New York State Certified Residential Specialist Summer 2015 Newsletter

Posted on July 28 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

fireworks-celebratory-blue-vector-illustration-34833724It is in the midst of summer, and an exciting time in which to introduce a new Certified Residential Specialist platform for the upcoming 2016.  There will no longer be state chapters but rather regional networking groups with wonderful leadership assistance, and there will be just one central office in Chicago.

NYS Chapter CRS Summer 2015 Newsletter

The Council of Residential Specialists is the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS® — a professional network of over 30,000 residential real estate professionals in the U.S. and overseas, with one common goal in mind…your success.  

In the spring, 2015 the Board of Directors approved a new structure for chapter organization in order to fully engage all CRS members at a state and local level. To provide a supportive community for CRS professionals and voice for the designation, each state or region will have a network of members who, with support from the Council, will coordinate local activities such as education, networking, mentoring, public awareness and outreach, etc.

 New Structure

To provide a supportive community for CRS professionals and voice for the designation, each state or region will have a network of members who, with support from the Council, will coordinate local activities, such as, education, networking, mentoring, public awareness and outreach, etc.

The Council of Residential Specialists is the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS® — a professional network of over 30,000 residential real estate professionals in the U.S. and overseas, with one common goal in mind…your success.

What is a CRS?

  • We provide real estate agents with the tools, resources and strategies they need to help them guide buyers and sellers through the residential sales process.

We offer a host of educational programs including classroom courses, self-paced e-learning, live webinars, archived recordings and events to help members stay ahead in this competitive and changing environment.

We award the prestigious CRS Designation to experienced REALTORS® who have completed advanced professional training and demonstrated outstanding professional achievement in residential real estate.

A promising future…

Gay Rosen

2013-2015 NYS CRS Public Relations Chair Person & Communications Chair Person

New York is GREAT!

 

 

 

 

Posted in Dutchess County, Harrison, Hartsdale, Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information, New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged , | Leave a comment

New Rochelle Humane Society Dog Wash 2015

Posted on July 26 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

DSC05066The New Rochelle Humane Society  by necessity must have fund raisers. It receives funding for only 50% or so of the funding it requires each year in order to best serve the 19 communities  ” in Westchester County including Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Eastchester, Elmsford, Greenburgh, Harrison, Hartsdale, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Larchmont, Town of Mamaroneck, Mamaroneck Village, New Rochelle, Pelham, Pelham Manor, Rye, Rye Brook, Scarsdale and Tarrytown, and rescue over 500 dogs and 900 cats each year.”

DSC05085

That feels nice.. Thank you Donna…

My pooch, ‘stinky Binky’ came from the Humane Society. We love him, and I hope he loves us. He is perfect.

One of the fund raising events is the dog wash.  Today, my smallest baby met Donna, Taya and Christian, three of the wonderful volunteers on hand today at the event. There were raffles, a dog trainer (ask a question for just $5), a real estate company,  jewelry, pet photos,  different foods, and so much love. So much love.

Thank you the New Rochelle Humane Society.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted in Harrison, Hartsdale, Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information, New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged | Leave a comment

Meet the Mouse! Diminutive and Powerful! Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s 10538

Posted on July 26 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

IMG_20150725_103540749Marilyn Liebenguth, our weekend receptionist is simply known as “Mouse.’ She informs me that is because she used to teach first grade, and a chap that she was dating at the time called all little children ‘mice’, and would ask of her ‘hey mouse, how are the mice? “, and the nickname stayed with her..

Everyone else knows her as being an extremely strong and positive  presence at the Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s desk every weekend for the past 30 years!  She runs the desk like a tightly run ship, and follows up on everything, is always courteous to the sellers and agents alike, is so well respected within the area and industry, and for good reason.

Carolyn Fugere, the Manager of the Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Larchmont office stated “we have all observed Mouse’s intelligence, high ethical standards, sense of humor, loyalty and affection for her work family and incredible work ethic. “IMG_20150725_103548898

Who is Mouse? Brought up in Northern New York, she  moved here over 60 years ago where she has resided ever since. Mouse has a daughter who lives in Mamaroneck, and she is surrounded by her large group of friends. Her hobbies are  bridge, golf (Mouse is a member of the Winged Foot Golf Club), reading, a wonderful knitter (this is per Michele Wenzler  who was working  in the office at the time of the interview – Mouse is too humble),  and she is very active at  the St. John’s Episcopal Church where she is very involved in its’ yearly Bazaar usually held the weekend before Thanksgiving.

When asked why she likes working at Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s each weekend, Marilyn (Mouse) replied ” I love meeting different people and the creative problem solving.”

Thank goodness as we are all truly appreciative of her. As an associate and friend just commented, “Mouse is the weekend Ambassador of first impressions!”

Larchmont is great!

Posted in Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Swim Across America, Larchmont, July 25th, 2015

Posted on July 25 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

Well, I ate the proteins, carbs, and ate well the night before – you have to (when you are about to be  a volunteer for Swim Across America in the Larchmont area!). Ha! You thought I was swimming? As I awoke at 4 am to walk my dog, all that I saw on my early morning trek were the sprinklers commencing their timed watering , and my little sprinkler, with his always being ready to water ..

I was asked to be at the Larchmont Yacht Club at 5 am to commence my duties, and I was very impressed. The signs were up, there was breakfast on hand if you wanted bagels, pastries,  fruits, juice and coffee. I was assigned to the ‘bag’ desk. Oh my! a bag lady!. That basically meant that if anyone wanted to store their valuables whilst they were swimming,  my companions and I would  have them complete a name tag,  give a clear plastic bag where required if they had no gym bag, and direct them to the truck transporting their valuables to the Larchmont Shore Club.  We then placed the bags  to numbered areas corresponding with their swim number. So organized, and that is the best way to describe the event. So, truly well organized, and perfectly orchestrated, down to the  small school buses transporting people from one club to the other. No waiting, no dawdling. Easy, efficient and isn’t that the way we all like it?

I sat with a lovely lady, Sue, a long time Larchmont resident, and who informed me that the Swim Across America event was so special, as  it took care of items that the families can’t cover, perhaps cleaning a home, offering dinners, support… The monies obtainedfrom the Swim Across America event always stay local. That is key, and I think one of the reasons that there is such an outpouring of support from the community. Larchmont cares, and the residents all wish to help one another.

There were approximately 680 swimmers in today’s event, and I heard how each helped the other. It was both a camaraderie of spirit and of the heart. I was amazed at how refreshed all appeared after their individual races, be they the 10K, 5K, 2K open water swim or  the one mile or 1/2 mile pool swim, and the swimmers were all different ages.  Truly impressive. While this was the 23rd annual swim event honoring Kathy Webers,, this year also marks the 17th year of dedication teams.

 

The 2015 Chairman, Tony Sibio spoke well, applauding the team he worked with. It was quite obvious all of his team had worked extremely hard to make this happen.

What can I say.

Larchmont is GREAT!

 

 

 

Posted in Harrison, Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information, New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Date Night- a GREAT success – July 23rd, Larchmont 10538

Posted on July 23 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

untitledDate Night proved to be a great success? Excuse me? That is, ‘Date Night’ the Larchmont Chamber of Commerce style!  SO many stores stayed open until 8 p..m, so they could attract more buyers,  attract more interest, develop more  relationships and ultimately more sales, and all because of Carolyn Fugere, the President of the Larchmont Chamber of Commerce  (and also the Manager of the Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Larchmont Office..

This evening was the first of three ‘date nights’ scheduled (August 27th and September 23rd are the next events), and each store participating displayed some colorful balloons outside (courtesy of the Chamber of Commerce and the volunteers who delivered them). If participants visited 5 stores, and signed in, they were eligible for a raffle so a fun event for all. Musicians were on hand from the Larchmont Music Academy ensuring a wonderful evening also.

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted in New Rochelle Area Information | Leave a comment

Summer 2015 Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Networking Event – GREAT success

Posted on July 23 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

untitledYou had to have been there to appreciate it.  The weather was perfect, the homes spectacular, the organizational skills of Carolyn Fugere, the Manager of the Larchmont Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Brokerage were sublime, and it was undoubtedly a wonderful success.

6 waterfront homes were offered on the networking tour which was limited to our Westchester, Connecticut and Manhattan Brokerages. Limos were ordered, the event was co-sponsored by  the Findlay Luxury Moving Company,  Citibank,  and it was catered by Corner Stone Catering from Rye. There was wonderful jazz music (the perfect accompaniment) performed by the Larchmont Music Academy Jazz Ensemble, and of course volunteers galore from our Rye and Larchmont offices to both chauffeur guests from the trains, in between the  homes, and to be in attendance at the homes.

Patti Holmes , the Manager of the Rye office organized the homes in Rye, and was on hand at a beautiful home on Shore Road, and the event ended at a simply beautiful home in Orienta.  The food was elegant  (as usual) from the Corner Stone Caterers. Watermelon bites with a whipped frothy cheese,  the Prosciutto wrapped asparagus was tasty, the seviche was simply delicious,  who would think figs and cheese make simple yet bite-sized treats… everything was palate pleasing and a feast for the eyes as well as being delicious. Carolyn had worked so hard to make this event perfect, and it was!

What marvelous marketing and coverage for this one of a kind homes in the Sound Shore area.  Mr. Vin Socci, Chief Operating Officer, and Mr. Paul Breunich, Presidentt and Chief Operating Officer were on hand as well as Mr. Andrew Wood, our Director of Content at William Pitt and Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty. The excitement from such a  networking event always filters down (or builds up!) to increased interest in the homes featured.

The event was from 4-6 for the actual home tours, and the cocktail part was held from 5-7 p.m.  (but I left at 7:30 p.m. and it was still in full party mode!). Carolyn graciously gave goodie bags to all who attended.

Larchmont, Rye and Westchester are GREAT!

Posted in Hartsdale, Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information, New Rochelle Area Information, Rye | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

carolyn3We have all known family members and friends who have had cancer, who have both conquered it and who have bravely fought the disease and succumbed. CTChallenge.org is a support organization,  and the  “CT Challenge bike ride is the primary funding vehicle for the nonprofit organization which is dedicated to helping the 14.5 million cancer survivors in Connecticut and throughout the U.S. rebuild, improve and prolong their lives through exercise, nutrition, mind-body health and community-building support programs. ” 1123398_1261573185487 Carolyn Fugere, Manager of the Larchmont Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s Office, and a second year participant,  has never known an organization to actually do this to such an extent, and is proud to be a part of  Team Sotheby’s ( their great T-Shirt depicts a huge  “S” à la Superman  and of course,  “S” for  Sotheby’s with their motto stating “their only weakness is kryptonite!”). With 24 team members (still time to make it 25),  and with each member committed to raise $500 each in their one day challenge, this is a wonderful opportunity to give in honor of your loved ones, to help those who struggle each day, and who need the special support programs this non-profit organization offers and provides.  Team Members include Paul Breunich, President & Chief Executive Officer of William Pitt Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s , Vin Socci, Chief Operating Officer  William Pitt Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s, and Brad Kimmelman, Manager of the Southfield- Fairfield Brokerage.

Each participant can bike for 10 miles, 15 miles, 25 miles , 50 miles, 75 miles and even 100 miles and for a truly fun filled event,  can participate in a 2 day  80 mile event starting at Bear Mountain!   Over $1.3 Million raised so far.. with a goal of $2 Million…  will you accept the CT Challenge?

This is all in a day’s work for Carolyn.  Carolyn is so involved in the community (President of the Larchmont Chamber of Commerce ), is always planning wonderful local events ,  and one of Carolyn’s favorite quotes is by Albert Einstein “Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.”

I have contributed to this upcoming CT Challenge event. Have you? Let’s all support Carolyn ( but more importantly, let’s support the CT-Challenge).

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted on July 21 2015 by Gay E. Rosen | Leave a comment

Chat 19, Larchmont 10538 – for brunch, lunch, cocktails and dinner!

Posted on July 21 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

IMG_0046Every town needs a neighborhood eatery, where you can relax, meet friends and take your family, and enjoy enjoyable food. Such is the case with “Chat 19 American Grill” in Larchmont, 10538.  I found myself the other week enjoying (embarrassed to admit) a Bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich with French fries. The bacon had a wonderful barbecued flavor that truly enhanced the sandwich (meaning it went down quite well!). Such was the case yesterday evening. I met with Mary Welch of Weichert Realtors, and we like to meet periodically to discuss local real estate market conditions and trending. We toasted the summer with some cocktails and wonderful oysters, Thai Spring Rolls and Chicken Satay. Cocktails are discounted at the bar during the happy hour period which is always nice to know, and there is entertainment and specials during the week also.  (Ladies Night on Wednesdays, live music some night too). With friends, always a great place to go to … and with outdoor seating now, perfect! “Chat 19 American Grill” is located at 19 Chatsworth Avenue, 914 833-8871. Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted in Buyer's Tips, New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Wallach Jewelry Designs – Local Elegance & Style at your fingertips!

Posted on July 19 2015 by Gay E. Rosen
Wallach-banner-2Wallach Jewely Designs  has been a family owned business and tradition for the past 99 years,  starting out in the Bowery, moving to the Diamond District on 47th street in the 50’s,  to Eastchester for 40 years  (Many people knew Steve’s Dad from those years and that’s where Steve worked when he joined the family business), and finally moving to Larchmont  18 years ago.
When people are thinking of buying something for that special occasion, Wallach Jewelry Designs always comes to mind. Specializing in diamonds ( the owners go on visits to Antwerp, Belgium, the Diamond capital of the world to purchase their diamonds ) as they only wish to offer the very best to their clients.
The owners, Steve and Gina, love their craft. specializing in custom designs for their clientele. Engagement rings, wedding rings, beautiful exquisite jewelry are all available for purchase. If you are having an estate sale, call Steve and Gina, appraisals – call them, repairs – guess what!  They even offer a spa service for your jewelry starting at $75. Call them! It should be noted that Steven is a GIA Graduate Gemologist too.IMG_20150718_142609567
Being active members of the Larchmont Chamber of Commerce, Steve and Gina are also excited about the upcoming Larchmont 125 celebration, and are having designed a special pendant and/or charm to commemorate the year long event ( which can be handed down to each generation thereafter) .  This commemorative piece of jewelry will hopefully be available for purchase in August/September.
Steve and Gina care. Through their efforts, they were able to re-unite a lady with her 1971 High School Ring that she had lost whilst moving from Connecticut.  Gina called it a true Christmas miracle.

Wallach Jewelry Designs  are open Tuesday through Saturday, 10-5 p.m. and can be reached at 914 – 833-0665.
Larchmont is GREAT!
Posted in New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Dog Wash at the New Rochelle Humane Society 7/26/2015

Posted on July 18 2015 by Gay E. Rosen

jpegBinkyNext week will be time for the dog wash event at the New Rochelle Humane Society!  It is the 15th Annual Dog Wash and it is a wonderful fund day for all.  From 10-3 p.m. – hope to see you there.

Last year’s event was wonderful, much needed money is raised. The event is held outdoors  and you can have your dog washed, micro chipped, and enjoy some great food too!

MORE VENDORS WELCOME! For more information, please email Events@NewRochelleHumaneSociety.org

New Rochelle is GREAT!

 

Posted in Harrison, Larchmont Area, Mamaroneck 10543 Area Information, New Rochelle Area Information | Tagged , | Leave a comment