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        <title>Ulster County Real Estate Blog</title>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/taft-street-realty-2016-summer-festival-event-guide.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/taft-street-realty-2016-summer-festival-event-guide.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Taft Street Realty 2016 Summer Festival &amp; Event Guide</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Festival season is now in full swing and we couldn’t be more excited If you caught our earlier post on 2016 Spring Festival and Events, we highlighted some major local events taking you straight on through to Memorial Day weekend, and now it’s time to continue and start mapping out the rest of your summer event schedule





Ulster County and the Hudson Valley are known for their scenic beauty, pristine natural features and proximity to one of the biggest cities in the world, New York City. With those big draws, it’s easy to figure why so many people visit and vacation to Ulster County and the Catskill Mountain region in the summer months. If our natural beauty, super cool towns and awesome culinary choices weren’t already enough for visitors, Ulster County really knows how to have a good time in the summer, with festivals and events galore While there are events all over the county, Kingston, NY and New Paltz, NY seem to be hot locations for summer festival and events- paralleling how hot these markets are for real estate as well. With new events popping up every year all over the valley, there’s always something new going on to experience in Ulster County.


So without further introduction, here’s a list of some of the most talked about festivals and events going on in the Hudson Valley and Ulster County, NY this summer



 


Memorial Day Weekend Arts &amp; Crafts Fair


MAY 28-29, 2016


Location:         Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY


Description:     The extremely popular and beloved Woodstock- New Paltz Art &amp; Crafts Fair is back for their first festival of 2016 at the Ulster County Fairgrounds (if you can’t make it Memorial Day, they will be back Labor Day weekend, as always). More than 300 artisans exhibit their craft creations at the fair. Enjoy the day with some shopping, live music and grab some food from many local vendors. Discount coupons and more information can be found on their website, www.quailhollow.com.


8th Annual Bob Dylan Birthday Celebration


MAY 29, 2016


Location:         Bearsville Theatre, Woodstock, NY


Description:    Join the Family of Woodstock’s Crisis Hotline and the John Herald Fund for musicians in need at their 8th annual concert featuring some of the Hudson Valley’s finest selection of musicians performing the songs of Bob Dylan. Have a great time, listen to some great musicians and support local causes Get more information and purchase your tickets at Bearsville Theatre’s website.


HITS-on-the-Hudson | Public Weekday Shows and the Horseware Ireland Grand Prix


JUNE 1-5, 2016


Location:        454 Washington Ave Ext, Saugerties, NY


Description:    For the second time in 2016 (this first was earlier in May), you can enjoy a day of fun at HITS-on-the-Hudson and catch a sighting of some of the finest equestrian stars in the country. From Wednesday- Saturday, enjoy free admission to all daytime performances and shows and Sunday you can watch the Grand Prix race, where the winner will take home $75,000 in prize winnings. Additional Grand Prix races and open to the public week long events take place throughout June and September. You can visit www.hitsshows.com for more details.


Ride the Ridge Bike Challenge


JUNE 5, 2016


Location:         High Meadow School, Stone Ridge, NY


Description:    Anyone can get in on the fun and bike through the gorgeous Ulster County at the Ride the Ridge bike event With 5 different rides, ranging from an 80 mile bike from the ridge to the reservoir for extreme bikers to a 5 mile ride for the whole family to enjoy, you can take in the scenery, while taking advantage of the clearly marked routes, roadside volunteers and designated water and food stops. All rides leave from the High Meadow school and end with lunch at the end of your journey. Register for the ride and sign up to be a volunteer at www.ridetheridge.org


Hudson Valley LGBTQ Pride March &amp; Festival


JUNE 5, 2016


Location:         Main Street &amp; Hasbrouck Park, New Paltz, NY


Description:    At 1pm the parade celebrating the LGBTQ communities marches down Main Street from the New Paltz Middle School and festivities will continue on at Hasbrouck Park and Bacchus later in the afternoon. This is the culmination of Pride Week, put on the the Hudson Valley LGBTQ Community Center and a list of all events and more details can be found at their website, www.lgbtqcenter.org   


Multi-Cultural Block Party on the Kingston Waterfront


JUNE 5, 2016


Location:         TR Gallo Waterfront Park, Kingston, NY


Description:     In its 4th year, celebrate with various local community groups with international foods, dances and music kicking off summer block party style   


Cider Market &amp; Tasting at Historic Huguenot Street


JUNE 11, 2016


Location:          Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz, NY


Description:     As part of Hudson Valley Cider Week, Historic Huguenot Street will hold their second annual hard cider tasting and market to help build appreciation for over a dozen New York State cideries, wineries and brewing companies, some located right here in Ulster County. Food vendors will be on site and cideries will be offering tastings of their most popular craft ciders, that can be purchased at the marketplace, where there will also be an abundance of other farm and orchard products, including fresh cut flowers, cider donuts, apples and more for purchase.  A $10 ticket will get you tastings for the duration of the event and designated drivers are free. Pre-registration is recommended for this event- get more details at www.huguenotstreet.org


Kingston Kayak Festival


JUNE 11, 2016


Location:         Kingston Point Beach, Kingston, NY


Description:     Bring the family for a day of fun on the water at the Hudson River’s largest kayak festival. Partake in lessons, tours, education and demonstrations for beginners on canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. There are also activities planned for more experienced kayakers who bring their own boats and gear. There is no admission fee, however a $10 donation for this event goes to support the Forsyth Nature Center in Kingston. Visit the Mid-Hudson Adirondack Mountain Club’s site for more festival details.


Shale Hill Music Festival


JUNE 11, 2016


Location:         Shale Hill Farm, Saugerties, NY


Description:     With musical performances, food, raffles and entertainment for the whole family, enjoy an afternoon at the original home of the Saugerties Garlic Festival, Shale Hill Farm. Discounted tickets can be purchased in advance and proceeds benefit Choices in Childbirth. Get your tickets at Shale Hill Music Fest’s Event page.


Asbury Short Film Concert


JUNE 11, 2016


Location:          Rosendale Theatre, Rosendale, NY


Description:     In its 35th year, and 7th year at the Rosendale Theatre, Asbury Shorts is New York City’s longest running short film exhibition and travel show. Enjoy over 2 hours of the world’s greatest short films from the past right on up until today Recommended for ages 16 and older. Purchase tickets and get more info at www.rosendaletheatre.org.


Walkway Marathon


JUNE 11-12, 2016


Location:          Walkway Over the Hudson, Highland/Poughkeepsie, NY


Description:      With 2 days and 4 scheduled races the second annual Walkway Marathon Race series is sure to be a big hit again this year. Enjoy picturesque views from high atop the Hudson during the Walkway Marathon, Half Marathon, Mid-Hudson Road Runners Treetops to Rooftops 5K and the THINK DIFFERENTLY Dash, a one mile run for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities (taking place on June 11th). To register for the marathon, get more info and see highlights from last year’s race, visit www.walkwaymarathon.org 


Tour de Kingston


JUNE 26, 2016


Location:         Kingston, NY


Description:     In it’s 11th year, the Tour de Kingston Bike Event is back again. Past events have had riders biking throughout Kingston on varying intensity routes, making stops at Kingston landmarks and tourist areas and culminating in a free BBQ at Forsyth Nature Park. This year’s event promises to live up to expectations and more details will be released at www.tourdeulster.com as they are announced.


Belleayre Music Festival Presents: The Yardbirds


JULY 2, 2016


Location:          Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, Highmount, NY


Description:     Catskill Mountain Region- it’s time to rock The Belleayre Music Festival celebrates its first show in their new venue with Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, The Yardbirds. Get transported back to the early days of the “British Invasion” with these blues rockers at Belleayre’s own Discovery Lodge in the heart of the beautiful Catskills.


Sausage &amp; Cider Festival


JULY 3, 2016


Location:           Bad Seed Cider Co, Highland, NY


Description:      Sample over 15 varieties of the small batch craft ciders created at one of Ulster County’s newest up and coming cideries at their new facility. Hudson Valley Sausage company will also be grilling up a bunch of unique sausages to pair along with the ciders and with more food and dessert vendors, live music and Fourth of July party atmosphere, this event is sure to be a new holiday weekend tradition. Order your tickets now at www.badseedhardcider.com.


High Falls Fair Day


JULY 16,  2016


Location:           Hamlet of High Falls, NY


Description:      An annual festival of rural, small-town fun This town wide fest will boast food, music, crafts, games and events for the whole family. Details are still being planned and vendor applications wanted. To get more information as it is released, visit www.highfallscivic.org. 


Hudson Valley Sangria Festival


JULY 16-17, 2016


Location:           Benmarl Winery, Marlboro, NY


Description:      Spend a weekend tasting Benmarl Winery's own fresh fruit sangrias, get a souvenir wine glass, enjoy vineyard and cellar tours and dance your heart out to live music and flamenco dancing lessons for the kids. You can purchase discount tickets ahead of time through their website at www.benmarl.com/events.


Camp Huguenot


JULY 18-22, 2016


Location:           Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz, NY


Description:      This weekend long campout on Huguenot street is an awesome experience for aspiring archaeologists ages 9-12. Campers get to learn the history of the first New Paltz settlers from over 300 years ago and actually excavate sites alongside real archaeologists searching for Huguenot settler and Native American artifacts Historic crafts, games, education activities, tours of the historic homes and an old fashioned camp out make this weekend a great experience. Pricing, registration packets and more info can be found at www.huguenotstreet.org.


Hudson Valley Chalk Festival


JULY 22-24, 2016


Location:         Water Street Market, New Paltz, NY


Description:    The Hudson Valley Chalk Festival is a free weekend long event in New Paltz where 21 top artists from around the world and other talented local artists display their works of art, created in chalk on the pavement of the Water Street Market and surrounding areas. Live music, raffles, shopping, the ‘Chalk Car’ and open chalk areas where you can create your own art, make this an event not to miss Get more details about the Chalk Festival here.


Bounty on the Hudson


JULY 30-31, 2016


Location:         Applewood Winery, Warwick, NY


Description:     While not located in Ulster County, Applewood Winery is part of the Shawangunk Wine Trail and the Bounty on the Hudson is one of their largest events of the entire season. The 21st annual Bounty on the Hudson is a two day event featuring the finest wines in the Hudson Valley, food, crafts and more. For more information and to purchase tickets online, check out www.bountyofthehudson.com


Ulster County Fair


AUGUST 2-7,  2016


Location:         Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY 


Description:     It doesn’t feel like summer until the Ulster County Fair comes to town Bringing back all the rides, food and craft vendors we’ve come to love, this year’s musical headliners include Thunder Ridge, The Swon Brothers and John Michael Montgomery. Visit www.ulstercountyfair.com to see more headliner and schedule updates as they are released.


Phoenicia International Festival of Voice


AUGUST 4-7, 2016


Location:         Phoenicia, NY


Description:     This multi-day festival, taking place at various venues throughout Phoenicia (all within walking distance for those of you visiting from out of town) to promote ‘the human voice as an instrument of healing, peace and artistic expression through world class performances’ of opera, gospel, world music, Broadway and more. You can check their website, www.phoeniciavoicefest.org, to get a schedule of events for the weekend, tickets and to see the 2016 performer list when it is released. 


Blueberry Festival


AUGUST 13, 2016


Location:         Canal Street &amp; Liberty Square, Ellenville, NY


Description:    The Blueberry Festival is Ellenville’s family fun festival and this year marks its 17th annual event While this street festival has a blueberry theme (to give a nod to the industry that is important to Ellenville’s history), it is a celebration and “give-back” to all the community members who make Ellenville great and all are welcome to attend. Common activities include a Blueberry Pancake Breakfast, Blueberry Pie sale, Blueberry pie contest, live music, vendors and children's activities. Visit their webpage for more details.


Hudson Valley Ribfest


AUGUST 19-21, 2016


Location:         Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY


Description:     Sponsored by the Highland Rotary Club, this festival’s 12th annual event will bring back some great BBQ to New Paltz. Featuring local and national rib vendors, great food and specialty items, live music and multiple BBQ contests, this event is a must attend for all BBQ lovers. General admission and “Best of the Fest” VIP Friday night tickets are available on their website, www.hudsonvalleyribfest.org.


New Paltz/ Woodstock Arts &amp; Crafts Fair


SEPTEMBER 3-4, 2016


Location:         Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY


Description:     Back for it’s encore for the season, the Labor Day weekend edition of the New Paltz/Woodstock Arts &amp; Crafts Fair returns with great craft vendors, food vendors, live music and more. See their website with more details. 


Hudson Valley Wine &amp; Food Festival


SEPTEMBER 10-11, 2016


Location:         Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY


Description:     A celebration of all of New York's finest wines and specialty foods, the Hudson Valley Wine &amp; Food Festival is back with even more great wines, specialty foods, crafts and a weekend of fun. See their website for more details.  


Taste of New Paltz


SEPTEMBER 18,  2016


Location:         Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Paltz, NY


Description:    The 26th Annual Taste of New Paltz returns to the Fairgrounds to feature food as the main event. Get $2-$3 tastes from all vendors food and beverage menus to be able to try it all. Rain or shine, get your fill of delicious local fare, farm market offerings and more More details can be found on the New Paltz Chamber’s website here.


Be on the lookout for the continuation of our 2016 Festival and Event list for Fall 2016, coming to the blog later this year. And as in the past, Taft Street Realty will be covering many of these awesome events, so stay tuned to our blog for more upcoming posts Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on these and all other local happenings along with tons of real estate related tips, advice, and other local market updates. If you know of a great summer or fall festival or activity here in Ulster County, let us know so we can add it to our ever-growing list


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 23 May 2016 16:40:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/welcoming-woodstock-farm-sanctuary-to-high-falls-ny-and-market-highlights.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/welcoming-woodstock-farm-sanctuary-to-high-falls-ny-and-market-highlights.html</link>
        <title>Welcoming Woodstock Farm Sanctuary to High Falls, NY and Market Highlights</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
At Taft Street Realty, we’ve seen a growing interest and demand for homes in the Rondout Valley, specifically within the hamlet of High Falls, in recent years. These small and quaint towns have lots of charm and an abundance of natural scenic beauty that draws people in. It’s easy to feel as if you’ve turned back time a tick with historical stone houses dotting the rolling fields between farmsteads and barns, seated underneath the majestic Shawangunk mountain range. It’s easy, country living.


Despite their small size, these hamlets, villages and towns contain some major character and you’ll find many residents of these areas living, and advocating, a lifestyle of self-sustainability and environmental and ethical consciousness. High Falls, NY is one of those hamlets that seems to really live by their resident’s mottos. The success of the wildly popular High Falls Food Co-Op, the local produce one-stop-shop alternative to retail grocers, proves that locals are dedicated to seeing their community thrive by supporting it’s own local farmers whose produce is sourced in more ethical ways. With such an environmentally and economically conscious group of citizens, it’s only fitting that High Falls is now also home to the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary,  a farm animal refuge dedicated to rescuing abused livestock and educating the public on animal safety and the dangers of modern agribusiness practices. After outgrowing their previous site, located in their namesake town, the founders of the Woodstock Animal Sanctuary moved to expand their space for animals and visitors alike, making the move to their beautiful, new High Falls location on Rescue Road in 2015.  


The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary was founded in the early 2000’s, with only a flock of rescued chickens, and has since grown into a massive non-profit farm animal rescue sanctuary and education center. The sanctuary houses and rehabilitates all types of animals and works towards finding permanent homes for these creatures, most of which were previously abused in slaughterhouses, stockyards and auctions across the country.  Funded mainly from public donations, the farm has grown and expanded to include multiple barns, a duck pond, animal treatment center, visitor center and there’s more in the works. Visitors on weekends can take guided tours where, yes, you actually get to cuddle and pet some of the four-legged friends staying at the sanctuary


The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary wants to show people that these animals, that commonly end up on our dinner plates, are really are no different than our household pets, and many visitors are surprised that each of the rescued animals has a unique personality and character (in fact, a large portion of their website is dedicated to meeting the animals at the farm and learning more about them). The farm wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of donors and without the help of volunteers, whether it’s help with day to day operations or at one of their regularly scheduled events and educational programs. (You can check out a list of the farm’s events on the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary website- the next event, called “Vegan Vitality” is scheduled to take place on May 29th, 2016).


The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is just another example of what makes this area uniquely amazing and why so many buyers are looking to be a part of a community that is responsible for, and conscious of, its actions.  {Want to know a bit more about what makes High Falls great? Check out more about this awesome hamlet in our past feature, A Guide to the Eclectic, High Falls, NY } The Sanctuary thrives on volunteers to help achieve their goals to provide care and loving homes for their rescue animals. If you’re passionate about caring for animals, promoting education and vegan lifestyles, than what better place to relocate to than one where you can be close to and participate with such great causes, and in such a beautiful setting? If you’re an animal lover and have always relished the idea of living on your own farmstead, but maybe can’t commit to the full-time workload of one, volunteering at one just minutes from your own home could let you have your cake and eat it too


Find Your Own Personal Farmstead- Properties for Sale in High Falls


Less than a 10 Minute Drive From Woodstock Farm Sanctuary


Featured Listing: 1465 Route 213 East, High Falls, NY | $279,900


MLS 20155187







Just a short 5 minute drive down the road from the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary sits this sweet, sun drenched 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom ranch where you can find your own personal sanctuary. Find rejuvenation in the great outdoors, and and at a newly reduced price Two additional private cottages on the property are commercially zoned, just waiting to help you find more of your passions and share it with the community and would make great studios, offices, artisan storefronts, yoga studios- you name it. Mature plantings and landscaping give extra privacy to this property and seasonal views of the Catskill and Shawangunk Mountain ranges connect you to all the wonders of the great outdoors that can be enjoyed from your rocking chair front porch and back deck.  


767 Berme Road, High Falls NY 12440 |  $1,099,000


MLS 20161984


Presented by Coldwell Banker Village Green, this 3 bdr, 3 bath is brand new to market and currently active.


1066 Berme Road, High Falls NY 12440 | $424,900


MLS 20154299


Presented by Coldwell Banker Village Green, this waterfront 3 bdr, 2 bth home has been on the market since last year and is still currently active.


955 County Route 6, High Falls, NY 12440 | $284,500


MLS 20162050


Presented by Flemming Realty, this 2 bdr, 1 bath farm house has only been on the market for 11 days and is currently pending, although still showing.


8 Hobsons Choice Road, High Falls, NY 12440 | $259,000


MLS 20162078


Presented by Westwood, Metes &amp; Bounds Realty, this 3 bdr, 1 bath Split Level is new to market and currently active.


152 Stone Dock Road, High Falls, NY 12440 | $169,000


MLS 20161450


Presented by Westwood, Metes &amp; Bounds, this 2 bdr, 1 bath home has been on the market for about a month and is currently active.


Whatever your reason, be it getting closer to a cause you’re passionate about, or finding your own personal farmstead to call home, High Falls is a great place to include in your real estate search. You can see what’s on the market right now in High Falls here. 
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    <pubDate>Wed, 18 May 2016 16:11:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/marbletown-ny-market-report-ulster-county-sold-update.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/marbletown-ny-market-report-ulster-county-sold-update.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Marbletown NY Market Report | Ulster County SOLD Update</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Ulster County Sold Market Update


Taft Street Realty is happy to announce the latest home to be sold by one of our clients, 897 Lapla Road in Marbletown, NY


This 1,960 sq ft, 3 BDR/ 2 BTH, log home closed on May 4th, 2016 for $385,000.





Custom Detailed Log Cabin in Marbletown, near Kingston


This spacious log cabin, filled with lots of custom details, sits on just over 6 acres of private, wooded land, yet is only less than 20 minutes from area hotspots of Stone Ridge, Woodstock and historic Uptown Kingston. The beautiful features of this home, including open floor plan, loft space, cathedral ceilings, large stone fireplace and many more custom details, excited buyers immediately and the detached studio/workshop space sealed the deal. The home was only on the market less than two weeks before buyers quickly snatched it up


Kingston &amp; Marbletown Real Estate, Ulster County NY


While 897 Lapla Road may have a Kingston mailing address, it is actually located in the town of Marbletown, and is a great location for those seeking privacy, land and country views, but who still want to be close to a larger city, in this case, the super hot market of Kingston Real Estate in Kingston, NY runs the gamut in terms of styles, price points and features, depending on what part of the city you’re looking at. It’s not hard to find some great fixer upper properties in Mid-town under $100,000 and yet if you travel into the country a bit, or down by the Rondout Creek and Hudson River, you could easily find luxury mansion type properties with price tags that soar to the $1M mark and higher. In Kingston, there’s a bit of something for everyone. Conveniently located less than 2 hours from New York City, and with plenty of public transportation links, and near many Ulster County and Catskill hotspots, there is plenty to see and do in Kingston. We’ve highlighted lots of great things about Kingston on our blog, including where to dine, market highlights, events and more. Even though 897 Lapla Road is off the market, there are plenty more great Kingston properties on the market right now.  And if you’re looking for a bit more of a country feel, still close to Kingston, check out the market in Hurley, NY (located between Kingston and Marbletown) as well as Marbletown and the current market there. Both of these towns are only a short drive away from all of Kingston’s shopping, dining and entertainment hotspots, but have the privacy and county setting that is hard to find in Kingston. 


2016 SOLD Home Stats For Marbletown, NY


While 897 Lapla Road has a Kingston mailing address, this property actually falls within the Marbletown town lines. All market data below reflects Marbletown stats.


From January 1st, 2016- May 18th, 2016


·       26 single family homes have sold so far in 2016, ranging from $22,500 up to $500,000


·       List to Sold Price Ratio - Approximately 94 - Sellers on average got 94 of their last asking price in 2016 so far


·       Average List Price - $252,467 / Average Sold Price - $236,926


·       Median List Price - $216,750 / Median Sold Price $208,425


·       Average Days On Market - 111


·       On average, 5-6 homes per month have been sold in Marbletown so far in 2016.


·       There are currently 51 Single family homes on the market in Marbletown right now.


With about 6 homes selling per month in Marbletown, there are approximately 9 months of inventory on the market right now. This indicates that the housing market in Marbletown, NY is currently a Buyer’s Market. 


2015 SOLD Home Stats For Marbletown, NY


·       A total of 69 single family homes sold in Marbletown in 2015 ranging from $46,000 up to $1,400,000.


·       List to Sold Price Ratio - Approximately 94 - Sellers on average got 94 of their last asking price in 2015


·       Average List Price - $342,184 / Average Sold Price - $322,422


·       Median List Price - $299,000 / Median Sold Price - $272,500


·       Average Days On Market In 2015 - 142


·       On average, 6 homes per month were sold in Marbletown in 2015.


·       There are currently 51 Single family homes on the market in Marbletown right now.


Based on the data, the average sold price of a home in Marbletown was higher in 2015 than it is so far in 2016. The pace of the market in Marbletown is holding steady at 6 homes sold per month, but so far, homes in 2016 are selling faster with a much lower average of days on the market. 


If you're interested in seeing more Ulster County SOLD updates, be sure to follow the Taft Street Realty blog to stay up to date on the current market and get more great local realty info 



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    <pubDate>Wed, 18 May 2016 15:02:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/spring-cleaning-checklist.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.taftstreetrealty.com/blog/spring-cleaning-checklist.html</link>
        <author>dylan@taftstreetrealty.com (Dylan Taft)</author>
        <title>Spring Cleaning Checklist </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Ahh, the sweet scent of summer is practically at our doorsteps, but it might not be in our homes just yet. Yes, it’s time to open up those windows, let in some fresh, spring country air and de-winterize, Hudson Valley


If you’re thinking of listing your home on the market this spring, it’s more important than ever to be on top of your spring cleaning and de-winterizing game if you want to avoid any potential headaches down the road in the sales process. Sometimes a clean, bright, uncluttered space is all that it takes to get the offer that you were looking for as opposed to no offer at all. Proper de-winterizing and preventative maintenance is also much easier to keep up with, rather than waiting and hearing some disconcerting news after a home inspection has taken place. Taking some time out of your schedule now to address any possible home maintenance issues could mean keeping more money in your pockets during closing time.


So all you snowbirds ready to fly north for the summer and unwrap your vacation homes, potential home sellers and to Hudson Valley homeowners in general, take note...We’re sharing tips on how you can get your house in top shape after the winter (and make it market ready)


Spring Cleaning Checklist






Inspect windows, doors and other drafty areas to assess potential heat loss.






Many New York residents (especially those who fully winterize their properties if uninhabited most of the winter or for those older homes, such as farmhouses, with single paned windows) apply a plastic shrink film to their windows to keep their home better insulated in the winter. While removing that plastic in the spring, it’s an excellent time to check the caulking, weather stripping and basic insulation around your windows and doors to see if you can improve your home’s ability to hold heat. Home insulation is a key factor in many buyer’s decision making process, so make sure you don’t fall short.  


We typically see attics having a below average level of insulation. Many builders and inspectors will reference a home’s “heating envelop” which is essentially the box of the home where you live- the heated conditioned space if you will from the ceiling or attic floor at the top, the basement ceiling or lowest level floor, and all the four walls.  Adequately insulating that envelop is crucial. The attic should remain as cool and dry as possible with plenty of ventilation and the same applies to the basement for the most part , with the exception of being cold.  Basements don’t need to be cold so much as they need to be dry and also be properly ventilated.  Long story short, insulate well and prevent heat loss from the main living spaces.  Doors and windows are where you want to keep up on, but don’t forget about having proper attic insulation because heat rises and will most often will escape through any openings in the ceiling, windows, and doors.  






Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.






After using your fireplace or woodstove all winter, it’s time for a deep clean, especially if your plan is to sell This is also true if you have a woodstove that serves as a main heating source for your home because the soot that gets built up in the chimney is highly flammable and a major fire hazard. Even if you only use your fireplace minimally, it is still suggested to have it inspected from time to time to prevent pests and animals from entering and creating nests {See our exterior and roofing section below for more on pests, chimney and exterior maintenance} Most inspectors will immediately call out a chimney, even if it isn’t that dirty and almost always recommend that it be cleaned before purchasing, just to be safe. If you’re thinking of selling, why not eliminate that potential concern completely by having the chimney inspected and cleaned prior to going on market?






Clean furnace and air conditioning system filters.






Ideally your furnace and air conditioning system filter should be cleaned, or better yet replaced, at least once or twice per year, but if you tend to forget, make sure to check it now Clean filters could save you money on your heating/cooling bills, as well as improve indoor air quality.  Who doesn’t want to breath cleaner air?  Some homes have multiple filters and they’re sometimes located in hard to reach places, but this is a job you don’t want to put off.  You’ll thank yourself down the road for being proactive about these things. It may not be a bad idea to have your entire heating and air conditioning system serviced if you don’t already do that annually.  Filters is one thing, but if you want to put your best foot forward before going on the market, a full inspection and servicing of the systems in your home will go a long way when showing buyers how well you keep your home.  






Inspect plumbing for any leaks after winterized.






This step is especially important for homes that have been locked up tight most of the winter months.  Water left in pipes or faucets in the winter could freeze, causing lines and pipes to leak when water is turned back on if not properly winterized. When turning water back on, do it slowly, one small turn at a time so you can determine if there are any leaks in the system.  We always recommend having a plumber evaluate before and/or after winterizing the home so that any potential issues can be avoided.  Depending on what type of heating system you have, additional precautions may need to be taken. Hot water baseboard heating systems or boilers have extra plumbing pipes that need to be protected.  Forced air or electric heating systems come with their own challenges, so just make sure you protect what you have and consult with a professional on any questions or concerns you might have.  Fixing broken or burst pipes is one thing, but replacing damaged furniture or other personal property after water damage can be an entirely different and more s costly thing.  






Clean out gutters and inspect roof.






A harsh winter in New York has the potential to wreak havoc on your gutters, roof and siding from accumulations of snow and ice. Now is the perfect time to evaluate the exterior of your home from any damage done by heavy snow/ice and ice damming. Despite being one of the most important parts to a home, many homeowners neglect the gutters. Gutters remove storm water away from the perimeter of the home and foundation. Clean gutters lead to dry ground and dry ground should man dry basements.  Dry basements make for happy homes.  Gutters serve a very important purpose in that regard and therefore at least 2-3 times a year leaves and other debris should be removed so water can flow freely to its intended destination- which is away from the home’s foundation.  Any shingles torn off or damaged should be monitored if not replaced to avoid any potential for leaks.  Chimneys caps should be inspected and repaired or replaced as needed to prevent the inner chimney from the elements and also to prevent mice, squirrels, etc. from entering the home.  






Restore your home’s curb appeal.






After winter, your yard needs some TLC. Fertilizing the lawn, pruning shrubbery, picking up winter debris and other landscaping chores will give your yard a much needed facelift after being buried under snow for months. Your yard however isn’t the only element to focus on when restoring curb appeal- don’t forget to repair and maintain the driveway Plow trucks in the northeast can wreak havoc on driveways, especially gravel and stone driveways where loose stones have been pushed far from the driveway and potholes may have formed. It’s always a good idea, especially for longer driveways and access roads to fill or repair potholes, re-grade and clean up loose stones in the spring. First impressions are extremely important  when trying to sell your home and you don’t want to have a buyer’s teeth chattering as they hit bump after bump from all the potholes in the driveway. Don’t make the buyer wonder about other home maintenance areas before they even open the front door






Give the walls new life.






There is nothing better than the smell of fresh paint when your home is hitting the market. Buyers will appreciate the fresh look and it shows them how well you have maintained your home- something that adds lots of value in their eyes. However, if you’re strapped for time before a showing, and need to do something about those dingy, dirty looking walls, a good scrub may be all you need give those walls a quick facelift. Grease, dust and smoke can adhere to your walls, especially so in the winter when a lack of air movement and ventilation in your home can accelerate the buildup. In a pinch, wash your walls using hot water and a general all-purpose cleaner for fast cleanup- but be wary, latex paints don’t absorb too much water, so be gentle.






Test CO1 and smoke alarms.






Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms should be frequently checked to make sure that they are in proper working condition, but we are all guilty of forgetting at times (until a burnt meal reminds us that the fire alarm is working).  Spring cleaning and winterization are two great times to always make sure that these systems are in proper working order. We always suggest that you don’t use combo smoke/C01 detectors, or at least not as a your sole stand-alone option, and that you separate your carbon monoxide detectors from smoke detectors. Since carbon monoxide is often detected at lower levels, we encourage using a digital plug in version to check for low levels on each floor of the home, in conjunction with any combo battery operated detectors placed on or near ceilings. Having this separation and having digital detectors can help detect carbon monoxide faster than battery operated ceiling detectors can, which lessens your chance of exposing yourself to low levels of carbon monoxide that can still be harmful with prolonged exposure.   






Inspect and pump out your septic tank.






For homes on municipal water and sewer this won't apply but for many homes in the Hudson Valley this will be something to keep in mind, especially if this hasn’t been done in the last 5 to 10 years.  Technically, a well designed septic system should never require that the tank be pumped out. However, in today's modern chemical heavy environment we live in, with bleaches, and other unnatural cleaning products being used and flushed down drains and toilets and also wastewater from washing machines, sometimes the natural breakdown of waste material is compromised, causing the waste to build up over time. In those extreme cases pumping of the tank is more common.  Usually every 2-4 years a tank can or should be pumped out.  While some people take it to the annual level, others can go a decade or more without having any issues because each system is different and unique based on the location, ground soil composition, size of home, among other variables.  The larger the family in the home, the higher the amount of waste being removed and therefore a higher level of stress on the system from year to year.  Homeowners should keep these variables and factors in mind and decide to pump their tanks accordingly.  If you are preparing your home for market and plan to sell, pumping out your tank may be a good idea.  It shows the buyer you pay attention to the little things than can sometimes cause big messes, no pun intended


These are our suggested areas to monitor and keep up on as a homeowner.  If you plan to sell we highly recommend addressing any deficiencies before going on market and we even encourage homeowners to consider a basic pre-listing home inspection to reveal these and many other typical inspection issues ahead of time before a buyer does.  Sometimes it’s the buyer’s perception of how a home is maintained that makes the difference more so than the actual level of maintenance.  Showing buyers early on that there are no issues will go along way to securing the highest price in the fastest time.  


Want more tips on how to get your home in top shape this spring? Check out more on our blog, linked below and be sure to follow us on Facebook for more home selling and home maintenance tips


 
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