Tag Archives: Armonk NY Real Estate

Armonk NY Real Estate

Interest in Miami real estate spikes | Armonk NY Homes

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Visits to the Miami Association of Realtors’ property search portal rose 47 percent on an annual basis in September, to 114,338.

Among foreign countries, house hunters from Venezuela topped the list last month, likely spurred at least partially by political instability, the Realtor association said. Rounding out the top 10 were Canada, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Lithuania, France, Italy, Spain and the Philippines.

 

Source: MIAMI –

 

 

See more at: http://www.inman.com/wire/interest-in-miami-real-estate-spikes/#sthash.wFBphAws.dpuf

White Plains Named To List Of Top 100 Places To Live | Armonk Real Estate

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White Plains was recently ranked No.23 in livability.com’s Top 100 places to live.

Livability’s reasons for the high ranking was the city’s high ratings in education, infrastructure, and social and civic capital.

Other categories that factored into White Plains scoring were economics, health care, housing, amenities and demographics.

Neighboring Stamford Connecticut also made the list, coming in at No. 75.

The top ranked city to live in, according to livability.com, was Palo Alto, Calif.

 

 

http://whiteplains.dailyvoice.com/news/white-plains-named-list-top-100-places-live

 

 

 

 

Fannie Mae lowers forecast for mortgage rates | Armonk Real Estate

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The government shutdown and debt ceiling standoffs appear to have had a “minimal effect” on the housing market and rising home prices may actually help cushion some of the debates’ impacts by raising household net worth, Fannie Mae economists said in a monthly outlook released today.

Now that the Federal Reserve has decided to postpone its plan to taper its bond-buying activity, the mortgage giant doesn’t expect an end to the stimulus until the second half of 2014. Consequently, the economists lowered their forecast for mortgage rates, now predicting they will rise to an average of 4.4 percent in the fourth quarter and to 5 percent a year from now. In another sign of optimism for the housing market, Fannie Mae economists upped their forecast for home sales this year and anticipate they will rise 10 percent compared to 2012, though they expect a likely pullback in sales in the fourth quarter.

 

 

Source: Fannie Mae

 

 

– See more at: http://www.inman.com/wire/fannie-mae-lowers-forecast-for-mortgage-rates/#sthash.xcFPgdAK.dpuf

Housing affordability dips to a four-year low | Armonk NY Homes

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According to an article in The Wall Street Journal, the average mortgage payment on a median-priced home in August as a share of median income was 16%. Furthermore, housing affordability hit a four-year low during the month after the market experienced gains in home prices in the spring and higher interest rates over the course of the summer.

While the data released earlier this week show affordability has been dented, homes are still more affordable than any time between 1989 and late 2008, according to the NAR’s figures.

At prevailing interest rates in August, the mortgage payment on the median priced home stood at $851, or around 16% of the median U.S. income. By contrast, the equivalent mortgage payment one year earlier, at $683, accounted for 13.3% of the median income.

                    Source: WSJ

Updates from North Castle Supervisor Arden | Armonk NY Homes

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Dear Neighbors,

 

One of my key strategies for North Castle has always been to improve the appearance of our Town while reducing cost. That is why I am pleased to announce our green initiative this week that reflects this two-part philosophy. I would also like to draw your attention to a very special memorial service.

 

2014 BUDGET PROCESS

North Castle has begun its 2014 budget development. I have been meeting with the Town Administrator, Comptroller and the various Department Heads to review their plans.  During these meetings we will be drilling down and developing budget plans for each department and for the Town overall. I am encouraged by the numbers thus far and want to thank all the department heads for their hard work. I am confident that in the coming weeks we will once again deliver a budget that provides necessary services at the lowest cost to the taxpayers.  My goal, simply put, is to restore North Castle’s reputation as the low tax town in Westchester County. The tentative budget is due onOctober 30, 2013.

BEAUTIFICATION

If we want North Castle to stay a beautiful town, we have to nurture our environment and keep giving back to it. In this spirit, for the second year in a row, North Castle has taken advantage of the New York Power Authority’s Fall Tree Power program. This program enables us to purchase trees at a substantial savings. When you purchase one tree at the discounted price, you receive the second one free. This year we will be receiving 10 Colorado Spruces, 10 Flowering Pears for a total of 40 new trees. Importantly, we will be planting these trees in all three hamlets of North Castle, not just Armonk. Thanks very much to the members of our Beautification Committee and the Green Acres Garden Club for all their hard work. Special thanks to our Parks employees for planting our new trees.

 

MEMORIAL FOR SOCCER COACH MICHAEL JONES

If your children play soccer in North Castle, you know the name Michael Jones. Mike Jones, better known as “Jonesy” was one of our community’s most beloved soccer coaches and he was tragically murdered on October 7th, one year ago. The soccer families I have spoken to have told me that Mike, who came here from Liverpool, did much more than teach soccer skills to our kids. With his ever jovial personality, he created a special connection with each and every child. He was a spirit-lifter, self-esteem builder, parent supporter and incredibly loyal friend. Over the years, he lived with several Armonk residents on his tours here and became part of their families. On October 14TH, at 11:00 am, on the IBM Track Field  there will be a dedication of a memorial to this special young man to help insure that he is never forgotten. Please contact rememberjonesy@gmail.com for more information or make a donation at www.mikejonesmemorialfund.com.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Supervisor Howard Arden

Analyst forecasts a 20% drop in home prices | Armonk NY Homes

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Mark Hanson, a Menlo Park, Calif., real estate analyst, blogger and founder of consultancy firm Hanson Advisers, may be the only bear left in the housing market, predicting a decline of 20% in housing prices in the next 12 months.

Hanson says private-equity firms caused about 50 percent of the price appreciation in cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas, and generally overpaid by 10 percent to 20 percent, according to his calculations.

With gains of more than 35 percent since the crash for properties in Las Vegas, Phoenix and other of the hardest-hit regions, these vultures will begin to lose interest, he figures.

However, he does not stand completely alone.

Less bearish real estate experts such as Stan Humphries, chief economist at Zillow and a Hanson fan, also see signs of froth.

“There’s a strong distinction between a normal slowdown and the wheels coming off the housing recovery,” says Humphries. “That’s where I depart from Mark’s take.”

                    Source: Bloomberg

Kerry Kennedy’s Lawyer Reportedly Trying To Move Trial From Armonk | Armonk Homes

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Lawyers on both sides of Bedford resident Kerry Kennedy’s impaired driving trial are apparently looking beyond the North Castle Courthouse in Armonk for a bigger space, according to a report by the Associated Press via the Wall Street Journal.

Defense attorney Gerald Lefcourt has reportedly said that Armonk’s 60-seat courtroom won’t be able to hold the expected numbers of reporters, interested residents and a jury for Kennedy’s trial, the report said.

Other venues are being scouted, although no trial date has been set, according to the AP.

Kennedy was arrested in July 2012 after she swerved her Lexus into a tractor-trailer on Interstate 684 in Armonk.  She was charged with driving under the influence of an unknown substance, for which she pleaded not guilty, saying she accidently took a sleeping pill.

She tried to have her case dismissed this past May but was denied.

Kennedy is the daughter of Sen. Robert Kennedy and the niece of President John F. Kennedy.  She is also the ex-wife of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

 

 

http://mtkisco.dailyvoice.com/news/kerry-kennedys-lawyer-reportedly-trying-move-trial-armonk

 

How Much Does it Cost to Install Windows? | Armonk Real Estate

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Windows can bring light and warmth, provide views, beautify inside and out and add tremendous value to your home. They also can let in the elements and intruders that put your home at risk. That’s why windows – quality windows – must be considered an important investment. The cost of windows will depend on the type, dimensions, materials used, security features, the complexity of the installation, and, of course, the number of windows needed.
Number of Windows

Generally, the more windows you need to install, the more expensive the installation price. But installation professionals will charge less per window if you install several at the same time. So if you’re thinking about only replacing a couple of windows, it might make sense for you to talk to your pro about the cost of installing multiple windows at one time. It may save you money in the long run.  Continue Reading

Window Sizes

Windows tend toward different dimensions depending on where they’re needed. Living rooms typically have larger picture windows hung in multiples ranging from 3×4′ to 6×6′. Standard bathroom windows are quite a bit smaller, ranging from 2×1.5′ to 2×3′. Major window manufacturers can customize windows to any dimensions, but be aware that you may pay more for odd sizes.

Window Sash Materials

Vinyl windows are inexpensive and require little or no maintenance. They’re also extremely durable; changes in humidity don’t cause them to swell or shrink. Most vinyl window manufacturers stand behind their products with strong warranties. Their greatest drawback is that they’re not as sturdy or attractive as wood. Wood frames, on the other hand, cost more and require much more maintenance. Fail to repaint and finish wooden window frames and they become susceptible to the elements. But all that work and money can be worth it for the classic, authentic architectural appeal of wood. That’s why some historical neighborhoods have covenants requiring that windows be framed with wood. New composite windows attempt to capture the best of both worlds by mixing PVC polymers with wood fiber to create a stronger, more attractive synthetic window frame.

Window Panes

New windows can save you considerable money on your utility bills and make your home more comfortable. Windows are rated by the U-factor. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient and higher the initial cost. You’ll pay more for double-pane windows, but they will pay for themselves over time. Experts say double-pane windows can save up to 24 percent in cold climates during the winter and up to 18 percent in hot climates during the summer. More about double-pane options.

Other Window Cost Factors

Replacing existing windows is, of course, usually cheaper than cutting walls for new ones. You might consider talking to both your contractor and a security firm about how to make your windows safe from burglars. Also, be aware that windows above the first floor may be more expensive to install because of access issues.

County Begins Restoration Of Bronx River Reservation Near White Plains | Armonk Real Estate

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Restoration to the wetlands of Westchester’s Bronx River Parkway Reservation has begun in Greenburgh and North White Plains, the county announced.

The reservation is the oldest park in Westchester and restoration to about 2.5 acres of the area is expected to protect the environment.  Work in the Greenburgh and North White Plains area will continue through the winter and spring, with anticipated completion by early summer 2014.

Restoration will improve the wetland’s ability to cleanse and absorb stormwater runoff to enhance the attractiveness of the site, the county said. The project will also help reduce the amount of pollution from stormwater runoff to improve water quality and help manage flooding in the reservation, according to a statement from County Executive Rob Astorino.

Over time, due to development that has altered the flow of stormwater runoff into the wetland, the wetland has been physically separated from the river, which diminishes its role as a natural filter and sponge to treat and absorb stormwater, the county said.

During the restoration, the county plans to eradicate invasive reeds, shrubs and vines.  Crews will also plant thousands of native plants along the stream banks.

The project is being overseen by the county’s Department of Planning, and its design and construction is paid for with $950,000 in county capital funds, according county officials. The project was recommended in the 2007 Bronx River Watershed Management Plan developed by the county-led Bronx River Watershed Coalition, the county said.

 

 

http://whiteplains.dailyvoice.com/news/county-begins-restoration-bronx-river-reservation-greenburgh

World’s Richest Woman Lists Wyoming Estate For $12.5M | Armonk Real Estate

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Christy Walton, the richest woman in the world, has put her 2.45-acre Wyoming estate on the market for $12.5M. Yesterday Forbes named her as No. 6 on its Forbes 400, a rank she held last year, and calibrated her fortune—which she inherited from her late husband, a son of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. founder Sam Walton—at $35.4B. To summarize: even if the estate commands its asking price, Walton probably won’t bat an eyelash. In fact, after her husband’s 2005 death, Walton went so far as to donate—yes, donate—the stately 1896 Victorian where she had raised her family, in National City, Calif.

About this Teton Village property: it’s “an architectural masterpiece,” according to the brokerabble, with 200-year-old reclaimed-oak floors, Albertini windows, cathedral ceilings, a two-bedroom, turn-of-the-century guest cabin, and direct access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.