Library Improvements Enhance Attraction to Scarsdale, NY Homes for Sale

Education, culture and fine arts are all important elements of the Scarsdale community. If you are shopping for Scarsdale NY homes for sale, note the changes taking place at the Scarsdale Public Library.

The library recently released its five year plan; it includes more open spaces, updated technology, targeted programing and even a café.

The library’s mission is “to serve a central role in the cultural and intellectual life of the community . . .” Library board trustees take this mission to heart and have spent the past two years deciding exactly how to meet the community’s needs.

Many who buy Scarsdale NY homes for sale seek the acclaimed high quality of education in Westchester County. The public library’s upgrades will make better use of indoor and outdoor spaces. Enhanced technology is a key in planning the library’s five-year plan.

In an article published Jan. 28 in The Daily Scarsdale, Mark Chapman reported, “The traditional role of the library is changing, according to the plan, as new technology creeps into every facet of people’s lives.”

In addition to responding to a cry for upgraded technology, board members also heard residents’ complaints that technology leaves them hungry for more face time with real humans. The new plan takes into account the need for human interaction.

The plan also encourages the Scarsdale Public Library Board to explore new revenue sources including the addition of revenue-generating services. Board members could also call on individuals, businesses and foundations to bolster its budget.

If you are looking for Scarsdale NY homes for sale, now is a great time to buy. Take advantage of our online listings available for viewing 24/7. Contact Prudential Centennial for assistance in finding the right home for you and your family.

Larchmont NY Homes for Sale:

NAR Tackles Obama Budget Housing Issues

 Larchmont homeowners and those shopping for new Larchmont NY homes for sale realize the great benefit of home-related itemized tax deductions including the mortgage interest break benefiting thousands of American families.

National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi  issued a formal statement urging the president and Congress to “do no harm” to the housing industry. “NAR firmly believes that the mortgage interest deduction is vital to the stability of the American housing market and economy. We urge the president and Congress to do no harm,” Veissi said.

This issue is important to those shopping for and marketing Larchmont NY homes for sale because some budget proposals could actually raise taxes. Veissi said, “ . . . The nation’s homeowners already pay 80 to 90 percent ofU.S. federal income taxes. Raising taxes on them, now or in the future, could critically erode home values at all price levels. This would destroy middle-class wealth accumulation and trillions of dollars in home values nationwide.”

NAR also opposed the elimination of capital gains treatment for carried interest of a real estate property investment saying the measure “ . . . could disrupt the conventional business model and places an unfair tax burden on general partners – ultimately this would negatively impact commercial real estate investment.”

Take advantage of your housing tax breaks now. View Larchmont NY homes for sale online 24/7. Prudential Centennial Realty is here to support you and the American economy.

Mamaroneck NY Homes for Sale:  Wall Decals Can Bring a Room to Life

Want to spruce up your home without spending a lot of money? Think wall decals. The simplest wall decal can add an element of elegance, power, whimsy, relaxation, and plain old fun. As you’re shopping for Mamaroneck NY homes for sale, imagine the kinds of wall decals you can use to make any room your very own.

If you haven’t browsed the Internet for wall décor lately, you have got to check out the many artsy, colorful patterns available in all shapes and sizes. Whether you want to cover a whole wall, or one corner of your window, you are bound to find the right decal on line. The best news is, wall decals are very reasonably priced. You can make a statement with wall decals starting at about $3. Yes, really. Of course the price increases with higher quality, complexity, various colors and size. It may well be worth it to pay a little extra to get a decal you know will last.

People sometimes use simple wall designs to add a touch of class to Mamaroneck NY homes for sale. They are easy to apply, and easy to move and remove.

Here are some simple tips for proper application:

1. Buy decals before you paint a room. Take the decals to the store with you to purchase the paint.
2. Shop for wall decals online where you will find a wide selection, and many sales. Read descriptions carefully to be sure what you’re getting before you order.
3. If you are applying decals to new paint, let the paint cure for one month first.
4. When applying decals to existing paint, clean the walls thoroughly. Wash them with warm water the day before you plan to apply the decals.
5. Achieve a comfortable room temperature before applying decals. Extreme temperatures can stop decals from sticking to the walls.
6. Avoid areas of high humidity. Consider an alternative décor for a bathroom.
7. Wall decals stick best the first time. Measure placement. Mark key spots with tape or pencil marks.
8. Invite a friend over to help you apply large decals or recruit a willing family member.
9. Plan ahead before you begin to apply the decals. Get all tools in order so they’re handy when you need them.
10.  Use a soft squeegee to remove any incidental air bubbles that might occur in decals.

 For great information about staging Mamaroneck NY homes for sale, and making the most of a home you want to purchase, contact our Prudential Centennial Realty licensed professionals. We’re ready to make you look great! Learn more about the amazing Mamaroneck community on our website and browse Mamaroneck NY homes for sale right now!

Scarsdale NY Homes for Sale: Keep Walks Clear, Stay Safe

Those with Scarsdale NY homes for sale — in fact anyone living in Scarsdale — knows winter has finally settled in. That means snowy walkways and some hard winter work.

It’s important to keep walks and driveways free of snow. Slippery, slushy, and snowy walks can be dangerous. But, did you know the act of removing snow can be dangerous too?

Prudential Centennial Realty encourages those with Scarsdale NY homes for sale to remove snow and ice. But, we also encourage you to take your own health seriously when you head out the door to some refreshing outdoor work. Please, plan ahead.

Helpful hints for safe snow removal:

If you are not sure you are healthy enough to shovel snow or use a snow blower, ask your doctor for a physical exam.

1. People with high blood pressure, a history of heart disease or any other concerning health condition should get (and follow) specific instruction about what you should or should not do.
2. Play it safe. Protect your back. If you have a history of back problems, wear a brace and practice proper bending and lifting techniques. Lift with your legs.
3. Don’t smoke or drink coffee before you shovel snow. Caffeine and nicotine can make your blood vessels smaller and cause your heart to beat faster (not a good combination).
4. Get a good hat. Most heat will leave your body through your head. Wear the right kind of snow gloves. Wear boots with good traction to help you get a grip on the snow. If you get cold and wet – go inside to warm up and change into dry clothes.
5. Take plenty of breaks while you work. If you find yourself breathing too hard, stop working until you start breathing normally.
6. Let someone know when you go outside to work in the snow. Tell them where you will be working and how long you will be outside.
7. Take a cell phone outside with you; or, use an emergency alert system in case you fall or feel ill.
8. Drink plenty of water while you work.
9. Use the right kind of snow shovel or snow blower for your landscape and your body type. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.

There are many Scarsdale NY homes for sale. Winter is a great time to buy because prices are most reasonable and sellers are usually very motivated in the winter months. Let Prudential Centennial Realty help you find the perfect Scarsdale home. Learn more about our beautiful Scarsdale NY community on our website.

Larchmont NY Homes for Sale Could be Easier to Finance:
NAR Responds to President’s State of Union

The National Association of Realtors® recently issued a formal response to President Barrack Obama’s expressed support of the housing industry in his State of the Union Address on Jan. 24.

If you own a Larchmont home, or if you are shopping for Larchmont NY homes for sale, you might find comfort in the President’s expressed commitment to help homeowners and would-be homeowners. NAR President Moe Veissi says he is encouraged, but not convinced enough is being done to rehab an ailing housing market.

In his 2012 State of the Union President Obama hit on a number of key issues plaguing the construction and housing industries. Some highlights include:

1.      Promise of an Executive Order to clear away red tape that hinders many construction projects:

“In the next few weeks, I will sign an Executive Order clearing away the red tape that slows down too many construction projects. But you need to fund these projects. Take the money we’re no longer spending at war, use half of it to pay down our debt, and use the rest to do some nation-building right here at home.”

2.      Plan to help ‘responsible’ homeowners by keeping interest rates low and reducing red tape for borrowers and lenders:

“ . . . responsible homeowners shouldn’t have to sit and wait for the housing market to hit bottom to get some relief . . . That’s why I’m sending this Congress a plan that gives every responsible homeowner the chance to save about $3,000 a year on their mortgage, by refinancing at historically low interest rates. No more red tape. No more runaround from the banks. A small fee on the largest financial institutions will ensure that it won’t add to the deficit, and will give banks that were rescued by taxpayers a chance to repay a deficit of trust.”

3.      A call for responsibility “from the top down” to heal the mortgage industry wounded by fraud and gross errors:
“We’ve all paid the price for lenders who sold mortgages to people who couldn’t afford them, and buyers who knew they couldn’t afford them. That’s why we need smart regulations to prevent irresponsible behavior. Rules to prevent financial fraud, or toxic dumping, or faulty medical devices, don’t destroy the free market. They make the free market work better.”

NAR Responds to the President with Caution

In an official statement issued by NAR Jan. 24, Veissi commended the President for his remarks, “ . . . As leading advocates for homeownership, Realtors® know that restoring the health of the housing market is the only way to achieve a broader economic recovery.”

Veissi maintains more should be done to hold off a major inventory of foreclosed homes. He said affordable financing is lacking; and, that hinders the housing market recovery.

The NAR official called for a more streamlined short-sale process as well as expanded financing opportunities to reduce excess inventories of distressed properties.

 “While we are beginning to see early signs of stabilization in the housing market,  NAR calls on Congress and the Obama administration to come together and make housing a priority issue. In this vein, we urge the White House to host a national housing summit to encourage a broad discussion among stakeholders to help formulate and advance policies that move the country toward a real housing and economic recovery,” Veissi said.

There are many great Larchmont NY homes for sale on the market right now. Historically low interest rates give you the green light to shop for Larchmont NY homes for sale right now. Visit our website to view our listings any time of the day or night.

White Plains NY Homes for Sale:

Kudos to Award-Winning Westchester Finance Department

If you’re shopping for White Plains, NY homes for sale, you have great taste. In fact, all of Westchester County offers some pretty amazing property settings. Art, culture, history and recreation are readily available to all Westchester residents. The education here is recognized nationally for excellence. But, our focus today is on the Westchester County Administration and its commitment to efficient financial management.

We like to give credit where credit is due. Prudential Centennial Realty offers kudos to Westchester County’s Department of Finance. For four years in a row the county has earned the highest form of recognition for governmental accounting and fiscal reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada has once again bestowed a “Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting” upon county financiers; and, we think that’s worth noting!

The association ranks financial administrations that meet the high standards of the program which includes demonstrating, “spirit of full disclosure to clearly communicate its financial story.” According to a Jan. 30 news story published on Westchester.com, the award credits Westchester County for a “significant accomplishment by a government and its management.”

Westchester County’s Finance Commissioner is Ann Marie Berg. She and her staff obviously take great pride in their work. Westchester County residents can be proud. Those shopping for White Plains NY homes for sale, and homes throughout Westchester County should find assurance in an efficient and conscientious government.

If you’re shopping for White Plains NY homes for sale, take time now to browse our online listings! Contact us today for assistance in finding the perfect home for you and your family.

New Rochelle NY Homes for Sale:
Ready to Relocate?

People relocate for many reasons. Whether you’re changing jobs, changing office locations, or changing your life completely, relocation can be an exciting (and frightening) adventure.

New Rochelle is a wonderful Westchester County community. With quick and easy access to New York City, this family-friendly suburb is a natural. Prudential Centennial lists many wonderful New Rochelle NY homes for sale. Better yet, our licensed real estate professionals might just become your best relocation information source. You can rely on us to help you through this move.

Here are some helpful hints to make your move smooth:

1. Contact Prudential Centennial Realty our relocation coordinator, Matt Valvano, at 914-600-6020 as soon as you learn you’re relocating to Westchester County. While you’re busy working out details at home, we will get the ball rolling. We’ll start searching for New Rochelle NY homes for sale that are just right for you and your family.
2. Count on us to be your information resource. We help people relocate all the time and know what kinds of issues you will need to consider. Relax. We know this town. We will send you important information and answer all your questions.
3. Tell us about each member of your family. We’ll research issues relevant to each one of them including schools, child care, libraries, recreational opportunities, volunteer organizations and more.
4. Schedule an advanced visit to tour New Rochelle NY homes for sale. We’ll have a plan ready to make maximum use of your time. Let us show you around town.
5. Give us a timeline and we’ll get to work making your new home ownership dreams come true.

 To learn about the New Rochelle community, or to search New Rochelle NY homes for sale online, simply visit the community portion of our website.

White Plains NY Homes for Sale:
You and Your Realtor® Make a Great Team

If you have a home for sale and want to compete with sellers of other White Plains NY Homes for sale, team up with your Realtor®!  Sounds like a given, right? Unfortunately some sellers actually make it harder for a Realtor® to sell a home (without meaning to, of course). Here are five ways you can win with teamwork.

1. Trust your licensed real estate professional.
   Prudential Centennial Realty licensed real estate professionals follow housing market data closely. When there’s a fluctuation in the local market, we know it. Why? Because it’s our business to know. We concentrate on specific areas so we can narrow our focus to the communities we know and love best. Trust us. We have access to modern technology, and good old-fashioned wisdom to determine the best listing price for you home. We want your home to sell for the best possible price in a reasonable time frame. We know how much our market will bear. You can help your Realtor® price your home to sell by trusting his or her carefully-researched recommendation.
2. Expect home values change.
   Riding the real estate market is like riding a roller coaster; expect plenty of ups and downs. Patience is a virtue in today’s housing market. White Plains NY homes for sale could require absolutely no reductions to sell, and they could require multiple price reductions. Let your real estate agent help you set the listing price and then hang on for the ride. Many factors are beyond your control and could reduce the value of your home. National, state and local economies, unemployment, comparable completed sales, interest rates and more are at play here. Carefully research the right licensed real estate professional and he or she will research the right pricing to sell your home based on market indicators. Try to be flexible.
3. Skilled negotiation is key.
   Experienced Realtors® are trained in the art of negotiation. Allow your professional representative to negotiate on your behalf within the parameters you set. Open your mind to the possibilities and explore all options and reasonable offers.
4. Hold down the front, mind the fort.
   Let your real estate professional help you stage your home to sell. Listen to your Realtor’s suggestions and try to follow through with instructions to make your home more saleable. It’s up to you to keep your home clean and presentable. The perfect buyer could ask for a “quick peek” with very little notice. Be prepared to leave the home and let your Realtor® work his or her magic.
5. No surprises.
   Give your Realtor® the benefit of full disclosure. Be up front and honest about any problems with the home, damage to the home, or faulty appliance. Reputation is everything and it’s important your representative has an opportunity to present your home in the best possible (and true) light.

If you’re looking for White Plains NY homes for sale, or if you have a home to sell, please contact us right away. Browse through all of our White Plains NY homes for sale, and compare.

Mamaroneck NY Homes for Sale:

A Great Place for Young Budding Artists

If there’s a young budding artist in your family, consider browsing through our online listing of Mamaroneck NY homes for sale! This and surrounding communities place a high premium on artistic talent; and the Mamaroneck Artists Guild (MAG) is making sure local talent is recognized.

An exhibition highlighting the work of high school students will showcase astounding work Jan. 31 through Feb. 11 at MAG, 126 Larchmont Ave. in Larchmont. An opening reception will take place there Feb. 8, 5-7 p.m.

The Westchester education system is nationally acclaimed. Three high schools are invited to display art projects resulting from the talent of students and committed teachers. Mamaroneck NY homes for sale offer the children in your family great opportunities like this one. Participating high schools are:

• Mamaroneck High School
• New Rochelle High School
• French American School

Each school is invited to showcase 25 pieces of its students’ best work. Guild members will select a “Best of Show,” first and second place and an honorable mention winner in various categories.

This venue offers local talent an opportunity to expose art work to a broad audience. It also offers encouraging recognition to our young artists.

If you’re shopping for Mamaroneck NY homes for sale, let Prudential Centennial Realty’s licensed real estate professionals show you the art of skilled negotiation. We want to help you find the perfect home in Mamaroneck at a price that fits your budget and in a location that fits your lifestyle. Browse our Mamaroneck NY homes for sale online today and learn more!