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        <title>Ulster County Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/2012-03/</link>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/saugerties-ny-real-estate-hudson-valleys-best-place-to-live-2012.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/saugerties-ny-real-estate-hudson-valleys-best-place-to-live-2012.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Saugerties NY Real Estate -  Hudson Valley's Best Place to Live 2012</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Hudson Valley Magazine recently called Saugerties NY one of the Top 7 Hudson Valley Towns to Live In for 2012. We here at Taft Street Realty couldn't agree more In our opinion Saugerties NY embodies all of the great things about life here in Ulster County. It is a delightful mix of natural beauty, rich history, quirky culture, and a shared sense of local identity. Like Hudson Valley Magazine, Taft Street Realty has been keeping tabs on Saugerties' rapid growth and endless potential. We've written extensively about this cool little, 200 year old() town in posts about Main Street Saugerties NY and much more

Great Food, Awesome Activities, New Hotels, and Fun Festivals in Saugerties

As the HVMag article points out, Saugerties NY is full of fun activities and great food There seems to be an unending stream of festivals and celebrations, which always guest stars the Town of Saugerties. The world famous 2012 Saugerties Garlic Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that features all things garlic (garlic ice cream included) There is also the (arguably more pleasant-smelling) Mum Festival and the awesome annual 4th of July fireworks. Saugerties NY also is also an equestrian hotspot for the area. It is home to H.I.T.S. (Horse shows In The Sun) on the Hudson, which delights crowds with horse shows all spring and summer Winter is just as fun around Saugerties due to its close proximity to local Catskill area ski resorts. Located just off of exit 20 on the NYS Thruway, Saugerties is easy to get to from NYC, and is close to that other famous Ulster County town Woodstock NY. It is also a great departure point if you want to venture across the Hudson River into Dutchess County to visit BARD and other attractions. All of those visitors to Saugerties need to be fed and places to rest This demand has brought a great range of dining to Saugerties, from the quick and affordable cafes like Miss Lucy's Kitchen, to world famous specialty foods like Krause's Chocolate, to fanciful gourmet like the Tavern at Diamond Mills. The recently opened Diamond Mills Hotel (&amp; Tavern) offers luxurious accommodations perched right on the falls of the Esopus Creek. 

Saugerties - A Top Town to Buy Real Estate 

 Homes for sale in Saugerties vary greatly from the small and more modest, all the way to luxury status of $500K and up. Compared with other counties to the south and to the east, luxury homes for sale in Ulster County are plentiful and often come at a bargain. But Saugerties prides itself on being a great place for people of all lifestyles to live, and a full mix of homes for sale create a diverse housing market, with something for everyone. Here at Taft Street Realty, we know that anywhere in Ulster County is great to live, but we have to agree with Hudson Valley Magazine that Saugerties is a truly special town that really captures the Ulster County lifestyle 
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    <pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:44:38 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/ulster-county-real-estate-alert-2012-local-burn-ban-now-in-effect.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/ulster-county-real-estate-alert-2012-local-burn-ban-now-in-effect.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Ulster County Real Estate Alert - 2012 Local Burn Ban Now in Effect</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Public officials have initiated an annual burn ban for the entire Ulster County NY area. The ban is in effect from March 15th through May 15th and it prohibits open burning of any kind. What does this mean for residents of Ulster County? Burning tree branches, logs, and other forms of dead wood (including, &quot;brush&quot;) is normally allowed in Ulster County, as are campfires and bonfires. However, from March 15th - May 15th open burning of any kind is strictly prohibited due to an increased risk of unintended wildfires. History has shown that this particular time period is when the region is most at risk. Many don't realize that open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York State. People who live in Ulster County undoubtedly remember a 2008 forest fire in Minnewaska State Park. The fire destroyed over 3,000 acres of pristine wilderness and made headlines in the New York Times and elsewhere. The current burning laws were passed in 2009 and toughened restrictions on open burning in the region. Violators face criminal charges as well as financial penalties. Here's a quick reference guide on local burning restrictions, brought to you by Taft Street Realty.

* Remember - You can't burn anything from 3/15 - 5/15  But what about the rest of the year? The following is a quick breakdown of the burning laws that apply for the rest of the year. 

What Cannot be Burned in Ulster County and Why? 

Ulster County's open burning laws are designed to serve 3 functions: to protect public health, protect property, and protect the environment. So what exactly is prohibited? 

The burning of leaves, even in a rural area is not allowed - A lot of people don't know that although they can burn branches and brush, they cannot burn piles of leaves. Burning leaves release smoke that contains dangerous compounds. Also, burning leaf piles give off significant amounts of smoke which is bad for health, particularly among children. Lastly the unwieldy nature of burning leaves makes them unsafe and very susceptible to spreading and causing fires. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (the DEC) encourages composting leaves which is safe and good for the environment. 

Burning household trash in burn barrels is prohibited - A once relatively common sight in backyards around Ulster County NY, burn barrels are not used as much these days. In the past, burning household trash was viewed as a favorable disposal method to sending trash to landfills. However smoke from burning garbage can release a variety of dangerous compounds into the air. The DEC maintains that nowadays most household trash items can be properly recycled or composted, which is better for public health and the environment. 

Treated wood cannot be burned - What is meant by treated wood? Any wood that has been painted, stained, or applied with any sort of agent is considered treated wood. Tearing down that old shed or deck? You can't burn the wood, no matter how old. The various toxins released by any number of chemicals used to treat wood are extremely bad for one's health and the environment. Do bags of firewood sold in stores count as treated wood? No. Firewood sold at gas stations and in stores has been &quot;heat-treated&quot;, a sort of super-drying technique, in order to eliminate bugs and be safely stored and transported. Heat-treated wood is permitted under the 2009 burning laws. 

Campers, Hikers, and Bonfire-Lovers of Ulster County - Don't Worry 

Ok, we know what you're thinking, &quot;What about campfires (even of the backyard variety)? What about my summer bonfire party?&quot; Don't worry The burn ban is meant to protect, not hinder, the Ulster County Lifestyle. After May 15th, campfires and small cooking fires are ok, as long as they are no larger than 4 feet in diameter, and the flames reach no higher than 3 feet. Celebratory and/or ceremonial bonfires are allowed too, provided all the wood used is untreated. An absolute must for both campfires and bonfires is that 1.) They can never be left unattended, and 2.) They must always be fully extinguished. Remember to keep a water source nearby to extinguish the fire (a ready garden hose for you backyard fire fans, and a ready pot or bottle of water for campers and hikers) The trick is to consider how you might put the fire out in a jiffy before you actually need to We here at Taft Street Realty hope this helps further explain the current Ulster County burn ban and the laws that apply throughout the year. Our helpful guides with useful info are why ours is considered the best real estate blog in Ulster County NY 
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    <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:01:37 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/10-amazing-luxury-homes-for-sale-in-ulster-county-ny.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/10-amazing-luxury-homes-for-sale-in-ulster-county-ny.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>10 Amazing Luxury Homes For Sale In Ulster County, NY</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Back by popular demand Readers loved our last post about luxury homes for sale in Woodstock NY, so we're bringing it back and branching out to the rest of Ulster County NY There are so many amazing homes for sale in this area, of all different styles and time periods. The surrounding landscapes are one of kind, so each home is its own unique sanctuary. So without further ado, here are 10 amazing luxury homes for sale in Ulster County NY  

152 Elwyn Quarry - Woodstock, NY

 

Available for sale for the first time in 30 years 152 Elwyn Quarry is truly a one of a kind opportunity This home is literally perched over a clear quarry pond, with the high-ceilinged, screened-in porch extending over the water. Private and secluded, yet within walking distance to the town Woodstock, this modern home is a country paradise. Presented by Nina Schultz Terner of Westwood Metes &amp; Bounds in Woodstock NY. 

  More Pictures of Woodstock NY MLS 20120975 

 

2450 Hurley Mountain Road - Stone Ridge, NY



 

If you love historic stone houses, 2450 Hurley Mountain Road is an absolute must-see  This magnificent Stone Ridge NY home rests atop a hill with majestic vistas all around. Built circa 1827 this is a grand estate from another era long gone. Great location, convenient to Kingston, Woodstock, Stone Ridge and the NYS Thruway. Offered by Amy Levine of Westwood Metes &amp; Bounds in Stone Ridge NY.

 

More Pictures of Stone Ridge, NY MLS 20094884

 

 


800 Queens Highway - Accord, NY



 

800 Queens Highway is another historic stone beauty, updated with every modern amenity  Located on just under 10 acres, with a heated, in-ground pool and cabana, this home is made for guests and entertaining. A beautifully done addition provides elegance and luxury in a classic setting. Presented by Laurel Sweeney of Nutshell Realty in Stone Ridge NY.  

More Pictures of Accord NY MLS 20120978 

 

1835 Route 212 - Woodstock, NY



 

All musicians take note 1835 Route 212 is a home, recording studio, and center of creativity Located on 17 acres in Woodstock NY, you can totally rock out on your musical compound without disturbing a soul. Featuring a built-in, state-of-the-art-recording studio, a musician or music producer can carry on Woodstock's creative legacy in this amazing artist's estate Offered by Amy Lonas of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Woodstock NY.

More Pictures of Woodstock NY MLS 20113323 

 

116 Canaan Road - New Paltz, NY



 

Step into another world at 116 Canaan Road in New Paltz NY. Featuring a stunning dome-shaped design, this unique home is open, sunny, and spacious. An amazing feat of eco-friendly technology, this home utilizes passive solar energy and is built from eco-friendly materials. A 2nd story provides privacy for sleeping, and circular design induces a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Presented by Anne Rajs of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Stone Ridge NY. 

More Pictures of New Paltz NY MLS 20114767 

 

59 Leonardo Drive - Stone Ridge, NY



  

 Talk about history Built circa 1710 59 Leonardo Drive has the distinction of being the oldest home on our list. Sited at the end of a long and winding private road, this colonial stone house is surrounded by 44 acres of beautiful land. Restored pine floors and exposed beams takes you back in time, while modern luxuries and a gourmet kitchen meet every need. All just minutes from Main Street Stone Ridge NY Offered by Eric Bean of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Stone Ridge NY.

More Pictures of Stone Ridge MLS 20120054 

 

260 Van Keuren Road - Ellenville, NY



 

A modern castle carved into a cliffside 26 Van Keuren Road is absolutely stunning This mountain retreat is contemporary fan's dream home. Open and airy rooms offer endless potential, and large windows provide panoramic views. You can see up to 5 states from this location Radiant floors, a gourmet kitchen, and media room all add to the luxury of this modern masterpiece. Presented by Michelle Ayala of Prudential Serls Prime Properties in Lagrangeville NY. 

More Pictures of Ellenville NY MLS 20112322 

 

Lot 1 Van Dale Road - Woodstock, NY

 

Channel a zen-like inner peace at Lot 1 Van Dale Road in Woodstock NY. This yet-to-be built sanctuary is custom-designed by internationally acclaimed architects Sebastian Mariscal Studio. It is inspired by nature, surrounded by woods, with multiple interior gardens, and cutting-edge green technology. Sited on a 9 acre plot, this home will be built brand new for some lucky owner Offered by Christine Nielson of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Woodstock, NY.

More Pictures of Woodstock NY MLS 20113932

 

19 Montoma Lane - Woodstock, NY

 

Another picturesque farmhouse from the 1800's,  19 Montoma Lane is grand, palatial, and ideal for entertaining. Sited on over 12 quiet acres, this estate features meadows, ponds, and separate barns, all within minutes from the town of Woodstock NY. A bluestone patio, open floor plan, and gourmet kitchen are welcoming to guests and family. Presented by Kimberly Cantine of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Woodstock NY.  

More pictures of  Woodstock NY MLS 20120732

 

100 Butterville Road - New Paltz, NY 



Butterville Road is a rare find in one of the most desirable areas in Ulster County. This home offers direct views of Mohonk Mountain and is adjacent to 1,000's of acres of protected state wilderness. Perfect for entertaining, this New Paltz beauty has 2 fireplaces, a media room, and an inground pool. Located on one of the most desirable streets in New Paltz, this home won't last Offered by Eric Bean of Coldwell Banker Village Green in Stone Ridge NY.

More pictures of New Paltz NY MLS 20120143

* Bonus Listing  * 

214 Marcott Road - Stone Ridge, NY 



A hidden gem in the Cottekill area of Stone Ridge NY 214 Marcott Road is a secluded home in an ideal location. Century-old cedar trees line the long private driveway to this classic farmhouse. Mature trees, stone walls, and rolling meadows make up the 56 acre lot. Absolute privacy, yet conveniently close to Kingston NY and the NYS Thruway. Presented by Mary Collins of Mary Collins Real Estate in High Falls NY.  

See more pictures of Stone Ridge NY MLS 20113844 

More to Come...

We hope you enjoyed looking at these luxury homes for sale in Ulster County as much as we did Keep checking back to the Taft Street Blog for more stunning homes, and fun &amp; helpful posts. Our great content is why we're the best real estate blog in the Hudson Valley 

More by this author - Luxury Woodstock NY Homes For Sale Under $750K 

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    <pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:42:42 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/2012-spring-tick-alert-taft-street-warningearly-spring-weather-brings-ticks-out-early.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/2012-spring-tick-alert-taft-street-warningearly-spring-weather-brings-ticks-out-early.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>2012 Spring Tick Alert &amp; Taft Street Warning…Warm Spring Weather Brings Ticks Out Early</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Warm weather and sunshine signals that spring has sprung in Ulster County, NY The local housing market kicks into high gear this time of year, as buyers leave their computers and start viewing homes for sale in Ulster County in person. If you plan on walking along property lines or strolling land parcels with your Realtor, Taft Street Realty reminds you to be alert for ticks This time of year (spring and early summer) is prime tick season in the Hudson Valley, but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors Here's the Taft Street Tick Guide to help you stay tick-free as you look at real estate in Ulster County NY.

Tick 101 - Get to Know This Ulster County Resident

Ticks come with the territory here in the Hudson Valley region, a fact that some buyers from New York City and other out-of-town areas aren't aware of. This is no cause for alarm however, and certainly shouldn't discourage anyone from looking at Hudson Valley homes for sale. True, some ticks carry harmful bacteria including Lyme disease, but with a little know-how you can greatly reduce your chances of being bitten. First is to identify the enemy, and second is to know where and when you are most at risk. The most common ticks found in New York State are the Wood Tick and the Deer Tick. The Wood tick is the larger of the two, with legs and appendages that are visible to the naked eye. Wood ticks do NOT carry Lyme disease, though they can potentially carry other bacteria. Deer Ticks are much smaller than Wood Ticks; so tiny that they can resemble a freckle or a speck of dirt on the skin and can easily go unnoticed. Deer Ticks do carry Lyme disease, though not all do. Tick season is spring, through the summer and the fall, so be extra aware during these times of year. Ticks prefer shady, moist areas at ground level; making tall grass, brush, and shrubs common places for ticks to be found. Not just limited to wild areas, ticks also live in gardens, on lawns, and they love stone walls. Knowing when and where you are most vulnerable to ticks and preparing accordingly is half the battle in tick prevention.

Easy Tick Prevention Tips

There are steps you can take to prevent from getting a tick; both for yourself and for your property to discourage ticks from moving in. Buyers who are outside trekking across land parcels and property lines should wear light clothing (preferably with a tight weave) to make ticks easy to spot. They'll linger on clothing before travelling upward. Wear high socks, boots, and long sleeves; and tuck your pants into your shoes. If you have long hair tie it back when outside, and avoid heavy brush and wooded areas, sticking to paths if you can. Try not to sit directly on the ground or on stone walls. Most of all, check yourself frequently particularly in the shower for any ticks that may have gotten onto your skin. Parents of children should get into the habit of checking their kids once a day during tick season, as children are less likely to notice when they've been bitten. Deny ticks a home by keeping your property in order. Keep your lawns short and your hedges trimmed. Clear dead leaves and brush away, and trim any high grass around gardens and stone walls. Stack wood piles neatly and away from your home. Don't forget the fall Ticks can live in dead leaves and garden litter over the winter, so clear all of that stuff away during the fall.

Don't Worry Enjoy the Warm Weather BUT Be Aware 

Most importantly though, don't worry too much about the ticks  If you're looking at a home for sale, walk every inch of that property Like anything, ticks may carry some risk, but with a little common sense and some general know-how, you and your family will be perfectly safe and ready for some spring &amp; summer fun in Ulster County For other helpful tips and guides, check out the best real estate blog in Ulster County, brought to you, as always, by Taft Street Realty.

 

Deer Tick Photo Copywright NYS Dept. of Health 

health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/lyme 
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    <pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:20:46 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/new-paltz-restaurant-review-the-gilded-otter-brewpub.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/new-paltz-restaurant-review-the-gilded-otter-brewpub.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>New Paltz Restaurant Review: The Gilded Otter Brewpub</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
If you're dining in New Paltz, NY and looking for a place that has something for everyone and plenty of room take it from Taft Street Realty and visit the Gilded Otter The Gilded Otter in New Paltz, NY is an amazing place to grab a bite and/or some delicious, fresh-brewed beer. Perched right on the Wallkill River at the edge of the village, the Gilded Otter is a brewery, a restaurant, and a great meeting place for friends. The building alone is beautiful: large and spacious with expansive windows that offer views of Mohonk Mountain and the Shawangunk Mountain Range. The interior is open and spacious with accents of rustic stone &amp; wood-work. The shiny basins, kettles, and tubes of the micro-brewery wind their way around the restaurant. Belly up to the enormous and beautiful bar, or take in some sunshine on the outdoor patio. There is plenty of private parking, making it an ideal spot to gather with friends So have a cold one with Taft Street Realty as we profile the Gilded Otter.

Award-Winning, Hand-Crafted Brews in New Paltz

Beer enthusiasts will love the Gilded Otter and their hand-crafted, seasonal beers. Created in-house, entirely from scratch, the various ales and lagers are always fresh, unique, and delicious Brewing beer is both an art form and a science, taking experience and patience. The brew masters at the Gilded Otter use the finest ingredients, from the malted barley which is ground down into fresh grist, to the hops used for flavor and bitterness. It is a time consuming process, with some beers taking up to 4 weeks to ferment. It is well worth the wait, because when the lever is pulled, the flowing beer is fresh; directly from the distillery into your glass. Not sure which beer to choose? Taft Street recommends their seasonal sampler, which provides a little taste of everything

Another Unique Ulster County, NY Restaurant 

You don't have to be a beer drinker to love the Gilded Otter. Along with the tasty house brews, there is a great menu with a wide range of dishes. Start with fresh, tasty salads and hearty soups, to the classic tavern favorites (try the chicken wings). They also offer individual pizzas, pasta dishes, seafood, and hot sandwiches. On nice days and evenings you can dine outside on the stone patio. The Wallkill Rail Trail runs along the river right by the Gilded Otter, so whether you're kayaking, biking, or hiking, stop in for a cold beer when you're done New Paltz homes for sale are in high demand due to the combination of convenience and pristine natural beauty. New York City is less than 2 hours away, and stunning mountains with world-class climbing are right in your backyard. SUNY New Paltz, a top-rated state school, gives a youthful energy to this bustling town. Students, faculty, and New Yorkers create a high demand, so home prices tend to be higher in new Paltz than in other Ulster County towns. The Gilded Otter is just one of many great restaurants in the New Paltz area. For the inside scoop on all of the great places to east, visit Ulster County, NY's best real estate blog, brought to you by Taft Street Realty 
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    <pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:18:48 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/ulster-county-real-estate-spring-kickoff-local-st-pattys-day-happenings.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/ulster-county-real-estate-spring-kickoff-local-st-pattys-day-happenings.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Ulster County Real Estate Spring Kickoff - Local St. Patty's Day Happenings</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
It's that time of year St. Patrick's Day is upon us and the Hudson Valley region is ready to celebrate Everyone is Irish on St. Patty's Day, and all across Ulster County, NY there are great places to go and have some fun. So grab a beer and a plate of corned beef Wear some green and get in the spirit of St. Patty's Day in Ulster County

Raise A Glass - Ulster County, NY Pubs &amp; Breweries

St. Patrick's Day falls on a Saturday this year so there's no reason not to celebrate Ulster County, NY has a variety of pubs and breweries to have a pint and enjoy the day with some friends. New Paltz alone has enough venues to eat and drink for the entire holiday If you like live music, head over to Bacchus Restaurant. The Irish band the Whiskey Shivers will be leading the festivities. You can make a toast with friends at McGillicuddy's, or raise a glass at Murphy's Pub. If beer is a big part of your St. Patty's Day, visit the Gilded Otter Brewery for some fresh and seasonal micro-brews. Planning on visiting the St. Patty's Day Parade in Kingston, NY? (see below) It wraps up at the historic Rondout waterfront district, where places like Dermot Mahoney's and Mariner's Harbor will be hopping at the parade's conclusion Kingston has its own brewery as well, Keegan Ales Brewery which serves up its own variety of award-winning seasonal Keegan Ales

The Saint Patrick's Day Parade &amp; Shamrock Run in Kingston, NY

This Sunday, March 11th Kingston, NY will host its annual St. Patty's Day parade and charity marathon the Shamrock Run. This beloved local event is great fun for the whole family, featuring pipe and prum bands and local high school bands. If you're into fitness, you can celebrate St. Patty's Day and help out a good cause at the 24th annual Shamrock Run. This 2 mile marathon precedes the parade so even if you're not running you can cheer on the participants before the parade kicks off The St. Patrick's Day Parade begins at 1pm on Broadway in Kingston, with the Shamrock Run starting at 12:50 pm sharp

Welcoming Spring in Hudson Valley Real Estate

St. Patty's Day reminds us that spring is just around the corner Now is a great time to view Ulster County, NY homes for sale. Most real estate here is super-affordable now, with potentially lower interest rates to boot. Shop now and you've got all summer to settle in and enjoy all that the beautiful Hudson Valley has to offer And if you're looking for fun things to do, Taft Street Realty has got you covered. We have the best real estate blog in Ulster County
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    <pubDate>Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:07:20 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/art-vandalism-or-great-publicity-for-kingston-ny-taft-street-the-ny-times-and-others-weigh-in.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/art-vandalism-or-great-publicity-for-kingston-ny-taft-street-the-ny-times-and-others-weigh-in.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Art? Vandalism? Or Great Publicity for Kingston, NY? - Taft Street, the NY Times, and Others Weigh In...</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
How do you feel about the red goats? Kingston, NY's homegrown controversy surrounding the mysterious red goats spray-painted on some public planters has grown into an international phenomenon. A simple search on Facebook will produce a Red Goat page with over 1,500 fans Most recently, an article in the New York Times reignited the debate over what, if anything, the red goats represent: Art or Vandalism? Protest or Graffiti? Although we may never learn the true meaning behind the red goats, the mini-controversy and the publicity that followed once again shows that Ulster County, NY has got people talking

The Canvas: Kingston, NY

It started innocently enough. A stencil of a goat, painted in bright red, appeared on some public planters in Kingston, NY's stockade district. Less than 6 months later the goats have gone global, showing up in the streets of New York City, Atlanta, Miami, Canada, and Madrid. At least a half-dozen national media outlets have weighed in on the subject. But as the recent NYtimes article points out, many Kingston residents are still scratching their heads as to what all the fuss is about. Some say the red goats were a sort of visual protest against the unpopular planters, which, to many, represented a bigger debate about controversial plans to revitalize the historic stockade district. Others say the red goats are graffiti pure and simple; less of a social commentary and more the uninspired actions of some bored artists with nothing better to do. Regardless, the debate reveals a town that cares passionately about its community.

Life After Goats - Where Does Kingston, NY Real Estate Go From Here?

Some say that any publicity is good publicity, and this may hold true for the buzz surrounding Kingston's red goats. With 2 alleged suspects currently facing charges, the Kingston area goat sightings have subsided, but their effect on the community has remained. The goats managed to mobilize people, and they have gotten the community talking about the city's future. Though the debate remains about its revitalization, all agree that the allure to artists, proximity to NYC, and rich history make Kingston, NY a very special town to live in. In fact, Kingston now offers some of the most affordable housing options in all of Ulster County. Real estate in Kingston offers that country type feel coupled with some urban flavor. The ability to hop onto the NYS Thruway and be in NYC in less than 2 hours offers the best of both worlds to New Yorkers looking to make a full time move or purchase a second home in the Hudson Valley. The New York Times certainly thinks so There are multiple NY Times articles featuring Ulster County, NY towns
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    <pubDate>Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:15:39 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/how-and-when-to-file-a-tax-grievance.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/how-and-when-to-file-a-tax-grievance.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>How and When to File a Tax Grievance</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
All homeowners should know how to file a tax grievance because with a market turn like we've just experienced it's important to know if/when you are being over-assessed. If you think you might be paying too much in property taxes, a grievance can be filed and your case reviewed by a local municipality. A successful grievance can lower your property taxes and is not as complicated as you may think. But there is a deadline; so without further ado here's a quick reference guide from Taft Street Realty on how, when, (and why) to file a tax grievance.

When To File A Grievance  

Ulster County Property taxes are based on the value of your home. Your local assessor determines the market value of your home on behalf of the municipal government; and does so in a manner not unlike a comparative sales analysis done by a real estate agent. The assessor then factors in the tax rate, and after a few calculations, your property taxes are born. Therefore, the assessor's market value of your home is very important, so make sure it's correct Every year usually around the beginning of May, the assessor will publish what's known as an &quot;Assessment Roll&quot; which will state the assessed value of every home in the municipality. You can find &quot;the roll&quot; at your local assessor's office or even online in some cases. If you feel that the value that your assessor has on the roll is higher than the actual value of your home, you'll want to dispute the assessed value, which leads us to the tax grievance... 

How to File a Tax Grievance

In the simplest terms, when you file a tax grievance you need to prove that the market value of your home is lower than the amount assessed by your municipal government (which is known as an &quot;Unequal Assessment&quot;). It is a relatively simple process, requiring as little as two forms, and can be filed with or without an attorney (though we recommend using an attorney and we'll tell you why). The first form is the RP-524 which is required by New York State. The second form is called the &quot;Letter of Support&quot;, which is basically a business letter written by you briefly explaining why the assessment on the &quot;roll&quot; is unequal. This letter of support is where you can include any associated documentation you'd like such as past sale market research, and/or private assessments, etc. Here's a tip: When you write your letter of support be sure to include a specific amount (exact number) that you'd like to have your assessed value lowered to, and always ask for as much as legally possible. The assessor's office must have received your tax grievance by &quot;Grievance Day&quot;, which in Ulster County, NY is May 22nd, 2012. After which a review will be scheduled to consider your grievance. Note: You are not required to attend your review, but you are certainly entitled to if you'd like.

Why An Attorney Can Help

Though you don't need to work with an attorney to file a tax grievance, Taft Street Realty recommends it for a few reasons. Statistically, attorneys have a better track record at winning grievances than those who work without one. An Ulster County attorney will do all of the legwork for you, including the market research to be used in your grievance. And an attorney may not be as expensive as you think. In fact, many attorneys only require payment if you win your grievance, and it is usually a percentage of the taxes saved in your 1st year. 

A No-Lose / Can't Hurt Situation 

Filing a tax grievance is basically a no-lose (can't hurt) situation as it will at least force the local town to review your property. So if you think there is any chance you could win a grievance, we here at Taft Street Realty recommend that you give it a try 

 
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    <pubDate>Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:24:18 -0500</pubDate>
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