
The holidays are almost here, and with that comes the challenge of finding unique gifts for all the special people on your shopping list. Although you could go to a big box store to take care of your holiday shopping. our real estate agents recommend exploring some of the great local shops around Long Island. Not only is this an excellent way to support your community, but you're also far more likely to find one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to really "wow" your family and friends.
Not sure where to start? No problem! Here are a few of our favorite places to find unique Christmas gifts for every type of recipient.

Does it seem as though the meaning of the holidays has come down to Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Tuesday, December 3 has been designated National Day of Giving to spread seasonal cheer through charitable acts and donations. Join our real estate agents in observing #GivingTuesday by supporting one or more of these worthy Long Island charities.

Gated communities offer many amenities for homeowners. From added security to guest services, to shared facilities like pools or tennis, a gated community adds that "something extra" to suburban living. While all of these communities offer different bonuses compared with standard street housing, not each community will have the same offerings. Our real estate agents offer the following advice to help you know what to look for when buying a home and to choose the right community for yourself and your family.
For some communities this may be a simple physical gate with a key or code, in others, this may consist of a robust security system including a staffed security guard. There are benefits and drawbacks to each type of security. If security is simply an automated keypad, this will be less difficult to breach, but personal security may instead be more expensive. Either type of security has a shared safety advantage. However, less traffic in the area means a reduced risk of accidents for both cars and people, as well as less stranger-based vandalism or theft.

There's nothing quite like lacing up your running shoes and hitting the pavement in the crisp fall air of Nassau County. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, our real estate agents are excited to share these upcoming 5K runs and walks in and around Nassau County this season!

Inheriting a house often happens quickly and by surprise. You realize it will happen eventually, but many people are still unprepared when it does. Our real estate agents have worked with many people in this situation, and while it may be emotionally difficult, successfully navigating these circumstances is possible.
Contact the homeowner's insurance and utilities to make any changes needed to continue coverage and service. While you may not want to pay utility bills for a house that isn't occupied, turning them off isn't practical. If you or others will be spending time in the house cleaning out personal belongings or making repairs, you will need electricity and water. During heating season, gas will need to stay on to prevent possible damage from frozen pipes. You'll also need the utilities on for a house inspection. You can discontinue anything that isn't essential such as TV, internet and phone services.