Real Estate Archives - Our Towne Guilderland

What Customers are Saying…

July 14, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Guilderland, NY – Happy 4th of July and time to celebrate!! Most of my columns have been information

everyone should know about realtors, buying and selling houses and more. This column is dedicated to a few testimonials about what hiring ME would be like; you get to hear it from my clients and I get to celebrate that my clients are so happy!

FROM A SELLER-5 STARS – Sold a Single Family home in 2016 for approximately $250K in Albany, NY.

5 STARS – We had a great experience selling our home with Kathy Burbank. Our house sold quickly for a great price, and Kathy Burbank was always readily available any time we had a question or concern.

FROM A BUYER-5 STARS – Bought a home in 2016 in East Glenville, NY 12302. Ms. Burbank was absolutely the best to work with. She’s very professional and knowledgeable in real estate. As a first time homebuyer going into this, she was very informative, resourceful and stayed on top of things every step of the way. Great personality, easy to work with, exceptional work ethics. I worked with a prior agent and was unhappy. Ms. Burbank was referred to me by a friend who spoke of her highly. Best recommendation ever!!!

FROM A SELLER – 5 STARS – Sold a Single Family home in 2016 for approximately $225K in Schenectady, NY. Kathy is very professional, has great knowledge of the market, and is an excellent communicator. She was very helpful in connecting me with various professionals needed to get the house ready for sale and went above and beyond to help facilitate the sale of house. I would highly recommend.

FROM MY FORMER CAREER – I called on Kathy at the Guilderland Chamber to help me organize the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Westmere Firehouse. When I asked her to help, she took ownership of the project. The result was a terrific turnout of area VIP’s and those that are integral to this project. I can’t thank her enough for her hard work. I’m happy to have a forum in which to publicly extend my sincere gratitude! John Keimer—Commissioner, Westmere Fire District

These reviews and many more can be found on my Zillow page and on my Linked in Profile!

Call, text or email Kathy Burbank with YOUR REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS!!!

Katherine Burbank

Kathy Burbank is with CM Fox Real Estate- a locally owned and run company with deep ties to the Guilderland Community. The company now has approximately 50 realtors; most who also live locally. CM Fox Charity has 2 charity events a year; and Kathy is actively involved in them. Call Kathy today at (518) 461-8032.

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

Exciting News!

July 11, 2017 By Kelly Kieley

I am pleased to announce that I have recently transferred my license to RealtyUSA, the largest independent real estate company in the Capital District and the 3rd largest in the nation*.

Through RealtyUSA, I am now able to offer you even more resources to help you achieve your real estate dreams, including:

• Full service, in-house marketing that will allow me to create even better custom pieces to market your home, or to help you find the home of your dreams.

• Membership in the Homes of Distinction program, offering enhanced marketing opportunities for higher priced homes.

• 100% Money Back Guarantee Program** – offering Buyers and Sellers peace of mind that RealtyUSA will stand behind the value of the home.

• Leads Network Program – meaning that all inquiries on your listing from Zillow, Trulia or Realtor.com, will be forwarded directly to me as your listing agent, so I can answer all questions accurately and with first-hand knowledge of your home.

• Attentive, professional, results-driven service. My commitment to my clients remains my top priority.

The real estate marketplace is constantly changing and always busy, especially here in Guilderland. I am proud to live and work here – I know this market, and I love selling real estate here.

I also enjoy supporting the community. To date I have donated $100 from every closing to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a total of $2,400 so far – and still counting!

If you, or anyone you know, is thinking about buying or selling a home, call, text or email me any time for the real estate results you’re looking for.

I look forward to hearing from you! ~ Kellie Kieley

Kelly Kieley

Kellie has consistently been an award-winning producer in her field. She has a vast knowledge of Guilderland and the market. Kellie’s network of local resources and professionals will help ensure a smooth and worry-free transaction for you and your family.
Kellie is a proud gradute of Siena College and a life long resident of the Capital District. She and her family live in Guilderland. She has two children in the Guilderland School District and is actively involved in many community organizations. To help give back, Kellie will be donating $100 from every closing in 2017 to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Together we can help defeat childhood cancer.

http://www.guilderlandproperties.com

Things Happenin’ in Your Neighborhood!

June 17, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Guilderland, NY – Part of what makes a good realtor is knowing what activities or events happen in the region. It helps us attract home buyers to the area. So I thought for this expert column I would give you a summary of some of the FREE things that go on in the region that you could enjoy. SAVE THIS and put it on your fridge and hopefully you will use it!

Guilderland Performing Arts Center (GPAC)- Every Thursday at 7:30 pm-check website www.townofguilderland.org for more listings, too numerous to put everything here!

Thursday- June 22-Guilderland Town Band

Thursday- June 29 –Aquanett- 80’s Tribute Band

Thursday – July 6 – Skeeter Creek

Thursday – July 13 – Guilderland Town Band

Thursday – July 20 – 7:00 -Crush & Overture

Altamont’s Orsini Park Summer Concerts (sponsored by Altamont Free Library)- Tuesdays 7pm

Tuesday- July 11: Moonshine Holler

Tuesday- July 18: Three Quarter North

Tuesday- July 25: Marty Wendell & his Tour Band

Tuesday- August 1: Tommy Verrigni Trio

Tuesday- August 8: Art D’echo Trio

Tuesday- August 15: Rusticator

Alive at 5- Every Thursday at the Corning Preserve at 5 pm-

Thursday June 8-Lets Be Leonard and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe

Thursday June 15-to be announced, go to www.albany.org

Empire State Plaza -Summer Concert Series-great free concerts on the outdoor stage, you sit on the steps of the museum-The Summer Concert series is being out together now-check www.ogs.state.ny.us

Park Playhouse at Washington Park, Albany- Tuesday through Saturday they have the play, free for the lawn, get their early! Shows start at 8 pm in July, 7:30 in August

Thursday June 29-Saturday July 29 – Ragtime

Friday August 4-Saturday Aug. 1 9- The Music Man

Freedom Park Scotia (by Jumpin Jacks)-check the website (www.freedomparkscotia.com) as there are a ton of bands through the summer including the Refrigerators, Skeeter Creek and Audiostars

Wednesday June 21-SAWYER FREDERICKS!

Saturday June 24-Alex Torres and his Latin orchestra

Wed June 28-Screaming Orphans

Friday June 30-Blues House Rockers/Fireworks Night

Sunday July 2-Maria Z and Alegria Flamenco

Katherine Burbank

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

What a Realtor Knows….. (That online sites don’t!)

May 15, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Guilderland, NY – Realtors all pay to be on the regional MLS (Multiple Listing Service) system which allows us to post houses and allows your realtor to look at them. The information gets picked up by Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc; however, all of the information isn’t correct and it can be outdated. The following information is what a realtor uses that you may not be able to get online!

A history of the home’s sales, listings, expired listings, sales that fell through, etc.
The lot size, zoning designation, any additions and their size, flood info and more.
Maps of the location, which yes, you can see, but also the school district, taxing municipality, and other local information that may not be on an internet site.
The “comp” data! You like a home, but how much is it really worth? Realtors look at sold homes over the last year that are exactly alike, as well as homes for sale to see how prices compare.
Knowledge about home types and their differences; for example, older homes often do not have large bedrooms-no one cared way back when!! Or, what’s a raised ranch, split level and just plain ranch? We know, and know how each can fit your family and needs.
We know about the eras of home building and materials, like asbestos tiles, siding and pipe wrapping, vermiculite, lead paint and more.
And last but not least…the house just went under contract or isn’t for sale!! I have so many clients send me a list of houses they found on the internet, for me to say half are pending sales and 2 were never for sale; it’s great to use both, but the living breathing realtor has the best knowledge.

Many of my clients come from people who just want info like the above; how much is their home worth, what they could easily do to resell, will it pass inspection, what elementary school the kids would go to.

I give a lot of free advice; it always benefits me as much as the person asking- I know they have the right info and that I am a pro! Call me with your questions, trust me, I know more than Zillow!!

Katherine Burbank

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

April 2017 – Boomer Home Buyers

April 21, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Guilderland, NY – A huge group of buyers these days are the downsizing baby boomers setting themselves up for the next phase of their lives. These home buyers want flexibility, ease of use and plenty of fun things to do! Baby boomers are the largest American generation-76 Million-that are retired or nearing retirement age. This presents a huge opportunity when you are selling your home.

For today’s sellers-Here are just a few pointers that will catch a boomers’ eye:

Baby Boomers Preparing for the next phase!

Consult with a realtor-if you are starting the process of selling, or even want to plan, just talk to a realtor, its free. They WILL tell you what to prioritize and how-valuable info that can get you thousands more in the sale.

Even out your lawn and simplify your landscaping-boomers want an easier lifestyle that includes exterior maintenance. They still want yards but maybe a little smaller and more manageable.

Open up you space– opening up your living space is appealing to most anyone, but especially boomers. By now, they are specific in what they really want in a home; they usually want an easy flow for entertaining and hanging out at this point.

Large First floor bedroom-this is a must; many boomers are looking for the house they will live in when the old knees don’t work so well.

For buyer boomers-

Use a realtor-even if you want to buy your neighbor’s house! Realtors have specific info like how many bedrooms and full baths are on the first floor and can get a floor plan and lot size if you are looking for more specifics.

Know what you want-Many boomers thinking of “downsizing” think square footage, and that may not be the case. It may be a larger family room and first floor master, so the square footage may be the same. Know how big your current house is and your lot dimensions too-your realtor can help you with that.

Consider semi or totally maintenance free, where a company (Homeowners Association) maintains the general grounds and maybe mows and shovels, or total maintenance free like a condo community where you are not responsible for exterior, roofs, etc.

Katherine Burbank

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

George Rozell Painting

March 13, 2017 By Lowell Knapp

Guilderland, NY – With over 20 years of experience, George W. Rozell III strives to always provide the best in quality and customer service. At the age of 15, he began learning the painting trade during his summer vacations by working with his father. Drawing from his father’s 35 years of painting experience, not only was he taught proper techniques and skills, but also the value of doing the job right the first time.

George Rozell Painting

In 1999, at the age of 21, George W. Rozell Painting was established when George decided to go into business for himself. Since that time, hard work, pride, and a strong work ethic have enabled him to grow his business and continue to be successful. His business currently includes five employees who each have many years of painting experience. This small business approach allows him to be present on his job sites and ensure high quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction.

Services available throughout the Capital Region include, but are not limited to, interior and exterior painting, new construction, wallpaper removal, deck staining, and power washing. With 85% of their work being residential, most referrals are word of mouth from previous customers. Local commercial clients include Sunset Bowling Alley, 99 Restaurant, Carpet Warehouse, and various retail stores in Colonie Center. George maintains a close working relationship with local paint stores, which makes it possible for him to remain current on the latest products on the market and offer the best to his customers.

Maintaining an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, George is strongly focused on providing high quality service and meeting every customer’s needs. There is no job too big or small for his business, and the same attention to detail will be given to all clients. He sums up his business motto as this, and feels it is the reason for his continued success. “I don’t just want to do business with you, I want to do business with everyone you know. I want every customer to feel confident referring me to their family and friends because of their satisfaction with my service.”

Serving the entire Capital Region for over 17 years!

All phases of painting | interior/exterior | residential/commercial

518-858-0297 | www.georgerozellpainting.com

Lowell Knapp

Started Our Towne Marketing in 2005. In addition to publishing Our Towne Guilderland each month we also provide print and web design services. Serves as a Board Member with the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce and a Member of the Ethics Board for the Town of Guilderland.
Lives in Guilderland with wife Kristen, son Ryan and daughter Kyra.

https://www.ourtowneguilderland.com

March 2017 – March into the Sale

March 12, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Guilderland, NY – Selling Green-Go Self-Sufficient homes: Two concepts that with a few of the ideas below becomes one great way to improve the value of your home! We all know MANY people are looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly, but did you also know there are many people in the world concerned about being too dependent on the power grid, gas and oil, and more? A home with some additions below is more marketable to them!

Selling Green-Go Self-Sufficient homes

Tankless Water Heater-Install this space, time and energy saver the next time you need a hot water heater -or at least wrap your current heater in a thermal blanket made for hot water heaters.
Wood/Pellet Stoves supplement heat and make you self-sufficient in an emergency power outage. Pellet stoves are slightly more expensive but are also green
Flooring-Add Bamboo, Cork, or any Eco-Friendly Wood Flooring, there are tons of options now!
Solar Roof Panels can be installed with different arrangements for either free panels but the company gets the energy, or bought outright and you sell the energy.
Cool Roofs use new technology and engineering on the materials to lower cooling costs in warm places.
Reclaimed Wood can be expensive but you can also go to salvage yards, craigslist or even the dump, and re-use perfectly good wood for so many projects.
Dual Pane Windows-sorry folks but new windows rank up there as a top home improvement well worth your investment….take the plunge!
Programmable Thermostat-This is probably the easiest thing you can do in your house to save money-program it to adjust heating and cooling for when you are not home or sleeping.
Low VOC Paint and Carpet-You can absolutely buy low VOC (volatile organic compound) paint and carpet for home improvement projects pretty much anywhere, and these are good for you, good for the environment, and good for your home value!

Katherine Burbank

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

Guilderland Home of the WEEK

March 10, 2017 By Kelly Kieley

806 Rainbow Dr.
Guilderland, NY 12303
MLS # 201700782

$329,800

Exceptional New M.A. Schafer Construction ranch in a quiet & conveniently located Guilderland neighborhood, ready for its new owner. Features inc: an open flr plan with a high end kitchen, custom cabinetry, timeless granite, SS appliances, a spacious island, LR with fp & cathedral ceilings, dining area, impressive HW flrs, 3 BR, 2 BA, Master BR with trey ceilings, WI closet & gracious bath, huge mud room, 1st flr laundry rm with, composite deck, daylight basement with egress windows. Still time to choose your Bedroom floors! 1,908 Sq. Ft.

Kellie Kieley
Associate Real Estate Broker
Cell: 518-225-0454

kkieley2@gmail.com

Kelly Kieley

http://www.guilderlandproperties.com

February 2017 – A Sweet Situation!

February 22, 2017 By Katherine Burbank

Tips and plusses in a seller’s market

Younger buyers get in-You would think having scarce inventory of homes would make it harder to get a home, but consider this-with a seller’s market, those who want to sell but maybe the house needs updating can put their house on the market as is-these houses may not appeal to an experienced buyer but for a new home buyer, it is perfect. People are willing to forgive some of the flaws of a house when the number of homes for sale is so few.

Sell Your Home Fast with Kathy Burbank

Multiple offer situations allow for negotiation-Multiple offers are a blessing and a curse-it may increase the price but also makes people stressed out; someone is going to lose. For a seller, you can negotiate for price, earlier/later closing, or repairs found during inspection. For the buyer, these things also apply-put your best price out there, but also let the sellers know you are willing to work with them on closing and inspection repairs, MANY times an experienced realtor will know that maybe the highest price isn’t everything.

You can sell a not-so-updated house–what to fix, what to let go? The basics for any market apply first and foremost, CLEAN, DE-CLUTTER, PRUNE! But in a seller’s market, don’t spend $ 10,000 on a new bathroom when you can’t see daylight from your windows, or your house from the street!!

A realtor costs nothing for a buyer! –The realtor must be motivated, able to negotiate (i.e. nice) and knowledgeable about what houses to focus your time on. They must be able to write the contract and get everything signed and submitted ASAP in this market. If they take 2 days to get back to you; the house is probably sold.

Understand the process before you start-a good realtor will go through step by step what you need to do, a good mortgage lender, whether a bank or company, SHOULD explain costs and the process to you also. Get preapproved so you know your bottom line, AND know what you owe!! -many deals are sidelined by an old phone bill you thought went away!!

Katherine Burbank

CM FOX Real Estate, 2390 Western Ave, Guilderland NY 12084

http://www.cmfoxrealestate.com

WHO GETS THE HOUSE?

January 20, 2017 By Leyla Kiosse

Guilderland, NY – Many unmarried couples buy homes together. When making what is generally the largest investment in one’s life, most people do not take into account consideration what will happen if the couple breaks up, or when one of them dies.

For unmarried couples, title to real property can be held in several different ways:

Joint Tenants with Right of Survivorship: This means that the couple owns the house by the “whole” and when one person dies, the other person automatically owns the house.

Tenants in Common: This means that the couple owns the property by the “part” and not by the whole. Each party can leave his or her share upon death to whomever they choose. Further, if the couple break up each owns his/her share.

While owning property as Joint Tenants is wonderful if your only concern is dying, it becomes much messier if the couple breaks up. If the property is owned by the whole, there is no easy way to sever the shares. While a partition action can be brought (NY RPAPL Art. 9), it is a difficult and expensive proceeding, but if successful forces the severing of the tenancy and the sale of the property.

Tenants in Common is often a good method to own property if you want to leave your share to someone upon your death (it can be your partner), or, in the event of a breakup, you want to sell your share. While this makes it easier to divide the property, how many of us are going to want to be roommates with your ex? It is important that the deed specifically states what percent each person owns (is it equal or unequal?).

However, how you hold title does not address issues such as recoupment of down payments, closing costs, or how the costs will be shared during the time that you own it.

The best and simplest way to address all of these issues is to have a partnership agreement. You would not go into a transaction with a business partner without this type of agreement, and yet, most people are willy-nilly about addressing these issues with a loved one. A partnership agreement can include who is paying what expenses; addressing what happens to the house in the event of a dissolution of the relationship- recouping closing costs and down payments; who will live in the house upon a breakup, and how expenses will be shared while the property is on the market for sale.

If an unmarried couple buys a home together and at some point marries, the partnership agreement can continue or be amended. If a home is titled to “me” before the marriage, it does not automatically become “ours” when we marry, or vice versa.

While we all hope for the best, we always need to prepare for the worst (a breakup) or the inevitable (passing away). It is always wise to prepare for the worst-case scenario which is why we stock pile disaster kits, buy insurance, and take other measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Leyla Kiosse

Leyla A. Kiosse is a partner at Tabak & Kiosse, LLP, a law firm located in Great Oaks Office Park (near Crossgates Mall). Along with her partner (Margaret Tabak), Attorney Kiosse counsels clients on all matters related to matrimonial and family law. A Guilderland native, Attorney Kiosse received her undergraduate degree from Union College and her law degree from Albany Law School. If you have questions about a matrimonial or family law issue, contact Attorney Kiosse for a consultation by calling 464-4095 or by visiting the firm’s website, www.tklawllp.com.

http://www.tklawllp.com