuses.

While mass foreclosures have been more of a headline story in boom-and-bust Sun Belt states more than the Northeast, Lawsky believes the trend will eventually catch up with the Empire State.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo mentioned creation of a Foreclosure Relief Unit within Lawsky’s operation during Wednesday’s State of the State speech; on Thursday, Lawsky expounded on the plans. Currently, he said, DFS is mapping hot spots where foreclosures could grow or be more prevalent in the state.

They plan to work with local not-for-profit groups to provide information and other help to people facing foreclosure.

“We’re also going to consider every regulatory tool in our toolbelt to try and see what we can do to deal with the foreclosure problem,” he said.

One idea: fostering ways that will make it easier for banks to renegotiate loans that have gone south. “We’re not going to make banks do deals that will crush the banks, but a lot of times … it’s better to have a performing loan … a loan that someone can pay than to have someone just walk away.”

To search foreclosures and other real estate in the Rochester NY area