Be Grateful For What You Have, Things Can Change...

We don't often realize how well off we are.  I'm not talking about money, just the simple things that are usually taken for granted.  I volunteer with a charity called Midnight Run every month.  We load up a van with clothing and food, drive down to NYC, and spend the night feeding and clothing the less fortunate. 

 What's interesting is the people we help aren't all homeless, some have just enough to rent a room but need money for food and other things.  Or people that have money coming in but it's not eought to rent a room.  I make sure that I engage these folks in meaningful conversation and treat them as I would any other person I encounter, with respect.  I've met people that have degrees from NYU that now live on the streets. 

You think you have an idea what it's like to be homeless, eat from garbage cans, and sleep on the streets but you have no idea until you witness it first hand.  Be grateful for what you have because things can change in an instant.

From Park Ave to park bench we are all human...

How's The Real Estate Market In Hastings, NY?

We should see inventory levels start to rise in January and most likely a large buyer pool to go with it.  We have had a shortgage of inventory over the past two years and the large buyer pool helped to drive up prices, good news for sellers.  

Hastings Single Family Home Sales

Sales

Unit sales in November were 6, unchanged from the same month last year. Sales/list price ratio in November moved down to 95.5% from 96.5% in October. 

Prices

Median price in November was $855,000. This is up 5.9% from $807,500 in November of 2013. 3-month median price of $848,000 in November was up slightly from $785,500 in October and up a little from $737,438 in November of 2013. Price per square foot in November was $411. This is up from $352 in October but down from $444 in November of 2013. 

Inventory

Inventory of 27 in November was down 6.9% from 29 in October but up 17.4% from 23 in November of 2013. New listings in November were 3, unchanged from the same month last year. Months of supply of 4.9 in November was down a little from 5.3 in October but up substantially from 3 in November of 2013. 

Market Time

Days on market of 82 in November was up somewhat from 66 in October but down a little from 89 in November of 2013. This is the highest days on market has been since April, 2014.

How Much Is Too Much When Renovating A Home In Westchester County NY?

Over the years I have had many clients buy, plan to renovate, but decided to hold off because they were comfortable in the home.  Then, when it came time to sell they seriously considered making improvements just to get a higher dollar amount for the home.  A home owner never see's a dollar for dollar increase, just overall improvement and some added value.  Some of my clients bought in 2006 and shortly after the market started to head downward.  

A few years later they wanted to sell and couldn't even ask what they paid for the home due to the declining market.  The homes needed some improvement and even if they put those dollars into the home they still wouldn't come out ahead.  At times, improvements will simply justify your asking price not command a higher one.  I've had this conversation with too many clients and don't enjoy delivering the bad news.  

Buying a home is a major investment as we all know and having a knowledgable agent guide you from the very beginning is paramount.  I sit with buyers all the time and talk about the home they have interest in, what their plans are for the home (and future) , How long they plan to stay, the benefits of certain improvements, and the current state of the market.  

I'm definitely a believer in improving a home for your enjoyment because after all, our home should be our castle.  There is definitely value in the enjoyment of the project.  You will have to seriously consider how long you plan on staying in the home.  If only a short time then you are probably better off leaving it as, unless you got the home for a great price and certain improvements will help you get a higher dollar amount when it comes time to sell.  Kitchens and bathrooms are typically a smart improvement but be careful not to over imporove.  You can spend $10,000 or $100,000 on a kitchen renovation, it depends on your taste and the quality of the finishes.  

Finished basements are another big topic of conversation.  Finished basements are a great way to have additional space for the family and entertaining.  There is definitely value in that but in terms of legal square footage it should only be counted if the basement is above grade and has a legal egress.  You can always call a local appraiser in to talk about how they determine value and adjust where necessary.  It's always wise to do your research in the beginning then to wish you had later on.

Let's pull into the driveway of the nicest home on the block.  Many buyers shy away from the nicest home on the block due to the fear others not following suit.  Before buying the home pay close attention to the neighbors and look for pride in ownership.  This is most likely the most important purchase you will ever make, take as much time as you need to do your research.  An informed decision is a sound decision.

Please feel free to contact me Christopher Pagli, directly on 914.406.9023 or chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net to discuss this topic and any others in more detail.

Pleasantville NY Real Estate Market Update November 2014

Despite slower times Pleasantville Single Family home sales were steady this past month with 9 closings. Sales are up from 7 in October 2013 and the sales/list price ratio decreased by 3% in September.  The median price was $535,000 which is barely up from $534,500 this time last year.  This is also the lowest the median price has been since March 2014.  Inventory of 57 homes was down 16.2% form 68 in September and down 8.1% from 62 in October 2013.  New listings were also down a bit and modestly from 11 last year.  The days on market of 91 in October was up modestly from 83 in September and down considerably from 119 in October 2013.

Christopher Pagli

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023

chris@legendsrealtygroup.net 

Larchmont NY Real Estate Market Update November 2014

Larchmont single family home sales cooled down a bit with 10 closings in the month of October.  This is the lowest home sales have been since 9 in April 2014.  The sales/list price ratio moved down to 94.4% from 97.8% in September.  The median price was $1,012,225 which is down 51.8% from $2,098,888 in October 2013.  This is also the lowest median price has been since May 2014.  Inventory levels of 53 homes  was down 14.5% from 62 in September and down 36.9% from 84 this time last year.  The average days on market of 67 was up marginally from 64 in September but down substantially from 149 in October 2013.  This is the highest days on market has been since May 2014.  Overall the Larchmont real estate market remains strong and usually does.

The Larchmont Coop sector saw a total of 8 closings in October, up 300% from 2 this time last year.  The sales/list price ratio moved down to 95.1% from 100.3% in September.  The median price was $208,750, up 11.6% from $187,000 in October 2013.  Price per square foot of $259 was down from $307 in September but up from $205 in October 2013.  

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

SONYMA Loans For First Time Home Buyers In Westchester County and NY State

SONYMA, short for State of NY Mortgage Agency has been a saving grace for many cash strapped, first time home buyers in NY State. Some of the benfits of a SONYMA loan are a minimum 3% down payment (with down payment assistance) and the ability to finance closing costs, along with a host of others that your mortgage professional will educate you on.

Many buyers that I have recommended this loan product to were originally considering an FHA loan for a condo purchase. Since the FHA only backs loans in approved condo complexes the SONYMA worlked well because they back all condos.

One gripe some have had is that the SONYMA loan takes a bit longer and has more paperwork. This past spring began working with two of it’s largest lenders to develop SONYMA Express. This program will help improve the processing time and quickly determine the buyers eligibility.

The program will also cut down the amount of paperwork needed by using auto-populated forms that only require a buyer signature. There is so much more availailable to you through this SONYMA program and the others they offer. I’m just making you aware of the option.

Quite often I will talk with buyers that haven’t been educated on all of the loan products that may be available to them if they qualify. The best thing you can do is find a mortgage professional that will answer all of your questions and guide you accordingly. Don’t assume that they will automatically educate you on everything, ask the simple question “Can you please tell me about any and all available programs that I/we may qualify for?

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023

chris@legendsrealtygroup.net

The Best Pop-Up Holiday Shops & Flea Markets In NYC 2014

New York City is known for some of the coolest pop-up shops and flea markets all throughout the year, these are by far my favorite.  One of the things I love the most is the unique vendors from all around the world.  It's not your same old crafts and flea market stuff.  Much of the goods come from artisan vendors who are selling and promoting their hard work.  

Since Brooklyn has become the hot spot for srtisan folks over the years, you'll find more options to shop.

1) Holiday Shops at Bryant Park - (between 40th-42nd streets and 5th-6th avenues)  this is part of the bigger Winter Village that includes a Christmas tree and Ice Skating.  Open through Jan. 4; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays

Info: wintervillage.org

2) Winter Flea + Holiday Market (1000 Dean St., Crown Heights): The Brooklyn Flea heads inside for the winter, spread out over 30,000 square feet of warehouse space to host more than 100 vendors. Highlights  include an abundance of food vendors, Christmas trees (on sale starting Dec. 1); silent holiday movies on loop; and an eclectic array of vendors selling antique and salvage furniture, clothing, books, records, hand-crated items and and more.  Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 8 through March

Info: brooklynflea.com

3) Grand Central Holiday Fair (Grand Central Terminal, 89 E. 42nd St.): This market also hosts the annual train show. Head to Vanderbilt Hall and peruse 76 vendors selling wares for everyone, including your dog.  Open Nov. 17-Dec. 24 (closed Thanksgiving Day); 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily (Sundays until 7 p.m., Nov. 17 until 5, Dec. 24 until 6, closed Nov. 27)

Info: grandcentralterminal.com

4) Union Square Holiday Market - You would be amazed at how many unique shops manage to fit into Union Square.  This is one of the first shops that I attended back in 1999.  There is no shortage of artisan vendors and food to enjoy while shopping.  Open Nov. 20-Dec. 24; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sundays

Info: urbanspacenyc.com

5) Columbus Circle Holiday Market (59th Street and Central Park West): This market is run by the same people that run the Union Square Market, just more convenient for the folks that live Uptown.  Open Dec. 2-Dec. 24; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily (until 7 p.m Sundays)

Info: urbanspacenyc.com

6) Brooklyn Night Bazaar (Banker Street): Get your holiday shopping done early at this indoor Williamsburg marketplace, where 70 merchants sell their wares while food vendors offer up assorted grub. Craft beer and wine (drink passes are $25), live performances, black-light mini-golf and table tennis add to the festive atmosphere. 

When: 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Fridays and Saturday

Info: bkbazaar.com

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Ravies Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

White Plains NY Real estate Market Update October 2014

The White Plains NY Real Estate Market continued to see strong sales through Septmber with 16 single family homes closing.  Much of this is residual from the busy summer months and the numbers are down from 19 in September 2013.  The median home price was $542,000 which is down 4.3% from $566,750 this time last year.  Inventory levels of 92, a pretty healthy number but down from 95 in August and down considerabley from 130 in Sept 2013.  The average days on market was 65 down substantially from 133 last September.

White Plains condo sales of 15 were not far behind single family homes, hovering over coop sales, and down 25% from 20 in September 2013.  The median price was $380,000 which is also down from $420,000 in September 2013.  Inventory of 91 units is up 11% from 82 in August and 5.8% this time last year.  New listings are way up and the months if supply as well.  The average days on market of 82 is down considerably from 125 in August and 132 in Septmeber 2013.

There were 12 White Plains coop sales in September which is unchanged form last year.  This is the lowest unit sales have been since 8 in February 2013.  The median price was $167,000, up 28.2% from $130,250 in September 2013.  Inventory levels of 130 are the same as August and new listings of 26 are up from 20 in August but way down from 41 in September 2013.  Days on market of 134 in September was up somewhat from 107 in August but down substantially from 228 in September of 2013. This is the highest days on market has been since April, 2014.

Overall The White Plains Real Estate Market is still going strong and if you are considering buying or selling there your chances are good!

Ever Wonder How The Grammy Voting Process Works?

Many often wonder how the voting process for the Grammy's actually works.  It's not easy and many people are involved, more then you realize.  Here's how they do it,

1. More than 20,000 artistic entries are submitted for consideration, and members vote one round, making up to five selections in each category.

2. A "star chamber" of experts -- about 150 from the various fields -- reviews round one's selections and casts secret ballots to determine the final nominations, honing the choices in each category from 15 to five.

3. Grammy voters review the final list, the nominations (now five in each category), and place one vote in up to 20 categories (according to their fields of expertise), then mail in their votes on a paper ballot. Accounting firm Deloitte tallies the votes and places winners' names in sealed envelopes.

Christopher Pagli
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

914.406.9023

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net 

Tarrytown NY Real Estate Market Update October 2014

As expected, Tarrytown Single Family and Condo sales have cooled down a bit from the busy spring market.  There were 4 single family sales which is up from 2 in September 2013 along with the sales/list price ratio of 97.6%.  The median price was $517,500, up from $492,500 this time last year.  Please note that this is the lowest the median price has been since March 2014.  

 

Inventory levels of 26 are up 13% from 23 in August but down 25.7% from 35 in September 2013.  The average days on market of 83 is way up from 52 in August and a bit from 70 in September 2013.

 

Tarrytown Condo sales were a total of 4 as well which is also up from 3 this time last year but the sales/list price ratio decreased 1%.  The median price was #340,000, down from $499,000 in September 2013 and is the lowest the median price has been since April 2014.  

 

Inventory levels of 19 units is down 9.5% from 21 in August and 40.6% from September 2013.  The average days on market of 36 is down considerably from 147 in september 2013.

 

We should see more inventory come on in the coming months as many try to get a jump on the spring market.  It seems that it starts earlier and earlier every year.  The bottom line is that serious buyers will be out anytime of year.  So if you are considering selling your home have your agent analyze the amount of inventory, absorption rate, and guide you accordingly.

 

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.332.6300 office

914.406.9023 cell

 

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

mrwestchester.blogspot.com

This Is Not Your Average Open House...

The debate on whether open houses are effective or net seems to never end.  Quite often I hear valid reasons why they are or are not worth the time.  Here is my perspective...I hold open houses for all of my properties, period.  I have been hired  by a seller to sell their home.  That means I will market the property in every way possible to bring a ready, willing, and able buyer through the door.  Marketing a property is like a puzzle, all the pieces and avenues come together to complete the sale.  

Many say that open house are a way for agents to pick up buyers or a chance for nosey neighbors to come through and snoop.  So what if an agent picks up a buyer at an open house?  The buyer willingly showed up to the open house and was obviously impressed by the agent.  In NY, we are technically supposed to ask the sellers permission to work with the buyer since they came to the open house, did you know that?  Meeting a buyer at an open house doesn't necessarily mean they are going to work with you, YOU have to be able to convert them.  

As for nosey neighbors, I don't mind if they come through because you never know who they know looking to move into the neighborhood.  I sold a home to a neighbor's mother who had been looking in the neighborhood for the right property to come on the market, it was mine.  

I try to be as creative with my open houses and never, ever, hire clowns or give away TV's.  I don't want the focus to be taken away from the home, that is why we are all here.  If they have to be enticed by fluff and carnies, they aren't real buyers.  That's just me, others may have success with it but I stick to marketing and great sign placement.

As agents we should travel down every avenue of marketing because WE never know when or how we will meet that ONE buyer for a property, all we need is one.  

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

Guide To Hudson Valley Restaurant Week November 3-16, 2014

What I love most about Hudson Valley Restaurant Week, or any restaurant week, is the frequency.  I know that every quarter I will be able to partake in one of the Hudson Valleys most anticipated events.  Restaurant week affords us the opportunity to sample some of the area's best food at a reasonable price.  Unfortunately, not all restaurants participate so you'll have to check the  list of participant's to see if your choice is on there.  The full list will be available October 6, 2014 so be sure to check back with the site if you visit before then.

There are about 200 restaurants expected to participate this year and the list is as exciting and diverse as ever!  The primary focus is on the best local products and if you aren't familiar with the Hudson Valley, we have some of the best.  Our area is chock full of farms, wine, and artisanal goods.

Here's how it all works: Restaurants will offer prix fixe, three course dinners for 29.95 and lunch for 20.95, per person (plus tax, tip, and beverage).  You can book your reservation through www.Opentable.com, www.HudsonValleyRestaurantweek.com or call the restaurants directly, either way, book early.

Look out for NYC Restaurant week coming shortly, stay tuned!

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

MrWestchester.blogspot.com - Blog
chris@legendsRealtyGroup.net

How's The Real Estate Market In Larchmont NY?

Larchmont NY is clearly one of the leaders in the Westchester County Real Estate Market.  August closed out with 31 single family sales, up 3.3% from August 2013.  The sales/list price ratio was also up to 101.9%, many homes sell over the asking price in Larchmont.  The median price of $1,085,000 was down 4.7% and the price per sq. ft average was $458.


Inventory levels shrunk down to 57 single family homes compared to 69 in July and 73 in August 2013.  Days on market averaged 34, down moderately from 43 in July and substantially from 73 this time last year.




Not much to report in the way of Larchmont condo sales, there was only 1 traded.  This is due in part to lower inventory levels of 3 units in August compared to 12 in July and 21 in August 2013.

The Larchmont coop sector performed similarly with only 2 units closing.  The median price was $379,000, the highest the  median price has been since February 2014.  Inventory levels are also much lower this month, decreasing to 10 from 31 compared to last August 2013.

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

MrWestchester.blogspot.com - Blog
chris@legendsRealtyGroup.net

How's The Real Estate Market In Pleasantville NY?

How's The market in Pleasantville NY?  This is a question that I always get asked, and I love to respond with the detailed statistics.  August was a a stronger month for single family homes in Pleasantville then July.  There were 17 closings which is down from this time last year but the highest since 18 in August 2013.  The median price in August was $630,000 down from $642,000 in August 2013.  Inventory has decreased a bit to 61 compared to 68 in July and 73 in August of 2013.  These numbers may seem high but this covers all single family price ranges.  The days on market averaged 111, up from 103 in July and slightly down from 162 in August 2013.

There were 2 Pleasantville condo sales in August which is down from 7 in 2013.  This is the lowest that sales have been since 1 in March 2014.  Inventory has been a bit tighter partially due to the limited amount of condos in Pleasantville to begin with.  The median price of $325,250 is up form $256,000 in August 2013.  Inventory levels in August were half that of last August and the months supple if 2.6 was up marginally from 2.5 in July and down substantially from 4.9 in August 2013.  The days on market of 50 was done substantially from 234 last year!

Lastly, there were no Pleasantville coops sales through the MLS to report.  Inventory levels are stroll very low and the months of supply are way down from August 2014.

Christopher Pagli
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

MrWestchester.blogspot.com - Blog
chris@legendsRealtyGroup.net

White Plains NY Real Estate Market Report September 2014

The White Plains Real Estate Market saw another blockbuster month with Single family, Condo, and coop closings.  Definite signs that the White Plains market is strong and not slowing down.

White Plains Single Family Homes

Sales

There were 31 unit sales in August. This is down 13.9% from 36 in August of 2013. Sales/list price ratio in August moved up to 98.1% from 96.4% in July.

Prices

Median price in August was $610,000. This is up 9.8% from $555,500 in August of 2013. 3-month median price of $614,000 in August was down a little from $621,500 in July but up just slightly from $600,000 in August of 2013. Price per square foot in August was $293. This is up from $278 in July and up from $285 in August of 2013.

Inventory

Inventory of 95 in August was down 12.8% from 109 in July and down 21.5% from 121 in August of 2013. New listings of 19 in August were way down from 30 in July but up a little from 17 in August of 2013. Months of supply of 5.1 in August was down modestly from 5.7 in July and down somewhat from 6.5 in August of 2013. This is the lowest months of supply has been since March, 2014.

Market Time

Days on market of 57 in August was down considerably from 96 in July and down substantially from 104 in August of 2013.

White Plains Condos

Sales

There were 13 unit sales in August. This is down 40.9% from 22 in August of 2013. Sales/list price ratio in August moved up to 98.1% from 95.2% in July.

Prices

Median price in August was $501,500. This is up 7.0% from $468,750 in August of 2013. 3-month median price of $413,500 in August was up modestly from $388,100 in July and up a little from $385,000 in August of 2013. Price per square foot in August was $474. This is up from $387 in July and up from $369 in August of 2013.

Inventory

Inventory of 84 in August was down 1.2% from 85 in July and down 3.4% from 87 in August of 2013. New listings of 17 in August were way down from 32 in July and down modestly from 20 in August of 2013. Months of supply of 6.8 in August was very slightly up from 6.5 in July and up slightly from 6.2 in August of 2013. This is the highest months of supply has been since July, 2013.

Market Time

Days on market of 125 in August was up moderately from 99 in July and up considerably from 100 in August of 2013. This is the highest days on market has been since September, 2013.

White Plains Coops Sales

Sales

There were 27 unit sales in August. This is up 68.8% from 16 in August of 2013. Sales/list price ratio in August moved up to 95.3% from 94.7% in July.

Prices

Prices

Median price in August was $180,000. This is up 20.0% from $150,000 in August of 2013. 3-month median price of $182,500 in August was very slightly up from $175,000 in July and up just slightly from $177,000 in August of 2013. Price per square foot in August was $193. This is up from $187 in July and up from $187 in August of 2013.

Inventory

Inventory of 131 in August was down 9.7% from 145 in July and down 32.1% from 193 in August of 2013. New listings of 20 in August were way down from 33 in July and down considerably from 26 in August of 2013. Months of supply of 7.9 in August was down modestly from 9.2 in July and way down from 13.5 in August of 2013.

Market Time

Days on market of 107 in August was up a little from 98 in July but down substantially from 182 in August of 2013.

Christopher Pagli
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

MrWestchester.blogspot.com - Blog
chris@legendsRealtyGroup.net

Another Strong Month For Rye NY Single Family Closings

Rye had another very strong month for closings with 27 single family homes trading hands in August.    Although that number is down a bit from 33 in August 2013, it's still a good number for this time of year and is the highest it's been since then.  The median price was $1,950,000 which is up 12.1% from 1,740,000 in August 2013.  The amount of inventory hasn't changed much since July down 9% and only 9.8% form August 2013.  There were a good number of multi million dollar homes that came on the market in Rye these last few months as well.  The average days on market of 62 was down from 88 in July and marginally from 65 in August 2013.

There weren't any Rye Condo sales to report through the MLS in August and the 3 month median price of $430,000 was down substantially from $677,500 in July and down a little from $470,000 in August 2014.  Current inventory and the months of supply are both down a bit and the supply is the lowest it's been since March 2014.

Only 1 Rye coop sale to report at this time.  The current inventory of 18 units is down from this time last year along with new listings.


Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net
mrwestchester.blogspot.com

Tarrytown NY Real Estate Report September 2014

As expected, we saw fewer Tarrytown single family home sales in August then the preceding spring market months.  This is most likely due to the fact that the majority of people that want to be in for the new school year have already closed.  The 5 single family sales were also down from 8 in August of 2013. The median sales price in August was $559,000 which is up 26% from this time last year!  Inventory levels of 23 are still down a bit from 24 in July, and 32 in August 2013.  

We haven't seen many new Tarrytown single family listings come on which doesn't surpirse at it is one of the slowest transition months of the year in Westchester County.  Lastly, the average days on market of 52 was down considerably from 130 in July and 109 in August 2013.

The Tarrytown condo sector performed very well in August with 8 sales.  Although this is down slightly from August 2013 it is the highest unit sales have been since October 2013.  The median price was $442,000 which is up 2.1% from last year.  Inventory levels of 21 were down 4.5% from 22 in July and down 43% from 37 in August 2013.  

This may be partly due to the addition of the Hudson Harbor condo community on theTarrytown waterfront, there were many sales in the complex last year.  The average days on market of 42 in August was way down from 153 in August 2013 and the lowest since May 2013.

There isn't much to report about the Tarrytown Coop sales as there were only 2 this month, down only by 1 from August 2013.  The median price was $212,000 which is up 123% from $95,000 in August 2013.  Inventory levels of 10 stayed the same as last month and only a few new listings have entered the marketplace.  The average days on market of 89 was down substantially from 178 in August 2013.  

Overall, properties are still selling rather quickly in Tarrytown and the shortage of inventory continues.  I am very optimistic about inventory throughout the county because I've noticed an increase in other parts of Westchester County since Labor day weekend, this we always expect.  

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me below

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.406.9023 cell
914.332.6300 office

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net
mrwestchester.blogspot.com

Understanding The Difference Between A Mortgage Pre-Qualification & A Mortgage Pre-Approval

I've found that many home buyers today don't understand the difference between a mortgage pre-qualification and a mortgage pre approval letter.  This video explains the difference and importance of one over the other when purchasing a home.  

It's important for a home seller to know that you have taken the necessary steps to get pre-approved and are a qualified buyer.  You wouldn't want t a buyer that isn't sure they can afford the home to come through the door would you?  Taking these important steps give you the home buyer, confidence when shopping.

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.406.9023 cell

914.332.6300 office

chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

mrwescthester.blogspot.com

10 Westchester County High Schools Rank Amongst The Best In The Country!

Every year Newsweek Magazine compiles a list of the all around best high schools in America.  This year, several Westchester County high schools ranked within the top 500, three within thetop 50 and one in the top 10!  That one is Blind Brook High School in Rye Brook.  

This is very exciting news to me because I grew up in Rye Brook and my four brothers and sisers attended Blind Brook High school.  It has been a pleasure to watch it evolve into the sought after learning institution it is today.  In fact, the Newsweek report focuses on schools that are the best in preparing their students for college.  The 486 students are very lucky to have the support that the school provides.  

As a parent you should pay attention to these rankings but also do your own due diligence to ensure the school you choose is most fitting for your child.

The other schools that ranked within the top 50 are,

•Ardsley High School #15

•Briarcliff High School #17

•Hastings High School #41  

Within the top 500,

•Pleasantville High School #69

•Dobbs Ferry High School #70

•Pelham High School #79

•Croton-Harmon High School #111

•Hendrick Hudson High School #248

•Fox Lane High School High School #327.

Congratulations to all!

Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com

Accredited Buyer Representative

Real Estate Associate Broker

William Raveis Legends Realty Group

914.332.6300 office

914.406.9023 cell

Chris@LegendsRealtyGroup.net

mrwestchester.blogspot.com