5 Questions for the Local Expert: Landscape Design

With the warm weather and spring buds appearing this week, I’ve received a number of requests for landscaping referrals. I highly recommend Mary Beth’s work and want to stress the importance of quality landscape design when preparing your home for sale. I’ve seen Mary Beth transform even the simplest yard with a few well-chosen plantings or stonework — and it often pays for itself in the final selling price.

 

GARDEN ALLIES
Mary Beth Lubeck, Landscape Designer
(914) 720-8884
Garden Allies online

 

We all welcome the sight of early spring flowers but what do we do with the foliage that remains when the flowers die?
You can cut the flower stem back when the flower fades away; however, the foliage is needed to feed the bulb for next year’s blooms. Generally the greens need 8 weeks of growing time before they start to fade and you can safely cut them down. If the look of the greens bothers you plant some pansies or other spring flowering annuals to hide some of the foliage.

What should be pruned in early spring?
Be careful pruning in the springtime! Most trees and shrubs benefit from springtime pruning but not all should be pruned at that time. Spring flowering trees and shrubs should ONLY be pruned AFTER they bloom. Summer flowering shrubs which set their flower blooms in the previous season (many hydrangea varieties) should not be pruned in the springtime either. Be patient and enjoy the show before you prune.

I need a landscape makeover. Where do I start?
First, I would first work with you to develop a plan for your property — even the DIY homeowner can benefit from expert advice and a fresh look. I can also help you save money by suggesting the appropriate placement for plants and gardens which will best highlight your home.

When can I transplant?
For most trees, shrubs and perennials springtime is the best time for transplanting. Cool, moist soil conditions are less stressful for the plants. Don’t wait until summer heat which decreases the plants chances of survival.

When should I plant my summer flowering annuals?
Generally I’ve always waited until the first week of May to plant summer flowering annuals such as impatiens, petunias, geraniums, etc. Otherwise a late spring frost could ruin the roots of the plant and hamper summer blooms. This year is unseasonably warm so watch the weather forecasts and plan accordingly!

Sunday’s Open House: New Listing in Sought-After Hix Park

99 Hix Avenue, Rye

Coming up this weekend is a must-see open house at 99 Hix Avenue in Rye on Sunday, March 18th from 1-3pm. Recently built in 2008 in the highly sought-after Hix Park neighborhood, this Nantucket shingled 5 bedroom Colonial features exquisite detailing and amenities too numerous to list here — we’ll have a Feature Sheet available for your review on Sunday.

This fantastic, spacious home boasts two fireplaces, custom shelving and radiant heat flooring on the lower level. You’ll especially love the winter water views from both the first floor deck and the second floor balcony. And the stunning sunlit master suite spares no expense — the beautiful master bath exudes luxury with a spa tub and radiant heat.

Call me at (914) 329-5329 to schedule a tour or view the listing on my website under “Nantucket Shingled Colonial” for further details.

Local St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations

No matter what your heritage, this weekend everyone’s Irish!  Take part in local St. Patrick’s Day celebrations featuring live music, great food,
shopping, kids activities and the Sound Shore’s first ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade — sure to become an annual tradition!

 

SATURDAY, March 17th:

11am – 4pm • Brigit, 323 Mamaroneck Avenue, Mamaroneck
Enjoy Irish food and music at Brigit’s St. Patrick’s Day party while shopping their lovely apparel and accessories!

1pm – 3pm • Square House Museum, 1 Purchase Street, Rye
Children ages 7-11 will enjoy a fun afternoon baking traditional Irish Soda Bread, creating their very own pot of gold and painting shamrocks. The program is $15 per child and includes all materials. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the Rye Historical Society at (914) 967-7588.

3pm – 5pm • Chocolations, Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck
Lola’s Tea House and Chocolations are hosting an Irish Afternoon Tea replete with Irish Soda Bread scones, bite-sized desserts, fruit salad, finger sandwiches and a 2-cup pot of tea.  Reservations are required, please call (914) 777-3600.

4pm • Molly Spillane’s, 211 Mamaroneck Avenue, Mamaroneck
Enjoy corned beef and cabbage along with regular pub menu items while an Irish DJ plays traditional Irish favorites and contemporary Irish music.

 

SUNDAY, March 18th:

12pm • First Annual Sound Shore St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Mamaroneck
The parade starts on Nostrand Avenue near Mamaroneck Avenue at noon and ends at Harbor Island off Boston Post Road and features musicians, dancers, local schools, police, firefighters, pipe bands and representatives of the area’s Irish community.

4pm – 8pm •  Molly Spillane’s, 211 Mamaroneck Avenue, Mamaroneck 
Continue the celebration after the Parade and stop by Molly’s for live music from ERIN OG.

This Weekend’s Open Houses: New Listings and Great Buys

The appeal of the classic center hall Colonial is undeniable — bedrooms located together on the same upstairs floor and spacious kitchens with adjacent family rooms are appreciated by most buyers I meet. Enjoy a tour of two wonderful examples of this style during this weekend’s open houses on Sunday from 2-4pm. Besides being located in desirable Rye neighborhoods, both homes have enviable spaces for entertaining in addition to updated kitchens and master baths. And considering 8 Bennett’s recent repricing, it’s especially worth a tour!

8 Bennett Street, Rye

Recently repriced at $1,650,000, this lovely 4 bedroom shingle-style center hall Colonial at 8 Bennett Street in Rye is located in the sought-after Hix Park neighborhood. Its kitchen and hall baths were expanded and renovated in 2005 and the gorgeous master bath renovations were completed just a few weeks ago!

At 2600 square feet, the spaciousness of the home is readily apparent in the kitchen, which offers a large island with stool seating, ample breakfast and sitting areas as well as a household desk space. Home entertaining is a breeze in the comfortable family room with built-ins and sliding doors leading out to the deck. Bring your party from the large, inviting front porch into the house and then out to the back deck while still enjoying your favorite music — the entire floor and outdoor areas are wired for stereo!

View interior photos and learn more about this home in my earlier blog post, or view the listing on my website under ”Renovated Center Hall Colonial, Rye.“

25 Orchard Lane, Rye

A rare find awaits you at my new listing at 25 Orchard Lane in Rye — an ideal balance of Old World charm and modern day luxuries situated on a lovely .77 acres of professionally landscaped property in the heart of Rye. This superb center hall Colonial features 5 bedrooms, and its inviting entrance hall welcomes you into 4300 square feet of comfortable living space.

The fabulously updated kitchen leads into the stunning, sun-drenched family room featuring a soaring ceiling and doors leading outside to a large flagstone patio, perfect for entertaining. If the weather doesn’t comply, easily move your party inside to the screened-in porch off the living room — either way, entertaining will seem effortless.

Beautiful architectural details such as crown molding and paneling grace the formal dining room, while a gorgeous fireplace and French doors complete the elegant living room. Custom built-ins neatly store all your necessities in the sun room and master bedroom suite, which also features a fully updated bath.

View interior photos and learn more about this home in my earlier blog post, or view the listing on my website under “Old Charm & Modern Day Luxuries, Rye, NY.“

Old World Charm in the Heart of Rye

25 Orchard Lane, Rye

A rare find awaits you at 25 Orchard Lane in Rye — an ideal balance of Old World charm and modern day luxuries situated on a lovely .77 acres of professionally landscaped property in the center of Rye. This superb center hall Colonial features 5 bedrooms, and its inviting entrance hall welcomes you into 4300 square feet of comfortable living space.


The fabulously updated kitchen leads into the stunning, sun-drenched family room featuring a soaring ceiling and doors leading outside to a large flagstone patio, perfect for entertaining. If the weather doesn’t comply, easily move your party inside to the screened-in porch off the living room — either way, entertaining will seem effortless.

Beautiful architectural details such as crown molding and paneling grace the formal dining room, while a gorgeous fireplace and French doors complete the elegant living room. Custom built-ins neatly store all your necessities in the sun room and master bedroom suite, which also features a fully updated bath.

Tour this home during the open house on Sunday from 2-4pm, or call me at (914) 329-5329 to schedule a personal tour. For further details, please view the listing on my website under “Old Charm & Modern Day Luxuries.“ 

The Numbers Are In!

The final MLS numbers of 2011 are now official — and I am proud to share that I have been ranked the #1 Realtor in Rye and the Soundshore area.

This translates as:
• Selling 46% MORE HOMES than my closest competitor
• Quicker Sales with 45 FEWER DAYS on market than my closest competitor

It’s important when considering your next move to work with an agent who has expert knowledge of the local neighborhoods as well as access to
comprehensive proprietary market information in order to achieve these kinds of results. I also make it a priority to promote my listings through
effective print and online advertising channels, such as my in-depth market analysis newsletter, top-ranking real estate website and blog.

I appreciate this acknowledgement of the work I love to do, and I’m again reminded how lucky I am to work and live in such a beautiful
corner of the world where so many interesting, dynamic and successful people want to live. I’m grateful for the support of clients past and present!

Time to Register for Summer Camp!

It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year already, but summer camp programs are beginning to pop up like daffodils to announce the first signs of spring. Below is a selection of the wide range of fun local programs available for all ages — from computer camps to music/drama camps to sport camps. Don’t take too long to decide, I’ve already heard that the Junebugs program at Rye Nature Center is almost full!

———— Rye ——————–

Rye Arts Center
This year, Rye Arts Center is offering a summer program for ages 4 to 12 years old. Week-long programs will include Creative Arts Program, Music & Movement: Song and Dance; Digital Photography/Photoshop; Ceramics; Group Guitar for Beginners; Intro to Piano; Vocal and Instrumental Ensembles; Musical Theater; Instrumental and Vocal Music Lessons.
Visit their website for more information.

The Rye Nature Center
The Rye Nature Center offers an adventurous and educational summer program for children aged 3½ to 13 years. Set on 47 acres of forest and trails, the camp creates an enthusiastic and active atmosphere for children to explore a variety of ecosystems and become connected to nature.  Guided by some of Westchester’s best naturalists, the camp is a fun, hands-on experience where children begin the journey of becoming life-long environmental stewards.
Visit their website for more information or download their digital camp guide here.

Rye Recreation Department Summer Camps
Rye Recreation Department is offering full and half day summer camp programs for children aged 3 through 8th grade, with extended care available. Every day, the preschool children will participate in free play, story time, songs, outdoor play, art, sports and much more! Special events are held weekly to enhance the program. Lower Camp offers an active, supervised camp program for children enrolled in grades K-2 as of September 2011. Sports, group games, arts & crafts, scavenger hunts, field trips and special theme days are just part of the fun planned for these campers. Upper Camp is specifically for children enrolled in grades 3-6 as of September 2011. This camp program gives campers the opportunity to participate in a variety of trips and programs including sports, games, arts & crafts, chosen electives and a variety of special events. Camp 78 combines the best of sports, activities & cool trips for 7th and 8th graders. Have fun with your old friends and make some new ones while participating in daily games & activities, as well as enjoying trips to places such as West Point, a Broadway Show, Six Flags, rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking, Lake Compounce and much MORE!

Visit their website for more information or download their camp brochure here. 

The Rye Y
The Rye Y offers a variety of half and full day summer camps for children ages 3-17. A packed session of daily swim lessons and instructional sports plus science, arts, music and much more keeps campers engaged and excited every day. The age-appropriate programs allow campers to grow, building upon their progression in each new skill and activity. They also offer 4 one-week sports camps (Basketball, Soccer, Baseball & Sports) as well as themed camps including Lego, fine arts and video production. Extended care in the morning and afternoon is available. 

Visit their website for more information or download their camp brochure here.

———— Harrison ——————–

Harrison Presbyterian Church
The Harrison Presbyterian Preschool will host a summer camp for children ages 3-5 and will include the following group activities: arts and crafts, science and nature walks, water play and sprinklers, gross motor play, snack time and story time and cooking. Also planned are fun activity days, such as an Ice Cream Social. A calendar of events will go home before the first day of the session. The camp will be half or full days and children will be in groups of no more than 25 children. All children must have had at least one year of nursery school and must also be fully toilet trained.
Visit their website for more information.

Harrison Recreation Department Summer Camps
This year, the Harrison Recreation Department is offering day camps for 1st – 8th graders with numerous sports, arts and crafts swimming, music and weekly special events. For 11-14 year olds there is also a film camp. All ages sports camps are available, including cheerleading and field hockey, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, basketball and swimming.
Visit their website for more information or download their camp brochure here.

Innovative Star Gymnastics, Harrison
This year, Innovative Star is offering day camps for girls aged 5 to 14 years old. The morning session is devoted to teaching gymnastics skills and routines on the equipment. Afternoon session will include swimming, games, theater, arts and crafts, talent show and carnival. Seven sessions to choose from, June through August.
Visit their website for more information.

Rye Racquet Club
This year’s program features day camps intended for children ages 8 to 16. Tennis is the name of the game for junior players. The nine-court indoor/outdoor facility offers eight one-week sessions of tennis camp. Program includes instruction, practice play and match play. 
Visit their website for more information.

———— Purchase ——————–

DayJams at SUNY Purchase
DayJams is America’s original rock music day camp for beginners to experienced players aged 8 to 15 years old. Every week, campers can join a rock band, write a song, perform live, record their performance, design a poster, t-shirt and CD cover for their band and make new friends. 
Visit their website for more information.

Future Stars Summer Camps at SUNY Purchase
Weekly day camp June through August. Campers 3½ to 16 years old choose from specialties: tennis, soccer, football, multi-sports, basketball, baseball, field hockey, lacrosse, cheerleading, volleyball, circus arts, magic, softball, diving, academic. Little Stars: ages 3½ – 5 years, two-week sessions. Lunch option, local central point transportation from Westchester, door-to-door transportation from Manhattan available.
Visit their website for more information.

Purchase College Youth & Pre-College Programs in the Arts
This is a great summer arts program for students from 6 to 18 years old who love to act, sing and dance, paint, write creatively, be a reporter, take pictures, make movies, play jazz, or write songs.
Visit their website for more information.

Purchase Day Camp
A professional staff of over 60 teachers oversees this daycamp for ages 3 to 14 years old. Campers enjoy 4 heated pools, climbing wall and zipline, rocketry, computers, crafts and sports twice a day.
Visit their website for more information or download their camp brochure here.

Summertech Computer Camp at SUNY Purchase
Day and overnight programs for ages 8 to 17, where campers learn game design, animation, computer programming and Web design from the most knowledgeable staff. Computer fun including computer games and tournaments with the top games made for the PC and Mac.
Visit their website for more information.

Private Rye Center Hall Colonial Close to All

24 Guelisten Place, Rye

This classic center hall Colonial at 24 Guelisten Place in Rye is nestled on .59 professionally landscaped acres on a private road within walking distance to town, train and schools. The beautifully updated and bright home shines with hardwood floors, a freshly painted interior, numerous updates and charming elements throughout.

The welcoming entry hall leads into the formal living room anchored by an elegant fireplace and features an inviting window seat. The unique details continue throughout; another window seat graces the den while a glass paneled door leads from the formal dining room to a screened porch — perfect for dining al fresco!

The updated custom kitchen is replete with granite counters and a large island with stool seating. A door from the kitchen leads to a fabulous stone backyard patio and children’s playscape.

Upstairs, the second and third floors complete the private areas of the home with a total of 5 bedrooms. The second floor boasts two family bedrooms in addition to a master suite with generous closet space and a private master bath with separate tub and shower, while the third floor features two additional family bedrooms and hall bath.

For more information, please view this home on my website, in the Featured Listings under “Classic Center Hall Colonial, Rye.”

Beautiful Custom Colonial Close to Beach, Park and School

10 Chamberlain Street, Rye

Quality, luxury and comfort define this thoughtfully designed custom home at 10 Chamberlain Street in Rye. Located in the desirable Hix Park neighborhood (within walking distance from the beach, park and school) this spacious 4,182 square foot stunner features 5 bedrooms/4.5 baths, a wrap-around front porch and a breathtaking 2-story entry hall. Throughout the home you’ll find hardwood floors, 9-12′ ceilings and generous closet space in all bedrooms.

Built in 2007, the home offers top-of-the-line amenities as well as uniquely designed rooms with custom flourishes. The spectacular gourmet kitchen shines with custom cabinets, skylights, stainless steel appliances, ample center island with stool seating and marble top and a bright and welcoming sun-filled breakfast area. Adjacent to the kitchen is the family room replete with fireplace and built-ins.

The formal living room is especially lovely with 14′ coffered ceilings and French doors leading outside to the backyard bluestone patio. Finishing out the space on the first floor is a guest bedroom with full bath and a large combination mudroom/laundry room with a sink, custom cubbies, bench and tile floor which benefits from a separate entrance off the porch.

I’ve saved the best for last — the magnificent master suite on the second floor will end your search for a new home. A gorgeous tray ceiling graces the master bedroom, while French doors lead to a private roof deck overlooking the backyard and Rye Golf Course. Space is never an issue in this home; you’ll find that the master bedroom’s two spacious walk-in closets easily store your things. The well appointed master bath boasts luxurious radiant-heated floors, soaking tub and steam shower with seamless doors and double vanity with marble top. Also on this floor are three additional spacious family bedrooms, one including a private bathroom with Jacuzzi tub.

Tour this dream home today! Call me at (914) 329-5329 to schedule a private tour and for more information, please click “Beautifully Designed Custom Colonial” in the featured listings.

4th Quarter 2011 Market Report Predicts a Strong Start to 2012

Looking back at 2011, we saw a stable year. Looking forward, we are seeing brisk interest from Buyers as evidenced by Houlihan Lawrence’s 52% increase in the number of Rye/Harrison showings this year in comparison to this same timeframe last year (1/20/11, single family homes, area 5).

Houlihan Lawrence’s Stephen and Chris Meyers, CEO and COO sum up 2011 as follows:

“Overall, 2011 was a year of stability in a still-recovering market, and many positive signs indicate that a base may be forming for the next bull market. Looking ahead, prices are likely to remain at or near current levels for 2012. We also expect the emerging trend of higher transaction volume to begin working its way up from the lower price ranges.” Excerpted from the Houlihan Lawrence 4th Quarter 2011 Marketing Report, this overview is insightful in setting our expectations for 2012.

(click image to enlarge)

When looking at an overview year-to-year comparison (see At A Glance chart above), we see that Rye City Schools saw a drop in number of homes sold from 149 in 2010 to 132 in 2011, but we witnessed a 14% change in Average Sold Price from $1,535,957 up to $1,748,806 in 2011. Sold Price per Square Footage rose 7% up to $566 in 2011 from $531 in 2010.

Homes in 10580 Harrison Schools remained flat with 18 homes sold and we experienced a 6% drop in Average Sold Price from just over $2,000,000 to $1,904,172. There was an increase in Sold Price per Square Foot however, rising from $372 in 2010 to $401 in 2011.

As Meyers and Meyers point out, although there is the largest decline in closed sales in the 4th Quarter compared to 2010, this is a reflection of the lull in contracts signed during the August-October period. Buyer confidence returned in November and a notable number of deals were put together over the final 6-8 weeks of the year.

Based on listings in contract at year-end—which translate to closings that typically take place within 45-60 days—“the stage is set for a relatively strong start to 2012, with the highest and lowest price ranges outperforming everything in between.”

Download the 4th Quarter Newsletter from my website or
email me to subscribe for automatic delivery.