Got a problem with the city budget?  Just raise taxes, that will fix it right? O wait, didn't they try that a while ago?  It seems that it's never enough.  I can remember when New York City didn't have an income tax or a sales tax.  That was sold to "FIX" the problem.  So if it was the grand fixer, why is John Liu, who is running for Mayor of our beautiful city, advocating for an increase in income taxes so as to give city workers and extra raise?  Aren't they already getting a 3% raise yearly? But let's put that aside for the time being.  Mr. Liu only wants to raise taxes on those making over $500,000 yearly.  Not to worry, we don't make that kind of money right?  OK, if that doesn't fix the problem will he lower the threshold  to those making over $250,000?  If that doesn't fix the pr... 05/29/2013

This elegant and sophisticated four bedroom, three bath center hall colonial is located in the exclusive Johanna Lane Estates, Princes Bay, Staten island. Exquisitely designed custom home complemented by a grand two story foyer, crown moldings,custom window treatments, french doors, jacuzzi, stone fireplace, maids quarters and so much more.  Stay nice and cozy in the sunken family room with radiant heating, two wood burning fireplaces and three skylights! Gourmet kitchen equipped with six burner Wolf stove, custom cabinetry, top of the line stainless appliances, granite counters, tumbled marble flooring and sliders to resort style backyard! Inground heated pool, pavers, and lush gardens make this the perfect place to relax quietly or entertain a large crowd! Gracious and beautiful descr... 05/22/2013

 Spotlight on Rosebank Staten Island Homes for Sale Spotlight on Rosebank Staten Island Homes for Sale Rosebank has it all – beaches, waterfront parks, incredible views of Manhattan and classic homes. This north shore Staten Island neighborhood is a diverse and friendly area, with deep roots and a rich history. This quiet enclave is a haven but still close to transportation to make it accessible! Since the late 1800’s, Rosebank has welcomed hard-working immigrants, who settled in and built up this residential haven. Rosebank has been home to several famous residents, whose lives are immortalized in various buildings. Pioneering female photographer Alice Austen's home is a museum and home to many cultural events. The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum recognizes the contributions of Italian patriot... 05/19/2013

 Spotlight on Charleston Staten Island Homes for Sale   Spotlight on Charleston Staten Island Homes for Sale Parkland and potential are the hallmarks of this South Shore neighborhood! Charleston Staten Island is a quiet community, perfect for those seeking privacy and plenty of greenery as a home base. Affordable homes in a safe community – Charleston is a must see destination. Charleston was settled by the Androvette family in 1699, and farmed the land for several generations. Eventually industry came to Charleston and over the years, expanded to increase the amenities in the area. More recently, several malls and outlet centers have sprung up, making Charleston a great destination for shopping and dining. Homes for sale in Charleston are a collection of classic charming houses, many o... 05/19/2013

 Spotlight on New Springville Homes for Sale Spotlight on New Springville Staten Island Homes for Sale New Springville is a mid-island conclave featuring spacious homes on tree-lined streets. It’s a major transportation hub – making it a great choice for commuters – and the home to some of the best shopping on Staten Island thanks to the Staten Island Mall! New Springville is a bustling and diverse neighborhood in a great location. Largely rural until the mid-1960’s, a real estate boom following the construction of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge created a large selection of well-built single family homes in New Springville. The more recent expansion includes apartment and condominium complexes as well as new school buildings to accommodate growth. Homes for sale in New Springville range f... 05/19/2013

 Spotlight on Old Town Staten Island Homes for Sale   Spotlight on Old Town Staten Island Homes for Sale The East Shore of Staten Island is the location of Old Town – aptly named as it was the first permanent European settlement on Staten Island back in 1661! A suburban setting with quality homes and easy access for commuters, Old Town is a charming community that’s close to everything you need. Modestly priced houses for sale include Broadside Ranches, Cape Cods and new construction town houses – all neatly tucked on tree-lined streets and close to excellent schools. Ideally located near the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, commuting is a breeze into Manhattan or Brooklyn. Old Town has its own Staten Island Railway station, as well as numerous local and express buses. Close to shopping, dinin... 05/19/2013

  Spotlight on Shore Acres Staten Island Homes for Sale Luxury, privacy and a small town feel come together in the neighborhood of Shore Acres Staten Island. Located along the Upper New York Bay, Shore Acres is a distinctive community, filled with gorgeous quality homes, tons of amenities and oak tree lined streets. Originally a community of upscale homes built in the 1930s, Shore Acres is still a secluded and charming neighborhood. Plentiful shopping and diverse restaurants add to the quality of Shore Acres. With the Staten Island ferry just a few miles away, it is also an excellent choice for commuters. Homes for sale in Shore Acres include classic homes as well as new construction. Center hall colonials, luxury condominiums and one-of-a-kind homes are available in this luxury communi... 05/19/2013

 Spotlight on Silver Lake Staten Island Homes for Sale Spotlight on Silver Lake Staten Island Homes for Sale The North Shore of Staten Island is the location of Silver Lake, a former resort community that enjoys life on the largest body of fresh water on the island. Numerous recreational activities, a charming small town feel and amenities make Silver Lake a unique neighborhood to call home. The reservoir was created in 1917, and Silver Lake Park is the first established on Staten Island. Residents can enjoy tennis courts, a baseball field, dog runs, a children’s park and an 18-hole golf course, as well as numerous trails for running and hiking. During the summer, the community comes together for summer concerts and events in the park. Silver Lake homes for sale are amongst some of the ... 05/19/2013

Almost A Secret Place in Staten Island New York Coming very soon now, a beautiful 2 family house for sale in an almost secret place here in Staten Island, New York. It's called the "Dent Road" area of Great Kills.  Many folks don't even know about, and don't drive through it.  In the video below, I'll take you on a short drive by.  If you work in the "City" but love the country, this might be a place for you.  Now if you like the drive by, you'll love the house, coming on-line this Thursday.   05/12/2013

When is the best time to check for termites? If you live in the New York City area, the answer is NOW!  Take a look around the the outside of your house.  Turn over any rocks, tree limbs or planters in pots and take a look at what's underneath.  If you see anything like the photo below, you have termites outside. Take a good look at the guy with the wings bottom right.  That's what you will see when they swarm.  May is the month for this. Now don't get upset, as long as they don't get inside your house you're OK.  For the inside inspection, best to call an expert. Every spring I sprinkle this insect killer around my house. Folks, other insects like carpenter ants also can do a lot of damage.  Always best to get a pro to look at your investment. 05/09/2013

When is the best time to make a new lawn? If you start from seed, I believe fall is best.  If you need a new lawn in the spring, sod is the way to go. For years I have been over seeding my backyard lawn, and it looked great for about 6-8 weeks.  Then when the roots started to compete with each other the lawn died.  I almost gave up and started planning to put down artificial turf. Last Sunday I was listening to a garden show on the radio and I found out what I was doing wrong.  Over seeding.  So this week I ordered sod.  In about 2 hours I had a beautiful backyard lawn.  see photos below. 05/08/2013

Hello Brooklyn, take a look what's over the Bridge The Verazanno bridge I'm talking about.  Check out the great houses for sale in Staten Island. Yesterday I had the privilege of visiting your great Boro, thinking to myself "Wow these houses must be very expensive"  So if you want some grass on all sides of your house, parking not only in your driveway but also in front of your unit, great transportation to Manhattan, why not go to my website and see what's available.  BTW, we also have very nice parks and shopping is nearby no matter where you live on Staten Island. I can't leave out dining, Bonefish Grill is one of my favorites. Now if you like the country, but need to live in the city, take a peak at my blog post about a beautiful home right here in Staten Island and not far from the... 05/05/2013

Selling Real Estate on Staten Island You might want to check the competition.  First, you can check Staten Island South Shore Real Estate,  and see the units that will be competing for the buyers.  Remember the items to check are; A) size of the lot B) size of the unit C) condition of the unit D) area, area, area. You can change many things of the unit and even the lot, but you can't change the area. So, if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate on the South Shore of Staten Island, and need help in determining the value of your property, give me a call, I can help. My number is 917-696-0275 05/04/2013

Coming soon, Great Kills/Bay Terrace 2 Family Colonial Wait till you see this beauty.  I'll post plenty of high definition photographs,  even do an audio/video presentation of this 2 family, 4 bedroom 4 bath home in the best section of Great Kills/Bay Terrace.   It has so much to offer,  Hardwood flooring, fireplace, granite kitchen counter tops with island, upgraded cabinets, Master suite has walk-in closet, and a 4 piece tiled bath, double sink and Jacuzzi. and so much more. When listed I'll create a special web page listing all the features, so buyers be on alert. If you want a special notice when the listing is public, just drop me a note and I'll be sure to let you know just as soon as I can. In the meantime, why not drop by my new website, http://eltingvillehomesforsale.com/,  log... 05/03/2013

Staten Island’s Gone Green!  Things You Should Know About Staten Island, New York   If you are considering moving to Staten Island, or are a local who is looking for some fun facts about the island, here are some things that you should know. The borough of Staten Island has a reputation for being one of the greenest Boroughs based on its thousands of acres of not only federal, but city and state parklands, most of which is overseen by the Parks Dept.   Some of the most beautiful landmarks on Staten Island consist of: Alice Austen House & Park, Arthur Von Briesen Park, Barrett Park, Blue Heron Park & Nature Center, Benjamin Soto Skate Park, Bloomingdale Park, Clove Lakes Park, Cedar Grove Beach, Corporal Allan F. Kivlehan Park, Conference House Park, Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, ... 04/25/2013

  Spotlight on Willowbrook Staten Island Homes for Sale Green space is a hallmark of Staten Island’s Willowbrook neighborhood. Farmland through the 1960’s, this serene community is part of the Staten Island Greenbelt – 2800 acres of designated parkland. Residents are connected to their community and enjoy the green oasis that surrounds them. Along with farms, Willowbrook housed several large institutions over the years, including the abandoned Sea View Hospital – added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 – and a military hospital turned state school. That property is now a campus of the College of Staten Island. The homes for sale in Willowbrook are spacious split-level and high ranchers, as well as townhouses and semi-attached homes. Tree-lined streets and quiet neighb... 04/25/2013

Ward Hill Staten Island Real Estate Spotlight on Ward Hill Staten Island Homes for Sale Gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor are the main draws of the northeastern Staten Island neighborhood of Ward Hill. Sitting atop the northernmost ridge of hills (which includes Todt Hill), this charming area follows winding, tree-lined streets to a selection of beautiful and classic homes. While there has been new construction, the historical character of Ward Hill remains intact. This is one of the best kept secrets in Staten Island real estate! Named after property owner Caleb T. Ward, this neighborhood retains the elegance of his residence, a Greek Revival Style home built around 1835. It is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places and one of the last remainin... 04/25/2013

 Travis Staten Island Real Estate Spotlight on Travis Staten Island Homes for Sale On the west central shore of Staten Island sits Travis, a tight-knit neighborhood with well-priced home and a strong sense of community. Residents are proud of their history – site of a major battle between Patriots and Loyalists in 1777 – and celebrate with an annual 4th of July parade that is over 100 years old. Named after Colonel Jacob Travis, a land owner and resident from before the Civil War, Travis also boasts one of the oldest fire houses in the country. This sense of history, pride and preservation is a hallmark of Travis. Homes for sale include great choices for first time buyers and young families; charming and well-priced ranches, townhouses, multi-family homes and new construction await, all... 04/25/2013

 Tompkinsville Staten Island Real Estate Spotlight Tompkinsville Staten Island Homes for Sale An exciting and vibrant neighborhood in northeastern Staten Island, Tompkinsville began life as “The Watering Place”, a fresh spring where explorers would stop to replenish their water supplies in the early 1600s. Now, it’ s home to a diverse community in a mix of commercial and residential spaces. The oldest European settlement on Staten Island, Tompkinsville was also the first place to offer ferry service to Manhattan. At the heart of this neighborhood is Tompkinsville Park, founded in the 1930’s - and recently renovated and improved - offering an oasis for commuters and residents to enjoy. A large boulder and plaque mark the former location of the spring where explorers visited; it’s the old... 04/25/2013

 St George Staten Island Real Estate Spotlight St. George Staten Island Homes for Sale St. George Staten Island is a thriving and exciting waterfront community at the northeastern tip of the island, where the Kill Van Kull enters the Upper New York Bay. Ideally located for commuters, this diverse area enjoys the convenience of having a Staten Island Ferry terminal as its gateway to the rest of the New York City. Throughout the latter half of the 1800’s, St. George was home to luxury hotels, which lined St. Mark’s Place. The rich history was the impetus behind the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission designating an Historic District in 1994, consisting of 78 homes and one church - St. Peters Roman Catholic Church is the oldest parish on Staten Island. Many businesses, governme... 04/25/2013