Tuesday, April 14, 2015

The Two Secret Ingredients in a Quick Sale


A fresh coat of paint may help, and skillful marketing is certainly important, but only after a key ingredient is in place—a realistic asking price.  Buyers are comparative shoppers, and an overpriced house won’t fool anyone.  How do you figure out a realistic price for your home--With the help of a second ingredient, probably the most important—an effective Broker.  They determine a realistic price upfront, through careful analysis.  Only then will they advise you about such things as fresh paint, and go on to aggressively market your home.  If you want a happy ending, the one place to begin…is with a topflight broker.  Why not begin now ---with a call to me.

Stephanie W. Samuelsohn
Call me:       518-392-8484
E-Mail me:    info@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

Visit our Website:  www.ColumbaiCountyHomes.com




Tuesday, February 17, 2015


Would You Remove Your Own Appendix...much less overhaul your vehicle's engine? The fact is that, whether a Doctor or a Car Mechanic, most people turn to those with professional experience to get the results they want. In the case of selling a home, there is too much riding on the outcome to hope that a homeowner can do the job himself or herself. While potential FSBO's (homes 'for sale by owner') nearly uniformly focus on saving money, experienced Real Estate agents usally pay for themselves by getting higher prices more quickly. They do this by setting a realistic asking price, advertising the property thoroughly, networking more effectively, qualifying buyers better, and negotiating a better selling price, circumventing potential problems.

I am fully licensed in both NY & MA and bring with me the skills for service & dedication.

Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint


HINT: From getting a property ready for market to negotiating with buyers, experienced real estate agents take the emotion out of the home-buying process and produce bottom-line results.

Saturday, January 24, 2015



People tend to think the winter season is 'off- time' for buying or selling a home. 

Nothing could be further from the truth. There is an honesty and warmth that animates both sellers and buyers alike during this season - the result is a greater willingness to share and to agree.

So, instead of 'putting off' until after the Holidays, call us. You may end up enjoying a very special New Year's celebration.

Do call us, join in our journey through these "interesting times."

Call VantagePoint Realty and ask for Stephanie 518-392-8484 or

Check out our NEW website"  at:  www.ColumbiaCountyHomes.com


Saturday, January 17, 2015



Why Winter May Be The Best Selling Season

"Real Estate activity has remained strong right through the last Winter...and will almost certainly be strong this Winter, thanks to a strong economy and a greater awareness of the area.  In addition, "Winter Buyers" have always been a special breed--they're not lookers or joy-riders, they are serious, motivated people out to buy.  For these reasons, "waiting until Spring" to list your home--once good advice--is no longer recommended.  It not only delays selling your home, it will cost you additional money each passing month.


If you have been thinking of selling, keep thinking that way.  Call me.  Le me see your home and let me show you my successes and you may be spending next Spring--in a new life."

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Why Winter May Be The Best Selling Season






"Real Estate activity has remained strong right through the last Winter...and will almost certainly be strong this Winter, thanks to a strong economy and a greater awareness of the area.  In addition, "Winter Buyers" have always been a special breed--they're not lookers or joy-riders, they are serious, motivated people out to buy.  For these reasons, "waiting until Spring" to list your home--once good advice--is no longer recommended.  It not only delays selling your home, it will cost you additional money each passing month.



If you have been thinking of selling, keep thinking that way.  Call me.  Le me see your home and let me show you my successes and you may be spending next Spring--in a new life."



Saturday, October 25, 2014

Having A Broker Is Like......

Columbia County Real Estate



Why Having a Broker Is Like Having A Physician


"Everyone loves the security of having a physician - a professional 'friend' to feely call for advice.  Your personal Broker can work much the same way, and is bound to give you the same loyalty and confidentiality--a whole lot more: valuable information about which home improvements will enhance your home's value, or the best local contractors and repair people.   You'll be kept abreast of the market, and be aware of new listings that might be your next home.  When I moved here, I was lost - luckily, I met a Broker who took a genuine personal interest.  Today I enjoy the same close, ongoing relationship with many of my clients.  You've got a Physician you can lean on - why not a Broker too?"

Tuesday, January 08, 2013

Columbia County Real Estate 2013




When considering your next real estate transaction and looking for real estate representation call us.   Keep in mind that we will do everything possible to make your buying or selling experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.  With our experience in assisting with home buying and selling you can be sure you are receiving the best representation possible.

Owning property is one of the most exciting investments you can make, and it should be a fun and rewarding experience.  If you are moving out of the area or downsizing, and need to sell your home, we can help you prepare your home for sale, pricing your home right and marketing it effectively.

If you have questions and would like to talk, please give us a call 518-392-8484.  We are conveniently located in Old Chatham, New York.


                           Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint

Saturday, July 28, 2012

What Your Neighbors Are Saying


Circumstances in the real estate market dictate that sellers list their homes with agents like us, who will market their properties aggressively. These efforts begin with a market analysis, which involves comparing the home to similar homes in the area that have sold recently, forming the basis of a listing price that appeals to prospective buyers and ensures sellers of a proper return on their investment. Then it’s my responsibility to "get the word out" by advertising on the Internet, in newspapers, in magazines, and listing the property on Multiple Listing Services and connecting with buyers and brokers on the Internet.


Listen to What Your Neighbors Are Saying!

Dear Stephanie,


“Many, many thanks for all the great professional help you gave me in selling my home. I will be singing your praises & telling everyone I know, if they are looking to buy or sell a home, to only consider you & your company!”


Sincerely, Susan, Old Chatham

Dear Stephanie,


“Before we unpack one more box, we would like to say that your attention to detail, from the selection of our new home to the process of relocation, is greatly appreciated. You have made our transition a positive experience we will share with others who are looking for the right place to call home.”


Carolyn & Jeffrey, Canaan

Dear Stephanie,


“We want to thank you so much for your help with the sale of our property in Copake. This is now the third time we have worked with your firm & it has truly been a pleasure. You are always on top of things, very responsive, & most significantly, you have an impeccable knowledge of the market. We look forward to working with you again one day & seeing you soon.”


Warm regards,
Ken & Debra

Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Aggressive Selling Strategy



Circumstances in the real estate market dictate that sellers list their homes with agents like me, who will market their properties aggressively. These efforts begin with a market analysis, which involves comparing the home to similar homes in the area that have sold recently, forming the basis of a listing price that appeals to prospective buyers and ensures sellers of a proper return on their investment. Then it’s my responsibility to "get the word out" by advertising on the Internet, in newspapers, in magazines, and listing the property on Multiple Listing Services and connecting with buyers and brokers on the Internet. Aggressive marketing increases the likelihood of selling a home in a challenging market. We are on many websites, such as:


ColumbiaGreeneNorthernDutchessMLS.com ~ Berkshirerealtors.com ~ Realtor.com ~ Google.com ~ Trulia.com ~ ColumbiaCountyHomes.com~ TimesUnion.com ~ Hot Pads.com ~ Homes.com ~ Albany.Backpage.com ~ RealEstate.yahoo.com ~  Oodle.com ~ CLRsearch.com ~ Zillow.com ~ NewYorkStatemls.com ~ HotFrog.com ~ Gaylesbiandirectory.com ~ IQRealEstate.com ~ RealEstateActive.com ~ HomeHippo.com and, and, and more......

HINT:  It has never been more imperative that sellers price their properties correctly in accordance with the prices of competing properties and local market conditions.

Visit us at: http://www/ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

E-mail me at: Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

Call me at: 518-392-8484

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

CONSIDERING SELLING THE FAMILY HOME &OVER THE AGE OF 50?


You need a Certified Senior Specialist REALTOR® with senior experience, knowledge & marketing savvy.


These qualities, along with a special knowledge of managing the sale of a home for those over the age of 50, are what I can bring to your next real estate transaction.


SRES® designees are certified senior specialists & astute to the financial & emotional challenges senior clients face when they sell a long-held family home, less than 1% of realtors have the SRES designation.


I not only can create a customized approach to marketing & selling your property, but I also can work with you to explore your housing options to ensure that your next home best serves your current & future needs.


And when you need help from other professionals, I can tap into their network & put you in touch with qualified home inspectors, movers, attorneys, CPAs & other experts.


I have all the resources & knowledge to simplify the transaction & eliminate the anxiety of selling your home.


So if you're thinking of buying, selling, renting or relocating, call Stephanie Samuelsohn, the SRES® Broker in your area for specialized help with your real estate transaction.

Call me at 518-392-8484
or
Email me at Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

I look forwarded to talking to you.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Your Local Forcast

The real estate market is somewhat similar to the weather. That is to say that it seldom, if ever, happens that one gigantic weather pattern engulfs the entire nation. While it may be raining on the other side of the country or in several isolated areas, you are not similarly affected if the sun is shining where you live. Similarly, while national media constantly discuss the national housing downturn, not all areas are affected similarly. The real estate climate on the coasts may be different from that of the nation's interior, and there may also likely be differences between metropolitan, suburban, and rural areas. In short, all real estate is local. Ask a real estate professional about your local conditions.
The challenge in the housing market is for sellers to price their home to meet the local market, and for buyers to realize there is no phenomenon that will send prices to new lows. No matter what your real estate needs are I'll be there for you. For further informatoin on all of the services available to you, contact the office or visit my website today. I love what I do and it shows.
Conventiently located, let me show you what the right realtor can do for you. Buying a home or selling a home can be a challenging endeavor. Let me help you make it an exciting adventure.
I am fully licensed in both NY & MA & bring with me skills for service & dedication.

Your Hopes, Your Dreams....Our VantagePoint


Hint: All you need is one buyer to buy your home. If personal circumstances are forcing you to sell, it is just as likely that some potential buyer in your area needs to find a place to live for reasons of his or her own.
Call VantagePoint Realty at: 518-392-8484
E-mail me at:             Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

Visit our website at:   http://www.columbiacountyhomes.com/

Vist us on Facebook  VantagePoint Realty

Winter in Columbia County New York

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Buying a Home? Bewildered? Overwhelmed?



You are not alone! Numerous people find the process of buying a home intimidating. No two buying experiences are the same. Working with me can help ensure that your home buying is a successful, enjoyable experience.


Conveniently located, where full-service is not only the expectation - it is my guarantee!

For further information on all of the services available to you, contact the office or visit my website today.

I am fully licensed in both NY and MA and bring with me skills for service and dedication.

Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint.


Homes for Sale

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Sould We Sell Our House this Time of Year??



People tend to think the Holiday Season is 'off-time' for buying or selling a home.


Nothing could be further from the truth. There is an honesty and warmth that animates both sellers and buyers alike during this season - the result is a greater willingness to share and to agree.

So, instead of 'putting off' until after the Holidays, call us. You may end up enjoying a very special New Year's celebration.


Do call us, join in our journey through these "interesting times."



Call VantagePoint Realty and ask for Stephanie 518-392-8484 or



E-Mail me at Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

You can also visit us at: http://www.columbiacountyhomes.com/




Friday, September 02, 2011

Figures Lie


There is an old saying "Figures Lie & Liars Figure." I know, I know, this column is all about Real Estate, and Real Estate is alot about numbers. But when you see nothing but ads for this Realtor® or that Realtor® being the best in the business, you are being misled. Not only can statistics be 'massaged' for one's purpose, but for the good of the public, you should always rely on personal recomendations when you make a decision that is going to be one of the most important in your life.

Just give me a call, let me show you my personal referrals, probably your neighbors & friends! You deserve the professionalism that I bring to the table, and yes, I have had some success!


I am fully licensed in both NY & MA and bring with me the skills for service & dedication.


Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our Vantage Point


HINT: From getting a property ready for market to negotiating with buyers, experienced real estate agents take the emotion out of the home-buying process and produce bottom-line results.



Friday, August 19, 2011

It's All Relative


There is an old saying that a "rising tide lifts all ships." In terms of real estate, rising home values in past years have benefited nearly all homeowners across the board. Now that the market has undergone a correction, homeowners may be reluctant to make a move. However, unless you are making a move to a vastly different market, you are still in the same boat as everyone else - even though you may be selling your home for less than you might have a year or so ago, you will be purchasing a home in the same market for less money than it would have taken a year or so ago.


I am fully licensed in both NY & MA and bring with me the skills for service & dedication.


Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint

HINT: From getting a property ready for market to negotiating with buyers, experienced real estate agents take the emotion out of the home-buying process and produce bottom-line results.



Friday, August 05, 2011

Would You Remove Your Own Appendix...

Would You Remove Your Own Appendix...much less overhaul your vehicle's engine? The fact is that, whether a Doctor or a Car Mechanic, most people turn to those with professional experience to get the results they want. In the case of selling a home, there is too much riding on the outcome to hope that a homeowner can do the job himself or herself. While potential FSBO's (homes 'for sale by owner') nearly uniformly focus on saving money, experienced Real Estate agents usally pay for themselves by getting higher prices more quickly. They do this by setting a realistic asking price, advertising the property thoroughly, networking more effectively, qualifying buyers better, and negotiating a better selling price, circumventing potential problems.


I am fully licensed in both NY & MA and bring with me the skills for service & dedication.


Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint



HINT: From getting a property ready for market to negotiating with buyers, experienced real estate agents take the emotion out of the home-buying process and produce bottom-line results.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Buying A Home?



Bewildered?  Overwhelmed?  You Are Not Alone!

Numerous people find the process of buying a home intimidating.  No two buying experiences are the same.  Working with me can help ensure that your home buying is a successful, enjoyable experience.

Conveniently located, where full-service is not only the expectation - it is my guarantee!   For further information on all of the services available to you, contact the office at 518-392-8484 or visit my website today.

http://www.ColumbiaCountyHomes.com/

Email:  Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

I am fully licensed in both New York and Massachusetts and bring with me skills for service and dedication. 

Your Hopes, Your Dreams...Our VantagePoint

Hint: 

While the rate of foreclosures in our area may provide us with an indicator of the health of the local real estate market, it is a lagging indicator.




Saturday, May 21, 2011

Giving Sellers a Needed Assist





In areas where inventories are higher than average and sales have slowed, sellers should avail themselves of real estate professionals who have proven themselves able to get results. Experienced agents are readily familiar with the prices of comparable homes that have sold in the area (known as "comps") and use this knowledge to set the prices of homes coming onto the market. As a result, they are able to help homeowners sell their homes faster and for more money sellers could get on their own.


Buying or selling a house is one of the biggest investments of your life. It is vital to have a Realtor who is looking out for your best interest, managing each sale as if it were her own home. If you are in need of a Realtor who is always available and who will listen to your needs, then I urge you to call me. My experience, expertise and enthusiasm make buying or selling your home easier and a whole lot less stressful. Conveniently located, I offer my clients professional, personalized service. For further information on all of the services available to you, contact the office or visit my website today. "We should talk....I am here to help you." 

Call me 518-965-8484

ColumbiaCountyHomes.com

Hint: A seasoned real estate agent is skilled at separating out potential buyers with the best financial profiles, as well as smoothing over concerns on the way to the closing.





Saturday, March 19, 2011

Your Local Forecast




The real estate market is somewhat similar to the weather. That is to say that it seldom, if ever, happens that one gigantic weather pattern engulfs the entire nation. While it may be raining on the other side of the country or in several isolated areas, you are not similarly affected if the sun is shining where you live. Similarly, while national media constantly discuss the national housing downturn, not all areas are affected similarly. The real estate climate on the coasts may be different from that of the nation’s interior, and there may also likely be differences between metropolitan, suburban, and rural areas. In short, all real estate is local. Ask a real estate professional about your local conditions.


The challenge in the housing market is for sellers to price their home to meet the local market, and for buyers to realize there is no phenomenon that will send prices to new lows. No matter what your real estate needs are I’ll be there for you. For further information on all of the services available to you, contact the office or visit my website today. I love what I do and it shows. Conveniently located, let me show you what the right realtor can do for you. Buying a home, or selling a home can be a challenging endeavor. Let me help you make it an exciting adventure.


Hint: All you need is one buyer to buy your home. If personal circumstances are forcing you to sell, it is just as likely that some potential buyer in your area needs to find a place to live for reasons of his or her own.

Call me at 518-392-8484
or
E-mail me at: Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com





Friday, March 04, 2011

It's All About the Search


 "With recent incidents around the world, it's pretty clear that the Internet is one of the most powerful tools ever created. We are sure that there are miles to go before it's potential is realized. Here at VantagePoint Realty, we are respectful of that potential.


We are expanding and monitoring our presence on a daily basis. We do all this in-house, with a clear understanding of how things work. It has produced the most productive 3 months in over 3 years. Call us; Join in our journey through these interesting times."

Call Stephanie W. Samuelsohn at 518-392-8484 or

E-mail Stephanie@ColumbiaCountyHomes.com