Concetta's Blog

HomeBuyer's Tax Credit $$$

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:53:20 -0600

The opportunity of a lifetime is at hand - right now.

Plenty of homes are available at affordable prices.

Interest rates remain historically low.

There is no minimum income for claiming the credit. If you don't owe any taxes, you can receive it in cash.

You can claim the credit when you file your 2009 or 2010 tax return- or, if you'd rather not wait, file an amended 2009 or 2009 return and receive the money upon the purchasing your home. There are also programs that will advance the money to help you on your down payment.

And to sweeten the pot, there's the tax credit - up to $8000 for qualified first-time buyers whose income is within IRS established limits and up to $6500 for most other homebuyers. This is money that never has to be repaid, provided you live in the home for three years.

If you co-sign a mortgage to help your non-dependent child buy his or her first home, your eligibility does not affect you child's ability to qualify for the credit.

Tax Credit Basics

You are considered a first-time home buyer if neither you nor your spouich has owned a principal residence in the U.S. within the last three years.
Most other buyers are eligible for up to $6500. if they lived in their residence for five consecutive years of the last eight.
You must sign a purchase contract no later than April 30, 2010 and close before July 1.

I can't provide every detail of the program here- and I'm not qualified to give you tax advice- but I can help you make sense of regulations.

Don't wait. Give me a call 718-979-3000 ext 125 or email me, and I can help you decide whether now is the time for you to buy. And if the time is right, I'd be honored to represent you as you seek out your dream home.

Remax Metro 718-979-3000 x125

Connie Pepenella Associate Broker

585 North Gannon Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314

my web address : www.pepenella.com

my company web address www.remaxmetrony.com

Concetta Pepenella Joins Remax Metro Staten Island NY

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:52:18 -0600

Concetta Pepenella Joins Remax Metro as new Associate Broker

Staten Island, New York - Concetta Pepenella has joined RE/MAX Metro as the newest member of this dynamic sales team. Concetta brings to the office 18 years of experience in real estate and was formerly with Appleseed Homes and Centry 21 Calabrese Realty. The Calabrese brothers Mike and Sal are owners of RE/MAX Metro, the same brokers Concetta started her real estate career and worked with for 10 years, until opening her own agency Pepenella Real Estate a small boutique office. I know that the real estate market has changed, and consumers want to sell their homes with a large company, RE/MAX Metro is the way to go. Specializing in high end and new construction homes, vacant land and resale.

"I am proud to be a part of the RE/MAX Metro team and affiliated with the RE/MAX organization," said Concetta. "Connecting with RE/MAX will be a significant benefit to my clients, because it has the most powerful and efficient referral system in the business. There are nearly 100,000 RE/MAX Affiliates in more than 70 countries, meaning that when I list a property here in Staten Island it is exposed to a huge audience. And the technology tools that RE/MAX has to offer can help my clients get the best possible price for their home in the least amount of time."

Pepenella said another advantage offered by the company is RE/MAX Mainstreet, an extranet that allows its agents to share referrals, marketing techniques and the latest information about technology, advertising and similar topics. "Ongoing education is a strong priority at RE/MAX," said Pepenella. "No other real estate organization has a higher percentage of Affiliates with advanced, professional designations."

RE/MAX Metro is located at 585 North Gannon Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314. Concetta Pepenella may be reached at 718-979-3000 ext 125.

Pepenella's listings, and all U.S. home listings in thousands of cities and towns can be found at www .remax.com.

About RE/MAX International, Inc.

RE/MAX was founded in 1973 in Denver, Colorado by Dave and Gail Liniger. It has grown to a global network of nearly 100,000 Sales Associates in more than 70 countries. No one sells more real estate than RE/MAX. Today, all U.S. home listings in thousands of cities and towns can be found at www.remax.com.

RE/MAX is proud to help raise millions of dollars and support charitable organizations like, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Children's Miracle Network and The Sentinels of Freedom Foundation.

Remax Metro 718-979-3000 ext: 125 Concetta Pepenella associate broker

Testimonials for a Staten Island Realtor

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:19:47 -0500

Robert M. writes...

Forgive the tardiness of this "Thank You," but I can not commend you enough on your handling of the sales of both my and my fiance's homes, and the successful purchase of our new home. At a time when the real estate market couldn't have been worse, and the mortgage market even more dismal, you persevered through the two sales and one purchase through every possible high and low that these transactions could have possibly encountered.

To be honest, I thought the transaction was "dead in the water" on more than one occasion; however your knowledge, experience, and unflappable optimism brought about the successful purchase of our "dream home."

I would be pleased to recommend your services to any friend who wanted to buy or sell a house at a fair price on Staten Island. Please feel free to use me as a reference.

Sincerely,

Robert

Nikki M. writes....

Hey Connie...

I wanted to tell you that you did a excellent job with photos today... Because of your wonderful photo shots, as you know we already got someone looking tomorrow... Thanks so much...

J. Mimsont writes.....

I've bought one house from Connie, and sold two others. The most recent sale, she already had an interested buyer ready when she listed it; and house was sold within three days. Can't recommend highly enough...

Armond writes.....

No phase of selling a home is an exact science. However, when it comes to initiating a deal & nurturing that deal to a successful conclusion, I could not have been happier or more gratified than the execution of same by Connie, Pepenella Real Estate...............I would recommend Connie & her trained staff with anyones real estate needs on Staten Island or beyond. Thank you Connie for helping me move on with my life!

John & Lorraine writes.....

Connie went out of her way to help me purchase my house. She was always there to help, and always available.

Carole writes....

Your professionalism and compassion were boundless. I am going to recommend you highly to all my friends and family~ Home Buyer

Florence writes....

I want you to know I am grateful for all you have done for me in selling my home and finding my present home. You have been with me all thru the process of selling and finding my new home.

J.,Morales.....

Allow me to take this time to thank you for your time and efforts in our recent meeting. It was indeed both a pleasure and a convenience to work with someone as professional as you. I know that in business, time does not always allow us to be helpful, courteous and honest, and with that in mind, I sincerely thank you for your manor and availability.

Alfred Crettella writes....

I was more then satisfied with the final purchase price as well as the financing arrangements. I very much appreciate the extensive time and energy that you obviously made on my behalf. Alfred Cretella

Tilde from Idaho.......

It is a very nice and easy site!

Rose from Brooklyn....

Connie, This is a wonderful web site, I will email it to everyone that I know. Congratulations

Fred from Staten Island writes ....

I was recommended by a friend to Pepenella Realty. I was professionally greeted at my residence by Connie who quickly showed me how to make thousands more selling my home than I could have on my own. The service was top notch. Several months after doing business with Pep Reality we are still good friends and, Connie brightened up my day.

Neil from Brooklyn

I like the newsletter and the flyer on 350 St. Marks Place. Very professional

Andrea from Staten Island writes....

Hey Connie, just wanted to thank you again for all your help finding my new home. You have been more than an agent, you have been a true friend. Good luck in all you do! Andrea

Thank you for visiting Pepenella Real Estate web site. We look forward to hearing from you real soon!

Connie Pepenella Associate Broker

Remax Metro

Serving Staten Island Since 1992

The highest compliment I can receive

is the referral of friends and family. 718-979-3000 ext 125

click on picture below to buy or sell a house...

What Does Your Front Door Say About You?

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:35:49 -0500

I recently commented to my husband that a front door says a lot about the person and family living there. Before, stepping foot inside, the front door will tell. It knows! This gave me the idea to take some close up pictures of front doors, as is, at the moment visited.

"Creepy door" Is this front door still decorated for Halloween? Maybe Elvira lives here! Notice the color skull and cross-bone, with the steel door sun-burst overlay!

This "red door" is entry to a lovely old colonial, and as you can see the owners are very patriotic, with their red white and blue motif. A strong welcome in red - softened by the flower wreath.

"Antique" is the first impression given from this front door, a welcome into a Victorian home, with all the Victorian trim. "Come in for some apple pie," is the second impression. I wonder whats the story behind the wrought iron gates? Not the first time this front door has been noticed by the 'New York Times.'

"Private" quiet & beautiful solid cherry wood doors on a center hall colonial. High class people of means - almost like doors on a castle.

This front door is covered in plywood just begging to be brought back into grandeur. A French Mansard built some time in the 1700's, a house long abandoned, and abused and finally sold in foreclosure. Some locals might recognize the humiliation this front door was put through, by the previous owner, who wanted to tear down the house, and couldn't then painting it into a rainbow of colors in retaliation.

"No one is home." The front door newbie on a new construction house, not yet a home, but obviously carefully chosen. A note paper taped to the door, most likly from a construction worker eager to talk to the builder.

Staten Island, New York is certainly the melting pot, of front doors. Front doors come in all shapes and sizes and colors and condition. Just like the people who live behind them.

Any comments about the doors posted here are welcome!

Concetta Pepenella associate broker

Remax Metro

718-979-3000 extention 125

http://www.pepenella.com

photos by Genevieve

Vacant Land Staten Island,New York

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:48:35 -0500

Yes, it is possible to buy a piece of land 15,561 square feet in New York on Staten Island. Recently listed two adjoining lots on Amboy Road and Minerva, cross street Giegerich Avenue. 27X117 lot and 106x117 lot. Vacant and raw, with a survey. Located across the street from the Bethel Church in Tottenville - should make it easy to find this property.

This is an estate sale. ask price is $389,000.

Connie Pepenella - associate broker

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate

240L Page Avenue Staten Island, Ny 10307

718-226-7100 extention 207

http://www.pepenella.com

Staten Island Shore Line- Tottenville

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:14:22 -0500

Staten Island Shore Line - Tottenville Along the Conference House Preserve

Photo by Genevieve

Concetta Pepenella

associate broker

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate 718-226-7100 ext 207

http://www.pepenella.com

Why does a Realtor ask, Have you've been pre-qualified?

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:26:52 -0500

This morning Barbara my secretary took a call from a real estate magazine ad I have advertising a short sale. Before I phoned the customer I pulled up the property data sheet from the mls site and proceeded to phone the perspective buyer. The Mrs. answered the telephone and I gladly introduced myself and we began to discuss the property. After a few minutes she requested to see the property tonight when her husband got out of work? I said sure and asked about their bank pre qualification certificate. The Mrs told me I would have to speak to the Mr. later. The Mr. phoned me and asked to see the property. I replied sure and then asked about the certificate. He told me " Oh yea." I know about that." I don't need that now, we just want to see some houses now and we'll get that later." Then he said," Tell me now Yes or No do you want me to get that to see this house.?" His tone had a bit of arrogance behind it as if he knew better than anyone. I also asked him Mr. buyer, do you have to sell your property, a condo, to buy another house. "Oh no, I can keep it and rent it if I want. But, we don't have to worry about this now, I just want to look at some houses."

Why do I ask if a buyer has been pre-qualified before I show them property?

The Sellers expect that any buyer that is walking through their house has his or her finances in order.
No one has time for sight seeing tours- neither the seller nor the Realtor.
Its a professional way to do business.
Saves the buyers time and prevents disappointment.
The buyer should know exactly how much they can Afford to purchase.
If a property is found all documents are ready to present an offer.

This is the way it is and I would rather walk away from an uncooperative customer than waste anyone's time. And with the financial climate the way it is and all the information available why not arrive prepared?

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate

Concetta Pepenella associate broker

718-226-7100 extention 207

http://www.pepenella.com

240L Page Avenue Staten Island, NY 10307

$8000. tax Credit as down payment in New York

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:23:54 -0500

I just received a news update from the New York State Association of Realtors stating FHA Will allow $8000. tax credit funds to be available at the closing table to be used as a down payment. Read the article below.

Homeowners can use $8,000 tax credit as down payment

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan says the Federal Housing Administration will permit its lenders to allow homeowners to use the $8,000 tax credit as a down payment.

These remarks came in an address to thousands of REALTORS who gathered at The Real Estate Summit: Advancing the U.S. Economy, a special daylong session at the REALTORS Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo.

"We all want to enable FHA consumers to access the homebuyer tax credit funds when they close on their home loans so that the cash can be used as a down payment," Donovan said. According to Donovan, FHA's approved lenders will be permitted to "monetize" the tax credit through short-term bridge loans, allowing eligible homebuyers to access the funds immediately at the closing table.

Donovan also said he thinks the housing market is seeing early signs of stabilization and that the Obama administration plans to further stabilize the housing market.

"As the leading advocate for housing issues and homeownership, NAR continues to take a leadership role in promoting ideas for improving our economy by stabilizing the housing and real estate markets," said NAR President Charles McMillan. "Today we have the best of the best to begin a dialogue, develop solutions and initiate action toward real estate and economic recovery."

by clicking on the picture you will be directed to my web site.

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate Concetta Pepenella

718-226-7100 extention 207

240L Page Avenue Staten Island, New York 10307

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell a Home on Staten Island, NY?

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:05:58 -0500

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell a Home on Staten Island,NY?

FOR SELLERS
As a Realtor Since 1992, I can help you set a realistic competitive price, figure out approximate net proceeds, and handle almost all aspects of conducting the sale itself - from phone inquiries and appointments to open houses, showings and negotiations.
FOR BUYERS
I have access to the most up-to-date property listing information - the best resource for finding the right home. I will help you determine what you can afford, and assist you in finding ways to finance.

As a Realtor I can offer significant advantages in helping you find a new home or sell your existing one.

Contact me today to learn more.
Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate 718-226-7100 extention 207
Connie Pepenella - associate broker
Since 1992
http://www.pepenella.com

pepenellare@aol.com or click here to email me

Wordless Wednesday-Spring Flowers on Staten Island

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 08:26:53 -0500

Staten Island Mall in bloom - Spring Time in New Springville

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate

Connie Pepenella 718-226-7100

pepenellare@aol.com

http://www.pepenella.com

The Value of a Realtor

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:26:38 -0500

For Buyers - Realtors have access to the most up-to-date property listing information - making them your best resource for finding the right home. Realtors can help you determine what you can afford, and assist you in finding ways to finance & purchase.

For Sellers - Realtors can help you set a realistic competitive price, figure out approximate net proceeds, and handle almost all aspects of conducting the sale itself - from phone inquiries and appointments open houses & showings.

What is the home buyer tax credit? The home buyer tax credit provides an $8000. tax credit to first time home buyer who purchase a principal residence between January 1, 2009 and December 1 2009.

Effective for purchases on or after 1/1/2009 and before 12/1/2009
All principle residence eligible
Purchaser will continue to receive refund for unused amount when tax return is filed
Some income limits
First Time Home buyer - three- year rule applies
If home is sold within 3 years of purchase, entire amount of credit is recaptured on sale.

Realtors offer significant advantages in helping you find a new home or sell your existing one. Contact me today to learn more.

Connie Pepenella Associate Broker

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate

240 L Page Avenue Staten Island, NY 10307

718-226-7100

http://www.pepenella.com

written with permission by New York State Association of Realtors

Real Estate Remains a Strong Investment in the Empire State

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 13:39:18 -0500

Get the

Facts

New York is home to four of the top 25 strongest housing markets in the country.
Mortgage rates are currently at their lowest point in over 50 years.
Statewide median sales prices remain stable.
Current market conditions are ideal for qualified buyers.
Home ownership remains good long-term investment and has in fact, been ranked the best performing investment over the past 40 years.
Sellers ( especially those who have been in their homes longer) are still benefiting from price appreciation.
New incentives and tax credits are available to help new buyers.
REALTORS are valued partner in helping you find a new home or sell your existing one.

Current economic conditions have us all feeling a bit cautious and unsure about the future. But at times like these, its more important than ever to concentrate on making smart long-term investments ...like home ownership. In fact, home ownership has been ranked the best performing investment over the past 40 years.

Contact me today to see how I can help you "Feel at Home in NY."

Connie Pepenella Associate Broker

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estae

http://www.pepenella.com

240L Page Avenue Staten Island, NY 10307

718-226-7100

written with permission by NYSAR

Real Estate Brokers Confession

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:59:04 -0500

I can remember when I was taking out a buyer to look for a townhouse on Staten Island's South Shore. It was a Saturday, and I lined up 5 houses in her price range. One stand out house was a 3 bedroom in Eltingville, great location and easy access to public transportation, good size home. The advertisement for this particular unit read, "condition excellent." We arrived at the property and went in. The garage was stacked floor to ceiling with worn boxes and items tossed atop- not ready for the sellers anticipated move. Every inch of living room furniture was dumped on by clothes and more stuff. An un-empitied kitty litter box in the dining room. The kitchen counter tops didn't offer any space to chop or prep for a meal because, kitchen gadgets claimed any open space, missing doors to the laundry room, a room painted black, dingle berries hanging from the chandelier, faded lawn furniture and a worn deck was the view from the kitchen window..... get the picture.

As I walked through the property all I could think to myself "Are they nuts?" Why are they wasting my time and their time showing this place? Its such a nice floor plan, why didn't they clean up. Did the listing agent talk to them about showing this house? Was there any discussion as to presentation? Amateur!

After we left the property, the buyer laughed and laughed at the condition, and referred to it as the "spaghetti house." How in the world could anyone think of showing what is one of the most expensive possessions they own and the darn thing looks like the Munsters live there?

Selling a home may be one of the most important transactions of your life! Its important that you obtain quality information to make an informed decision. It's my job as a real estate professional to help you. Click on the link Free Seller Report to receive reports on:

Common Selling Mistakes
Home Selling Strategies
Home Showng Tips
Moving & Packing Tips
Moving Check list
Sell Your Home for More
What Happens at Closing

Curb Appeal - Presentation - First Impressions - Move in Condition, these are what today's buyers are looking at when deciding to buy a home.

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate Connie Pepenella Associate Broker

240L Page Avenue

Staten Island, NY 10307

http://www.pepenella.com

Bear Mountain

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:28:18 -0600

Two weekends ago I took a trip to 'upstate' New York, Bear Mountain area with friends. We drove north on the Garden State Parkway and then onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway and a little over an hour we're there. Who knew? Bear Mountain area is the weekend getaway for the city.

First night there we got all dressed up and drove to Main Street in Nyack, and found a collection of restaurants and bistros not unlike any eclectic restaurant I could find in Manhattan or Staten island. (known for some of the best restaurants) The restaurant chosen Vertigo, there is a raw bar and three bars for drinks on each floor, also a view of the waterfront with a wonderful atmosphere and interesting decor. For an appetizer arugila salad with warm figs and goat cheese, for the main course blackened salmon atop of Julianne vegetables and a potato.

The next morning we drove up to Bear Mountain which is just a 20 minute drive for the October Fest! The parking lot was full and we had to hike up to the October Fest party, less than a mile. Now I know what all the fuss is about..... the surroundings were stunning... tall trees just starting to color, large boulders and hilly vistas. I've included a photo of a lake at the top of the hill.

Wondering what to do in New York if not Broadway, Central Park, the buildings, the people, the five Boroughs Manhattan - Staten Island - Brooklyn - Queens - Bronx. Try Bear Mountain.

How To Pre Qualify For A Mortgage - The Equation

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:12:50 -0600

In recent weeks the dominating news story is the stimulus package. The President, Obama and our state representatives are working long hours trying to find the best way to spend the billions of tax dollars to bring our country into an economic recovery. The stimulus package is focusing on the people, creating jobs, our environment, our children, the roadways & forests. Dictionary defines: (stimulus- something that arouses action or activity). Its no mystery how we got here, very simply the banks under Federal guidelines, allowed for people to borrow more than they could afford, and with no money down!

Hopefully this will bring everyone back to the Basic way of using money.

I thought it would be a good idea to write a blog on how to pre qualify for a mortgage. The equation

3 Components of a Mortgage: Income-Assets-Credit
How much can you afford
Purchase price
Down payment and money to work with for closing cost

The Equation

Annual income divide by twelve months = monthly income

less any debt -credit card, child support, car payment...etc.

monthly income x 33% = housing plus debit

-monthly debit

-property tax

-homeowners insurance

=principal and interest

divide payment factor (term rate 5 7/8 is 5.92 per $1000. 30 years)

=loan amount

+down payment= purchase price.

Or use the loan calculator on my web site, just click this link or go to http://www.pepenella.com

Concetta Pepenella

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate 718-226-7100

Winter in New York

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:45:38 -0600

Winter in New York

A picture along the Staten Island shore line. The barometer is falling and snow flake softly falls, its winter in New York. Yesterday on Ground Hog Day "Punxsutawney Phil" of Pennsylvania saw his shadow. Snow flake softly falls, accumulating on the ground. We know winter is here to stay. Six more weeks of winter day, by day, by day.

Our Mayor came to Staten Island on Ground Hog day to visit "Charles G Hog" to find the answer to his question. Will Charles G Hog see his shadow? Can Punxsutawney Phil be the true prognosticator of winter time? Charles G Hog did not see his shadow which means spring is soon here. The lovely snow falls, and Punxsutawney Phil's prognostication is true, six more weeks of winter. Its winter in New York!

Concetta Pepenella

Appleseed Realty GMAC 718-226-7100

Is Real Estate Still A Good Investment, in New York?

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:58:46 -0600

I have been selling property on Staten Island for 17 years, and one question that circulates through the air at social events, when meeting with buyers or sellers, one question everyone wants to know the answer to. "Is real estate still a good investment?"I decided to look back ten years into the Staten Island multiple listing archives at the month of December 1998 in comparison to December 2008. What would the results be if a townhouse-condo-detached house was purchased then and what is the value of that type of property ten years later. Would a purchase of real estate ten years ago on Staten Island have been a good investment? Read on for my search results by category:

Townhouse - December 1998

Number Sold 53 Average Price $136,149.

Townhouse - December 2008

Number Sold 33 Average Price $332,852.

The Golden number increase is 144.48%

**********************************************************************************

Condo - December 1998

Number Sold 32 Average Price $96,386.

Condo - December 2008

Number Sold 24 Average Price $286,521.

The Golden number increase in ten years is 197.26%

**********************************************************************************

Detached House - December 1998

Number Sold 90 Average Price $234,808.

Detached House - December 2008

Number Sold 63 Average Price $505,136.

The Golden number appreciation is 115% increase in ten years.

***********************************************************************************

Looks like the numbers speak for them self. "Yes, Real estate is a good investment."

Concetta Pepenella Appleseed Realty GMAC 718-226-7100

240L Page Avenue Staten Island, NY 10307

http ://www.pepenella.com

The Real Inventor of the Telephone- Lived in Rosebank- Staten Island

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:23:45 -0600

Located on a large corner property sits an old Colonial at 420 Tompkins Avenue Staten Island, The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum. Owned by the Order of Sons of Italy. This blog will be dedicated to Antonio Meucci "The father of Inventing the Telephone.

Who invented the telephone?

A) Alexander Graham Bell

B) Antonio Meucci

If you choose A you probably know what 99% of the public knows. But, if you choose B You are correct!

On June 11, 2002The House of Representatives, U.S., Resolved, "That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that the life and achievements of Antonio Meucci should be recognized, and his work in the invention of the telephone should be acknowledged."

Here is a sketch of Meucci's "electro magnetic telephone" experiment .

Antonio Meucci was born in Florence Italy in 1808 and immigrated to the United States in 1850 to, Staten Island. Twenty years Before Alexander Graham Bell, Meucci created the electro magnetic telephone.Meucci did file a patent for the electro magnetic telephone in 1871-1872 and 1873, but the patent expired after Meucci was in a major boat accident on the Staten Island Ferry. While riding the ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island a boiler exploded and Meucci was infermed for six months. When Meucci was released from the hospital he did not have the funds to renew the patent. While hospitalized his wife sold Meucci's telephone models and her family jewels just to make ends meet. Meucci submits his plans for the invention to the President of the District Telegraph Company who promised to assist with tests & models. Bell shared a lab with Meucci. The papers were mysteriously lost and days later Bell applies for his patent- 1876.

Picture of Antonio Meucci

An Italian who immigrated to the United States at the age of 42 more than likely did not speak English well. He studied chemical & mechanical engineering in Italy at the Florence Academy of Fine Arts. The Electro magnetic telephone was one of a few items he invented including: Water purification system, tea and coffee filter system, electric train- the first model of a train to run on battery power, Human petrification process, manufacturing methods for candles, galvanic battery, loudspeaker - for public address system.

Meucci was denied his rightful place in American history until The House of Representatives did Resolve that Antonio Meucci's invention of the telephone should be recognized. Meucci was a brilliant Italian inventor and his invention was in use for five years before Alexander Graham Bell applied for the telephone patent.

Photo of me standing next to a rocking chair made by Antonio and his music organ at the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum. www.garibaldimeuccimuseum.org

Concetta Pepenella Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate 718-226-7100

http://www.pepenella.com

Married & Happy

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:43:40 -0600

Concetta A Pepenella

and

Joseph D. Timmons

INVITE YOU TO SHARE IN THE JOY

OF THE BEGINING OF THEIR NEW LIFE TOGETHER

WHEN THEY EXCHANGE VOWS

ON SATURDAY, THE TWENTY NINTH OF NOVEMBER

TWO THOUSAND AND EIGHT

Connie & Joe on the balcony overlooking the bay on our wedding day in Tottenville. Married by Pastor Paul Schooling of Gateway Chruch. Reception held at Angelina's Restaurant with good food & drink, beautiful flowers and music. We had a small wedding of fifty people mostly family & close friends.

Free Home Buyer Education Program

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:19:09 -0600

Congratulations!

You've decided to become a homeowner. MGIC's Buyers Ed program is a great resource to assist you in purchasing a home. It's an easy to understand tutorial. After completing the tutorial take the quick certification test to receive your Homebuyer's Certificate of Achievement.

Please read these instructions before proceeding: Buyers Ed Instructions.

Once you have completed the tutorial, take a few minutes to complete the certification test. A short registration form will appear asking you to enter your Buyers Ed Code. Please enter code:pepenellare@aol.com

Be sure to enter the Buyers Ed Code exactly as it appears on this page.

After taking the test, your Certification of Achievement will appear on the page for you to print, and a copy emailed to your Mortgage/Real Estate Professional. You may also receive a copy via email. If you do not receive your copy, please contact them.

To begin the Buyers Ed Program, click here: Buyers Ed.

Log onto my web site http://www.pepenella.com to take the buyers education program and find register on my Dream House Finder.

Appleseed Realty GMAC real estate

718-226-7100 Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker

Parks Department Speaks! Freshkills Landfill Whats Good for Staten Island.

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:53:14 -0500

Today September 9, 2008 At the SIBOR (Staten Island Board of Realtors) round-table discussion, the Parks Department gave a presentation of the proposed roads for the landfill. The meeting didn't have attendance as the Molinaro meeting had during the Borough Presidents presentation on the future of the landfill roads, but an eager crowd did show up.

Michael Morello, Manager Environmental Planning for Parks Department gave a visual presentation and explanation of how the closed landfill is operating at this time. He explained to the crowd that the leached runoff is captured and filtered using a state of the art system and then emptied into the Kill van Kull as clean water. Michael also explained the methane gas is collected and sold by the city. Parks Department wants to rebuild roads and run these roads through the landfill. One road could rise as high as 140 feet high.

The Parks department & Borough President are in disagreement with the east west roadway connection from the West Shore expressway and Richmond Avenue. The problem is the current roads in place are 22 feet wide and not wide enough to support two lanes in either direction. Any expanation would require interruption of the leached system and or roadways running through sensitive environment that could take years to approve. The Parks department wants to re build the roads. Borough President Molonaro wants to use existing roads.

A New Proposal has been introduced by the Borough President! A one way loop using existing service roads as two lanes. The cost of this revised plan is 32 million dollars & will take only 4 years to complete. Parks Department and Borough President office are in agreement.

Sometimes the most difficult problems have the easiest answers. Now all we need is ferry service into Manhattan using the landfill docks.

Traffic Solutions for Staten Island

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:03:07 -0500

Borough President James P Molinaro and his senior staff presented to SIBOR (staten island board of realtors) roundtable group, plans for a road through the former Fresh Kills Landfill.

Fresh Kills is 2200 acres with 18 miles of roads that were built to support 40-ton sanitation trucks. Photos and examples were presented showing roads already in place in the former landfill that can link Richmond Avenue (Staten Island Mall) to the West Shore Expressway. Especially with todays gas prices a short cut would be welcome. And, also the millions of dollars saved by using what is already there, rather than destroy and rebuild.

"With 2200 acres of property, lets give the people of Staten Island a new road system that works." -Borough President Molinaro

Molinaro and his staff, including Megan Deveroux an environmental scientest, want to open and expand exsisting roads, with two lanes in each direction.

Molinaro said; "We need to have those roads. The roads are already there, why not use them?"

If you would like to read from Borough Presidents Staten Island web site just go to http://www.statenislandUSA.com There you will find a sample letter to send to Mayor Michael Bloomberg address to: City Hall, New York NY and fax it (212)788-2460

Here is a map showing exsisting landfill roads.

There will be a meeting September 4,2008 7PM at PS58, for the public to discuss using exsisting roads.

The next SIBOR roundtable September 9,2008 9AM will discuss The Citys Parks department side of the issues.

comments are welcome.

Connie Pepenella Appleseed Realty GMAC 718-226-7100

http://www.pepenella.com

Sellers Ask, Where do Buyers Come From?

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:24:09 -0500

Where do the buyers come from? When I go on a listing presentation that's one of the first question a seller will ask, and with good reason. The seller is about to hand over to me the biggest investment of their life, to trust me to bring a qualified buyer to purchase the property, and handle all the details of the sale of the property. Big responsibility!

Where Do Buyers Come From? To market and sell a home it is important to know what sources buyers are using to find homes and what sources have become obsolete.

National Association of Realtors (2006) is the source I am using here to demonstrate How buyers have replied to a survey of what source was used to search for a home.

Real Estate Agent 85%
Yard Sign 63%
Internet 80%
Newspaper 55%
Relocation Company 5%
Home Builder 26%
Knew the Seller 5%
Home Magazine 34%
Open House 47%

Here at Appleseed Realty GMAC we have a plan for each house we take for sale. The marketing plan includes *maximum exposure *target home buyers as well as other real estate agents * promote the most desireable features of the property *continue to market the property until it is SOLD.

http://www.pepenella.com

The Drawbacks of an Overpriced Property

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:15:09 -0500

Many sellers think that an overpriced property can reduced if it doesn't sell. The danger with this is by the time the property is reduced to "fair market value" buyers loose interest in the property and think there is something wrong with the property. Buyers then question; Why it hasn't sold?

I hear these comments from Sellers when I go on a listing appointment for asking more than what the property is worth:

"Lets Try a Price for a Couple of Weeks." OR "I need My price to sell my home." OR "I have to pay off my credit card debit." OR "My house had wood floors installed 20 years ago and I paid the builder extra." OR This is a custom paint job by Goomba Mike the Painter...I paid extra for the chair rail in the kitchen." OR "My house is all brick.....vaneer." Okay Okay.... So I may have exaggerated .....Not!

Real estate agents are constantly on the alert for new properties to show their qualified buyers. And, buyers receive email alerts as properties are newly posted onto all the real estate sites. As a result, the most activity is when the house is first placed on the market. Therefore, its very important to price your home at the best price when you first place your property on the market.

Week 1 A new property on the market generates a high level of interest

Week 2 Peak market awareness during the first Two Weeks on the market

Week 3 Declining awareness and interest as other new properties arrive on the market

Week 4 Continued decline in Awareness and Interest

A Realtor can help a home seller find the market value of a property with a Comparitive Market Analysis. Setting a Fair prices helps to sell a home faster and at the maximum price.

Visit my web site http://www.pepenella.com for more Seller Tips!

The Home Selling Process

Concetta Pepenella Associate Broker (Remax Metro) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 06:35:33 -0500

Whats involved with selling my house? That's the first thought just before a property is put on the market for sale. How long does the process take? Where do we start?

Here is the step by step that I use in my Listing Presentation:

Decide to Sell
Selecting Agent
Determine Needs & Desires
Understanding the Selling Process - Marketing & Showing
Making Offer: Contingencies - Home Inspection - Financing - Other Contingencies
Contract Acceptance
Mortgage Application - Credit Appraisal
Accompany Home Inspector - If Required
Termite Inspection
Mortgage Approval
CO & Smoke Detector Inspection
Title Inspection
Hazard Insurance
Contact Utility Company
Pre Settlement Inspection
Settlement - aka Close

That's it in a nut shell.