Agency News and Awards • February 28, 2022

Celebrating Five Years with Green Team

by Nicole McCormick

Like any family, Green Team likes to celebrate special occasions. And, celebrating five years with Green Team is indeed an important anniversary! Congratulations to:

Jaime Dalton

Jaime Dalton joined Green Team New Jersey Realty in January 2017. Raised in Vernon, NJ, Jaime graduated from Vernon Township High School in 1996. Jaime’s love of Sussex County and her deep roots in the area enable her to share her knowledge with clients. “I just can’t imagine not living here, “said Dalton. “It had the best of everything…living in the beautiful, peaceful mountains while having anything else you could want all within an hour.” Jaime ended 2021 by achieving a Bronze Award for a sales volume of $1.5-$3 Million.

Robert Valentine

Robert Valentine joined Green Team New York Realty in January 2017. Robert has even more to celebrate. He finished 2021 with the Bronze Award for sales volume between $1.5-$3 Million.

Theodore Van Laar

Theodore Van Laar has been part of Green Team New Jersey Realty since February 2017. He has over 35 years of experience selling resort properties. In 1979, the amenities and beauty first attracted Ted and his wife, Rosanne, to the area. Through the years, they fell in love with the lifestyle and growth here in the Mountain Creek, Crystal Springs, and Great Gorge resort area. They enjoy and share their appreciation for the surrounding area with their three children, family, and friends. Ted is a seasoned professional with a record of achievement and a reputation for his honesty and integrity. He is enthusiastic about sharing his love of the Resort lifestyle with his clients, whether they are looking for an investment property, second home, or primary residence. Ted received the Gold award for $5-$10 Million sales volume for 2021.

Barbara Tesa

Barbara Tesa joined Green Team New Jersey Realty in April of 2017. She brought with her over 20 years of professional experience in both residential and commercial real estate management. Furthermore, Barbara has a successful history as a licensed real estate agent in New Jersey since 2009. In 2001, Barbara and her husband purchased a home in Crystal Springs. There, they enjoy a resort lifestyle and all the beauty that Sussex County has to offer. The ability to embrace the potential in each of their homes became second nature to Barbara giving her the confidence to inspire many of her clients to do the same. In 2021, Barbara achieved the Gold award for $5-$10 Million in sales.

Lora Chandra

Lora Chandra joined Green Team Realty in April of 2017 as a CSA (Certified Sales Assistant). In 2018, she received the Team Player Award for being the most reliable, positive, and dependable. Furthermore, the award states that she works well with others and is a great problem solver. Ultimately, it’s no surprise that Lora has risen in the company to Operations Manager.

Pam Zachowski

Pam Zachowski joined Green Team New Jersey Realty in May of 2017. With diversified corporate experience, Pam pays great attention to detail and has a strong drive to find your next home. Additionally, her dedication to continued participation and growth within this industry has furthered her advancement. Pamela has a high level of motivation to continue advancing her professional skills and eagerly looks to utilize and challenge her abilities. She achieved the Gold award for 2021 sales volume of $5-$10 Million.

Kim Lesley Spaughton

Kim Lesley Spaughton joined Green Team New York Realty in May 2017. She was born in England and moved to New York City 28 years ago. There, she raised her daughter Jasmine, who is one of the original cast of ‘Hamilton the Musical’ on Broadway. Kim is a professional working musician, performing concerts, teaching singing locally. She also leads meditation workshops as the Spiritual Director of her own program in rehabs and outpatient facilities. Kim has a sublime understanding of the heart in others and in turn, has dedicated herself to finding the perfect home for you. Negotiating is her passion, understanding that each transaction has its own unique quality. Kim achieved the Bronze award for sales of $1.5-$3 Million.

Jim Moser

Jim Moser joined Green Team New York Realty in June of 2017. He studied marketing at Dominican College and, throughout his career, he has had a great passion for customer service. While a native of Rockland County, Jim has lived in Orange County for over 25 years residing in Warwick for over five. And, while some consider it “country,” Jim loves the mixture of farmland, great neighborhoods, and quality restaurants and shops. Of course, there are also wineries, the drive-in theatre, and concerts in town. His knowledge of the area and his desire to create a positive customer experience is a plus for his clients.

Tom Folino

Tom Folino became a member of Green Team New York Realty in October of 2017. If Tom’s name sounds familiar, it’s probably because he taught at Warwick Valley Central School District, where he was highly respected as both a teacher and coach; formally the Head Coach of both Boys Varsity Basketball and Boys Varsity Golf for 20 years. After 37 years with the WVCS District, Tom retired from teaching in 2014 and coaching in 2017. He decided to pursue real estate full time, motivated by a desire to help people sell and buy homes they’d love within this community he knows so well. Tom received the Gold award for sales of $5-$10 Million in 2021..

Walter Ross

Walter Ross joined Green Team New York Realty in December 2017. As a Warwick resident for over 40 years, Walter has knowledge of both the local and Orange County markets. Combined with over 35 years of business and marketing experience, he has the knowledge and experience needed to achieve a successful real estate transaction. Walter received the Silver award for $3-$5 Million in sales in 2021.

Happy 5th Anniversary and Congratulations!

Agency News and Awards • February 25, 2022

Meet Michelle Spina

by Nicole McCormick

Michelle Spina is bringing her marketing expertise to Green Team New York Realty.

Michelle attended college at SUNY New Paltz where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Marketing. She spent the last 6 years working as a TV Media Buyer where she serviced a large variety of clients, some of which include movie studios, grocery stores, and kids’ toys. Michelle excels in sales, advertising, and has great communication skills.

For the past couple of years, Michelle had been interested in starting a profession in real estate. With her history in marketing, she knew it would be a great opportunity for her. In March of 2021, she decided it was time to start her real estate career. She obtained her license and now has started her new career with Green Team New York Realty.

Michelle has spent the last 3 years living in Wyckoff New Jersey. She comes from a big Italian family and her favorite thing is being with them for Sunday dinners. Cooking, working out, watching sports games, and doing activities outside in the sun are just some of the things she enjoys.”

Agency News and Awards • February 25, 2022

Brian Cisek Earns PSA designation

by Nicole McCormick

Green Team New York Realty’s Brian Cisek earns his PSA designation!

Whether you are buying or selling, working with an agent who is a Pricing Strategy Advisor can help ensure you are getting the best deal for your home. One of the most confusing parts of a real estate deal is the pricing. However, a PSA takes care of that for you. By building a thorough Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) they are able to help ensure you are getting what your home is worth. In today’s market that is one of the most valuable assets that you can have on your team.

Brian decided that he wanted to go above and beyond to make sure his clients received the best possible service. Growing up in Greenwood Lake and now living in Warwick Brian has great knowledge of the area. He is a member of the Warwick Lions Club and is dedicated to improving his community. His clients can feel confident knowing they have such a diligent agent on their side.

Selling a Home • February 22, 2022

More People Are Planning To Buy a Home Soon

by Nicole McCormick

While some homeowners may be tempted to hold off until spring to list their houses, you should know – homebuyers aren’t waiting. Demand is high today as more people are trying to beat rising mortgage rates. As a result, eager buyers are entering the market or moving their plans up so they can make their purchases as soon as possible.

The most recent Consumer Confidence Survey finds that, of those surveyed, the percentage of people planning to buy over the next six months has increased substantially since last fall (see graph below):

As the graph shows, the number of consumers fast-tracking their plans to purchase a home has crept up over the past three months. That indicates many buyers are evaluating their strategy and realizing they should act sooner rather than later. And for homeowners planning to sell, it’s a signal that now may be the time to list.

While more people are moving their plans up, others are actively putting theirs in motion. Time on the market is a great indication that homebuyers are motivated and moving quickly. According to a recent realtor.com report, the average home sold faster this January than any January on record.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, notes:

“Homes sold at a record-fast January pace, suggesting that buyers are more active than usual for this time of year.”

What Does That Mean for You?

Homebuyers are rethinking their strategies and moving their plans forward. Others are making their moves today. That means demand for your house isn’t just increasing – it’s high right now.

And because there are so few homes available for determined purchasers to choose from, if you’re planning to sell your house this year, doing so sooner means you can take advantage of high buyer demand before more houses are listed in your neighborhood. Why is this important? Because as more houses are put up for sale, buyers will have more options. But until then, your house will be in the spotlight.

Bottom Line

With so many buyers eager to make a purchase, you could benefit by listing your house soon. To understand how strong buyer demand is in our area, let’s connect so you can start making your plans. Contact Green Team Realty today!

Buying a home • February 22, 2022

Real Estate Voted the Best Investment Eight Years in a Row

by Nicole McCormick

In an annual Gallup poll, Americans chose real estate as the best long-term investment. And it’s not the first time it’s topped the list, either. Real estate has been on a winning streak for the past eight years, consistently gaining traction as the best long-term investment (see graph below):

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home this year, this poll should reassure you. Even when inflation is rising like it is today, Americans agree an investment like real estate truly shines.

Why Is Real Estate a Great Investment During Times of High Inflation?

With inflation reaching its highest level in 40 years, it’s more important than ever to understand the financial benefits of homeownership. Rising inflation means prices are increasing across the board. That includes goods, services, housing costs, and more. But when you purchase your home, you lock in your monthly housing payments, effectively shielding yourself from increasing housing payments. James Royal, Senior Wealth Management Reporter at Bankrate, explains it like this:

“A fixed-rate mortgage allows you to maintain the biggest portion of housing expenses at the same payment. Sure, property taxes will rise and other expenses may creep up, but your monthly housing payment remains the same.”

If you’re a renter, you don’t have that same benefit, and you aren’t protected from increases in your housing costs, especially rising rents.

History Shows During Inflationary Periods, Home Prices Rise as Well

As a homeowner, your house is an asset that typically increases in value over time, even during inflation. That‘s because, as prices rise, the value of your home does, too. And that makes buying a home a great hedge during periods of high inflation. Natalie Campisi, Advisor Staff for Forbes, notes:

“Tangible assets like real estate get more valuable over time, which makes buying a home a good way to spend your money during inflationary times.”

Bottom Line

Housing truly is a strong investment, especially when inflation is high. When you lock in a mortgage payment, you’re shielded from housing cost increases, and you own an asset that typically gains value with time. If you want to better understand how buying a home could be a great investment for you, let’s connect. Contact Green Team Realty today to schedule a consultation for your next real estate investment!

Housing Market News • February 21, 2022

February 2022 Housing Market Update

by Nicole McCormick

Geoff Green, President of Green Team Realty and Co-Founder and CEO of NuOp welcomed viewers to the February 2022 Housing Market Update. If you haven’t yet seen the webinar or would like to see it again, it’s available below.

Inflation – and its impact on homeownership

It seems that the “I”s (inventory, interest rates and inflation) have it when it comes to some of the major factors affecting the housing market. First, we have been talking about inventory, at historic lows. Then, there were interest rates; again, at historic lows although we have begun to see them rise. And now, inflation is taking top billing:

According to Mark P. Cussen, Financial Writer for Investopedia,

“Real estate is one of the time-honored inflation hedges. It’s a tangible asset, and those tend to hold their value when inflation reigns, unlike paper assets. More specifically, as prices rise, so do property values.”

A look at the US inflation rate since 1920 shows that we have been through worse. And, while current inflation is not as high as it was in the late 1970s, early 1980s, it is a serious problem.

US Inflation Rate from 1920s to 2020

Owning versus renting

According to James Royal, Senior Wealth Management Report, Bankrate,

“A fixed-rate mortgage allows you to maintain the biggest portion of housing expenses at the same payment. Sure, property taxes will rise and other expenses may creep up, but your monthly housing payment remains the same. That’s certainly not the case if you’re renting.”

In addition, rent increases have been greater than inflation most years.

Mortgage Rates

Before the pandemic, the 30-year fixed rate was 3.70%. It reached historic lows during the pandemic, dipping just below 2.7%. The rate is now 3.55% but are no higher than we were pre-pandemic. Historically, current mortgage rates are the lowest they’ve been in five decades. In fact, in the 1980s, they rose as high as 12.70%.

According to Sam Khater, Chief Economist, Freddie Mac,

“As mortgage rates rise, we do expect some moderation n housing demand, causing house prices growth to temper. However, the combination of large number of entry-level homebuyers facing a shortage of entry-level inventory of homes for sale should keep the housing market competitive.”

National Stats

The average home sales price has gone up, very much due to inventory going down. Accordingly, it is very much a case of supply and demand.

Meet the Panel

Joining Geoff Green is Keren Gonen of Green Team New Jersey Realty, Carol Buchanan of Green Team New York Realty, and Chad Barris, Family First Funding.

The panel discussed the information presented by Geoff as it relates to their experiences in the field. To watch the webinar and see the panel discussion, click here.

Contact info for February 2022 Housing Market update

“Housekeeping Items”

Info on March 2022 Housing Market Update

Agency News and Awards • February 21, 2022

Welcome Michelle Spina to Green Team New York Realty!

by Nicole McCormick

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The Green Team is proud to announce that Michelle Spina has decided to join our Warwick, NY office. We’re excited to have her on our team and look forward to helping her grow!

Please join us in Welcoming Michelle to Green Team New York Realty!

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Selling a Home • February 21, 2022

What Every Seller Needs to Know About Renovating This Year

by Nicole McCormick

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If you’re planning to sell this year, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your house ready to appeal to the most buyers. It’s crucial to work with a trusted real estate professional who knows your local market to get your home ready to sell. But there are a few things you should consider when deciding what to renovate and update before listing this season. Here are three things to keep top of mind as you’re making your list of projects to tackle this year.

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1. The Number of Homes for Sale Is Very Low

Housing inventory sits far below what is normally considered a balanced market. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the latest data indicates inventory is hitting an all-time low. Because there’s such a limited supply of homes available for sale, you’re in a unique position when you sell your house to benefit from multiple offers and a quick process.

But you want to do so while buyers are still scooping homes up as fast as they’re being listed. Spending time and money on renovations before you sell could mean you’ll miss your key window of opportunity. Of course, certain repairs may be important or even necessary. The best way to determine where to spend your time – and your money – is to work with a real estate advisor to confirm which improvements are truly needed and which ones aren’t likely to be deal-breakers for buyers.

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2. Buyers May Be Willing To Take on Projects When They Purchase Your House

Today, many buyers are more willing to take on home improvement projects themselves to get the house they’re after, even if it means putting in a little extra work. A recent survey from Freddie Mac finds that:

“. . . nearly two-in-five potential homebuyers would consider purchasing a home requiring renovations.”

If more buyers are willing to tackle repairs on their own, it may be wise to let the future homeowners remodel the bathroom or the kitchen to make design decisions that are best for their specific taste and lifestyle. Depending on the structural condition of your house, your efforts may be better spent working on small cosmetic updates, like refreshing some paint and power washing the exterior to make sure the home stands out. Instead of over-investing in upgrades, the buyer may change anyway, work with a real estate professional to determine the key projects to tackle that will give you the greatest return on your investment.

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3. Your Agent Will Help You Spotlight the Upgrades You’ve Made

Over the past year, many people made a significant number of updates to their homes. The most recent State of Home Spending report finds:

“Home improvement spending rose 25% year-over-year to $10,341. Homeowners who invested in home improvement did an average of 3.7 projects, up from 2.7 in 2020, . . .”

The same is true for any projects you invest in moving forward. No matter what, before you renovate, contact a local real estate professional for expert advice on what work needs to be done and how to make it as appealing as possible to future buyers. Every home is different, so a conversation with your agent is mission-critical to make sure you make the right moves when selling this season.

Bottom Line

In a sellers’ market like today’s, it’s important to spend your time and money wisely when you’re getting ready to move. Let’s connect today so you can find out where to target your efforts before you list. Click here to Contact Green Team Realty to speak with a Real Estate Expert!

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Agency News and Awards • February 21, 2022

GTNYR – Achieving Personal Best

by Nicole McCormick

GtNYR Sales Associates who did personal best in sales for 2021

COVID-19 created both challenges and opportunities

For those in the real estate industry, COVID-19 has presented many unique challenges. However, it has also presented many opportunities. And, for many sales associates of GTNYR, it meant achieving their personal best. Despite the shutdowns and ever-changing regulations, the pandemic created a housing market with a life of its own. Ultimately, many city dwellers found themselves wanting homes with outdoor space, room for remote working and learning, and private spaces. And, Orange County attracted many of these buyers. Fueled by historically low interest and inventory rates, sellers have been experiencing multiple offers and bidding wars. And, the expertise and dedication enabled Green Team New York Realty Sales Associates to meet the challenges head-on.

GTNYR achieving personal best in 2021

While the housing market soared, so did many of our real estate associates! Therefore, Green Team New York Realty would like to congratulate our sales associates who had their best-selling year in 2021!

Agency News and Awards • February 18, 2022

Agent Spotlight on Kristi Anderson

by Nicole McCormick

The Green Team Agent Spotlight is on Kristi Anderson.

About Kristi…

Kristi joined Green Team New Jersey Realty in 2019, bringing with her over 18 years of experience. That year, she became a Captains Club award winner with $3-$5 Million in sales. In 2020, with $10.8 Million in sales, she was in the top 1.7% of all agents in Sussex County. In addition, she was named to the Green Team MVP Circle. Furthermore, Kristi received the New Jersey Realtors® Silver Circle of Excellence Sales Award that year.

Kristi Anderson of GTNJR Silver Circle of Excellence Award

And, with over $12 million in sales for 2021, Kristi has achieved Green Team’s new Platinum production level.

Kristi is now licensed in New York as well and has joined Green Team New York Realty.

The Broker-Realtor® is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative. In addition, Kristi has Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification. This busy mom of four still finds time to volunteer with the Vernon Township School District’s SCA. She is also a dedicated, hardworking volunteer board member of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce. What’s more, Kristi has also started volunteering for the Highland Lakes Community Ecology Committee.

Kristi Anderson of Green Team New Jersey Realty at Street Fair

Before entering the real estate profession, what did you do?

I was in banking for several years then I worked as an Account Service Representative for a pharmaceutical Data Company. It was interesting but sitting at a desk all day was just not my cup of tea. I love the diversity being a Realtor offers

How and why did you become a real estate agent?

I bought a house and thought the whole experience was really cool even though there were some bumps in the road and it took us 5 months to close. However, I went and got my license, and here I am 20 years later still loving it.

What do you like best about being a real estate agent?

The excitement of making people’s real estate dreams come true. I love the feeling I get every time! There is nothing else like handing them the keys and seeing that big smile on their face. Priceless!

What do you like least about being a real estate agent?

Telling a client disappointing news. Unfortunately, it happens in this business and you have to assist your clients through the triumphs and turmoil.

What was your most memorable/unusual real estate transaction?

My client was buying a property and there was a discrepancy in the land of about 2 acres. The attorney notified everyone at closing and they decided to sue each other and we went to court. The judge said this is a joke and told the sellers you will sell the property to these buyers at this price and that is it. A month later we closed. They happily still live there.

What is it like being part of the Green Team?

There is always someone there to help and their client appreciation program does not compare. I love seeing the smile on my client’s faces when I hand them their Thanksgiving pie

Kristi Anderson with GTNJR For Sale Sign

How would family and friends describe you?

Hardworking, tenacious, easy to talk to, problem solver, dedicated, sincere, transparent, and most importantly honest!

What is your proudest accomplishment?

When I was in banking they had a program for employees that if you went above and beyond for a customer it would be made into a commercial. I had a client come in after hours and he needed to cash his check and was flying out early in am. I basically took his check and cashed it out of my account through the ATM. He informed my manager and we made a commercial and it was on national TV. They even played during the World Series.

What does “home” mean to you?

Home means family to me. A place where you feel safe, where you belong. Where you feel stable and secure. Homes is the base of where memories begin.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about selling their home?

There is no better time to sell. Covid has really made people appreciate the value of owning a home which has helped the values rise.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about buying a home?

Real estate is the best investment you can make. Not just financially, emotionally also. It is yours and you should be proud of that accomplishment. Rates are still low, so I would get in before they go up.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Work smarter not harder. Get your license sooner. lol

Jaime Dalton

Robert Valentine

Theodore Van Laar

Barbara Tesa

Lora Chandra

Pam Zachowski

Kim Lesley Spaughton

Jim Moser

Tom Folino

Walter Ross

Green Team New York Realty’s Brian Cisek earns his PSA designation!

What Does That Mean for You?

Bottom Line

Why Is Real Estate a Great Investment During Times of High Inflation?

History Shows During Inflationary Periods, Home Prices Rise as Well

Bottom Line

Inflation – and its impact on homeownership

Owning versus renting

Mortgage Rates

National Stats

Meet the Panel

“Housekeeping Items”

1. The Number of Homes for Sale Is Very Low

2. Buyers May Be Willing To Take on Projects When They Purchase Your House

3. Your Agent Will Help You Spotlight the Upgrades You’ve Made

Bottom Line

COVID-19 created both challenges and opportunities

GTNYR achieving personal best in 2021

The Green Team Agent Spotlight is on Kristi Anderson.

Before entering the real estate profession, what did you do?

How and why did you become a real estate agent?

What do you like best about being a real estate agent?

What do you like least about being a real estate agent?

What was your most memorable/unusual real estate transaction?

What is it like being part of the Green Team?

How would family and friends describe you?

Hardworking, tenacious, easy to talk to, problem solver, dedicated, sincere, transparent, and most importantly honest!

What does “home” mean to you?

Home means family to me. A place where you feel safe, where you belong. Where you feel stable and secure. Homes is the base of where memories begin.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about selling their home?

What advice would you give to someone thinking about buying a home?

What advice would you give to your younger self?

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