The French Huguenots planted the first grape vines on the hillsides of the Hudson Highlands in 1677, and started the tradition of growing grapes and winemaking that continues today. Over 330 years later, the vintners and wineries of the Hudson Valley have taken measures to present this historic wine regions historic contributions to the growing and cultivating of fine grapes and the ancient art of winemaking, and to introduce the natural beauty, the outdoor recreation opportunities, historic sites, and all of the culinary treasures that goes along with everything that makes Hudson Valley real estate great.  Its communities, farms, lodging, restaurants and other contributions it makes to our lifestyle. The Hudson Valley Wine region, and the hudson valley…

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There is a backlog of hundreds of thousands of mortgage modifications and thousands more get submitted each day. Along with those applications, for thousands of honest and hard-working Americans go the best hopes of keeping their homes. So, getting the applications done right is a very important matter. Still, many...maybe even most of applicants who review their application with me before they submit it make mistakes in that section of the application. They get their own income wrong!

1. Include the correct income. Include the income from the folks signed on the loan. All other household income need only be included if you choose. Even if your spouse or partner or parents or kids contribute to the household income...just include their income if you need it…

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What is a VA Loan?

The VA Home Loan Guaranty Program, better known as a VA Loan, is offered through lenders and backed by the Department of Veteran Affairs. Most veterans and active military men and women can get one, and the loan can be used to purchase, build or improve a home.

Some of the most recognized benefits of the loan include no down payment, no private mortgage insurance and easier qualification standards.

Who is Eligible?


You are eligible if you have served:

  • For at least 181 days during peacetime (active duty)
  • For at least 90 days during war time (active duty)
  • In the National Guard or Reserves for at least 6 years
  • You are also eligible if your spouse died while serving in the line of duty


There are other…

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How to Save $Thousands$ When Buying an Ulster County Home

Most home buyers want pretty much the same thing - a house that suits their needs, and for the lowest possible price. In fact, studies have been done on this very subject, and it was discovered that most buyers who have been able to buy their dream home far below the seller's asking price, had a number of things in common.

I'd like to say it was all in the agent's cunning negotiating skills, but it was actually due to factors that occurred long before the offer was even submitted. In the article "HOMEBUYERS: How to Save Thousands When Buying an Ulster County Home," I outline in detail, the three commonalities that contributed to purchasing a home for virtually thousands of dollars below the…

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Who's Who in Ulster County?

It's tough enough moving to a new place, but just wait until you need some work done - how do you know who is reliable? Even going to a restaurant can be hit-or-miss. Viewing the yellow pages or doing an internet search will give you a list, but it's up to you to decide what's good or bad.

All of the entries in the Ulster County Directory are handpicked, either from referrals, or because I know the owners personally. Simply search by subject, such as Builders and Contractors, Mortgage Professionals, or Local Attorneys. (see illustration below)

 Ulster County Directory

Click on each to get a list of applicable businesses, including contact information.(see below) 

 

This list is constantly growing, if you stumble upon a great eatery, or a…

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