Date Archives: November 2021

Whether you're still looking at Albany homes for sale or have already found the perfect one, you probably can't wait to decorate your home for Christmas. The Christmas tree is the central decoration in many families, and it makes a home feel so cozy and warm. But do you put up a real tree or an artificial one? Here are some factors to consider if you're still deciding between the two.

• Does Anyone in Your Home Have Allergies?
  Some people are allergic to the pollen or sap of real pine trees. If you or someone in your home has ever experienced a pine allergy, you're better off opting for an artificial tree. Even if the allergy symptoms are mild when exposed to trees outdoors, they're likely to be more serious indoors where you have limited airflow. You don't want to spend the whole holiday season sneezing and rubbing your eyes because of your Christmas tree.

  Click Here to Read More...

This holiday season, shopping small is more important than ever! Our real estate agents love exploring local shops and sharing their finds with new residents.

Whether you decide to wait for Small Business Saturday or you're ready to start your shopping now, we recommend paying a visit to these nearby retailers. 

• T&J Handcrafted Soap: 271 River St., Troy, NY 12180
  Handmade soaps make great stocking stuffers, gifts for coworkers, or additions to larger gift baskets. At T&J Handcrafted Soap, you'll find over 40 different varieties of soap. Some are made from local beer, wine, and tea! They also have a selection of other body products — like fizzies, soaks, lotions, and hand-poured soy candles.  
  
  This shop is located near some of the best Troy homes for sale, so we recommend taking a drive around after you're done shopping. You never know, you just might come across your dream home.

  Click Here to Read More...

One of our real estate agents' favorite annual events is coming soon: America Recycles Day on Nov. 15. It's the only nationally recognized day dedicated to empowering Americans to recycle more and buy recycled products. The day educates and encourages individuals to reuse as much as possible, be mindful of what they consume, repurpose items, and focus more on the recycling bins than trash cans.

• Know What Can and Can't Be Recycled
  Just because an item has the recycling triangle does not mean it is recyclable. There's green-washed recycling and there's real recycling. For instance, some companies will have a recycling program for their waste products, but instead of recycling, they'll take the items to another part of the country. You need to read the recycling rules for your area's recycling program and follow the guidelines as best as you can. Each city has its own specifics, but here are basic guidelines:
  
  
  • Paper: Paper is generally recyclable, including magazines, books, flyers, colored paper, and junk mail. However, the paper should never be sticky, wet, or mixed with other types of materials. Avoid waxy papers or those saturated with grease and food.

    Click Here to Read More...

Cappuccinos are one of the most popular coffee drinks and are well known for their combination of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. They're comforting yet strong and can be enjoyed in many coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants in the area.
  
Our real estate agents suggest celebrating Cappuccino Day - which falls on November 8 - by visiting one of the following cafes or other venues in the Albany area:

• Stacks Espresso Bar 260 Lark St., Albany, NY 12210 
  The owners of Stacks Espresso Bar take pride in creating a cafe and community space that's a friendly and accessible place to enjoy your cappuccino or other coffee drink. Located just around the corner from Albany homes for sale, it features coffee from diverse roasters to serve unique, delicious coffees. Order your 8- or 12-ounce richly-textured cappuccino with a soy or almond milk alternative if you'd prefer, and treat yourself to a tasty treat to enjoy alongside your drink.

  Click Here to Read More...