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        <title>Hudson Valley Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Ulster County and Hudson Valley Real Estate Blog</description>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/what-happened-in-2011-with-the-ulster-county-real-estate-market.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/what-happened-in-2011-with-the-ulster-county-real-estate-market.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>What Happened in 2011 with the Ulster County Real Estate Market??</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


Ulster County Real Estate 2011 in a Nutshell!!  

2011 was an interesting year for Ulster County real estate. Overall total units sold were down 15%. However flying in the face of that trend was a 3.6% increase in the average sale price of homes. This increase represents the first such increase year over year since the market topped in 2007.  Average days on market for homes sold increased by a minimal 3%, and the list to sale ratio remained steady from 2010 at 93% of asking price. Interest rates remain at the lowest level since the 1950. 


What does this mean to buyers and sellers? On the buyer side it makes sense to strongly consider a purchase in 2012. The increase in average sale price could signal the beginning of a rebound in the market place. Coupled with low interest rates there may never be a better time to buy. For sellers, there should be more buyers in the market thus enhancing the opportunity to sell. Financing options are strong for qualified buyers and several local banking institutions are very easy to work with.








All in all the 2012 should be a great year to accomplish your real estate goals whether buying or selling.


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            <pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:16:53 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/fall-in-ulster-county.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/fall-in-ulster-county.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Fall in Ulster County </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Fall in Ulster County 


There are so many fun outdoor activities to take advantage of. Here are just some of the many farm stands in Ulster County with lots of fun things to do. 


Ulster County Farm Stands 


AccordKelder's Farm - Accord, NY Every weekend of OctoberPumpkin HayridesWe are picking pumpkins, raspberries, concord grapes, a variety of winter squash, zucchini, and tomatoes too and the sweeeetest corn around! We also have beautiful hardy mums for your fall decor. Visit our new and old friends in the petting farm!http://www.kelderfarm.com/ 


 Saunderskill Farm - Accord, NY September 15th - October 30th Pick your own PumpkinsTractor-Drawn Hay RidesHorse-Drawn Hay Rides, weekends in October 1-4PMFree Corn MazeOctober 10th Tractor Pull http://www.saunderskill.com/


High Falls Mr. Apples- High Falls, NY Pick Your Own Apples &amp; Get Away for a Quiet Day in the Countryhttp://www.mrapples.com/ 


 HurleyJohn Gill's Farm – Hurley, NY Fall Farm Festival October 17, 2010 2-4 pm Free concert Sunday, The Levon Helm BandOpening Band, Ratboy Jr.Face painting, pies, pumpkin picking, pumpkin launching, hay tunnel and more. http://www.levonhelm.com/john_gill_farm.htm       


KingstonAdams Fairacre Farms – Kingston, NY Harvest Fest Saturday October 9thCelebrate fall at Adams Annual Harvest Fest. There’s lots of free fun for the kids like pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting. Pumpkins, fresh apples, pears, squash, the most beautiful mums, hardy nursery stock.http://www.adamsfairacrefarms.com/harvestfest.htm 


ModenaHurd’s Family Farm- Modena, NY


In the Fall ...For the young and young-at-heart, enjoy apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, bonfires, and a cornfield maze. Feed farm pets at the Critter Corner and play at the Kid's Corral. Visit an 18th Century Dutch Threshing Barn for country gifts and refreshments.http://www.hurdsfamilyfarm.com/ New PaltzCountry Charm Farm- New Paltz, NY   Visit our family farm, take a wagon in the fields to pick your own pumpkins, ride the scenic hayride, see over 40 life-size scarecrows, and browse in the giant barn sale.http://www.countrycharmfarm.com/ 


Dressel Farms- New Paltz, NY October 2010Come to the farm for PYO Apples - Pumpkins - Chestnuts!FREE hayrides, petting zoo and corn maze.http://www.dresselfarms.com/ 


Duboise Farm –U Pick – New Paltz, NYIn addition to our U-Pick, we also have a family-run farm stand and café Free family fun activities, including children's games, contests with prizes, tractor-pulled wagon rides, our corn maze, play-time in "Tiny Town", visits with our farm animals, and much more.All-New! Pony Rides!October 9th, 10th, &amp; 11th: Harvest FestivalOctober 16th &amp; 17th: Scarecrow JamboreeOctober 23rd &amp; 24th: Pumpkin FestivalOctober 30th &amp; 31st: Halloween Fun Festivalhttp://www.duboisfarms.com/index.html 


Tantillo’s Farm- New Paltz, NY Tantillo's Farm provides the best home-grown "pick-your-own" cherries, pears, apples, pumpkins, and vegetables. Bring the family and enjoy beautiful scenery in the fresh clean air of Ulster County. Start with a wagon ride out to the fields, "pick-your-own" and return to the farm stand to top off your excursion with fresh pastries and pies or a refreshing creation from the ice cream bar.http://tantillosfarm.com/ 


Stone RidgeStone Ridge Orchard – Stone Ridge, NY Open: August thru October; Daily, 9am -6pmDescription: Pick-your-own apples and raspberries, fruit stand with many locally produced, homemade items, hayrides, picnics, groups, corporate functions, and PYO pumpkins.http://www.stoneridgeorchard.com/


 Ulster ParkMaynard Farm- Ulster Park, NY Pick your own apples &amp; pumpkinsNestled in the rolling hills of the beautiful Hudson Valley








Pick apples and to spend a wonderful day in our orchard overlooking the majestic Hudson River. Pack a picnic lunch and come visit. http://maynardfarms.com/


 






 






 








 






Ulster County Farmer’s Markets 


Kingston Farmers Market- Kingston, NYMay 29 thru November 20, every Saturday, 9 am - 2pmhttp://kingstonnyfarmersmarket.com/ 


 Ellenville Farmers Market- Ellenville, NY Located at Market &amp; Center Sts. , NY in Ellenville, New York. 


Hours are Mid-June-September Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. http://www.local-farmers-markets.com/market/3426/ellenville/ellenville-farmers-market 


 






 















Saugerties Farmers Market- Saugerties, NY 9 am – 1 pm Every Saturday to October 16INDOOR WINTER MARKET PLANNED:Celebrating the Holidays at the Saugerties Farmers Market on Sundays once a month from noon-4pm at the Senior Center, 207 Market Street, Saugerties:• Oct 31 – Halloween• Nov 21 – Thanksgiving• Dec 19 – Christmashttp://www.saugertiesfarmersmarket.com/ 






 






 






 






 






 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 






 New Paltz Farmers Market –Kingston, NY Sundays 10:30am - 4pm http://newpaltzfarmersmarket.com/ 


 Rosendale Farmers Market- Rosendale, NY Every Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM rain or shine, June 6-October 31http://www.rosendalefarmersmarket.com/ 


The Round Barn Farmers Market - Margarteville, NYEvery Saturday 9am to 2pm - Round Barn of Halcottville http://www.margaretville.net/  


 Woodstock Farmers Market –Woodstock, NY Our STORE HOURS: TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 7:30 AM-7 PM. SUNDAY 9AM till 6 PM. We are closed on Mondays.Harvest FestSat Oct 9th &amp; Sun Oct 10th at 10am http://www.woodstockfarmersmarket.com/ 


 For all of your Ulster County Real Estate needs contact Prudential Nutshell Realty
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 Oct 2010 12:39:45 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/wow-sonyma-rates-at-an-all-time-low.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/wow-sonyma-rates-at-an-all-time-low.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Wow Sonyma Rates at an All Time Low! </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Sonyma rates continue at an all time low. The Sonyma Low Interest Rate Program a 30 year fixed rate of 3.5% with 100 day rate lock for all first time home buyers.  The income limit is very generous  - up to $83,640 for a 2 person household or $97,580 for 3+ household.    With only 1% of the borrowers own funds and a total of only 3% down payment borrowers can get the house of their dreams and take advantage of the great home prices you have listed.   


 Did you know that Sonyma also offers Down Payment Assistance?  3% of the home purchase price up to a maximum of $10K.  0% interest rate – requires no monthly payment and is forgiven after 10 years.   The rate for that program is 4%!! 


Information provided by:Michele RizziMortgage ConsultantHudson Valley Federal Credit UnionOffice:  845-463-3011 x 32268 


Contact Prudential Nutshell Realty today to start searching for Ulster County Real Estate. 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:09:04 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/top-10-cities-to-get-the-best-bang-for-your-buck-kingston-ny.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/top-10-cities-to-get-the-best-bang-for-your-buck-kingston-ny.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Top 10 Cities to Get The Best Bang for Your Buck, Kingston NY</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ Kingston, NY is one of Barbara Corcoran’s top 10 cities in the country to get The Best Bang for Your Buck.

Click Here to view the segment from the Today Show.  

The average sale price in Kingston for 2009 was $161,172 for single family residential sales. While the average sale price in Ulster County was $241,758.

The average above was based on MLS statistics. 


 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:08:19 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-tax-credit-extended-and-expanded.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-tax-credit-extended-and-expanded.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Extended and Expanded! </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ Its official, the Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 extends and expands the first time home buyer tax credit.   The new law: 



Extends deadline to April 30, 2010 



You must enter into a binding contract by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30, 2010.






Allows long time homeowners buying a replacement principal residence to receive the credit 



Long time homeowners who buy a replacement principal residence may claim a credit of up to $6,500. They must have lived in the same principal residence for five consecutive years






Raises income limits for qualification 



People with higher incomes can now qualify for the credit. The new law raises the income limits to between $125,000 and $145,000 for Individual taxpayers or between $225,000 and $245,000 for joint filers. 








&nbsp;


Click here for more information




  


So what are you waiting for? Start your search now 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:03:10 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/new-first-time-home-buyer-tax-credit.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/new-first-time-home-buyer-tax-credit.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>New First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit! </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

New York State Mortgage Credit Certificate Program (MCC) is a new program for first time home buyers. With MCC,  20% of your annual mortgage interest can be converted into a tax credit and deducted from your Federal Income tax.


&nbsp;


Example with a mortgage of $200,000 and an interest rate of 5.5% the mortgage interest paid in the first year is $10,933. With an MCC, 20% of interest can be converted to a direct tax credit, a savings of $182 per month, $2,186 per year. 


&nbsp;


 More Information


&nbsp;


&nbsp;


&nbsp;
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:04:35 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/your-modern-farmhouse-has-so-much-to-offer-at-mohonk-view-lane.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/your-modern-farmhouse-has-so-much-to-offer-at-mohonk-view-lane.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Your Modern Farmhouse Has So Much To Offer At Mohonk View Lane</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 



In Ulster County, not often found is a home with such rustic charm from an era long forgotten as is seen in the design of dramatic spaces and forms this Modern Farmhouse offers.   Few structures elude such uniqueness that joins two legendary styles of cutting edge architecture and classic Hudson Valley farmhouse charm.  Created with old- fashioned gable roofs and textures and shapes from the classic era this iconic farmhouse is a blessing to the upstate New York landscape and offers us memory of the lovely white houses we viewed on quiet country excursions in our youth.  


 

This design was not for the meek at heart but yet for the passionate homeowner who is drawn to opportunities to discover while still experiencing feelings of familiarity.  Created in the green design for efficiency and comfort this structure will make the great weekend getaway, a summer paradise or the location you call home 365 days a year.  Located on a pristine championship golf course, Mohonk View Lane is Ulster County’s premiere golf property.  


 

The 28-foot ceilings that highlight the extremely large living space are intended to leave even the most capable decorator in awe.  The huge sitting area is enhanced by a wooden fireplace that delivers visions of romantic excursions while at the other end the entertainment center awaits to offer you escape from the stress of a tiring day.  The large living room flows passionately onto two decks built for large outings graced by family and friends.  The view from each is equally breathtaking whether it is the picturesque view of the Shawangunk mountain range, the soothing farmlands or the 18-hole golf course that awaits your presence.  Although the decks are large and inviting they offer the utmost in privacy for those intimate moments we encounter.


 

Perhaps the jewel in this crown is the master suite, which is seemingly secluded from the rest of the home.  Not only does it offer a walk in closet fit for a Queen but a master bath area that could just as easily be mistaken for a spa.  The showers and toiletry spaces are secluded from one another while two his and her vanities are divided by a Japanese tub designed for soaking that is no less than 6-feet long and offers a window above for your relaxing pleasure.  


 

For more photos and information, please visit MohonkViewLane.com



 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:41:40 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/mortgage-update.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/mortgage-update.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Mortgage Update</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

Rates are down to 4.875%*





What does that mean for buyers?

It means that the cost of buying a house just went down! Or, it means that a buyer can afford more of a house for the same monthly payment. I don't usually do math problems in these Mortgage Updates, but this situation screams for an example using real numbers.
If a buyer was buying a house and getting a 30 year mortgage for $200,000 at 6.5%, the monthly payment would be $1,264.14. At a rate of 4.875%, that same $200,000 mortgage would now have a monthly payment of $1,058.42. That is over $200.00 a month less per month for the same loan amount!
Another way of looking at it is that a buyer can afford more of a house for his or her money now that rates are lower. Let's pretend that a buyer wants to keep his or her monthly payment around $1,500. If rates were 6.5%, then the maximum mortgage amount would be $238,000 with a payment of $1,504.32 per month. At 4.875% interest rate, the buyer could get a mortgage of $285,000 for $1,508.24 a month. This means that a buyer can get $47,000 more money for the same payment!

Rates like this make now a great time to buy!


Call Liz Moeller and Greg Eckert
Experience matters!
800-972-7759
312 Wall Street, Kingston, NY 12401Registered mortgage broker, NYS banking Dept.
Loans arranged through third party providers

*APR 5.024% based on a $200,000 loan amount and 1 point. Rate assumes credit score of 740+ and a 20% down payment. Rates as of 12/11/2008. Rates and points are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Centennial Mortgage is a registered mortgage broker NYS Banking Dept. Loans arranged through third party providers.

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            <pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:24:08 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/seller-tips-preparing-a-home-for-sale.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/seller-tips-preparing-a-home-for-sale.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Seller Tips - Preparing A Home For Sale</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Statistics show that buyers make up their mind about your home based
on their first seven seconds of viewing!!

Today you have to be the nicest home in your price range to attract buyers. In general, it's taking longer to sell a home, so they have to be priced accordingly and show extremely well.

We also recommend removing some personal belongings such as photos and mementoes. The point is to depersonalize the space so potential buyers can see themselves in it. In addition, here are some great tips for preparing a home for sale:

• Entrance Should Be Freshly Painted And Seasonally Decorated

• Exterior Freshly Painted Or Power Washed

• Windows Should Be Sparkling Clean

• Exterior Plantings Trimmed And In Good Condition

• Misc Debris Or Trash Removed From Yard (Toys, Trash, Yard And Garden Equipment, Atv's, Out Of Season Furniture, Etc)

• All Closets Free Of Excess Items

• Remove Excess Furniture To Show Off Room Sizes

• Kitchen, Including Interior Of Appliances, Should Be Very Clean

• Countertops Cleared Of Clutter

• Personal Items Minimized, Such As Refrigerator Art, Personal Photos, Etc.

• Carpets Cleaned

• Interior Walls Clean

• Garage And Basement Organized And Free Of Clutter

• No Evidence Of Pet Or Food Odors

• No Use Of Scented Candles Or Potpourri

• For Showings - Turn On Interior Lights, Open Curtains, Remove Pets, And Empty Trash Cans And Leave The House During The Appointment Time. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:33:27 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/real-estate-myths.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nutshellrealty.com/blog/real-estate-myths.html</link>
            <author>info@nutshellrealty.com (Thomas Jackson)</author>
            <title>Real Estate Myths</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ All Real Estate agents are the same. Most Americans hold a driver's license. Does that mean that they all drive the same way? Real Estate agents and drivers are licensed by their state. But people drive differently, and real estate agents approach their jobs differently as well. Buyers and sellers should choose their agent carefully. Designations such as Accredited Buyer Representative, Senior Real Estate Specialist, Graduate Realtor Institute indicate a level of higher competence. Length of experience can also indicate a level of expertise. Another area of distinction is personal referral. Buyers and sellers may want to talk to family, friends and neighbors about their experience in real estate and obtain names of Real Estate agents to contact. A strong recommendation is to interview three agents before making a decision about who you want to work with.

If I wait long enough, I'll find the perfect home. Buying a house requires knowing market conditions, knowing what you clearly want in a home, and being prepared to make a purchase decision. In today's market, we often see wait-watchers. Buyers and sellers should work deligently with an agent who will assist them in moving toward their real estate goals.

Buying a house is as easy as negotiating price and signing papers. Buying or selling a home requires extensive knowledge of the market, negotiating terms, home inspection, attending to contract details, working with attorneys and title companies, etc. Real Estate agents move transactions from contract to closing.

If something appears on the inspection report, the seller has to fix it. Quite often buyers think that is something comes up on inspection, sellers must fix it. Real Estate agents should provide all disclosed information and assist buyers and sellers to make reasonable decisions about further negotiations. Generally, negotiation of inspection concerns should be limited to structural or dangerous situations. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:24:11 -0600</pubDate>
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