Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos Blog

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First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Coming to an End

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:18:00 +0000

by Karen Inglima

So, the First Time Home buyer Tax credit is once again ticking away like a time bomb! Are they going to continue it, or abolish it into another wasteland where all tax credits go to die?

Looking back at the history of the housing market, (whether we have had a push from the local government, or not), one thing we learn is that history always repeats itself. So, let's look at the facts:

Home prices have never been at such record breaking lows, and neither have the mortgage rates.
Housing is an awesome commodity! Everyone needs a place to call home, right?
Like the stock market, home prices are cyclical. Home prices go up....and home prices go down.
With or without the first time home buyer tax credit, you can still make money in this market.

Listen, the average first time home buyer typically stays in their home for 7 years. During that time their family tends to grow (while their house remains the same) and the homeowners outgrow their homes. By the time you are ready for the upgrade in 7 years you have already built a nice amount of equity in your home. The market goes up - and SCORE, you can now afford to buy a bigger home.

OK, so, here is an example; I bought my house in New Hyde Park 15 years ago for $245,000. Now, the house is worth $725,000 (in a down market-mind you). I did a few changes here and there, but, guess what? It's like money in the bank (specifically, my bank account, hee, hee).

All you renters out there that are sitting on the fence waiting for the final shoe to drop are missing the boat. THE SHOE DROPPED!!!! (Here's the mommy in me) Now, GO PICK IT UP!!!

This First Time Home buyer Tax credit will likely not be renewed come April 30, 2010.

So, are you going to take the $8,000 tax credit and bank on it, or gamble it away by not taking advantage of it? Are you going to continue to piss your money away on rent?

Bottom line - if you buy, and wait to sell you are going to cash out like an automatic retirement fund. It's money in the bank. So, listen to your #1 Home Girl and get off the fence and buy! Call Karen and Cristina today 516-428-5209!

North Hempstead Transportation Initiative

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:58:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

The Town of North Hempstead and local licensed taxi services are offering senior residents a fantastic opportunity! The town has implemented a 4 month pilot program made possible by a grant from the United States Administration on Aging, and is part of Project Independence - which is North Hempstead's aging-in-place initiative. This pilot program will offer FREE taxi service to it's older residents to local Supermarkets. Here's how it works:

If you are age 60 or over, are a resident of North Hempstead, and live with the pilot area, you are eligible for free, round-trip taxi service 1x per week to a local, designated food shopping destination. This program will run until February 15, 2010.

The program is being offered in the following locations and times:

Great Neck, Great Neck Village, Great Neck Manor and the Manhasset Valley Residences. Mondays from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents will be taken to Waldbaum's Shopping Center on Great Neck Road.
Port Washington, Port Washington North, Baxter Estates and Manorhaven. Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents will be taken to King Kullen or Stop & Shop Centers on Shore Road.
Westbury, within the town of North Hempstead and New Cassel. You must live East of Post Avenue, South of the Northern State Parkway, and West of the Wantagh State Parkway. Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents will be taken to Stop & Shop on Old Country Road.
New Hyde Park. Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents to be taken to Stop & Shop on Hillside Avenue.

Here's answers to commonly asked questions:

How can I get the Free taxi service?

Call 311 or 516-869-6311 and indicate your interest in the Project Independence Senior Shopping Service pilot program. Call-takers will ask for your name, address, date of birth and telephone number. You will then be enrolled, and mailed a Project Independence membership card. You will sign and show the taxi driver your member card.

How to schedule a ride?

Call 311 at least one day before the day your area is scheduled for the shopping service. Call-takers are on duty M-F from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Will the cab take my walker/wheelchair, can my Aide come along?

Yes, to both questions as long as you schedule your ride at least 24 hours in advance.

How will the trip home be handled?

The taxis will be spending 3 hours going between neighborhood and store. Your driver will show you the meeting place and tell you the approximate pick-up times, and the time of the last trip back home. You will be limited to no more than 3 grocery bags, as their may be more than one passenger in your car.

Call 311 if you have any questions.

This pilot program is a welcome addition to the services for our senior residents in the Town of North Hempstead, and I truly hope that the pilot is successful, and the locations are expanded.

Keller Williams Agency Ranked #1

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:46:00 +0000

"Keller Williams Realty Ranked as Top Real Estate Franchise by Industry Leader and Entrepreneur Magazine!

Keller Williams Realty joined the ranks of the top franchises in the world last week, when the company was ranked as the #1 real estate franchise on the 31st Annual Franchise 500 List by Entrepreneur magazine. During the same week, the company was also voted to Most Recognizable Brand of Real Estate Franchises for 2009 in an industry-wide survey fro the Swanepoel Trends Report.

The most important criteria to determine the top franchises included financial strength and stability, as well as growth rate and size of the franchise system. Entrepreneur magazine also looked at the number of years the company has been in business and the length of time it has been franchising.

Earlier in the year, Keller Williams Realty also received the highest overall satisfaction ratings from buyers among the largest full-service real estate firms from J.D. Power and Associates for the SECOND year in a row!"

I am so proud to work with such an amazing brokerage! Keller Williams has an agent-centric culture that emphasizes access to leading-edge education and promotes an economic model that rewards associates as stakeholders and partners. As such I am able to give more to my clients. It's no wonder we've been ranked #1 by J.D. Power and Associates in customer satisfaction for 2 years in a row!

I congratulate all my Keller Williams colleagues in helping our firm reach this fantastic achievement!

Way to go my fellow Keller Williams Teams across the Nation!

Holiday Safety Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:26:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Every holiday season fire kills over 400 Americans, injuring 1,650 more, and causing over $990 Million in damage. (Source: the United States Fire Administration)

Following the tips below can help ensure a safe and Happy Holiday season!

Holiday Lights and Decorations:

Inspect holiday lights every year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, and broken or cracked sockets Before putting them up.
Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory, like UL approval
Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate is is safe.
Periodically check the wires; they should not be warm to the touch.
Do not leave holiday lights unattended.
Use only non-flammable decorations and keep all decorations away from lit fireplaces and heating vents.
Never place wrapping paper in a fireplace; it can result in a very large fire and shoot dangerous sparks and embers that could result in a chimney fire.

Caution With Candles:

If you do use candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they can not be knocked over.
Never leave candles unattended.
Do not put lit candles on a Christmas tree, real or artificial.
Keep candles well out of the reach of children and pets.
Never leave candles burning overnight.

Christmas Tree Safety:

If using a live tree, choose those with green needles that are hard to pull back from the branches. Needles should not break from freshly cut trees.
Bounce the tree on the ground; if many needles fall-off, the tree is not fresh, and is a fire hazard
Do not place your tree close to a fire place, or heating vent.
Do not put your tree up too early, or leave it up longer than 2 weeks, as that is the average time it takes for a tree to dry out.
Keep the tree stand filled with fresh water at all times.
Turn-off the tree lights before going to bed, or leaving the house.
Dispose of your tree properly, do not burn it in the fireplace, or in a wood-burning stove.

As in every season throughout the year, have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms installed on every floor of your home. Test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times.

On behalf of the entire Keller Williams Realty of Greater Nassau Family, and me, Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos we wish you all a very happy and safe holiday season!

Is this the Right Time to Sell my Home?

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:42:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

How can you be sure that selling your home today will make financial sense and benefit your family in the long term? While there is no easy answers or guarantees regarding the housing market, understanding the economic forces behind the market trends will give you some peace of mind for the present, as well as some hope for the future.

When discussing the housing market, many real estate experts talk about the current Inventory. In general business terms, inventory is the supply of products that a business has in stock. In real estate terms, it refers to the number of homes on the market. The more homes on the market, the lower their prices will be. It is a simple case of Economics 101 "Supply and Demand."

If the market has dropped to the point that your home is worth less than what you paid for it, you've likely lost most of your down payment. If you have to sell your home for less than what you paid for it, your situation is referred to as Upside Down. Put simply, you owe more on the house than what it is worth. If you find yourself in that situation please read my article on Short Sales. If that is not the case - please read on.

Let's say you bought a home for $500,000 and paid a 10% down payment on it ($50,000). And, let's say the home values in your area have gone down by 10%. This means your home is worth $450,000. You have lost your entire down payment.

However, there is a bright side to this situation. When selling a home in a soft market, it is true that you will have to sell at a lower price than you had hoped for - but (and this is key) if you purchase another home shortly thereafter, you will be able to purchase your new home at a reduced price as well. So, in the end, it all balances itself out, and actually makes a Buyer's Market an ideal time for a Seller to upgrade their existing home.

Let's look at some plain numbers. Let's assume that the prices in your neighborhood in Nassau County have dropped by 10%, and you'd like to continue living in the same neighborhood. Your $500,000 home went down $50,000. While that $650,000 home that you'd like to upgrade to actually went down $65,000. You are actually walking away from this situation $15,000 ahead!

I know you are scratching your head right about now. But let's talk this through the other way around. Let's say you purchased your home for $500,000, and after living there for 5 years you've outgrown it. During those 5 years let's assume that your property value went up by 15%. (Average rate of increase year-over- year during a stable real estate market is 3% annual growth; 3%x5 years = 15%). Which means your home is now worth $575,000. That's wonderful you say, Right? That depends, if you are downgrading, yes it is - but, what if you want to upgrade? The important detail that Sellers and Buyers alike tend to forget is that if your house went up in value - so did everyone elses. That $650,000 home that was out of your price range 5 years ago is now worth $747,500. While you gained $75,000 in the value on your home, you actually LOST $22,500 on purchasing the upgrade.

And, that's just one piece of the puzzle. Five years ago interest rates were significantly higher than they are now. That means that paying off your existing mortgage, and purchasing a new home with a lower fixed interest rate will also save you thousands of dollars over the course of the loan.

If you need help deciding whether or not to sell your home call me, Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos at 917-921-5397 today. I'll help you navigate the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

Not So Fast Folks - First Time Home Buyer Credit Not Extended

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:13:00 +0000

By Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

There was a misleading media frenzy this morning reporting that the First Time Home Buyer Credit has been extended. Unfortunately, this isn't accurate.

Here are the facts:

The tax credit extension is NOT currently a stand alone bill. It is being packaged in as part of a compromise on the EI (Employment Insurance) Bill currently in the Senate.
Democrat and Republican Senators alike are in the process of negotiating the EI Bill with the tax credit included as an amendment. If they agree on the proposed amendments to the EI Bill, it is possible that the Tax Credit Extension Bill could pass the Senate as early as this week.
The House of Representative has released a statement that they will agree to whatever the Senate decides. If that is the case the Tax Extension could be passed as early as next week in the Senate and House of Representatives.
If the Senate does not agree to the amendments in the proposed EI Bill, a separate stand-alone Bill will need to be introduced to the Senate. This Bill will likely be introduced by Senators Johnny Isakson (R-GA who is also a Realtor) and Chris Dodd (D-CT).

While there is no guarantee that the EI Bill will pass with the First Time Tax Buyers credit as an amendment, I remain hopeful that it will.

I will continue to keep you updated on the subject.

HUD Funding to Assist Homeless Vets

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:51:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced that they will provide the NY State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) with $1.4 Million in additional funding for a program to help homeless veterans find the housing and clinical services they need.

HUDVASH, the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program, is a new and highly successful program that combines the HUD Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance for homeless veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In New York, DHCR utilizes local administrators in Westchester and Suffolk counties to administer two VASH contracts - one in partnership with Montrose Medical Center in Westchester county, and a second with the Northport Medical Center in Suffolk County. In Suffolk County, 30 veterans have found homes with the program, and another two are said to be finalizing their leases.

New Construction vs. Existing Home?

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 02:02:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

New houses offer many advantages over existing homes. They are designed to accommodate the wishes and needs of today's homeowners as opposed to features that were popular many years ago. They will include the most requested features, such as Central Air Conditioning, Walk-in Closets, Open Living Space, Family Rooms, more Bathrooms and larger Bedrooms, for example. New homes are more energy efficient than older homes, and since everything is new (and usually under warranty), in the short-term there is less of a chance that the home buyers will spend money on costly repairs.

However, the quality and character of higher-end older homes simply cannot be compared to new construction. The craftsmanship, architectural details and materials that were used is superior to that of new/current construction.

Potential home buyers who prefer the idea of a new home, but do not have the time or budget for custom building, can satisfy their needs by purchasing a home built by a developer with a pre-determined design and specifications. Designs and specs are based on the developer's choices (not the buyer's). Depending on the developer the buyer may have some flexibility when selecting finishes, and cabinetry, etc.

In many parts of the country developers build large scale communities, in New York, however, this is extremely rare as there is very little undeveloped land left in the 5 boroughs (NYC, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx and Nassau). In Queens and Nassau counties, for example, builders will often times buy homes in poor condition, tear them down, and re-build, or remodel and expand an existing home to the point where it is no longer recognizable.

Home buyers should not make the mistake of assuming that new construction is sound construction. You should do your homework, just as you would when buying a previously owned home. Investigate the builder, evaluate the location, get a through inspection, and negotiate for upgrades. Home buyers should feel comfortable with the builder before committing to a purchase. Whether through referrals, or personal research, the reputation of the builder should be checked carefully. A smart home buyer will visit other homes built by the same builder and should interview the homeowners, as durability of construction and homeowner satisfaction are extremely important.

From time to time you will find a group of homes, or a small-scale development in New York. However, they are often built on the developing edge of a neighborhood, so it is warranted to check the future plans for the community. Local zoning and planning departments may have a master development plan for the future development of an area. You should verify the school district and find out the general tax rate of the neighborhood.

It is also important to note that most new homes come with minimal landscaping, and it can cost the homeowner thousands of dollars to landscape. Most new homes also come with a basic level of finishes for carpeting, cabinetry and window treatments - do your research, sometimes it is cheaper to upgrade these features directly with the builder.

If you are considering a new home purchase give me a call today at 917-921-5397!

Tax, Mortgage and Credit Card Fraud - Oh My!

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 00:21:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

According to a press release from the Queens district attorney's office, former Queens resident Rafael Vascones plead guilty to charges of tax, mortgage and credit card fraud. He was sentenced to six months in jail AND more than $400,000 in restitution and penalties.

Vascones, who is 54, was operating two businesses, Integrated Business Communications and NA Networking Group from Queens and was simultaneously maintaining false identities, forging documents, and evading taxes, among other crimes.

Queens District Attorney, Richard Brown, said that Vascones falsified documents in applying to refinance his property in Whitestone with Washington Mutual in order to receive cash payouts from the loan. After serving his jail time, he will serve five years probation.

Fire Safety and Prevention

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:07:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Fire safety in your home is extremely important. Below find some common sense tips on how to prevent fires:

Keep all stove vents free of grease and be sure to clean them regularly.
Don't fill tanks of gas powered tools like, snow blowers or lawn mowers while the engine is running, and don't fill those gas tanks in your home or garage.
Store oily rags in closed metal containers so that they won't combust spontaneously, and be sure to dispose of them as hazardous waste as soon as possible.
Store flammable liquids in closed containers AWAY from sources of heat.
Never, ever leave anything unattended on the stove, and keep pot handles turned inward so they don't get accidentally knocked into.
Make sure that lightbulbs are not touching lampsades, and do not drape scarves or fabrics over lamps.
Store matches, and lighters away from a child's reach.
Always use a fire screen while using your fireplace.
Don't overload electrical circuits, and only use properly rated fuses.
Don't allow rubbish to pile up in corners of the basement or the garage.
Keep all appliances, large and small clean and free of debris and in good working order.

Common sense should prevail when it comes to fire safety. However, should there ever be a fire in your home, do not attempt to put it out. Grab your family and your cell phone and evacuate immediately. Call the fire department when safely outside.

Open House at Fernwood Townhouses in Franklin Square

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 04:26:00 +0000

Come join me at my Open House this Sunday, September 20, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. at:

Fernwood Townhouses
280-17 Franklin Avenue
Franklin Square, NY 11010

New York to Offer Federal Income Tax Credit to First-Time Homebuyers!

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:02:00 +0000

Governor David A. Paterson announced that New York will offer a federal income tax credit to first-time homebuyers to encourage home sales in New York State. The New York State Mortgage Credit Certificate Program (MCC) will enable first-time homebuyers to claim a tax credit equal to 20 percent of their annual mortgage interest costs, which could save the average homebuyer around $1,500 a year. This program expands the $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Credit, which expires on November 30, 2009.

"We applaud Governor Paterson for his vision in creating the Mortgage Credit Certificate program and for recognizing the importance of housing as a primary driver of the Empire State's economy," said Daniel J. Hartnett, president of the New York State Association of REALTORS. "The past four months of increasing home sales across the state have proven the value of buyer incentives. We expect, when coupled with the federal first-time buyer credit of $8,000, the MCC will bring additional buyers back to the market and further boost the recovery of both the state's housing market and economy." The New York State MCC can be used to reduce a homebuyer's tax burden for every year the mortgage loan remains outstanding. With an MCC, 20 percent of the amount paid in mortgage interest becomes a tax credit that can be deducted, dollar for dollar, from a homeowner's federal income tax liability. The remaining 80 percent of the mortgage interest continues to qualify as an itemized tax deduction, as long as there is sufficient federal tax liability. To read the entire State of New York press release, click here.

Open House on Hicksville Foreclosure Property

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 02:42:00 +0000

Come Join me for an Open House!

Where:
12 Lantern Road
Hicksville, NY 11801

What:
5 Bedroom, Expanded Cape
2 Full Bath, 60x100 property
Asking $329,000

When:
Sunday, August 16, 2009 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

See you on Sunday!

For additional information on this property go to:
http://www.styleagent.net/realty/listings/l1536.html

http://www.nyhomeshowcase.com/properties/index.htm

Save Water NY - And Save $$$MONEY$$$

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:59:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

The economy is tough. Everyone has $$$ Money $$$ on the brain right now - specifically how to spend less, and save more.

In a previous blog I discussed how to save costs on electricity - while also helping the environment. In this blog lets talk about water.

Water, one thing we definitely need to survive can also significantly add to the costs of running a home (especially in Queens County where water is much more expensive than in Nassau County).

Below, is a breakdown of the basics on how you can save on Water Costs.

Water enters your home under pressure measured in PSI, or Pounds Per Square Inch. The average entrance psi ranges from 35 to 100. Quite a variation. The happy medium is 40 to 50 psi. That's why a global valve that can step down high pressure to a more acceptable level could well be an advantage. If you don't have a gauge that tells you what the psi is you should consider having one installed so you can fine-tune the water pressure yourself.

If the pressure in your home is set too high you will waste gallons of water doing simple tasks like washing the dishes, taking a shower, etc.

Another great way to save water is to install a low-flow valve in the toilets in your home. This will reduce the number of gallons used every time you flush the toilet.

Of course there are other things you can do like:

Turning the water off while you are brushing your teeth.
Cutting down on your shower time.
Only running the dishwasher when you have a full load.
Only use your washing machine when you have a full load.

If you implement some of these tactics you could easily reduce your water consumption by up to 30%. In turn saving money on water usage - and helping to conserve water in the environment.

Happy Saving!

Top 10 Reasons to Purchase a Home

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 03:51:00 +0000

By Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

There are many reasons people purchase homes in New York. Illustrated in the list below, are the top 10 most common reasons people purchase real estate:

Marriage. Usually after a couple gets married they begin thinking about buying a home. Some couples desire a fresh start; others just want a bigger space. Sure young couples list security and "wasting money on rent" as reasons why they want to buy a home, but at the core, their primary driving factor is thinking about starting a family and having the space to do that. This leads me to number 2.
Having a baby. I think this one is self-explanatory. Babies require space, good school districts, and ideally a back-yard to play in.
Shelter. We all have to live somewhere, so why not own where you live.
Pets. When you own your own home, you are not bound by the pet restrictions of a landlord, or Co-op/Condo board. So you can have Fido and a Kitty too. Though, you might want to check on your town's regulations about exotic or farm animals before you run out and buy a pet cow or lion for your yard. ;)
Taxes. Or, should I say a desire not to pay so much in taxes. Homeownership offers wonderful opportunities for tax deductions. Check with your accountant about your specific tax situation.
Security. When you own a home you can make it as secure as you'd like. So go ahead and build your own version of Fort Knox!
Wealth building. While investing money in a home is not a guarantee to build wealth in the short term, it is on the other hand, one of the surest investments you can make over the long term. While everything else you might purchase like a car, or clothing depreciates, your home is sure to build wealth for you in time.
The American Dream. Yeah, I said it - it is true. Many people want to own a home simply because they were raised to think it is the right thing to do. And, guess what, the people who put this idea of ownership in our heads in the first place, do make a very compelling point (Read the rest of this list!). Home ownership has MANY advantages.
Space for Stuff. That's right - people need space to put all the stuff they buy somewhere. And, once you have outgrown your 1 bedroom apartment, unless you are willing to part with that stuff, it is time to think about upgrading.
Freedom. In your own home you can walk in your underwear, talk to your cat, watch TV until 5 a.m. and sing in the shower like it is no one's business. That is because, in YOUR HOUSE, it IS no one's business!

Whatever, your reason for wanting to buy a home, I can help you find the home that is right for you and your needs! Call me, Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos, today at 917-921-5397.

Energy Saving Tips for New Yorkers

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 06:14:00 +0000

By Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos, REALTOR

It seems New York now has two seasons instead of four. This year we went straight from winter, right into summer! As a result, none of us were able to enjoy the lovely mild weather spring offers, and the money savings of not needing to run heat or air conditioning!

Many first-time home buyers ask, "How much does it cost to heat a home? What are typical electric bills for a home this size? What is cheaper, oil or gas?" Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to accurately answer this question, as the answer will largely depend on the USER, and how diligent they are about conserving energy, as well as the size of the home, and systems being used, just to name a few.

On the bright side, there are many things that a homeowner CAN do to lower their energy consumption, save money, and go Green in the process. Below, find some simple, easy to implement, and inexpensive tips that could wind up saving you money this year:

Unplug appliances that are not in use. Did you know that even if you are not using your toaster, or coffee maker, the simple fact that it is plugged into the outlet means that it is using electricity? The truth is appliances in stand-by mode are using almost as much energy as they do when in use. So unplug those cell phone chargers, lamps, hair dryers, etc. and SAVE!
Clean or Replace your AC filters. At the beginning of the summer season check all the AC filters in your house. Did you know that it will take longer to cool a room if the AC has a dirty, clogged filter? A clean filter will allow your air conditioner to work more efficiently. If you have Central Air get your ducts cleaned yearly. Not only will this save you money on electricity, but it is healthier for you to have clean air pumping through your home!
Check your windows. Buy window caulk at your local hardware store and seal your windows. This will prevent hot air from escaping during the winter, and cool air from escaping during the summer.
Buy Energy Star Rated Appliances. If you are on the market for a new refrigerator, microwave, washer, etc. buy an appliance that has a good Energy Star Rating. It may cost a little more than an appliance that is not as well rated, however, this simple act will save you much more money than the difference in price over your years of usage.
Program your thermostat. So many homeowners leave their thermostats on the HOLD setting, and this is a big money and energy waster. During the winter turn the heat down at least 8 degrees when no one is at home, and down again 4 degrees while you are asleep. During the summer turn the AC up 8 degrees when you are not at home, and up again 4 degrees while you are asleep.
Turn the lights off. So many folks are guilty of this. We turn the lights on all over the house, and forget to turn them off when we are not in the room. And, so many folks turn lights on during the day instead of opening the curtains.
Insulate your attic. One of the best ways to reduce energy costs is to insulate your attic. I have been told by contractors that insulating your attic generally pays for itself within 3 years. If you plan on living in your home longer than three years this certainly makes sense.
Take advantage of tax credits. If you are considering home improvements for energy efficiency you should do so before the end of 2010, as you can claim a tax credit of 30 percent of the cost up to $1,500 for new qualified windows, doors insulation, heating and cooling systems!
Air-dry your clothes. It may not always be practical, or possible to air dry your clothes, however, if you air dried just one load of laundry per week you could save a bundle on electricity costs. Visit http://www.laundrylist.org/ to learn more about the air drying movement.
Use a fan. Using a fan can make a room feel 4 degrees cooler, and if you use a ceiling fan in tandem with an air conditioner you can cool down a room much more quickly, and once cool can turn the AC off to help maintain the temperature.

Of course, there are many other ways to reduce your energy consumption like solar panels, geo-thermal energy, etc. However, this list is meant to be simple, cheap and every-day ways you can begin to reduce your energy bills.

Happy Saving New Yorkers!

Moving Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 05:42:00 +0000

Moving Tips

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Everybody hates moving, it does not matter if you have done it once or several times, it is never an easy task. Here is some tips you may find helpful:

Notify the post office of your new forwarding address.
Cancel subscriptions that would not or cannot be forwarded.
Change addresses on your bank profile and checks.
Arrange for utilities and telephone at your new location.
Plan for needs of children and pets during the move.
Plan for sufficient cash during the move.
If you are packing and moving yourself, make arrangements with local moving supply dealers and truck rental agencies. If not, make sure you have a quotation all set up in advance.
Start the weeding out process for what to keep and what to dump.
Pack one room at a time.
Keep the weight of your boxes reasonable.
Start packing and marking every box according to contents and room it will go in.
GO GREEN! Use towels and blankets to wrap fragile items. Save the environment AND Money too!
If possible, pack audio-video and computer equipment in their original boxes.
Do not pack valuables like jewelery, carry them with you.

East Meadow School District is a Contender: Watch Out North Shore!

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 03:06:00 +0000

By Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Good news for residents in East Meadow Union Free School District #3 on Long Island arrived as the results of the 2008-2009 ELA (English Language Arts) and Math Assessments came in markedly higher than last year.

The School District has much to be proud of as the new scores indicate that programs and procedures implemented over the last several years are beginning to pay off. Some of the specifics are district programs that have been designed to improve instruction, and a series of professional development workshops with an emphasis on analyzing past test data to determine areas in which students need additional help.

The results are astounding! On the ELA Assessments, every grade level from 3 to 8 exceeded the county average, and in most cases, realized an increase in the number of students meeting proficiency. For example, in the 2007-2008 school year the percentage of students who passed the exam was 86%. However, in the 2008-2009 school year the percentage of students who passed the exam was 96%. Please see below for the full exam Results.

2008-2009 ELA Assessment Results:

Grade 3: 88%
Grade 4: 93%
Grade 5: 94%
Grade 6: 96%
Grade 7: 95%
Grade 8: 91%

2008-2009 Math Assessment Results:

Grade 3: 98%
Grade 4: 96%
Grade 5: 98%
Grade 6: 97%
Grade 7: 98%
Grade 8: 96%

These results put the East Meadow School District in line with, and in some cases ahead of, the high-performing Long Island School Districts of Roslyn, North Shore, Great Neck, Herricks and Port Washington. These districts are among the highest performing, most competitive school districts in the region, and the East Meadow results show that the school district means business.

This can only mean great things for the local Real Estate Market of East Meadow, and Salisbury (Salisbury is a Hamlet of Hempstead that is part of the East Meadow School District). Only time will tell, but I expect to see a boost in home prices if the school can keep this level of excellence up.

Kudos to you East Meadow Union Free School District!

Showing Tips - Best Practices for Showing Your Home While it is For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:46:00 +0000

Showing The Home:

Whenever possible leave your home during showings, if not, follow the tips below.

Three's a crowd. Avoid having too many people present during showings. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.
Music is mellow. But not when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let the your agent and buyer talk, free of disturbances.
Pets underfoot? Keep them out of the way--preferably out of the house.
Silence is golden. Be courteous but don't force conversation with the potential buyer. He wants to inspect your house--not to pay a social call.
Be it ever so humble. Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained agent answer any objections. This is his/her job.
Remain in the background. The agent knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don't tag along. You will be called if needed. Allow the buyers to take "psychological possession."
Why put the cart before the horse? Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyer before he has purchased the house often loses a sale.
A word to the wise. Let your Realtor discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the customer. They are eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

Five Tips for Making Vacant Homes Feel Less Vacant

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:54:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Rent furniture. Staged homes tend to sell for more and in less time. Depending on your market and budget, renting furniture for key rooms can make a big difference. If renting does not work, leaving a few pieces of furniture can provide a sense of space.
Keep it comfortable. Leave the utilities on and keep the temperature at a comfortable level.
Remove ghost lines. Hide the effects of furniture. Paint the walls the same color, shampoo the carpet, and replace rugs so there is no evidence of what used to be there.
Hire a maid. Make sure the home remains fresh and clean.
Keep up curb appeal. Hire a lawn maintenance service. Make sure the lawn gets watered and the landscaping stays alive.

Understanding the Advantages of CEMA: A Buyer's and Seller's Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 05:51:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

When you are obtaining a mortgage in New York State the buyer of that home typically pays mortgage tax on the whole amount of the mortgage that they obtain. The mortgage tax in New York State is usually the largest amount a buyer pays in closing costs. This tax can easily account for 40% of the closing costs paid when purchasing a home. The mortgage tax rate in the 5 boroughs of New York City is generally between 1.8 to 2.55%! This accounts for thousands of dollars in closing costs that the buyer of a home can avoid.

The Advantage of CEMA to Buyers:
The buyer can avoid this tax in part, or in whole by obtaining an assignment of mortgage from the seller of the property. The savings is dependant upon the amount of the seller's existing lien. This assignment of mortgage must be approved by both the sellers mortgage holder and the buyers new mortgage company.

The Advantage of CEMA to Sellers:
The seller of the home also benefits from the assignment. In most cases the seller will avoid paying the New York State transfer tax they are obligated to pay when selling a home. The New York State transfer tax rate is $4 per $1,000 of selling price. If the seller chooses to assign the mortgage on their home, and the lenders allow this assignment, the seller can save thousands just for signing the authorization.

In Memorium: Norma B. Casassola

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:31:00 +0000

In Loving Memory of
Norma B. Casassola
August 10, 1941 to June 19, 2009

God saw you were getting tired,
and a cure was not to be,
so he put his arms around you
and whispered, "Come to me."

With tearful eyes we watched you,
and saw you pass away.
Although we loved you dearly,
We could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best.

Finding a New York Apartment that Allows Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:40:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

I am often asked by fellow dog owners why it is so difficult to find a rental apartment in New York that will allow dogs. The truth of the matter is simple - Money.

Facts:

Homeowners insurance premiums increase if the landlord allows dogs, especially large-breed dogs, or breeds deemed "dangerous" by the Insurance underwriters. Their thinking is these breeds are more likely to bite someone, and force a lawsuit on the homeowner, thus resulting in a homeowners claim.
Co-ops and Condos can not afford to allow pets as a general policy, not only because of the increased overall insurance costs, but because it will increase property maintenance costs as well. They claim that their experience has shown them that not all pet owners are responsible at properly curbing their dogs. Additionally, the Co-op and Condo boards fear that if a badly-trained dog lives in the building the barking will disturb the neighbors. Therefore, decreasing the overall property value. As such Co-op and Condo boards generally have blanket policies of No Dogs Allowed.
Also Landlords and Co-op/Condo Boards alike fear that poorly trained dogs will wreck the apartment, by urinating in the apartment, and public halls, and by chewing on baseboard moldings, etc.

There is hope in sight though. As small breed dogs have become more and more fashionable, landlords and Co-op/Condo Boards recognize that they need to cater to us in the dog loving community. And, many buildings that were previously not dog-friendly, have changed their rules to allow dogs below 20 pounds with board approval.

Unfortunately, for those with large breed dogs, or, more than one dog - it will be extremely difficult to find an apartment that will accomodate you and your pets.

If you need help finding an apartment in Northeastern Queens, or Western Nassau that allows dogs call me at 917.921.5397.

Housing Market Offers Opportunities, Glimmers of Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:06:00 +0000

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

Buying opportunities abound for value-savvy home shoppers in select markets across the nation, where prices have fallen to 2003 levels. While home prices are still declining on a year over year basis, they are falling at the slowest rate in five months, which indicates a degree of stabilization compared to recent months.

Attractive prices, coupled with strong affordability and mortgage rates below 5%, translate to more buying power for homebuyers. Buoyed by the $8,000 federal tax incentive, first-time buyers represented the majority of transactions closed last month. Their activity is expected to remain high and reduce the glut of homes on the market.

According to Charles McMillan, "Compared to a year ago, the typical family can pay much less in mortgage costs for the same home, or buy a better home without necessarily increasing their monthly payment. For buyers who’ve been on the sidelines and have good jobs, the market has never looked more favorable. Homeownership has always offered immediate benefits and long-term value, but the advantages in today's market are unique."

Another positive factor is the return of the jumbo loan. For nearly a year, it has been almost impossible for buyers to find financing for homes selling for more than $417,000. Bank of America recently began offering a 30-year fixed rate jumbo at less than 6 percent. Other banks are starting to follow suit.

Home sales and other consumer spending data combined with big earnings at some banks indicate that the U.S. economy is on the road to a gradual recovery this year. "The economy is still very weak, but there are some encouraging signs that support cautious optimism," said Dennis Lockhart, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.