Hudson Valley Real Estate News by Becky

First Time Homebuyers: Here's Another Reason to Buy!!

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 18:06:05 -0500

If you're considering buying your first home, here's another incentive for you. This week, New York State introduced another tax credit for first time homebuyers.

It's called the Mortgage Credit Certificate. It allows home buyers to take a dollar-for-dollar federal income tax deduction of 20% of mortgage interest paid each year. The remaining 80% of the mortgage interest would still be treated as an itemized tax deduction- as usual.

Governor David Paterson says the average homeowner could save about $1,520 per year for the first 10 years of the mortgage. This new tax credit would be on top of the federal tax credit of up to $8,000- which is due to expire at the end of November.

A first time homebuyer is defined as one who has not owned a home during the last three years. For the New York State Mortgage Credit Certificate, buyers must get a fixed rate mortgage with a partipating lender. So far, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and M&T Bank have signed up and others are expected to take part.

There are income and purchase price requirements, depending on where you live. For Ulster County, the annual income limit for a household of up to two people is $83,640 and for a household of 3 or more, the limit is $97,580 and the purchase price must be below $354,970 for single family homes. In Orange and Dutchess Counties, the income limit for a household of one or two people is $97,061 and for a household of 3 or more the limit is $111,620 and the house must be purchased for less than $387,740 for a single family. Purchase prices can be higher for 2, 3 and 4 family homes.

The program is expected to be available by the middle of September. If you currently have an offer on a home, you can still apply for the credit. If you don't have an offer on a house and would like to take advantage of each of these tax credits, give me a call today so we can get looking for your first home. Time is running out to save with the federal tax credit of up to $8,000.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Who is Your Agent Working For?

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:59:08 -0500

Here in New York State, real estate agents are required by law to explain to clients and customers who they're working for. If you see a house that's listed for sale and you call the office that listed the house, that agent is working for seller, not for you. Many people decide to work with the listing agent, which is fine, but the agent is required to tell you who he/she is working for.

My cousin is lookig for her first home. She wants my mom and me to represent her as her buyers' agent. But a couple of weeks ago, before she really started looking, she saw a house listed on-line and called the listing office. The listing agent set up appointments for my cousin and her boyfriend to look at 8 houses with him- they were all his listings or his office's listings. After she went out with him, she e-mailed me and asked if I would mind helping her find a house. I asked if she signed anything with the agent she went out with. She said no, he didn't even ask her to sign an agency disclosure. This form is required by New York State, everytime we show a house to someone, we must explain to the buyer who we're working for. He never asked her to sign one of these forms. The listing agent never brought up agency or the fact that he was representing the seller for all the listing agent on all the houses he showed her. I told her I could work with her.

After he showed her the 8 houses, the listing agent started to harrass her. When she told him she wanted to work with a buyer's agent, he told her that was fine, but if she bought any of his listings, she had to buy through him. This is not true. Then my mom called the agent to talk to him about my cousin's situation. She explained that my cousin is a first time homebuyer, she doesn't really understand how real estate works, she's sorry she took up a few hours of his time, but she really feels more comfortable working with a buyer's agent, especially since we're family members. The agent said, "You and I both know that they whole agency thing is bull****, everyone works for the seller." Again.. not true. Luckily, my cousin has found a house listed by another agent, and we won't have to deal with this guy anymore!

If you're in the market for a house and you're working with an agent, don't be afraid to ask who the agent is working for. If they say they're working for the seller, you have a right to a buyer's agent if you want one. Don't let agents bully you into thinking you must buy through them.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Ready for Some Good News

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:33:45 -0600

For the past couple of months, I've been in the dumps. I don't even want to answer the phone, because I feel like all I ever get is bad news.

With the country's financial situation, my real estate career is at a stand still. My husband is losing his job at the end of the year. My uncle was diagnosed with prostate cancer. A client's brother, a US Marine, was killed last week in Afghanistan. My husband and I have been frantically looking for jobs- but nothing seems to be very promising. My dad was forced out of a job we worked at for more than 30 years. My mother, my real estate partner, has taken on 2 additional jobs to make up for my dad's career troubles. Two people very close to me should be celebrating their 37th wedding anniversary today- instead I think their marriage may be over. It's just non-stop.

Maybe it's time to create my own good luck. I need to focus on my future and my family's future. I know that God has always taken care of us and I know he will continue to take care of us. Not sleeping and worrying all the time isn't making my problems go away. My broker has some great marketing strategies in the works including several seminars for first time homebuyers, real estate investors, foreclosures, etc. My husband has a couple of freelance jobs in the works and I've called all my friends who I've worked with in the past to ask them for help finding a job for either my husband or me.

I know this is a tough time for many Americans. We will come through this. We will come through this and will be stronger because of it!

I'm Proud to be an American!!!

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:03:32 -0600

Today is election day- and I just want to encourage everyone to get out and vote!!! We are so lucky to live in a country where we have the right to vote. I am always proud to be an American, but it always makes me stand a little taller and a little prouder when I walk out of the voting booth and I stick that "I voted" sticker on my shirt!!!

And if you think your vote doesn't count- think about the 2000 election. I lived and worked in Palm Beach County, Florida. I was working as a TV news producer for the CBS affiliate. I'll never forget when our morning anchor walked into our editorial meeting at about 8:45 am and said, "I think there's a problem- our phone is ringing off the hook with people who had problems voting". Little did we know.. that was the start of days and days of hanging chads, recounts and questions.

I don't know if today's election will be that close, but even if it's not, there's no excuse not to vote!!! Our ancestors fought for the right vote- now we need to make them proud and exercise that right.

First Time Buyers' Seminar

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:25:26 -0600

Yes, I'm still here!!!

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:31:58 -0500

So, if you are a frequent reader of my blog, or if I'm a frequently comment on your blogs, you may be wondering where I've been. I've been wondering the same thing.

Over the last month, I haven't been blogging too much. First, my in-laws were visiting for 2 weeks. We spent a lot of quality time together, enjoying the beautiful autumn season in the Hudson Valley- so I was just too busy and tired at the end of the day to sit down and write.

Then a week and a half ago, my husband found out he is losing his job at the end of the year. For the last 3.5 years, he's been a television director for NBC's digital weather station- Weather Plus. We kind of anticipated this news, because NBC purchased the Weather Channel several months back. My husband has been hunting for a new job ever since.

Since we got this news, I've been frantically looking for a full-time job for either one of us- he is a television director, I am a television producer. We have a lot to think about. We live in upstate New York- and which ever one of us has to work, we will have to commute quite a distance. We also have a 3 year old son with autism. It would be very difficult for us both to work full-time and continue to manage our son's doctors, treatments, diet, and school. We don't want to move out of the area- my family is here and so are my son's doctors and school.

The reason I haven't blogged is- I honestly don't know what to say. I'm at a complete loss. I feel like I'm just going through the motions of life. We have no savings left- we spent a lot of money to move to New York and spent the rest of our savings on medical bills (both of our kids were born premature and very sick, and Nathan's autism treatments are not covered by insurance). I haven't had a real estate closing in months and I have no real prospects on the horizon. The economy is awful all around so it's not exactly a great time to be looking for a job.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.

Where does the time go???

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 13:29:28 -0500

I can't believe it's been more than 2 weeks since I've posted a blog here on ActiveRain. I have thought about sitting down to write a blog several times- but sometimes life just gets in the way!!!

My in-laws came to visit for nearly 2 weeks. They live in Florida and when they come they like to spend as much time as possible with my kids. We all had a really good time. They were happy that fall seemed to come a little early this year. They loved seeing the fall foliage, eating the apples (not just fresh ones- we made applesaue, baked apples and bought fresh apple cider donuts!!!), and picked out pumpkins to take back with them for my neices, Julia and Kelsey.

The weather was perfect for their visit- cool at night and in the early mornings and mild during the day. We spent a lot of time outside with the kids. I lived in Florida for several years before I had kids, and this was always the time of year when I got the most homesick. I had so much fun enjoying fall in the Mid-Hudson Valley through a visitor's eyes.

If you're thinking of a fall getaway- the Hudson Valley has so much to offer. And don't forget to make your reservations for the Headless Horseman Hayride in Ulster Park. The annual freight fest has been named #1 Hayride in America by American Airlines Magazine, as well as #1 Haunted Attraction in the country by Haunt World Magazine. CNBC and AOL put Headless Horseman in their 10 ten list of haunted attractions.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.

Offers are no joke

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:39:53 -0500

Everyone wants to get a good deal- but when you put in an offer to purchase real estate, it a serious document and isn't a joke.

We recently got an offer on one of our properties that has been on the market for quite some time. The offer tens of thousands of dollars below the asking price. At first our seller balked at the offer thinking the house was worth more, but the buyer and her agent didn't give up. For weeks, we went back and forth. The buyer said she couldn't afford to go any higher but loved the house and wanted it, the seller said she couldn't afford to go that low and still pay off the mortgage. The buyer and seller each wrote letters to each other explaining their position.

Finally, the seller decided that if the buyer (who was putting down a significant down payment) could close quickly, she'd take the offer. We expected the buyer to be excited- instead we didnt' hear anything from her or her agent for days. Finally her agent called and said her client never really thought that offer would be accepted and she wasn't really ready to buy. WHAT!?! SERIOUSLY?!? This "buyer" and her agent had spent weeks tried to talk us and our client into this deal- now we learn it was all just a whim.

I had another deal recently fall through. This time I was working with the buyers. From the time they put in the offer, they kept threatening to back out of the deal. If the least little thing when wrong, they threatened to walk away. I knew in my heart that the closing wouldn't happen. But everytime they threatened, I was able to smooth things over. Finally 2 days before the closing, they called me and told me they would not be buying the house because a minor- I'm talking minor repair had not been done yet. They ended up having to pay for the home inspection, title, attorney fees and face the possibility of being sued by the seller, but they didn't care.

I understand that buying real estate is a scary and emotional proposition. But you need to weigh all the options and make an educated deicision before you put in an offer. If you were the seller, this is what you would expect from prospective buyers. As an educated real estate salesperson, I can help you decide if its the right time. We can also help you find a mortgage that's right for you.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Highland, NY Market Report

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 20:28:04 -0500

If you've been thinking of buying a house, maybe this is the time to stop thinking and put in an offer. Prices are down and many owners are anxious to sell. Highland, New York is a great community to look in. Highland is centrally located between Poughkeepsie, Kingston, New Paltz and Newburgh. There are currently dozens of houses to choose from- from handy-man specials to large estates and from condos to new construction.

Here's a look at the market conditions for single family homes in Highland:

total listings	Average DOM*	Lowest	Highest	Average	Median
72	119	$119,000	$3,300,000	$417,830	$339,000

These are all the listings in Highland that have sold since August 1. As you can see, homes that are priced correctly, sell the quickest. Several houses were re-listed several times, and the prices dropped repeatedly when the houses failed to sell.

Sold Listings	DOM*	Original price	List Price	Sold Price	Concession	Re-listed?	Original list date	First price	Total DOM*
408 South St.	333	$175,000	$175,000	$107,000	$0	N
6 Christopher Ave	170	$179,000	$159,000	$167,410	$0	Y	11/15/2007	$189,900	260
241 Chapel Hill Road	173	$324,900	$220,000	$220,000	$0	Y	8/17/2006	$495,000	532
114 Half Moon Road	240	$249,000	$234,000	$231,000	$0	Y	8/19/2006	$319,000	609
58 Ose Road	131	$249,000	$249,000	$237,113	$7,113	Y	8/9/2007	$275,000	311
2 Reservoir Road	118	$269,900	$260,000	$240,000	$0	N
3 South Gate Road	211	$275,000	$269,000	$250,000	$0	Y	2/1/2007	$287,500	578
166 Lily Lake Road	240	$339,954	$329,954	$320,000	$0	Y	3/1/2007	$399,000	461
10 Carmella Road	64	$332,954	$332,954	$330,000	$0	Y	11/7/2007	$359,900	247
228 Martin Ave	153	$399,000	$399,000	$396,000	$0	N
114 Station Road	388	$449,900	$449,900	$449,900	$0	N

*DOM- Days on the Market

Many of the houses currently for sale in Highland qualify for a money down low interest loan through the USDA Rural Development Program. If you'd like to take a look at homes in Highland or if you'd like more information about loan program, give me a call today.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Fine Food, Fine Wine and Fine Homes

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:03:31 -0500

Where can you sample pizza, sushi, and lamb chops all in one place? This Sunday at Taste of New Paltz. The 18^th annual celebration is being held from 11am-5pm at the Ulster County Fairgrounds.

You can sample food from 30 area restaurants as well as wineries, breweries and farms. Admission is $5 for people 12 and over- and each sample is $2 or $3. Last year, I tried a mini pulled pork sandwich from Biggies Barbecue, the short ribs from Mohonk Mountain House, and cheesecake from The Bakery. I also brought home a caramel apple, a gallon of fresh cider and a pint of concord grapes for my family. We were not disappointed.

Once you've tried the best food our area has to offer, come see me. From new construction to antique homes and from large estates to small cottages, Ulster County has it all. Visit the EXiT Realty Services booth in the Youth Building for a taste of what makes us different. Whether you're interested in buying or selling, EXiT is cooking up a recipe for success.

Taste of New Paltz is held rain or shine- so I'll see there!!!

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Major Tax Hike- OUCH!!!

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:43:00 -0500

The tax man cometh to Marlboro. If you live in the Marlboro Central School District like I do, you'll soon be getting some bad news in your mailbox. The district is raising school taxes an average of 37%.

This couldn't come at a worse time for me and many of my neighbors. Many homes are in foreclosure, the unemployment rate is high and the price of everything from gas to groceries is out of control. Now this.

The school district was sued by Dynergy, a power company that owns 2 power plants in the Town of Newburgh. A court found that the school district had over assessed the power plants by $565 million, now the other property owners in the school district are left picking up the difference. Homeowners who live in the Town of Newburgh and the Marlboro School District are getting hit twice as hard, because the town also over assessed the power plants.

I've been thinking of putting my house on the market. I know it's an awful time to sell, but my 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1200 square foot house is just too small for a family of 4 and 2 dogs. But this is going to make homes in Marlboro tougher to sell, the low school taxes have always been a major selling point. I think for now, I'll try to sell more houses and my husband will continue working 2 jobs and looking for another- to help make ends meet!!! And of course we'll keep the faith that God will take care of us.

If you have questions for the school district about the tax hike, you can submit them through the district's website. Residents' questions will be answered at district wide meetings scheduled for this fall.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

I've been tagged for a MeMe (again)

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 18:03:37 -0500

I am a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt and friend.

I think the real estate market is going to turn around, and my mom and I are going to make tons of money so our husbands won't have to worry so much.

I can produce an awesome newcast!!! I used to be a producer for CBS before becoming a mom- now I can't watch TV without critiquing it.

I want to spread the word that Autusim is treatable. We're doing it with my oldest son and I know more families need the same help we're getting.

I have the best family in the world.

I wish I could win the lottery.

I hate it when people complain all the time and only focus on the negative.. it brings me down.

I miss my grandma and my Aunt Brenda- I think of them everyday.

I fear losing people I love.

I feel loved.

I hear the a/c, the tv, my son signing his ABC's.

I smell my other son's shampoo, he's sleeping on my lap right now.

I search the internet- I don't even know what I'm looking for!!!.

I regret losing touch with many of the people I've met over the years, friends from college and previous jobs.

I love my family- it's the best in the world.

I care about people's feelings and what they think of me- I know I shouldn't but I do.

I always watch Big Brother- I haven't missed 1 espiode in 10 seasons.

I am not as young as I think I am.. I can't believe I just turned 33- I'm convinced I'm still 20.

I believe God has a plan for me. Everything happens for a reason, even though I may not know what it is.

I dance with my neices to boy bands and radio Disney- they think I'm nuts when I do it!!!

I sing in the car.

I don't like it when people tell me what I can and cannot do.

I write e-mails.

I win the contest for best kids and husband!!!

I lose my keys all the time- they've bee missing for more than a month!!!

I never traveled out of the country- except for one middle of the night trip to Niagara Falls when I was in college (we won't talk about that).

I listen when others talk.

I can usually be found at home with my kids, unless I'm working.

I am scared of heights-it's awful.

I read magazines. I love to read and used to read at least 1 book a month, but I just don't have the time any more.

I forget about bad things. I try to focus on the positive.

I am happy about my son's first couple of days of preschool- he had a great couple of days and I'm sure he'll have a wonderful year.

NOW THE FUN PART: I TAG; C. TANN STAR, BARBARA CARTER, PADDY PAZZIAPPI, DON ROGERS

I'm in the mood for chicken!!!

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:03:51 -0500

I can't think of barbecued chicken without thinking of Brooks House of Bar-B-Q in Oneonta, New York. I've been going to Brooks since I was a kid everytime we'd go to my grandfather's cabin in Gilbertsville.

Over the last 50+ years Brooks has grown from a small catering company, to a barbecue concession stand, to a restaurant, banquet hall and barbecue sauce production company. About a half hour from Cooperstown and National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the restaurant has a display case with famous baseball players who've eaten there- including my favorite, Derek Jeter. Even Food Network's Rachael Ray included Brooks in her Cooperstown episode of "$40 a Day". They'll cater parties up to 100 miles from Oneonta- so even if you don't live or go to college there, they can bring a taste of Brooks to you. Or you can make it yourself- you can go to their website and order your own sauce.

During my family's Labor Day trip to the cabin, we had to stop at Brooks. I had the chicken and ribs combo- even though they're famous for their chicken, I can‘t pass up the ribs. And for dessert I had the most delicious strawberry shortcake. Wow, my mouth is watering already. So, if you're planning a visit to anywhere in the Leatherstocking region of New York, definitely make a stop at Brooks. Or better yet, plan a trip to Brooks and then stop at the other attractions in the area- like that National Baseball Hall of Fame and Howe Caverns!!!

Nathan enjoying his hot dog!!!

Drew eating some chicken he grabbed off my plate!!!

My necies, Daniele, Molly and Mia smiling bright for the camera!!!

A lot of food came out, but when we were finished, there wasn't much left except for big pile of napkins!!!

Brooks says it has the largest indoor charcoal pit in the east, and possiblity the country!!!

Out behind the restaurant is the banquet hall, picnic area, playground, gift shop and ice cream parlor!!!

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

New York State Buyers Agency Agreement

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:02:22 -0500

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

This is the sixth in a series about forms and contracts relating to New York State Real Estate.

The buyers agency contract is an agreement between an agent and buyer that sets up a relationship where the buyer is represented by the agent in the purchase of property. The buyers agent can provide services that are not offered to customers. The contract is a employment as the listing agreement is but the buyers agency agreement the agent is the employee of the buyer.

Services provided by a buyers agent are assistance in finding a suitable property, gathering information on property values, prepare and present an offer, help in finding financing and negotiating an agreeable purchase offer. The client is owed care, confidentiality, loyalty, obedience, accounting and disclosure by the agent.

Compensation can be paid either by the buyer or the seller. In most cases the listing agreement states the commission split to be paid to the buyer. In cases when the buyer agrees to pay the fee an hourly rate, flat fee or percentage is agreed upon in the buyers agency contract.

If the buyer decides to purchase a property that is listed by the buyers broker a dual agency would exist and the buyer and seller would need to sign a dual agency disclosure to avoid an undisclosed dual agency.

This is the sixth in a series about forms and contracts relating to New York State Real Estate- If you missed the prior to go to;

New York State Property Condition Disclosure
New York State Agency Disclosure

New York State Lead Disclosure

New York State Listing Agreements

The Offer to Purchase in New York

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Realtors

Exit Realty Services

10 Main Street

New Paltz NY 12561

Office: 845 255 HOME

Barbara 845 505 3160 Becky 845 853 4210

Visit us on the Web www.UlsterNYHomes.com

Or email UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Back to School!!

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:02:30 -0500

It's hard to believe, but summer's just about over. Children in New Paltz, Highland and Marlboro School Districts are getting ready to say goodbye to sleeping late and playing all day- and will be getting back to the early mornings and hard work of school.

Children go back to school on Wednesday morning. Have questions about what school supplies your kids need, school start times, or the lunch menus? Check out the district websites:

New Paltz School District

Marlboro School District

Highland School District

Or you can call district offices, they will be open all this week and Tuesday.

Highland Elementary & Intermediate School

Highland Middle School

Highland High School

Duzine Elementary School (New Paltz)

New Paltz Middle School

New Paltz High School

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

Fire Damages New Paltz Hot Spot

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:31:55 -0500

It's one of the busiest times of the year. College students are back in town, and the tourists will visiting for Labor Day weekend- but one of New Paltz's most popular restaurants won't be open.

P&G's is closed after a fire broke out in the kitchen on Friday night. According to the Poughkeepsie Journal, a grease fire started on a stove and quickly spread to the walls. The kitchen was destroyed and needs to be completely renovated. The bar and dining areas okay.

The bar maybe open for the weekend, but it will take at least another week before the kitchen is back up and running.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

BRRRR… Numb’s the word!!!

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 07:41:01 -0500

I don't know what the weather's been like where you live, but here in New York, it's been unseasonably cool for the last couple of weeks. It feels more like September or October than August. Last week my family went to a local county fair and I didn't even break a sweat. And I keep hearing people say, "I hope this doesn't mean we're in for a cold winter."

Well, brace yourselves everyone. If you believe the editors of the Farmer's Almanac, it says we're in for a down right frigid winter, calling it "catastrophic for millions".

It says at least two-thirds of the country will have colder than average temperatures- with only the Far West and the Southeast at near-normal temps. And the Great Lakes, Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions will have more snow than normal.

If the Almanac turns out to be right, it could truly be catastrophic for many. During my work as a home retention consultant, I have talked to homeowners here in Ulster County who are in danger of losing their home, because they couldn't pay their heating bills and their mortgage last year. And this year fuel and electric costs are even higher.

Here's the good news.. The National Weather Service forecast disagrees with the Almanac's forecast. It is calling for warmer than normal winter.

The 2009 Farmer's Almanac hits store shelves tomorrow.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

New York State Lead Disclosure

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:37:47 -0500

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

This is the third in a series discussing real estate forms and contracts used in New York State.

It is a federal law that a buyer or tenant who purchases or rents a home built prior to 1978 must be furnished a booklet explaining the dangers of lead in the home.

Landlords and sellers in New York State are required to sign a lead paint disclosure. The form discloses whether the landlord/ seller has any knowledge of lead paint in the home. The buyer is also given ten days to have an inspection for lead paint prior to signing a binding contract. The disclosure becomes a part of the purchase contract.

Things to know about lead

Lead can harm young children, babies even prior to birth

Children may seem healthy and have high levels of lead

Lead can enter the body through eating paint chips,or soil, breathing or swallowing lead dust

There are ways to reduce the dangers

Improper removal of lead paint can be harmful

For more information about lead call the National Lead Information Center 1-800-424 LEAD

Or on the web go to www.epa.gov/ or www.hud.gov/offices/lead

This is the third in a series about forms and contracts relating to New York State Real Estate- If you missed the prior to go to;

New York State Property Condition Disclosure

New York State Agency Disclosure

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Realtors

Exit Realty Services

10 Main Street

New Paltz NY 12561

Office: 845 255 HOME Barbara 845 505 3160 Becky 845 853 4210

Visit us on the Web www.UlsterNYHomes.com

Or email UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

New York State Property Condition Disclosure

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:36:43 -0500

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

This is the second in a series about real estate forms and contracts

When listing any one to four family home, in New York State, for sale you are asked to submit a Property Condition Disclosure to the buyer prior to the signing of a binding contract of sale. The Disclosure will be attached to the contract. If the buyer does not receive the disclosure they are entitled to a $500 credit at closing. Whether the seller provides the disclosure or not, the seller is still liable for any undisclosed defects.

The Disclosure form will be provided to you by your listing agent. You will be advised to consult your attorney in regards to the disclosure. Your agent can not give you advise as to whether to complete or ignore the disclosure.

There are 48 questions pertaining to the environment. structure and condition of the property and the mechanicals.

Some of the questions you will be asked are:

How long you have owned the property

How long you occupied the property

The age of the structure

If anyone other than you has a claim to the property

Location whether in flood plain, wetland, agricultural or the site of a landfill

Whether you have knowledge of lead paint, asbestos or other toxic substances

Structural issues such as termite, water, or smoke damage

Any mechanical defects

The Property Condition Disclosure is signed by the seller and dated. This indicates that at the time of the signing all the information is complete and true. If an issue develops that changes the condition of the property the seller must notify their attorney at once. The seller is not required to file a revised disclosure after the title has transferred or the buyer has taken occupancy.

The buyer must sign and date the disclosure. The buyer is notified that the disclosure is in no way intended to discourage an engineers inspection or is it in any way a warantee for the property.

This is the second in a series regarding contracts and forms- If you missed the first in the series go to: New York State Agency Disclosure

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web:

www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

The Offer to Purchase in New York

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:36:14 -0500

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

This is the fifth in a series of blogs about New York State real estate forms and contracts.

You have found the perfect home- The next step is to make an offer to purchase.

The offer will come in the form of an agreement or "binder". This will be part of the negotiating stage of the purchase in which the objective will be to come to a "meeting of the minds" between the buyer and seller. It will lay out the terms in which the buyer agrees to buy and the seller agrees to sell.

The buyer's agent prepares a document that will indentify the parties and the legal address of the property. The legal description of the property is the mailing address, the name of the town and the tax map number. The terms and conditions of the offer are laid out. The offering price is stated. The amount of earnest money, the money down at contract (these are held in escrow by the seller's attorney) and the amount of the mortgage and the cash due at closing. The conditions of sale can be subject to any number of terms such as attorney approval, satisfactory engineer's inspection, sale of the buyer's current home or anything the buyer needs to have before purchasing. These are the contingencies of the sale. The non real estate items that are included in the sale are listed.

In New York State there are several ways to handle the "offer". I some cases a binder, earnest money, is collected at the time of the offer.

This offer is signed by the prospective buyer and submitted to the listing agent along with the preapproval letter from the lender and the agency disclosure. Once this document is received the seller is notified of the offer and negotiations begin. If the seller accepts the offer as presented this offer is submitted to the attorney's for contract to be prepared.

If the seller counteroffers or refuses the offer this offer is null and void and the buyer is no longer bound to the original offer.

This is the fifth in a series about forms and contracts relating to New York State Real Estate- If you missed the prior to go to;

New York State Property Condition Disclosure

New York State Agency Disclosure

New York State Lead Disclosure

New York State Listing Agreements

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Realtors

Exit Realty Services

10 Main Street

New Paltz NY 12561

Office: 845 255 HOME Barbara 845 505 3160 Becky 845 853 4210

Visit us on the Web www.UlsterNYHomes.com

Or email UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

TLC~ Fixer Upper~ Handyman?

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:34:13 -0500

This is from my mom's blog. It has some great information for buyers who are looking for a deal!!!

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

Handyman? Fixer Upper? You may have read these real estate listings.

Homes that are in need of repair may scare people off for fear that there is too much work to be done. Others see it as an opportunity to make the home their own.

On of the misconceptions about fixer uppers is that a lot of the money to do the repairs will need to be cash on hand. Actually, many lenders offer renovation loans that will be a single loan to purchase and fix up the property. These loans actually make sense because the renovation cost is spread over the term of the mortgage.

If you are thinking of buying a property in need of TLC some things to consider:

The most obvious is the reduced cost.

You get to customize the property.

You may be able to buy in an area you would otherwise not be able to buy.

When thinking of purchasing a handyman property be sure to find out everything that needs to be done to repair the property. Get professional advice through a home inspection. The inspection will reveal potential hidden problems. With all things considered buying and renovating the right home may be a great way to get the home you want and at the price you want.

If you are looking for a home that needs some TLC call us we will help through the process

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother Daughter Team Realtors

Exit Realty Services

Visit us on the web www.UlsterNYHomes@yahoo.com

Family Fun at the Dutchess County Fair

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 13:02:49 -0500

On Friday, my family spent the afternoon at the Dutchess County Fair in Rhinebeck, NY. A true country fair, the annual event offers something for everyone. If you're in the area, I would recommend enjoying one of the last 2 days of the fair.

Admission is $12 and children under 12 are free and parking is free. You'll find everything you would expect- great food, games, and tons rides and shows. But for my family it's all about the animals. My kids loved walking through the petting zoo, Nathan took his first pony ride, and although Andrew loves to torture our dogs, he liked looking at the farm animals from afar.

Although, I had a great time at the fair, it always reminds me that summer is almost over.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com

First of Many Rites of Passage

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:37:19 -0500

With kids, it seems like we go through one rite of passage after another. Today our family says goodbye to Early Intervention Services. My 3-year-old son, Nathan, has been getting therapy through early intervention for most of his life. He is on the Autism Spectrum and has been getting about 20 hours of therapy a week.

Instead of having multiple therapists coming into our home, Nathan will now be going to preschool and getting all of his services there. When Nathan's developmental pediatrician first said that Nathan would have to go to school all day 5 days a week- I panicked. I didn't want my baby leaving me. But then I realized he would have to be there that much to get all his therapies in and still get to play and learn with the other kids.

My family has been blessed that our son was diagnosed at a time when there is so much information and so many treatments for Autism. Nathan is doing wonderfully. He talks, makes eye contact and takes part in conversations. He's also highly intelligent. He can read and is learning basic math. Thanks to Early Intervention and biomedical treatments, Nathan's doctors expect that one day he will be off the spectrum or have very mild symptoms.

We are ready for a new chapter in our lives. Nathan's ready to go to school, meet new friends and teachers and face new challenges. I'm ready to have my house back and be able to spend some quality time with my younger son, Andrew. But at the same time, I am so appreciative to all Nathan's Early Intervention therapists, his on going service coordinator, and his previous school 123 P.L.A.Y. in Highland, NY. We will continue to update them all on his progress and keep them as part of our lives.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

Buy Fresh Buy Local- Pure Catskills

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:43:49 -0500

Great Local info!!!

Via Barbara Carter Ulster County Real Estate Professional:

Buy Fresh Buy Local

The end of summer brings the harvest time in the Hudson Valley. Pure Catskills is a campaign to promote farms and food businesses in the Catskill region on New York.

Tara Collins, Communications Director Watershed Agricultural Council, reports, "This six-county regional branding effort is to raise people's awareness to local products here in and around the watershed region. Many of our members embrace the clean water mantra of stewarding the land. All embrace the pride of growing and raising local foods for local consumption. Ulster County residents can find a local farm or producer easily online at www.buypurecatskills.com.

We also have a Pure Catskills brand for regional wood products promoting raw lumber to finished furniture. You can find those members and their wares at www.catskillwoodnet.org. Both programs are economic iniatives of the Waterhsed Agricultural Council made possible with funding from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.

Spending our dollars locally stimulates our regional economy. Can you imagine what impact we would have if we dedicated $10 a weeek to purchasing local products? By supporting wood businesses, veggie and livestock farms that work the land, we guarantee the rural character of the Ulster County landscape. Buying local is all about eating healthy food, connecting with your local farmer and promoting clean water."

The local farms are preparing for festivals, pick your own, and farmers markets. Some of the many farms in the area are:

Kiernan Farm
1308 Bruynswick Road
Gardiner, NY 12525
PH: (845) 255-5995
Email: info@kiernanfarm.com
www.kiernanfarm.com

Maynard Farms
326 River Rd.
Ulster Park , NY 12487
PH: (845) 331-6908
Email: maynardorchards@aol.com
www.maynardfarms.com

Mr. Apples Low Spray Orchard
25 Orchard St. Route 213
High Falls, NY 12440
PH: (845) 687-0005
Email: felipemanzana2002@yahoo.com
www.mrapples.com

Prospect Hill Orchards
40 Clark's Lane
Milton, NY 12547
PH: (845) 795-2382
Email: info@prospecthillorchards.com
www.prospecthillorchards.com

Sugar Brook Maple Farm
351 Samsonville Rd.
Kerhonkson , NY 12446
Email: sugarbrookmaple@aol.com

To view the Pure Catskills Guide or to order a print copy go to Http://www.buypurecatskills.com

Thank you to Tara Collins for helping with this blog.

Some Marlboro Schools Starting Later

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:50:38 -0500

Elementary and intermediate schools in Marlboro School District are starting 15 minutes later this year. Classes at Marlboro, Milton and Middlehope Elementary Schools and Marlboro Intermediate School will begin at 8:45.

School administrators decided to make the change to give school buses more time to get kids to school on time. Last year buses were often late, because of all the rush hour traffic on Route 9W during the morning rush hour. School administrators had the choice of adding more buses or changing the start time. They decided it made more sense to start classes 15 minutes later.

The School Breakfast Program will still be available for students when they arrive at school. The first day of school in Marlboro is September 3.

Barbara Carter and Becky Cook

Mother/Daughter Team Real Estate Two Together For You

ExiT Realty Services 10 Main Street Suite 424 New Paltz, NY 12561

Barbara (845) 505-3160 Becky (845) 853-4210 Office (845) 255-HOME

On the web: www.UlsterNYHomes.com e-mail: UlsterHomes@yahoo.com