Date Archives: November 2019

Giving Tuesday is a time to remember to give back to the community. This year, Giving Tuesday takes place on December 3rd, and our real estate agents encourage you to donate to one of these great area charities.

1. The Oley Foundation — 43 New Scotland Ave., MC 28 Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12203 
   The Oley Foundation seeks to enrich the lives of those who rely on intravenous or tube feeding for nutrition. They offer life-altering education, advocacy, and networking programs as well as provide patients with free supplies and equipment they need to improve their quality of life.

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When you factor in everything that affects a home purchase, commute time may not be top of mind. However, it has a huge bearing not only on the price you pay for your home but the dollars you spend getting to and from work. Homebuyers should look at all of the factors that affect their lifestyle, including commute time.

Our real estate agents have helped a number of homebuyers determine how important their daily drive to and from their job really is, and we can help you, too. Consider the following tips as you begin your home search.

Commute Time

Naturally, the first thing you'll want to consider about your commute is the time you spend getting to and from work. The United States Census Bureau estimates that the average American commute is 25.4 minutes. Double that figure to account for your round trip, and you're spending an hour getting to and from work every day.

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Offering an added revenue stream and flexibility, Airbnb can be a tempting option for homeowners and homebuyers. Over the last 11 years, Airbnb has grown from a small startup to a global company that has disrupted the hotel and vacation rental industries. And with the growth of the online marketplace and sharing economy, Airbnb has become extremely popular and the profits may look incredible. But, is this really a good solution for you? Our real estate agents share some of the implications you should consider before renting out your home on Airbnb.

• The Legal Considerations
  Becoming an Airbnb host is not as easy as you might think. It's more than just buying an investment property, listing it on Airbnb, and hosting guests. Every city is different so it's important to find out which local regulations might apply to you. Airbnb has negatively impacted local housing costs and because it's not easy to find affordable housing, many governments have established rules in an effort to discourage short-term pricey rentals. These regulations might also include extra fees, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance. You should inquire with your municipality about the possibility of renting out your property and for how long you can do it without actually being present.
  
  It doesn't stop with the city. Some homeowner's associations prohibit short-term rentals and impose penalties and fines on owners who do so. Check that your home insurance covers this type of investment and whether your mortgage lender allows you to sublet the property.

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Lace up your running shoes! Fall is upon us, which means it's a great time to participate in these fun Thanksgiving turkey trots in the Albany, NY area. We're always excited to get out and enjoy a brisk run in the crisp fall air, and our real estate agents look forward to hitting the pavement with you this season!

• Girls on the Run Capital Region 5K - 1 Quay St., Albany, NY 12207
  On Saturday, November 23, the Capital Region's annual Girls on the Run 5K returns to Albany, benefiting a great non-profit organization that motivates and encourages girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles. Registration is now open for individuals and teams of all ages. The event gets started at Jennings Landing, just minutes from Albany homes for sale, and offers a great view of the city along its 3.1-mile course.

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