Agency News and Awards May 26, 2022

A Castle in the Valley

The Castle

Nestled on 13 beautiful acres, in Pine Bush, NY, near the Minnewaska State Parkland is a gorgeous castle built in the 1940’s. This one-of-a-kind 5 bedroom, 3 bedroom home was built for those looking to be treated like royalty. Overlooking a private, mountain-stream fed pond surrounded by beautiful gardens, sunrise views and a barn this home was recently renovated with updates that allow it to keep all of its character and charm. The stone exterior projects an 11th century vibe complete with a tower built for fairytales.  Yet,  Rapunzel  will no longer be letting down her golden hair, instead you’ll find your zen in this  yoga/meditation space.

The King

Who better to purchase a home fit for a king? Carlos Franqui, owner of Floratorium; bringing floral and art together to free flowers from the confines of their vase. Quoting the About section on his website: Carlos Franqui is an advertising creative turned fashion stylist and floral designer based in NYC. He combines his knowledge of media and brand strategy with his innate passion for art and design to innovate unique installation concepts for each of his clients. His work has been featured throughout the world but most recently at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. He has also worked with popular brands like Versace, Soul Cycle, The Beekman, Lively and more.

The Sale

Real Estate Professional Karen Gauvin and Carlos began working together in the Winter of 2021. Carlos was originally in search of a rustic farmhouse that he could utilize as an opportunity to expand his business with a venue enabling him to host private, invitation-only events. Home after home  was viewed but zoning regulations or unfit land prevented a purchase. Karen began to explore alternate options and came across the castle. With inches of snow on the ground, they strapped on their snows boots exploring the glorious frozen tundra. As they toured the grounds and climbed the castle stairs, Carlos’s mind began to fill with creative opportunities this new search has delivered. His original thoughts on a rustic farmhouse getaway became entrenched with the creative endeavors of an exclusive castle retreat. Spring in the Hudson Valley showered green on the castle lands and with the blossoms emerging the sights of a secret garden. A perfect destination for a floral artist, this castle could be no better suited for this king.

Our agents expertise and understanding of her clients allowed this entrepreneur to fulfill her client’s wishlist with a home that exceeded his expectations.

If you’re in search of your very own castle, contact Green Team Realty.

 

Buying a home March 29, 2022

Millennials: Do You Need a Home with More Space?

Millennials: Do You Need a Home with More Space? | MyKCM

If you’re a millennial, homebuying might be top of mind for you. Your generation is the largest group of homebuyers in the market today and has been since 2014, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). And while other millennials are looking to buy for the first time, you may be one of the many who are now discovering you’ve outgrown your home.

If that’s the case, you’re not alone. The past two years brought about significant changes for many people, and today, homeowners are reevaluating what they truly need in a home. As a recent report from the Wall Street Journal states:

“They say the pandemic and the emergence of remote work accelerated millennial home-buying trends already under way. . . . Millennials who already owned homes traded up for more space.”

So, if you’re working remotely now or simply have a growing need for additional space, it may be time to move. And even if you purchased your current home sometime over the last few years, you can still move into a different one that has the space and features you’re looking for. That’s because there’s a good chance you have more equity than you realize. As Diana Olick, Real Estate Correspondent for CNBCnotes:

The stunning jump in home values over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic has given U.S. homeowners record amounts of housing wealth. . . . Even homeowners who weren’t listing their properties for sale were gaining equity. About 42% of homeowners were considered equity-rich at the end of last year, meaning their mortgages were half or less than half the value of their home.”

Growing equity can be the key you need to fuel your next move, especially if you’re looking to purchase a larger home. When you sell your current house, the equity that comes back to you in the sale can be used toward the down payment on your next home.

In other words, your purchasing power may be greater than you realize, making a move to a larger home a realistic option. That, plus your changing needs, might make moving now more desirable than ever.

Bottom Line

If you’re a millennial thinking about moving this year, you’re not alone. Let’s connect today to discuss the equity you have in your current home and the opportunities it can create. Contact Green Team Realty 

Community Support May 27, 2020

Are NYC residents moving to the suburbs?

Are people really leaving NYC for the suburbs?

Are NYC residents moving to the suburbs? Statistics show how Covid-19 has devastated New York City. The number of people with COVID-19 and the number of deaths is staggering. Social distancing is difficult. There is no doubt that crowded streets, elevators, and often apartments are not conducive to sheltering-in-place. So, are people really leaving NYC for the suburbs? 

According to both local and national news sources, the answer is a resounding “YES!”  The headlines tell the story.

 

National Media

USA Today‘s headline screams, Get me out of here! Americans flee crowded cities amid Covid-19, consider permanent moves.”  According to that article, nearly one-third of Americans are considering moving to less densely populated areas because of Covid-19. On May 8 the New York Times described this phenomenon in “Coronavirus Escape: To the Suburbs.” Then, on May 16 they published “Where New Yorkers Moved to Escape Coronavirus.According to CNBC, Wealthy New Yorkers flee Manhattan for suburbs and beyond.

Local Media

Locally, radio station 101.5 WPDH posted two blogs on this subject. The first, “NYC Residents Expected to Move to Hudson Valley in Droves.” AndSellers market driving Hudson Valley Home Prices Way Up.”  Additionally, Straus News just published the following story in all its local papers for Orange County NY, and Sussex County NJ: “Pandemic-driven house frenzy hits local towns.”

Green Team Realty Sales Associates: Are they seeing NYC residents moving to the suburbs?

Current real estate market conditions and economic trends were major points of discussion during Green Team Realty’s monthly Housing Market Update. We asked several sales associates if they are seeing NYC residents moving to the suburbs as a result of COVID-19.

Green Team New York Realty – Warwick and Orange County, New York

Angela Murphy, Real Estate Salesperson, and Business Development Associate,

I have seen a rise of new buyers coming from all 5 boroughs of the city. Most of my clients want municipals verses septic, well or oil tanks, which has opened up many areas to view in Orange County. The pandemic has definitely pushed them to head north quicker than they might have, otherwise.

Nancy Sardo, Associate Real Estate Broker

I am seeing an influx of highly qualified tenants as well as an above-average amount of new buyers ready to move quicker than before.  We are seeing many more cash buyers, many more full-price offers with less negotiation from a smart buyer. Experienced buyers to the area are more willing to do some elbow grease in order not to hiccup on the deal. Otherwise, they risk the seller moving onto the backup offer. Buyers and people, in general, are serious about the betterment of their surroundings. And, with what we are currently going through, they are now more apt to pay for it.  We are in a seller’s market and here in Warwick NY and Orange County on a whole, there is an exaggerated upswing of interest in our beautiful Hudson Valley.

Jennifer DiCostanzo, Associate Broker

Interest is trending with buyers looking for a home that meets their needs both for lifestyle and working from home. They like the idea of self-sufficient living. Being just 60 miles from NYC makes the lower Hudson Valley, with its pricepoint, very attractive for primary and secondary homes.  Everyone is coming to a realization that home has to meet both work and leisure needs. Also desired are adaptable living spaces. Living through this pandemic has redefined the concept of home for many people. Outdoor space has become a luxury, particularly for City dwellers. However, it’s not just City dwellers who are redefining what “home” means. There are local buyers who are also looking for that change in lifestyle, space and function.

Green Team New Jersey Realty – Vernon and Sussex County, New Jersey

Kristi Anderson, Realtor

I think that many buyers are coming to the Sussex area because we have had much fewer cases of COVID-19 up here. Most of my clients are buying second homes.

Keren GonenReal Estate Salesperson

I am seeing a LOT of NYC buyers. They are CASH mostly and looking to run away. Some are buying a second home, but plenty are moving in this direction to get away from the City completely and realizing the advantages of living in “The Country.” Those buyers have a much larger budget than our “usual” buyers and are looking for updated houses mostly.  They are ready, willing, able and QUALIFIED buyers.  They are all mesmerized by our charm here in Sussex county.
What makes Orange County and Sussex County so desirable to NYC residents?

After months of sheltering in place, many people are reexamining their concept of the ideal home. This pandemic has shown us that we can’t take for granted life as usual. New York City has undergone a drastic transformation. That ideal City life is on pause. Broadway shows, restaurants, boutiques, department stores, museums, vibrant nightlife, closed,   Families living in cramped apartments, worried about catching the virus, long for privacy, more room, areas to work, and space for the kids. Furthermore, they’re looking for outdoor living space. And approximately 60 miles away is the beautiful countryside of Orange and Sussex Counties.

NYC residents are looking for homes that provide lots of room for their family’s needs, including work from home space. Covid-19 has shown us the possibilities that exist in telecommuting. People and businesses are realizing that it may not be necessary for people to go to the office every day.  As noted above, there are also people looking for second homes, so that they have someplace to “escape” to, should another shelter-in-place be required. Even in a seller’s market, they know they can get more house for their money here. Finally, there are unique hamlets, villages, and towns that offer lifestyles and qualities that people have decided are just what they need in this day and age.

 

Agency News and Awards April 5, 2020

Meet Kathryn (Kate) Vega

Green Team New York Realty would like you to meet Kathryn (Kate) Vega. Before entering the world of real estate, Kate Vega earned an Associates Degree in Business. She was a corporate Administrative/Executive Administrative Assistant for 12 years, working with many professionals of all levels, Kate was (and is) detail oriented with a focus on financials, analytics and accounting. 

Kate Vega finds her passion for real estate

Her interest in real estate began when she helped her husband, John, sell his condo (off the market). She then assisted in the purchasing of their first home. After that she was hands on in selling that first home  And purchasing their current home in Warwick. Kate’s ability to identify and highlight pros and cons of various homes had her becoming a resource for several friends working through their first home purchases.

Interest may actually be too mild a word to describe Kate’s feelings about real estate. In her own words, “I felt that buying, selling and remodeling my homes were the most emotional and exciting times of my life (besides marriage and having babies).” She even admits that she was distracted during her honeymoon with the construction of their first house. And then, while in the hospital having her second child, she requested photos of work being done on the house!

Kate feels that home ownership is a huge component of most people’s portfolios. In addition, it’s vital for the health of a community. She has always been interested in finances, and real estate is one of the largest and most crucial aspects of the economy. Furthermore, she’s conscious of the ups and downs that come with the biggest transactions of most people’s lives. And Kate knows she’ll be able to offer the support her clients need during the process and be sensitive to their needs.

It’s all about family

Kate and John have three children: Johnny, Tommy and Lexie. The family attends Warwick Reformed Church. The children attend Warwick schools. And they’re involved in sports: football, baseball, basketball, wrestling and soccer! John is on the football board, and Kate is the PTA Treasurer for Sanfordville Elementary School. 

 

Community Support October 31, 2019

November in Orange and Sussex Counties

 

November is a beautiful season here in Orange and Sussex Counties.

The beauty of leaves changing color can still be seen. And, even when skies are gray, it’s a gorgeous backdrop to the red barns and the fields that dot our counties. Of course, November brings many things. Such as Thanksgiving and the inevitable countdown of shopping days until Christmas. Better Homes & Gardens helps you take control of Thanksgiving with this handy time table and recipes. Also, here are 30+ Thanksgiving Menu Ideas from bhg.com. Further, leave it to Martha Stewart to provide us with these gorgeous table settings for Thanksgiving.

Along with all the fun and excitement of the Holiday season comes cold and flu season and a whole lot of stress. BHG.com has tips for strengthening your immune system. And they’re pretty easy to work into our daily lives. Another thing that November brings is leaves. Lots of leaves. Here are some tips from AAA Northeast on Landscaping Fall Cleanup for Your Home.

Places to Go, Things to Do in Orange and Sussex

November 1. Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site starts its new Fall/Winter hours. It will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults; $3 for seniors and students. Children 12 and under Free.  84 Liberty St, Newburgh, NY. 845-562-1195.

November 3: 19th Annual Salute to Military Veterans. The tribute consists of a parade highlighting Sussex County’s veterans of all branches of service. There will be military vehicles, civic groups, community and local high school bands. In addition, there will be a reading of essays by local students. Finally, a POW and MIA solemn remembrance will take place with a 21-gun salute. Refreshments will be provided at conclusion of event. 1:00 p.m. Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ.

November 4 – 17 is Hudson Valley Restaurant Week. Enjoy prix fixed meals from some of the County’s finest restaurants.  Here’s the list of participating Orange County Restaurants.  The 3 Course lunch is $22.95 and Dinner, $32.95. Bon appetite!

November 11: Veterans Day

The Broadway musical Hamilton renewed interest in the Revolutionary War. And there are lots of historic sites throughout Orange and Sussex Counties to explore.

Revolutionary War New Jersey has a listing of the many points of interest throughout Sussex County. Orange County Tourism shares a Revolutionary War Tour. With Veterans Day celebrated this month, it’s the perfect time to remember our Nation’s first veterans.

November 9 & 10: Thanksgiving Tasting & Toy Drive at Museum Village. This annual event features tastings of recipes of both the  Pilgrim and Victorian eras, made right on the hearth. Adults: $14. For children ages 4-12 admission is $10, and children under 4 are free. This year Museum Village is asking for donations of unwrapped new toys for the Country Kids Food Pantry. They need gifts for children from 2-16 years old, with a special need for TWEEN toys. Museum Village. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 1010 State Route 17M, Monroe, NY. 845-782-8248

November 29 & 30: Love Local Maker Market 2019. Handcrafted gifts by local artists will be available at the Warwick Community Center. In addition, there will be make-and-take ornament stations throughout the market where people of all ages can create their own handmade decorations. There will also be hot drinks and baked goods.  10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 11 Hamilton Ave, Warwick, NY.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving!

 

 

 

 

Agency News and Awards August 23, 2019

Vikki Garby is Green Team New York Realty’s 2019 2nd Quarter Sales Leader

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.0.48″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.18.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]Vikki Garby is having a great year. She was 1st Quarter Sales Leader for 2019,  And now Green Team New York Realty is very proud to announce that Vikki is 2nd Quarter Sales Leader. According to Geoff Green, President of Green Team New York,

“Vikki Garby is a smart, focused Real Estate professional. Furthermore, the analytical abilities developed during her time as an investment banker and real estate investor contribute to her success in both Residential and Commercial Real Estate. It’s exciting watching Vikki grow her Real Estate Business. Green Team New York Realty is extremely blessed to have her as part of our Agency.”

More about Vikki…

As mentioned above, Vikki was an investment banker for a major bank in New York City. During that time she reviewed and negotiated complex contracts on a regular basis. And it was also during that time that Vikki became a real estate investor, negotiating on her own behalf as a buyer.

Her love of real estate and skill at navigating its many transactional parts lead her to obtain her license so that she could help others achieve their real estate goals. Furthering her education and skills, Vikki obtained her Commercial and Investment Properties Real Estate Certification (“CIREC”) last summer.

Vikki had this to say about her recent achievements:

“I have been blessed with a great year working with wonderful and supportive clients. Their loyalty has allowed me to grow my business each year. It has been an extremely rewarding and fulfilling year so far. The great team I have at Green Team New York Realty helps tremendously.”

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Agency News and Awards April 26, 2018

Meet Lucyann Tinnirello, the new Broker Manager of Green Team’s Warwick office.

 

Why a broker manager?

With his business expanding and taking most of his time, Geoff Green knew it was time to hand over the reigns of day-to-day management of the Green Team’s Warwick office to a new broker manager.  Furthermore, he understood it would take someone special to do the job.

First of all, the perfect candidate would have to be experienced in real estate and able to handle the detailed management of the office. In addition, the candidate would have to be someone who was not ego driven.  Finally, it would take someone able to work with a growing team of agents to solve problems and help them succeed in their businesses.  Fortunately, the perfect candidate was already a member of the Green Team family.

Meet Lucyann Tinnirello, the perfect candidate…

Green Team Home Selling System is happy to welcome Lucyann Tinnirello as its first Broker Manager.  With 34 years of experience, Lucyann knows the business inside and out.  Thus, she understands that real estate is mostly about solving problems and developing relationships.

Lucyann sees the Broker Manager position as being an opportunity for caring, helping, resolving problems and promoting an atmosphere of teamwork, where agents share with their co-workers what their experiences have taught them.  However, she also understands there will be challenges. In managing workflow, she knows she must practice neutrality, as well as empathy and efficiency. She feels well prepared to take on the responsibilities of this position, having been co-owner of her own firm. There is a motto that Lucyann lives by: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”  Her fellow agents agree that Lucyann embodies this motto and is the person who can handle this job.  She is both well liked and respected by her peers.

A message for Lucyann’s clients…

By the way, Geoff has a message for Lucyann’s clients.  “Fear not! Lucyann will continue to list and sell homes!  This position was designed for an active sales person, with support staff and systems providing back-up for the Broker Manager.”

One more word of wisdom…

Lucyann has one more bit of wisdom to live by. Football coach Lou Holtz said this at a seminar and she’s never forgotten it.  “WIN…”  or “What’s Important Now!” And for Lucyann, what’s important now is doing the best job she can as the Green Team’s new Broker Manager.

Selling a Home June 20, 2017

Top Home Renovations for Maximum ROI [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights:

  • Whether you are selling your home, just purchased your first home, or are a homeowner planning to stay put for a while, there is value in knowing which home improvement projects will net you the most Return On Investment (ROI).

  • While big projects like adding a bathroom or a complete kitchen remodel are popular ways to increase a home’s value, something as simple as updating landscaping and curb appeal can have a quick impact on a home’s value.

  • For more information about top renovation projects that net you the most ROI, you can check out the complete list here.

 

Selling a Home June 20, 2017

Do You Know How Much Equity You Have in Your Home?

CoreLogic’s latest Equity Report revealed that 91,000 properties regained equity in the first quarter of 2017. This is great news for the country, as 48.2 million of all mortgaged properties are now in a positive equity situation.

Price Appreciation = Good News for Homeowners

Frank Nothaft, CoreLogic’s Chief Economist, explains:

One million borrowers achieved positive equity over the last year, which means risk continues to steadily decline as a result of increasing home prices.”

Frank Martell, President and CEO of CoreLogic, believes this is a great sign for the market in 2017 as well, as he had this to say:

Homeowner equity increased by $766 billion over the last year, the largest increase since Q2 2014. The rising cushion of home equity is one of the main drivers of improved mortgage performance. Since home equity is the largest source of homeowner wealth, the increase in home equity also supports consumer balance sheets, spending and the broader economy.”

This is great news for homeowners! But, do they realize that their equity position has changed?

According to the Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI), more homeowners are beginning to realize that they may have more equity than they first thought.

This is only the second time in the survey’s history that the net share of those saying it’s a good time to sell surpassed the net share of those saying it’s a good time to buy.

78.8% of homeowners have significant equity (more than 20%) in their homes today!

This means that many Americans with a mortgage have an opportunity to take advantage of today’s seller’s market. With a sizeable equity position, many homeowners could easily move into a housing situation that better meets their current needs (moving to a larger home or downsizing).

Doug Duncan, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae spoke out on this issue:

“High home prices have led many consumers to give us the first clear indication we’ve seen in the National Housing Survey’s seven-year history that they think it’s now a seller’s market. However, we continue to see a lack of housing supply as many potential sellers are unwilling or unable to put their homes on the market…” 

Bottom Line

If you are one of the many Americans who is unsure of how much equity you have built in your home, don’t let that be the reason you fail to move on to your dream home in 2017! Check your homes worth – click here

Let’s get together to evaluate your situation!