Sales & Pending Sales Within The Last 3 Months On Staten Island's North Shore.

Data from Staten Island's North Shore communities of New Brighton, Snug Harbor, Livingston, Randall Manor, West Brighton, Port Richmond, Mariners Harbor, Graniteville, Arlington, Bloomfield and Elm Park...show within the last 3 months, there are 98 pending home sales, up 27.3% and 85 closed home sales, down 1.2%. The graph and chart below illustrates updated statistics on Staten Island's North Shore.

The Lake communities, on Staten Island's North Shore,consists of Westerleigh, Sunset Hill, Sunnyside, Royal Oak, Silver Lakes and Castleton Corners. Activity within these areas in the last 3 months, consists of 79 pending sales, up 38.6% and 72 closed sales also up 30.9%.

 

Staten Island's North Shore is filled with much excitement and anticipation for the revitalization and development of what some are calling the Last Frontier....on Staten Island's North Shore. Recent news of the housing market getting back on it's feet, is a positive feel good time for buyers and sellers who have been holding out. Could there be another housing boom in the near future....only time will tell. What is relevant now in real estate, is the affordability of buying a home at low interest rates.

As with all great opportunities....grab it while it's available, it will not be there forever! 

There are two kinds of real estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling and buying a home...and those who don't.

Check out my website and "Like" my Facebook business page.

Lets connect on twitter

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Beautiful Day For Judging Staten Island's Chamber Of Commerce Building Awards Program

What a beautiful day to view and  judge many entries in the Staten's Island's Chamber Of Commerce Building Awards Program.

This program recognizes excellence in design and construction on Staten Island in.... residential, commercial or historical restoration properties. While also recognizing many excellent Staten Island businesses..architects, builders, craftsman etc. 

It's an honor to be involved in the this wonderful program, in it's 51st. year!

Don't forget to "Call the Chamber"!

Check out my New website!

Like my Facebook business page to stay connected to Staten Island's North Shore.

There are two kinds of real estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home... and those who don't.

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

 

 

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Kristy & Teddy, Grymes Hill

 

Holly was a pleasure to work with, extremely responsive, professional and excellent knowledge of the North Shore.

via Posterize

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Businesses Are Opening On Staten Island's North Shore?

It's exciting to see movement in empty spaces..... Wild Goose once occupied 530 Forest Ave. Now the building is divided into 2 new businesses....Ittsy Bittsy Baby and Indiglo. The two new businesses coming to Staten Island's North Shore; an infant clothing store and a restaurant/lounge. Driving by today I noticed a covered sign on Indiglo....looking forward to the unveiling soon! In my opinion seeing more and more businesses opening up and receiving the support of the community is a positive impact for that neighborhood and Staten Island overall.

Todays update on the housing market was a positive forecast for a  nation finally starting to get back on it's feet in the housing market. Home buyers finally feeling comfortable to take the plunge and new businesses are opening.This is a confident positive impact for our economy. Buyers and Sellers feeling confident is good news....and in my opinion, now is the time to take action in either selling or buying a home.

Check out my New Website.....looking for a home on Staten Island's North Shore or surrounding area?

Join my FB page to see what's happening on Staten Island's North Shore.

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home...and those who don't.

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Happy October!!

Happy October!!

Great weather, cool & crisp....colorful foliage, pumpkins, mums... what is your Fall favorite?

 

via Posterize

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Attractive Way To Collect Rain...On Staten Island's North Shore.

What a pleasure and great feeling it is when past clients reach out to me. It was great to hear from new "Staten Islander", who recently purchased a beautiful home in the North Eastern section of Staten Island. She is a Brooklyn native, and pleased with her new travel time to work in Manhattan. She was anxious to show me her stylish rain barrel she installed recently at her new home on Todt Hill.

The Algreen Cascata Rain Barrel is elegant, attractive and saves on water...use the collected water for your indoor plants and outdoor waterings. After viewing this elegant rain barrel, I thought it was worth sharing. For anyone looking to conserve water.. and water your garden at anytime with no restrictions this looks like a winner.

Spend a day on Staten Island......a wonderful place to call home!

Check out my "New Website"!

Looking for a home on Staten Island's  North Shore or surrounding area?

Join my FB page to see what's happening on Staten Island's North Shore.

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals.....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home....and those who don't.

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What's Happening In Staten Island's Silver Lake Community?

A photo shoot and video production was rolling in beautiful Silver Lake Park, located on Staten Island's North Shore. The beautifully costumed group of ladies were excited to enjoy such a spectacular day in Silver Lake park for a photo and video session.Lilith Oya is a creative artist...designer and cosplayer of traditional fantasy art, costumes based on Anime,comic book and video games.

Spend a day on Staten Island's North Shore and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer.

Check out my "New Website"!

Looking for a home on Staten Island's North Shore or surrounding area?

Join my FB page to see what's happening on Staten Island's North Shore.

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional  and financial complexity of buying or selling a home....and those who don't.

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

9/11 Memorials & Tributes On Staten Island's North Shore..

If you walk along the waterfront in St. George on.....make sure to visit the magnificient Postcards 9/11 Memorial. It is truly a beautiful location with impeccable views.The Staten Island 9/11 Memorial is located along the North Shore waterfront esplande, adjacent to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal and the Richmond County Ballpark in St. George.

The site has spectacular views of the New York harbor, Freedom Tower, lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

Another tribute to loved ones lost, is the healing garden. A tranquil beautiful area designated as a place for quiet reflection..... within the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden on Staten Island's North Shore.

 A Memorial mural... art tribute to Resue 5,  can be viewed on Metropolitan Ave. at the corner of Forest Ave. located in West Brighton, on Staten Island's North Shore.

 Art...remembering the sacrifice, Rescue 5 firehouse located on Clove Road. in Concord.

My collection of photos I wanted to share today.... a day to remember and never forget!

"Spend a day on Staten Island... a wonderful place to call home."

Thank you....God Bless America!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What North Shore Restaurant Is Serving Produce Grown On A Local Staten Island Farm?

 

Recently opened Blue restaurant (former R.H.Tugs) on Staten Island's North Shore, has formed a partnership with a local farm that just opened in July called Heritage Farm. How exciting to have a local farm located on the beautiful grounds of Snug Harbor's Cultural Center, provide a neighborhood restaurant with fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.

I Look forward to this delicious dining experience.....while overlooking Staten Island's North Shore waterfront views.

Spend a day on Staten Island and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer.

Check out my "New Website" !

Looking for a home on Staten Island's North Shore or surrounding area?

Join my FB Page to see what's happening on Staten Island's North Shore.

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals......those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home......and those who don't.

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Where On Staten Island Can I Make Wine?

 

Are you looking to make wine? Maybe you just want to enjoy a fun and friendly evening  with wine and cheese. After meeting up with Irene and Bob on a recent Staten Island Chamber Of Commerce business after hours event.....I was very interested in checking out their passion and business Staten Island Winery.

 

What a pleasant surprise....hidden away in Travis on Staten Island's West Shore. I certainly timed it great! Thursday nights is wine tasting at Staten Island Winery, with complimentary cheese....all for $10.pp. What a great friendly group of people...enjoying the fine delicious wine and great conversation. Sampling of the wine... I was so impressed with the smooth delicious Cabernet.  Definitely a fun place to meet friends and family for a relaxing enjoyable event or winemaking.

"Spend a day on Staten Island and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer".   Check out my "New Website" ! 

Looking for a home on Staten Island's North Shore 

 Join my FB Business Page! 

Get the inside scoop on local community video's http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Do You Believe Home Ownership Matters ?

Do you believe our families and our homes are the center of the American Dream ? Are those homes... and our lives in them the focus of creating a beautiful, cozy functional way of living for the ones we love ?  Home is the one place where we create our own environment that is unique to our own lifestyle. This belief of home ownership has been the American Dream for 234 years and is the core value of this country.

Home ownership remains the American dream... you develop positive differences in people's family relationships and their finances while connecting to the community. Society benefits as well...studies have shown students from families that owned houses scored higher on Achievement Tests than those of families who rent. There also is a stronger community and civic connection .

Clearly from the 2011 NAR- Harris poll: Young adults do believe and are committed to one day becoming home owners. Following the path of their parents and grandparents .Young adults do feel it has been more difficult to achieve the American Dream... yet acknowledge doing so would provide a healthy stable environment for raising a family. In my opinion home ownership does matter...continuing to be the true value of our nation.

Are you, a friend or relative looking for expert advise and knowledge in buying or selling Staten Island real estate?

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

 SINY's North Shore Expert page  http://facebook.com/northshoreholly 

Also join me on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/hollyolivieri

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of buying or selling a home.... and those who don't. Have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Do You Like Vintage, Retro and 50's Style...Check Out What I Found On Staten Island's North Shore!

North Shore Buzz's recent interview.......

In the beautiful community of Snug Harbor.....was an exciting back in time feel. Vivian Vassar of Hey Viv! has a vibrant unique business....

a full service vintage clothing online store. Vivian's attraction to opening a business here on Staten Island's North Shore....a beautiful area filled with parks, vintage homes, water views and affordability..... plus an easy commute to Manhattan and Brooklyn. 

Vivian opened her vintage clothing business in 1986. Hey Viv! has expanded that to a retro 50's clothing line that includes all kinds of circle skirts and pin up style dresses. Shipping all around the world and outfit everyone from Bobby Soxers to their first sock hop to casts of performers doing Grease or Bye Bye Birdie. Through the years Vivian has gotten lots of help and support from the West Brighton LDC in Staten Island's North Shore. Which helped her to start the Netpreneurs.....a local business support and networking group that helps growth and development of local businesses on the web. For anyone looking to purchase women's vintage clothing, 50's retro wear and pin up style dresses make sure to check out Hey Viv!

Visit Staten Island and explore the beautiful parks, intriguing arts & culture, fabulous restaurants, and a variety of homes available for your lifestyle.

Make sure to check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Get the inside scoop on local community Video's http://NorthshoreBuzz.com

"Like" http://facebook.com/northshoreholly to see what's happening on Staten Island's North Shore.

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling and buying a home..... and those who don't.

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

 

 

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Van Duzer Days... Huge Outdoor Venue, Tomorrow On Staten Island's North Shore.

Make sure to check out Van Duzer Days tomorrow

July 21.........one huge outdoor venue in the neighborhood of Stapleton. Featuring small local businesses, local artists, musicians, photographers and so much more. Looking for a day of fun for everyone...smiling faces, local businesses engage in the rich diversity of this vibrant North Shore community.

Some of the local businesses recently interviewed in

"North Shore Buzz" will be in attendance......

Sal Vulcano of Full Cup....also known from Impractical Jokers truTV

Tariq Zaid of Richmond Hood Company

Ira of.... Ira's Curiosity Place will be looking for you tomorrow, so enjoy and have a great time!

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Looking for a home in Staten Island's North Shore?

Join me at http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Let's Play Ball On Staten Island's North Shore....Westerleigh.

Great weekend to meet up with friends and neighbors in the community. Let's catch a game at Northerleigh Park... located on North Ave. in the North Shore area of Westerleigh.

Looking for a home in Staten Island's North Shore?

Local community video's  http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Pending Sales Are Up 30% On Staten Island's North Shore.

The Staten Island North Shore communities of Snug Harbor, New Brighton, Livingston, Randall Manor, West Brighton, Port Richmond, Mariners Harbor, Graniteville, Arlington, Bloomfield and Elm Park have pending sales up by 30% and new listings are down 22.6%

The chart below shows updated statistics on the North Shore of Staten Island.

The recent momentum in housing has plenty of economists and forecasters convinced that the worst is behind us. The housing market has reached the bottom at least according to 44 forecasters surveyed by The Wall Street journal.

With such positive signs.....more homes should be appearing on the local market. Why not....start looking to buy your dream home.....or get your home listed on todays local market?

 

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Looking for a home in Staten Island's North Shore ?

Local community video's - http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

 

 

 

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Another Great Review On Zillow......Staten Island New York, Todt Hill.

Another Great Review On Zillow....Thank you, Camille Gallo!

Looking for a home in Staten Island's North Shore?

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

North Shore Community Video's http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What A Beautiful Sight Today.... On Staten Island's North Shore.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Happy 4th of July! What a spectacular view driving in the neighborhood of  Westerleigh this morning. What a heart warming pleasant sight.....American flags proudly perched on many of the homes on this quaint street....located on Burnside Ave. in Staten Island's North Shore.

Looking for a home in Staten Island's North Shore?

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

North Shore Buzz http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Walkable Areas Fetch Higher Home Prices?

Walkable Areas Fetch Higher Home Prices

On July 2, 2012, in Home Trends, by Melissa Tracey

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By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

More home shoppers say they want to live where there is walkable space, and they’re willing to pay extra for it.

A new study by the Brookings Institution found that the more walkable an area is, the higher the real estate values and rents are there.

Researchers used Washington, D.C., for testing the walkability impact on home values. They found that “every step up the walkability ladder, the price per square foot jumps more than $300 on average for apartment rents, versus $82 for house values, $9 for annual office rents, and $7 for retail rents. Moreover, with each step up the ladder, the average household income climbs $10,000.”

Areas near other walkable areas, which then form an entire walkable district, had higher rents and home values than stand-alone walkable places, according to the study.

“While U.S. home values dropped steadily between 2008 and 2011, distant suburbs experienced the starkest price decreases while more close-in neighborhoods either held steady or in some cases saw price increases,” researchers note in the study. “This distinction in housing proximity is particularly important since it appears that the United States may be at the beginning of a structural real estate market shift. Emerging evidence points to a preference for mixed-use, compact, amenity-rich, transit-accessible neighborhoods or walkable places.”

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Walkability is an important criteria for a home buyer.... cuts down on the use of cars, keeps you healthy by walking and a closer connection to your community. Just to name a few reasons...In my opinion these are important factors in a lifestyle. On a recent appraisal of a home... I pointed out to the out of town appraiser, the fact that the home was 1/2 block to the bus stop and less than a mile to the bridge, and also in close proximity to schools and parks. All these factors add value to both the appraised home....and the home buyer.
Looking for property or homes on Staten Island North Shore?
Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com
North Shore Staten Island http://NorthShoreBuzz.com
http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Love This View....Grymes Hill, Staten Island's North Shore.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Love this view when heading to 30 Natalie Court in Grymes Hill on Staten Island's North Shore. What a great location...1 block to bus stop, quick ride to ferry, easy access to Verrazno bridge. Silver Lake Park is in walking distance.

Looking for property or homes on Staten Island North Shore?

Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

North Shore Staten Island http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Gorgeous Hydrangea In Bloom.......Staten Island's North Shore.

Georgeous hydrangeas in bloom....you can spot this old time favorite in bloom now...all over Staten Island's North Shore. The colors are vibrant and eye catching....what a great way to create spectacular curb appeal at your home. Why not choose and plant hydrangeas at your home?

Looking for homes or property on Staten Island's North Shore?

Check out my New Website  http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

North Shore Staten Island : http://NorthShoreBuzz.com

http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

10 Easy Staging Tips for Curb Appeal

10 Easy Staging Tips for Curb Appeal

On June 4, 2012, in Curb Appeal, by Blog Contributor

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By Kimberly McMahon, Let’s Organize/Let’s Move

No matter the asking price, simple curb appeal changes can set the scene to immediately attract buyers to a property. Data shows that a majority of home buyers look at properties online or drive by before contacting an agent. As a result, the exterior of the property is always a major selling point.

The decision to buy starts when the prospects step out of their car in front of the property. Prospects will immediately imagine what their friends and family will think when they drive up.

Here are 10 easy steps to make the most of your curb appeal. (It is well worth the expense to hire someone to make these changes if you do not have the time!)

1. Make sure the lawn is mowed and the landscaping is pristine. Keep your gardens neat and healthy, and repair visible damage.

2. Clear the yard. Remove any visible trash cans, toys, tools, rusted outdoor furniture, old lumber, or yard debris.

3. Paint house trim and touch up concrete steps to freshen the look.

4. Paint the front door to give it a fresh look. Repair screens and screen doors.

5. Invest in a new and colorful welcome mat at the front door.

6. Add a potted plant to the side of the front door.

7. Replace the old brass doorknob and lock with brushed nickel.

8. Make sure the street numbers are polished, in place, and easy to see, even if this requires some major shrub or flower trimming. If your street numbers are painted on the curb, repaint them.

9. Replace that old, rusty mailbox in favor of a sleek, modern one. If your mailbox is attached to the house, replace it to match new hardware on the front door handle.

10. Wash all of your windows inside and out. The sparkle will show.

Curb appeal is extremely important when prospects are first beginning to make decisions about which properties they want to see with an agent. These simple changes will differentiate your property from others on the same street or nearby.

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Let's face it....visual says a lot. Are you a homeowner that takes pride in your home? Or are you the homeowner that says....when I get around to it? Presentation of your home.... a reflection of you....why not give all those eye balls something positive to look at! Curb it up......color, vibrance and an overall happy, clean, neat entrance. Wow factor, will catch the eye balls......and an offer to purchase.
Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com
Interested in Staten Island's North Shore....people,places and homes...then like http://facebook.com/northshoreholly
Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Homes Are Selling In Staten Island's North Shore?

What Homes Are Selling In The North Shore of Staten Island?

Staten Island's North Shore includes the neighborhoods of .....Westerleigh, Willowbrook, Randall Manor, West Brighton, Ward Hill, Tompkinsville, St.George, Sunnyside, Sunset Hill, Stapleton, Silver Lake, Snug Harbor, Grymes Hill, Graniteville, Port Richmond, Clove Lakes and Castleton Corners.

 

Wondering what homes sold within the North Shore community in the last 6 months? A total of 316 homes have sold in Staten Island's North shore.

New Inventory is down -2.8% over the last 3 months. Pending sales have increased +16.0% over the last 3 months, and +15.2% year to date. Closed sales are down -34.4% or (61 homes) over the last 3 months and -28.3% or (76 homes) year to date.

The chart below illustrates these recent statistics on Staten Island's North Shore housing market.

If you breakdown specific areas of the North Shore...Westerleigh, Sunset Hill, Sunnyside, Royal Oak, Silver Lake, Clove Lakes and Castleton Corners....you will see New Listings have increased +2.3% over the last 3 months,but down -5.4% year to date. Pending sales have increased +25% over the last 3 months,and year to date increased +41.3%. Closed sales are up +34.9% over last 3 months with +23.3% year to date.

Staten Island wide, new listings increased.....and pending sales were up....overall housing inventory shrank -9.7% to 3,114 units. There has been a positive trend in consumer attitude about the economy. Studies have proven that homeownership enhances our lives...in addition Mortgage rates have reached record lows. With expert local knowledge, guidance and patience.... your home selling or buying process can be less trying.

" Spend a day on Staten Island and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer."

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home.....and those who don't.

Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Join my FB Business Page http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Lets connect on twitter http://twitter.com/hollyolivieri

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Home-Price Scorecard: A Turning Market, But Which Way?

via blogs.wsj.com

The housing market.....geographic location, available listings and jobs......you have.... move up buyers, must sell ,marriage, divorce...life is in constant motion....real estate is relevant.....to life.
Do you have a friend or relative looking for a home? Looking for expert guidance through the home buying or selling process..... Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com Lets connect on FB http://facebook.com/northshoreholly
There are 2 kinds of real estate professionals...those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home....and those who don't.

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Are Buyers Overlooking Key Factors in Home Purchases?

Are Buyers Overlooking Key Factors in Home Purchases?

On May 28, 2012, in Home Trends, by Melissa Tracey

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By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

Home buyers may be so swayed by the home’s appearance and price that they may be missing out on researching some other important factors about the home that may keep them happy there for years to come. Articles in U.S. News & World Report and the Community Associations Network highlight some of the most common areas that buyers’ are overlooking in their home purchases.

Some of these overlooked areas include:

1. Nearby zoning. The surrounding area of a home or neighborhood can change drastically through the years so home buyers shouldn’t always assume that what they see today is what they’ll get a few years from now. Green picturesque landscapes outside their windows may one day be replaced by a row of retail stores or major highway? On the other hand, sometimes change can be viewed as good, such as a recreational park or school nearby.

To avoid unhappy surprises, though, home buyers should investigate the zoning of any vacant properties near them to give them more of an idea of what the future may hold.

2. Remodeling interference. Home buyers may have big plans for the home they want to buy, but are they sure they’ll be able to do everything on their list? Homeowner association’s may have something to say about home owners who want to change their exterior. They also may have something to say about additions, like adding a garage or a guest house, or even what type of plants you use in your front or backyard. Any home buyers with lofty remodeling goals may want to check with the community or homeowner association beforehand to make sure their plans will be allowed.

3. Sight, sound and smell. Home buyers might want to tune in to any noise that may pose a problem for them in the neighborhood, such as by visiting the home at several different times of day and night. Maybe it’s all quiet in the afternoon but there’s a loud dog barking next door all evening? Also, how’s the traffic at different times of day? The neighborhood may become a cut-through to commuters during rush hour … will that pose a problem?

And finally, home buyers shouldn’t forget to pay attention to the smell. Depending on which way the wind is blowing at certain times, you might pick up a whiff of a manufacturing plant or waste-processing facility.

So buyers should be encouraged to use all five of their senses in deciding the right home for them, and not forget that long-lasting happiness with a home purchase is much more than fancy upgrades.

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Looking for a home is a process that needs.... to fit the buyer's lifestyle and comfort zone. Drive by the neighborhood, talk to neighbors....get a feel for the area. Most important of all is working with a professional Realtor who knows the community.....guidance, expertise and knowledge is important when purchasing one of life's most expensive purchases.
There are 2 kinds of Real Estate Professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of buying a home....and those who don't.
Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com
Connect to North Shore News..... http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Homes Sold In Staten Island's North Shore In The Last 6 Months?

Curious... what homes have Sold in Staten Island's North Shore within the last six months? There have been approximately 316 homes sold....1-2 family, condo and co-op. Choose from a variety of homes on Staten Island.....fitting all budgets and lifestyles.

"Spend a day on Staten Island and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer."

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home....and those who don't.

Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Join me on FB for North Shore News http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Let's connect on twitter http://twitter.com/hollyolivieri

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Are those Vineyards On The Golf Course In Staten Island's Silver Lake?

Have you seen the vineyards growing on the Silver Lake Golf Course in Staten Island's North Shore? With all the rain....the wine grape plants look lush and full. What a captivating sight.... to see the vineyards growing...with golfers putting in the distance.You may also want to check out The Veranda restaurant which is located on the Silver Lake golf course. Make sure to try Skye Dog Wine.....made from the wine grapes grown on this very golf course. Skye is pictured below with his owner.....he's the golf course watch dog.

Staten Island's North shore boasts...culture, the arts, water views, parks and a variety of housing. Silver Lake Park offers a fun tot park, dog park, jogging, tennis courts, golf course and a ball field.

"Spend a day on Staten Island and explore what our wonderful Island has to offer."

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals.....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home....and those who don't.

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Stay connected to the North Shore community at http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Looking For Serious Curb Appeal....Staten Island's North Shore.

These beauties... growing on Staten Island's North Shore......peonies no doubt create a wow factor.

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Ribbon Cutting Today...."Beans & Leaves" On Staten Island's North Shore!

Today's ribbon cutting ceremony at "Beans & Leaves" 422 Forest Ave. Borough President James Molinaro and Matthew Titone were among the many supporters.

Megan is wished much success in her new business venture.....Megan has taken over the former Coffee & Tea Market... and tranformed it into a vibrant exciting addition to the North Shore business community. Beans & Leaves is also a member of the Forest Ave. Business Improvement District or BID.

Many locals have enjoyed this great little shop over the years.....my self included. A wonderful sense of community interaction... with a friendly  good old neighborly feel! The next time you are looking for a great cup of coffee or tea.....make sure to stop by. Megan has also introduced a great line of scrumptious home baked goods from different bakers. Why not travel through Staten Island's North Shore community of Silver Lake.....discover why so many love this neighborhood. Discover the culture, parks and small town community......and why it's a wonderful place to call home.

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home and those who don't.

Check out my "New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Stay connected to the North Shore community  at http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

  

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

6 Most Popular Projects Home Owners Target With Remodeling

6 Most Popular Projects Home Owners Target With Remodeling

On May 14, 2012, in Home Trends, Remodeling Adviser, by Melissa Tracey

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By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

Kitchens and bathrooms remain the top jobs home owners are taking on in remodeling projects, according to a new survey by the National Association of Home Builders.

The top remodeling projects of home owners, according to the latest survey of remodelers, are:

1. Bathrooms

2. Kitchens

3. Window/door replacements

4. Whole house remodels

5. Room additions

6. Handyman services

The report’s finding of the main motivation behind home owners’ decision to remodel is not too surprising: To repair and replace old components and to upgrade amenities.

But more than 20 percent of remodelers surveyed said they’ve been noticing a drop in the number of customers who are remodeling to try to increase their home’s value.

The survey is yet another indication that more home owners are happy staying put–at least for now–and instead are looking at how to enhance what they already have.

Nearly half of the remodelers surveyed said they’ve been seeing an increase over the last year in the number of home owners who are undertaking remodeling projects so they can avoid moving.

“Home owners are repurposing spaces and making more efficient use of their home’s square footage,” says NAHB Remodelers Chairman George “Geep” Moore Jr. “Whether it be young families or couples aging in their homes, people want to let their house adapt with their needs as they change over time.”

According to Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, home remodeling is expected to post its best year this year since 2006.

But while home owners want to enhance, they also want to save.

“Before it was curb appeal, showiness and keeping up with the Joneses,” Duo Dickinson, author of Staying Put: Remodel Your House to Get the Home You Want (Taunton Press), told USA Today in a recent article on remodeling trends. But now more home owners want their homes to reflect who they are. “The house is the most direct mirror of your personal values. When people renovate to change their lives, they waste money.”

These more “me-centered” remodeling projects may include livening up outdoor spaces, creating “livable kitchens” that are multi-purpose and make the kitchen serve as a room for more than just cooking, and smaller master baths (like removing that luxurious spa tub for a larger shower)

Also in saving a buck, more home owners are looking at doing more of the work themselves. According to a new report from Bank of America, 70 percent of home owners are taking on home improvement projects that they once hired out in order to cut costs, tackling everything from plumbing to painting.

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

When planning your home remodeling project do you consider your lifestyle or the newest fad? Consider how long you intent to live in the home......casual, formal, traditional....what is your lifestyle? Your home is a reflection of you....creating a living space that is comfortable for your lifestyle is important. Utilize living space to fit your needs.... your home is your castle.... in my opinion....function, comfort and value are a few key elements to incorporate into your plans. Check out my new website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource