Informative Info in the Mamaroneck, Larchmont, Harrison, Rye, & New Rochelle, N. Y. area by Gay E. Rosen, ABR, CBR, CDPE, CRS, GRI, SRES, Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker, Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty, Larchmont, N.Y. 10538, 914.907.2645 (Cell), http://www.gayrosen.com, gay.rosen@juliabfee.com (email)
“Beyond The City” has been a very popular catch phrase for the company indicating how Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s is the company to contact when leaving or even thinking of leaving the city.
However, we are also the company to contact if you are thinking of also selling in addition to relocating or a family member will be relocating or selling – ANYWHERE on the world!
Courtesy of Mohamed Nohassi Unsplash
Case in point is that I was recently contacted by a gentleman who resides in Puerto Rico! He found me on the internet, and asked that I represent him in the sale of his home in Puerto Rico. I am obviously not licensed there, but as it so happens, a client of mine and now friend (whose home I had sold last year), now resides in Puerto Rico, and I asked she join me on a phone call with the home owner to better discuss the location of his property since there was a slight language difficulty. I was then able to reach out to our relocation department who promptly reached out to the Sotheby’s office in that area. SO easy and definitely “Beyond The City! Please call if you need any real estate assistance at all !
We are local but we are also world wide and have a wonderful relocation department!
This week Mega Millions topped One Billion Dollars. Inconceivable! Many years ago, I can well recall when a lucky lotto winner won 5 Million dollars and it seemed like so much! Of course, it was and is. However, the difference now is that when people were canvassed a few short years ago and asked what would they buy should they win, the answers were invariably “Oh I will be giving money to charities and then I will buy …..” To me, it seemed as if they wanted G-d to hear them and grant them their wish. What I am now hearing amongst those people canvassed on the nightly news is that they would purchase a home. I heard three people in a row mention that and I thought it interesting.
Yes, when mortgage rates were rising, inventory still low, purchasing a home seemed out of many people’s reach. However, the rates did drop recently, and a 30 year mortgage can be obtained in the 5.5 to 6.6% rate!!!! Not only that but I was approached by Justin from the First Republic Bank yesterday and he quoted to me a 30 year Fixed rate of 4.75% (with 20% Down ) and they would also allow a small lender’s credit towards closing costs of $4000. This applies to loans up to One Million Dollars, and obviously qualified buyers! It is also only applicable to certain areas, and guess what! 11 The Boulevard in New Rochelle’s Historic District falls into that category! Oh my goodness! Great news! This charming home is only $869,000!
There also happens to be an open house there tomorrow from 1-3 p.m. Please join me
8 Midland Gardens #1J was last sold in May 2006 and guess what? The mortgage rates were approaching 6.6% back then! Fast forward to today, the rates while higher last year are now in that 5.5 -6.6% range once again! Also, guess what! It is STILL the largest 2 bedroom coop in the complex, has a wonderful storage room in the unit and a simply huge terrace! This coop apartment lives like a small home being 1500 square feet and there is also a storage unit too in the basement. The apartment has been painted throughout and the floors refinished. Just move in and update as you feel needed! Oh my! You can also install your own washer/dryer in the unit (with board permission and licensed plumber utilized).
Fantastic terrace!
The apartment is vacant and is located so close to Bronxville village, the trains, fine dining and the stores. Also walking distance to the school too. Need handicap access? You can enter through the adjoining building should you require that handicap access.
2023 is a GREAT time to purchase a home in Bronxville, but if you would like a less expensive house alternative then this apartment beckons!
New Rochelle is great! Truly! We have so much to offer. One appreciated service is CircuitNR which is a free shuttle service which can be utilized as follows:
New Rochelle is proud to present “CircuitNR,” a complimentary, on-demand electric shuttle service that transports riders along several routes in the downtown.
CircuitNR is available Monday through Thursday from 7AM-7PM, Friday from 7AM-10PM, Saturday between noon-10PM and Sunday from noon- 7PM. All vehicles have partitions between rows, are thoroughly cleaned three times per day, have open air options and individual doors for every rider. All drivers wear appropriate PPE’s and are tested regularly.
Riders can request an on-demand pickup anywhere in the shuttle coverage area by using the “Ride Circuit” App to alert a fleet driver to come pick you up. Alternatively, rides can be hailed by simply waving down the nearest CircuitNR driver if the vehicle has vacant seats.
Since launching almost two years ago, Circuit NR has been providing the service in downtown New Rochelle, which is in the middle of a game-changing redevelopment with over 30 construction projects across 12 million square feet of prime downtown real estate. Over 60,000 vehicle miles have been saved through its 50,000+ trips to date, and no gasoline has been used. In addition to reducing emissions, Circuit trips lead to less idling and additional convenience.
During the height of the pandemic, Circuit also worked with the City, 511NYRideshare and Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital to develop a shuttle service with an expanded coverage area to carry visiting healthcare workers between the hospital and their hotel before and after their shifts, highlighting the adaptability of the service. Circuit NR recently received the Clean Air NY Champions Award from the New York State Department of Transportation for its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create more sustainable, livable cities. (Courtesy of the City of New Rochelle)
It is a process. It can take years before we realize that those treasured and oft times expensive items are only worth something to you, and practically nothing to others!
I even sold my wine making equipment!
As an example, many years ago, in the hopes of going cross country skiing (it was actually 24 years ago!), we bought cross country skis for myself, my husband and my younger son. We spent $550. That year there was no snow those weekends we were able to travel to Lake Placid, and so they sat there! The next year and the following year. We lost the momentum and they were not used once! I had been thinking of selling them for the past 5 years and was always so busy. I then asked my younger son to sell them and keep the profits himself. He said it was hard to sell them. I hated to part with them as they had a monetary value to me. Now, years later, I just donated them to a charitable organization. Mentally, it took a few years for me to realize that it was better to just donate and accept it and I think that is what happens to so many of us !
It is so hard for us to surrender out ‘stuff’, and as I have written before, George Carlinhas a wonderfully humorous piece on getting rid of our ‘stuff’, and how we buyer bigger homes for our ‘stuff!”
Many times, people will just leave their treasures for the family to dispose of, and I would just mention that if possible, it is best to do it yourself, and make it easier for the family! I have been donating books, art items, and so much as I now realize I will never use them, and it actually feels good to declutter the attic and garage!
I have been using GoGreendrop.com and they have been very reliable. If you are thinking of moving, don’t forget to get rid of old paint cans. Sellers usually like to leave them for the new home owners who invariably will paint the rooms different colors so once established that they are not desired, it is always good to dry out the paint cans and discard on refuse days. As a Realtor, and in multiple bidding situations, we have even offered to the sellers to leave their unwanted items and we will dispose of same if that would make it easier for them in the move out process. Getting rid of things can be overwhelming to some. Remember there are companies that will pick up metal items for free, artwork, cars, basically you do not need!
Clients installed copper counter tops in their home and they simply gleam!
Why copper? Some types of copper create a particularly inhospitable environment for bacteria and viruses. In fact, naturally antimicrobial copper alloys kill off microbes even more effectively than stainless steel. This helps cut down on the risk of food-borne illness, as well as other illnesses, being transmitted in your kitchen.
Per Mr. Henry Parker of Home Reference, he writes “they are ecologically friendly, are one of the most expensive countertops to utilize. If you’re looking for a countertop that adds personality to your kitchen and you believe color variations and a few dings and dents give your counter character, then copper is the perfect material for you. Although copper is one of the pricier options for kitchen counter surfaces, it can last decades and its beauty only grows with time.”
11 The Boulevard was built in 1890, and the current owners lovingly restored many aspects of this grand Victorian home. Come and visit. You will love it!
There is also an open house on Sunday from 1-3 p.m.!
How is life in New Rochelle, New York? Is it a wise idea to move to New Rochelle? When deciding which cities are best for your personality, status, and personal preferences, there are numerous elements to consider. For instance, you need to check the climate, cost of living, community, career prospects, outdoor activities, and things to do. Therefore, we would like to present the biggest perks of moving to New Rochelle, NY. Read on to discover why moving and living in New Rochelle can change your life.
New Rochelle, NY, in numbers
New Rochelle, New York, is renowned for its stone houses, well-kept lawns, and stunning Long Island Sound vistas. With a population of about 80,000, New Rochelle ranks as the seventh- largest city in New York. One interesting fact is that Rochelle Park was one of the country’s earliest planned communities. Also, the city’s 9.3 miles of beachfront, 231 acres of public parks, and municipal marina are all notable perks.
Schools are great
New Rochelle has five public primary schools. And according to a recent study, New Rochelle’s public elementary schools are rated 60.5 out of 100, with 100 being the best. In addition, almost 15% of primary school children in New Rochelle are enrolled in private schools.
At the same time, the two public middle schools in New Rochelle also score above average, and around a quarter of the middle school students here go to private schools. However, what the city is most proud of it’s its high school. The most Advanced Placement subjects in Westchester are offered at the prestigious New Rochelle High School, which also has the highest rate of Ivy League admissions of any Westchester school district. In addition, Iona College, College of New Rochelle, and Monroe College, three esteemed private institutions in the city, offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees programs.
Moving to New Rochelle will allow your kids to learn in great schools.
Homes are affordable
Another perk of moving to New Rochelle, NY, is that it has affordable housing. Of course, New York may provide affordable housing just as well, but New Rochelle is ideal for people seeking a more peaceful environment. Therefore, you should know that in New Rochelle, the typical sale price of a property is around $720K, and the average time it spends on the market is 32 days. However, median selling prices differ amongst different types of real estate. In New Rochelle, for instance, a single-family home’s median sale price is around $850K. With a typical transaction price of condos of $210K, they are more affordable than single-family homes in the New Rochelle region. At the same time, consider one of the numerous New Rochelle apartments for rent if you’re not ready to buy a house here.
New Rochelle is safe
Before moving there or purchasing a property, it is essential to know if New Rochelle is safe for you and your family. After all, when choosing a place to live, safety is one of the most crucial considerations. Living in an area where crime is a concern is undesirable. Therefore, is New Rochelle a safe place to live?
You and your family members will be safe in New Rochelle
Yes, New Rochelle is a safe community. Compared to other cities of similar size, the crime rate is low, and the town offers lots of family-friendly activities. Like every city, some parts are riskier than others. In reality, no city is entirely crime-free. However, New Rochelle is a safe location to live, work, and raise a family. The low crime rate and family-friendly activities here make it a great area. Therefore, you can be confident that moving to New Rochelle, NY will put you and your family in a generally safe environment.
There are lots of things to do
The activities in New Rochelle range from eating at neighborhood eateries to visiting one of the many parks. You can visit some of New Rochelle’s well-known attractions, including the Thomas Paine Cottage and the Museum of Arts and Culture. In addition, Fleetwood Stage and New Rochelle Opera are a few arts venues that contribute to the city’s arts and cultural scene. Also, New Rochelle has several parks to choose from, including Hudson Park, Five Islands Park, and Glen Island Park & Beach. Finally, the city is home to many great restaurants and cafes that cater to all tastes.
The city and surroundings are accessible
New Rochelle encourages the community to use bicycles as transportation.
There are several ways to travel around New Rochelle. However, a car is the most convenient. New Rochelle has an above-average walk score, indicating that this region is moderately walkable if you’re exploring the city on foot. Public transportation is another option for getting about the city. Buses are widespread around the city and are a convenient way to get about. In addition, three heavy rail stations are located in New Rochelle. As a result, you may commute into the city from the surrounding region and even go to neighboring cities using heavy rail. You can also use a bicycle to navigate New Rochelle, which has good infrastructure for riding.
Therefore, if you want to move to New Rochelle, the city’s infrastructure will help you relocate quickly. In addition, if you hire moving professionals, you can ensure a positive experience in this beautiful city. Movers will help you relocate safely and start your new life on the right foot.
The cost of living is a crucial factor when deciding where to relocate. Therefore, compared to most other cities in the state and the nation, New Rochelle has a cheaper cost of living. On a state and federal level, certain places may have more significant expenses than others. However, on average, utilities, groceries, transportation, health care, and other services are less expensive in New Rochelle.
Low cost of living
Final words
As you can see, there are many perks to moving to New Rochelle, NY. This city can guarantee that you will have a safe and tranquil life as a single or alongside your family. In addition, there are lots of things to see and do in the city, and around it, so you will never get bored. However, if you want to ensure you will find the perfect home in New Rochelle, get in touch with a reputable local real estate agent. That way, you will have the house of your dreams in the perfect city.
Meta: Do you want to know which are the biggest perks of moving to New Rochelle, NY? Then read our article and prepare to start packing.
Please join me on December 3rd from 2-4 p.m. at 11 The Boulevard in Historic Rochelle Park in New Rochelle.
Beautiful and tranquil porch
So much to enjoy and appreciate! Relax on your wraparound porch in this exquisite and historic Victorian home located in desirable Rochelle Park. It features 3566 square feet, 7 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and is located on 0.36 of a lush level acre. Vintage details such as a rare 3-panel pocket door, 11 feet ceilings, original custom millwork, craftsman style stair rail, 3 gas fireplaces, balconies, and exceptional character are reflected throughout this gracious home. You will love the charming library, spacious rooms, updated kitchen with both granite and copper countertops, gas heat, and newer slate roof. The gas boiler is just 12 years old, and the hot water heater was replaced in 2021. There is a 2-car detached garage and don’t forget you are just 30 minutes from New York City, and the AMTRAK train goes to both Boston and Washington, DC too! This charming home is being offered at $869,000.
Here is a link to the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot race which is held in the area every year to benefit local charities. We might be a city but it feels like a village!
I recently closed on 3 properties with the owners staying/will be staying for a few months in each instance. One family is waiting to close on another property and need to stay within their home for a few months and are perfectly happy paying the buyer all rental costs in the interim! The other family is renovating their new home and wanted to avoid the dust for a few months! Yet another family was purchasing in another state, and needed a slight delay.
A few years ago this wasn’t the norm, and if a home owner stayed in their home for more than a few days then the daily penalty rose accordingly. However, since the real estate market has been so fluid with fewer homes on the market and higher demand for those homes then multiple offers was the norm for the first 8 months of this year. When you have 7-15 people bidding on a home then you also have the option to choose the best set of buyers with the very best terms (i.e. the buyers who not only place a great bid but who will allow your clients to stay in their home for a few months ). (Costs have usually been the payment of the buyer’s insurance, mortgage amount and property taxes pro-rated accordingly). I always try to advise my clients well, and if placing their home on the market to optimize the best sales price then I have suggested the rent back option to them if required and if the reason to list is holding them back. No guarantee there will be multiple bids but with staging, the right pricing then anything is possible!
As the mortgage rates increased there has been a softening in the market also, and we like to to now compare the market to the way it was in 2019, and when we reflect on the sales and sales prices back then to now, everything seems to comport accordingly. One lament we are hearing is that the interest rates are so high and they will ‘wait until the rates are lower before buying”. Well, if that is the case then they will have to wait for a few years before the rates decline. We like to say that you buy a home but just date the rate? Meaning, you buy the home you love and refinance at a lower rate in the future when those rates are lower.
My manager (Jane Murray) mentioned something in passing which is so worthwhile to repeat. Many people will schedule meetings with their financial planner in the new year, and if they are contemplating the sale of their home doesn’t it make sense to meet with their real estate financial planner (hopefully me!) as well so they can gauge what they have to do to obtain the best price, and to also find out what their home is worth!
It might be the holiday season but it is always a good time in which to plan for 2023.
Please know that I am here for all of your real estate requirements.
I am a Certified Buyer’s Agent, Certified Residential Specialist, hold a Graduate Realtor Institute designation , am a Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker, hold a GREEN designation, a Certified Distressed Properties Expert Designation and I am also a Senior Residential Specialist! Call me!
In it’s 6th year, the New Rochelle Thanksgiving Turkey Trot race is a must attend! It is the only race in the area on Thanksgiving Day and I cannot begin to state the dedication, handwork and energy that the volunteers and racing committee expend each and every year is simply gargantuan! (Had to use that word as it’s expressive!). However, did I mention that it is also a GREAT FUN event? With over 1700 participants this year, and so many more sponsors also as follows – you should have been there!
The person making this all possible is Michael Conlon of The Finish Line Physical Therapy. and the so many dedicated volunteers each and every year! Without Michael, none of this would have ever happened!
I made a few videos and took a few photos. All just a glimpse into the wonderful morning’s event.
New Rochelle is a city, but we reflect a village. Come and visit – you will love it!
Gay Rosen is a Top Realtor in the Larchmont and New Rochelle, New York (Westchester) area. She is diligent, caring, driven and thorough (with a sense of humor). Call her!
