Your Real Estate Connection in Westchester

What happens when Passover restrictions meet a pizza-loving kid with an entrepreneurial spirit? Pure innovation.    During the eight days when many Jewish families forgo leavened bread, eleven-year-old Hudson Greenstein transformed a common Passover compromise—homemade matzah pizza—into a thriving business that's expanding across New York.   In this episode, Hudson shares how he has elevated the humble matzah pizza into something truly special.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/57

Have you ever looked around your home (or your parents' home) and thought, "How will we ever sort through all of this when it's time to move?"   Families face this exact challenge all the time - decades of memories, countless possessions, and the overwhelming task of transitioning to a new chapter of life.   That's why I'm excited to share this week's episode featuring Andrew Beckman from Caring Transitions. They're revolutionizing how we handle senior moves and estate transitions with their comprehensive, compassionate approach.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/56

Are you considering buying or selling a home in Westchester County this year?    In our latest episode, I sit down with CEO of Houlihan Lawrence, Elizabeth Nunan, to discuss the current state of the market and what it means for you.   We explore the challenges facing buyers and sellers, from low inventory to rising interest rates. Elizabeth shares her expert advice on how to navigate this fast-paced market, whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/55

Are you considering selling your home this spring? As a homeowner, you likely have a lot on your mind - from choosing the right agent to determining your home's value and deciding where to move next. But what if there was a way to maximize your sale price and achieve your goals faster?   In this episode, I sit down with Sara Podrasky, who shares her journey to successfully selling her family home for $400,000 above her initial expectations. By working with an experienced agent and investing in the art of home staging, Sara and her husband Tom were able to transform their outdated property into a highly desirable listing that attracted multiple strong offers. Whether you're ready to take the plunge or just starting to explore your options, this episode will provide the guidance and inspiration you need to make the most of your home sale.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/54

Have you ever wondered how a real estate company can make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer? In this episode, I sit down with Liz Battista, the driving force behind Houlihan Lawrence's annual Stronger Together campaign, to find out.    Liz shares the incredible history of Houlihan Lawrence's commitment to supporting breast cancer research and awareness, which spans over three decades. She also reveals how her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor inspired her to take the reins of this powerful initiative.   Discover the creative ways Houlihan Lawrence's 32 offices come together to engage their communities and raise funds for this vital cause. From Oktoberfest parties to car shows, there's no shortage of passion and innovation when it comes to making a difference. Tune in to learn how one company's dedication is helping to bring us closer to a future without breast cancer.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/53

Have you ever wondered about the charming history behind Armonk's most cherished holiday traditions? In this heartwarming episode, I sit down with Judy Willsey, a longtime Armonk business owner and community leader, to explore the delightful origins and evolution of our town's beloved Frosty Day celebration.   Join us as we dive into the fascinating story behind Frosty the Snowman's connection to Armonk and discover how this annual celebration brings together families, businesses, and the entire community in a joyful display of holiday cheer. You'll learn about the tireless efforts of the Frosty Day committee, the exciting activities planned for this year's event, and the heartwarming impact it has on both residents and visitors alike.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/52

Do you dream of transforming your home into a peaceful oasis? In this episode, I sit down with Jeanne Collins, an interior designer who specializes in creating calm, inviting spaces. Jeanne shares her fascinating journey from corporate executive to successful entrepreneur and reveals how a major life change led her to pursue her true passion.   In our conversation, Jeanne offers practical tips for bringing nature indoors, selecting calming colors, and incorporating different textures and materials to create a harmonious environment. She also shares insights from her new book, "Two Feet In," which chronicles her inspiring journey of personal and professional transformation. Whether you're looking to refresh your home or embark on a major renovation, Jeanne's advice will leave you feeling motivated and inspired.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/51

Have you recently made the move from the city to the suburbs? Are you looking to find your place and your people in your new community? In this episode, I talk with two inspiring women who not only found friendship and connection when they moved to Armonk, but also joined forces to bring a holistic wellness center to our town.     Michele Zipper and Deb Ross were both introduced to Armonk and each other through overlapping circles of friends and healers. As they settled into suburban life and discovered their shared passion for healthy living, they decided to go into business together. Their goal? To create a space where people can discover their best selves, right in the heart of our community. If you're looking to optimize your well-being this fall, this is the episode for you!   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/50

When the National Association of Realtors announced their proposed settlement back in March, it was clear that the landscape of real estate was about to change. I've been preparing ever since, ready to put these changes to work for you - whether you're buying or selling.   Tune in this week to get a clear picture of the new normal in real estate. I'll break down the key elements you need to know to stay ahead of the curve - whether it's negotiating fees, understanding compensation terms, or leveraging creativity in your transactions. You'll learn how the role of a trustworthy agent has never been more crucial, and why experience and transparency are the cornerstones of successful deals in this evolving market.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/49

The online presentation of your home is your first showing, so it is vital that you get it right. This week, I'm bringing you my go-to luxury real estate photographer, Dan Milstein, to share more about the critical role of photography in your real estate listing.   Join us to find out why busy real estate photographers live by the weather, what that means for you as a seller, and why quality photography is important for any property, but especially luxury properties. Learn more about life as a luxury real estate photographer, what Dan brings to the table with his expertise compared to a regular real estate photographer, and his insights into what sellers should expect from their agents in terms of photography.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/48

As we close in on the end of June, it's time to recap and learn what the spring market for Northern Westchester has shown us this year. In this episode, I summarize the findings of the reports and stats provided by Houlihan Lawrence to reflect on the trends from the first half of the year.   Join me this week as I review the markets of Armonk, Chappaqua, Bedford, and Katonah, and the trends that are different in each town in 2024's real estate market. I share data and statistics comparing the 2024 market so far with that of previous years and share what the data has shown us for the first half of 2024 in each of the different communities.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/47

If you love the idea of a home garden but are intimidated by the work involved or have no idea where to start, you don't want to miss today's episode. Miranda shares her expertise in building and maintaining an edible, organic vegetable garden and shows you how to do this in your own yard. Learn more about what creating and maintaining a vegetable garden entails and how Homefront Farmers can help you reap the benefits with minimal work, all while learning in the process.     Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/46

As I've been meeting with sellers and buyers, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2024 settlement is the elephant in the room. Nobody knows what will happen, but this week, I'm sharing what I do know and answering some of your most pressing questions. I dive into what we know so far about the settlement, what's new about it, and what you need to understand as a seller. I clarify what the NAR settlement means now for our local market, and help you understand the changes you are hearing about and what they mean for you.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/45    

If there is one thing I love, it's highlighting successful journeys, especially when they are local to Northern Westchester. I recently had the pleasure of getting to know Jaime Barr, a mother of three precious girls who lives and works in Chappaqua. Jaime is the owner of JABFIT Collective, and she joins me this week to share her path to owning this delightful fitness boutique.    Jaime was raised in Chappaqua and eventually returned to the town and opened JABFIT Collective, after spending her post-college years in the city. JABFIT Collective offers fitness classes for parents and kids, a retail boutique, a venue for kids' birthday parties, and a happy place for members of the community to chat, work out, and relax. In this episode, I chat with Jamie about what life is like in Chappaqua, what she loves about living and working there, and what's in store for the future of the JABFIT Collective.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/44

Purchasing a home, whether it be your first property, an upgrade to a larger home, or downsizing to a smaller home, can be very stressful. However, working with professionals throughout the process makes it easier and more bearable. There is help along the way in the form of organizers, stagers, photographers, and real estate agents, but what about after the contract is signed and the home is yours? This is when it can be helpful to utilize the services of an interior designer.   This week, I'm joined by Mara Solow of Mara Solow Interiors, a designer known for her meticulous attention to detail and innate sense of scale and proportion, both of which enable her to create casual yet sophisticated timeless interiors. She's here to talk more about the value that working with an interior designer can bring. Find out why the work of an interior designer is so much more than choosing pretty furniture and Mara's advice to anybody hiring a designer for their home.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/43

My guest today is CEO of Houlihan Lawrence, Elizabeth Nunan. Liz interacts with leaders in the real estate community locally, nationally, and globally, so she understands the markets for both first-time buyers and luxury buyers. She joins me this week to share what the market currently looks like as we enter 2024, her thoughts on the trends she's hearing about for the next few years and her predictions for local Westchester real estate for the rest of 2024.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/42

When it comes to selling, there is a lot more planning involved besides deciding where to go. Whether it's decluttering your home, working on deferred maintenance, or staging to sell, preparing a home for sale with nowhere to go isn't exactly a thrilling proposition for many. So this week, I'm joined by Armonk's Regional Manager of Houlihan Lawrence, Barry Graziano to address the question, “If I want to sell, where do I go?”   Tune in this week as Barry and I dive deeper into the 2023 Westchester market, and what you can do right now to start the process if you want to take advantage of the incredible sale prices on your departure residence but are wondering where to go. Barry reflects on the changes he saw in inventory, some important aspects that everybody needs to think about when wondering where to go, and some options for sellers to start the process.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/41

To kick off the season of gratitude, I'm shining the spotlight on a wonderful local community initiative that makes Christmas truly special for its guests. The Annual Westchester Community Christmas Dinner was founded on the premise that nobody should be alone or hungry on Christmas Day. This volunteer-driven charitable event has taken place every year on Christmas day since 1994, and each guest receives a hot Christmas dinner, warm clothing, holiday gifts, and a festive welcome from caring volunteers.   Head Elf and Vice-President of the board Lauren Kahn Torre joins me this week to share some behind-the-scenes insights into the initiative. Find out how you can get involved with the event and prepare to be inspired by the impact that it creates in the community.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/40

Myles Brown is the manager of Perennial Gardens, a local favorite nursery in Bedford Village that has grown and expanded over the decades and today comprises of landscape construction services, a garden center, and a florist. Myles grew up with the love of horticulture in his blood and has worked on gardens throughout New York City, as well as studying and working at other local nurseries in the area. He joins me this week to dive into fall planting and share some of the amazing services Perennial Gardens has to offer.   Join us to learn more about the incredible benefits of fall planting for plants, flowers, and vegetables. We share some invaluable tips to help you prepare your garden for winter, and show you how to start planting right now so you can see the benefits in early spring.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/39

As the school year begins, I can't help but take this opportunity to talk about one of the most charming things to happen in Chappaqua every year. The Children's Book Festival will be held on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, at the Chappaqua Train Station with 180 authors, activities, crafts, and food trucks for families to enjoy with their kids.   Today, I'm chatting with Dawn Greenberg, the Executive Director of the Chappaqua Children's Book Festival, and author and illustrator Sujean Rim. In 2023, the festival is celebrating 10 years of visitors from near and far, and Dawn and Sujean are here to discuss why this is such a wonderful occasion in an idyllic town.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/38

Summer is such a great time to explore, and Westchester County is full of jewels that never cease to amaze me. I recently had the pleasure of spending the day at a special place in North Salem; the beautiful Hammond Museum, where I became enchanted with the peaceful seven-acre gem of a Japanese garden.   This week, I welcome Executive Director of the Hammond Museum & Stroll Garden, Liz Hammer, to share her infectious passion for this place. Learn more about where the vision for these beautiful gardens came from, some of the incredible events taking place this year at the museum, and why you need to plan a visit and see the incredible beauty for yourself.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/37

As the Farm-to-Table movement has grown, so too has the impact and popularity of farmers' markets. Farmers' markets used to be a place to simply buy fresh produce, but nowadays, they are an entire experience filled with good food, good music, and good vibes, offering members of the community a chance to get away from screens, connect with others, and relax for a little while.    I'm joined by Pascale Le Draoulec, Director of Morning Glory Markets, a group of highly curated farmers' markets in Westchester and New York City that brings the farm to the community. Hear more about how farmers' markets not only benefit the community experience but strengthen the regional food system and local economy, Pascale's driving philosophy about farmers' markets in general, and why they are so important for the community.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/36

When it comes to seniors downsizing, they need substantial support. They need a full-service healthcare concierge to help them plan their next move. This is a time in their life when they are vulnerable, and it requires a very special person who is both supportive and knowledgeable to take charge and come up with a plan.   Abbe Udochi is a Geriatric Care Manager and CEO of Concierge Healthcare Consulting. A specialist in advocacy and care management for the elderly, she helps the aging, their families and caregivers navigate the resources they require to make the best decisions for themselves and their loved ones, while simultaneously making healthcare options easier to find and understand. Find out why having someone like Abbe in your contacts in a lifesaver.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/35

When a house is coming to market, it needs to be completely decluttered and sparkling clean to show at its best. Most people don't look at their stuff and their space until it's time to sell, and that's where today's guest can step in and help. Julie Sheppe from Space Cadet prepares houses for sale but also works with clients to create order and rhythm within the home.   Whether you want to continue living in your home or prepare it for sale, this episode is for you. Julie shares about Space Cadet, what inspired her to start it, how it works, and how she can help you declutter. Learn how Space Cadet can help create order in your home and help you get rid of things that don't serve you in a respectful way.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/34

The mortgage business is constantly changing, and it is so important to work with a trusted professional. I like to work with professionals who are laser-focused on the state of the market like my guest this week, Mortgage Consultant Paul Hart.    Paul is a consultant at Prosperity Home Mortgage LLC and has been in the mortgage industry for over two decades. He's sharing his advice to anybody looking to have their best foot forward in the current real estate market. Hear some of the factors that go into mortgage interest rates and some options available to help you save on rates.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/33

When a buyer starts their home search, they always look at the property taxes. If the taxes are too high, they will eliminate that house from their search, so it's fair to say that property taxes are a vital component in the decision to purchase a property.   I'm joined by Rich O'Donnell, my go-to property tax expert. Rich is a retired tax assessor with 28 years of local government service in Westchester, making him the best person to help clients navigate the tax appeals process. Rich shares an overview of the process for a tax grievance to reduce an assessment, as well as his advice for working through this process.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/32

I'm so fortunate to welcome Elizabeth Nunan, President, and CEO of Houlihan Lawrence to the show this week. Liz is a seasoned real estate leader with three decades of experience in the industry, and she oversees all aspects of Houlihan Lawrence's operations. She is incredibly talented and inspiring and offers a personal touch to every Houlihan Lawrence agent she meets, and she joins me this week to dive deeper into what's in store for real estate in 2023.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://harrietlibovhomes.com/31

Your home is one of your biggest assets, so thinking about all the options at your disposal and carefully weighing the pros and cons of each is really important. In this episode, I'm sharing the pros and cons of moving versus renovating and giving you some questions to ask yourself if you are at a crossroads about which direction to take. Hear some real-life examples from clients of mine who are asking themselves this very question and some pointers to help you consider which decision is right for you.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/30

In this episode, I'm joined by my colleague Rebecca Bourla and we're sharing the best practices we learned during the post-COVID booming market, the transitions we are facing in the real estate market, and how we plan to continue those practices for our clients in a transition to a balanced market. Rebecca and I reflect on the past year and I'm giving you my thoughts as you ponder your next move and decide whether 2023 is your year to make your transition.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/29

When I sit down with my sellers in any market, I always ask about the story of their home and why they loved living there. The chances are, the next buyers will be attracted to the property for the very same reasons. So, to help you tell this story, I have the perfect guest.   Jane Schneider is a marketing specialist and an interior stylist with over 20 years of experience in business development, writing stories that help brands blossom. But today, we're hearing from Jane on the value of telling the story of a home when selling a house.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/28

On October 1st and 2nd, 2022, thousands of art lovers will come from near and far to see an ever-changing display of paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry and more at the Armonk Outdoor Art Show. Join us this week to hear how this celebration of fine arts and crafts has grown to be one of the nation's most highly-rated art shows, what goes on behind the scenes to plan such a wonderful annual event, and all the details you need to know about this year's event.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/27

This week I'm joined by Carol Romanoff from Romanoff Elements. Carol is sharing sharing how she helps people buy artwork and the benefits of buying art that complements your home and is reflective of your personal taste. It takes time to build a collection of art, but it is worth it, so if you're thinking of creating a new environment and wondering where to start, this episode is for you.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/26

Tune in this week to discover the impact of taking a hands-on interest in your own community. In 2013, a young couple was referred to me through friends of friends: Rachel and Matt Milim. They felt Westchester was the place they wanted to call home, and the rest is history. Matt is now a town council member in North Castle, and he's here to share his family's journey of making Westchester their home.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/25

Tune in this week for a better perspective on the amount of credibility Zillow's Zestimate actually has when it comes to pricing a home. I'm sharing why the Zestimate can be wildly inaccurate, and why it's no replacement for an experienced human who understands the nuances behind property values.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/24

There is a lot to consider when trying to understand the current market and everything that is going along with it. So join Barry Graziano, manager of the Armonk branch of Houlihan Lawrence, and I this week as we talk about the state of the housing market, the rental market, and the second home market in the Spring of 2022.    Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/23

Listen in this week to hear Pamela Sartorius, Managing Director of Global Business Development at Houlihan Lawrence, and I share the process we use to find excellent real estate agents anywhere in the world for our clients. Learn why this process is so valuable to my clients, and the benefit of having access to an amazing global network of professional agents.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/22

Join us this week as Carolyn and Ian share how they came to real estate in the city and when they started working together, and some things that buyers need to keep in mind when buying in Manhattan. They share their insights on the Manhattan market, the various opportunities available currently and why there is a lot to be optimistic about in 2022.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/21

Today's guest, top Brooklyn broker Lee Solomon, joins me to talk about Brooklyn's bright future. She shares the market's activity, the changes she's experienced in the Brooklyn market as an agent and resident over the years, and why so many of the pundits who predicted the demise of the city turned out to be wrong.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/20

Tune in this week to hear what an appraisal is, the difference between an appraisal and an inspection, and the most important aspects of the appraisal process. Discover how the appraisal affects the real estate transaction, how much you can expect to pay for one, and what to do if the appraisal is too low.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/19

This week, hear a Q&A about homeowners insurance with Ken Fuirst, owner of Levitt Fuirst Insurance. We're diving deeper into whether you truly need homeowners insurance and how to ensure you get the right coverage for your needs, as well as the first thing to think about when it comes to insuring your home. If you have questions on the best way to protect your home and assets, you'll enjoy this episode!   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/18

This week, I'm chatting with local home inspector John Nicolai, who I recommend regularly to my clients. Avoiding surprises when you can is the best way to proceed when buying or selling a home, so listen in this week and hear all about the home inspection process, what an inspection entails and what it doesn't, and how to best prepare for one as a buyer and seller.     Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/17

When you need or want more space in your home, it's always a dilemma. Do you buy a new home, or do you renovate your current home? Join me this week and hear some questions you need to ask yourself if you are considering upsizing your home. I'm sharing some of the challenges you could face when it comes to upsizing, and how to ensure the journey of upsizing runs as smoothly as possible.     Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/16

Tune in this week and hear the most common obstacles people face when downsizing and what you need to consider when you think about downsizing. Find out what propelled Wendy and her husband to downsize, what they have gained from it, and where to start if you are thinking about doing this in your own life.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/15

Hear how the luxury market has changed pre- and post-COVID and how quickly luxury real estate has sold in 2021 in Northern Westchester County. We discuss what has propelled buyers into luxury real estate over the last 18 months and why, as agents, we need to adapt to this new luxury landscape that continues to evolve.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/14

This week, home owners Rebecca and Michael share their valuable tips and advice for first time home buyers. They're emphasizing the key pieces to take into account and sharing how their experience has changed over the years. I hope this episode clarifies the choices you'll have to make when purchasing your first home.   Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/13

I'm reflecting on the real estate market through the pandemic and sharing my predictions for the real estate market as we emerge from this period. Barry Graziano, Regional Manager at Houlihan Lawrence, and I discuss the changes in buyer demand in Northern Westchester and share our takes on what we believe the market will look like in 2021 and beyond. Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/12

Discover what makes this wonderful community unparalleled and why contrary to what you might expect from a community club, there's no pretentiousness here. Houses in Windmill cost a little more than the average Armonk street, but you'll hear why those who live here feel it's worth every penny and why residents simply don't want to leave. Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/11

Join us this week as we discuss what staging your home entails and three important reasons to consider full-out staging. An investment that leads to a quick sale for the highest possible value can make so much sense when it comes to selling your home, so listen in and hear exactly what you should know as a seller before considering full staging. Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/10

Tune in this week to hear what to expect when selling your home and some tips and advice for those looking to do so. The right agent is a gamechanger when selling your home, so I'm sharing everything you need to know and how to make the overall experience as smooth as possible. Whether you're a buyer or seller, this episode has valuable tips and advice to give you everything you need to know about selling a property. Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/9

Tune in this week to hear how I can make your home buying journey a great experience and the importance of having a trusting relationship with your real estate agent. I'm sharing what you can expect during your home buying journey and how to make sure your offer is the one that's accepted on your dream home. Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/8

Tune in this week to discover what makes Pleasantville so unique, and why the Jacob Burns Film Center is such an integral part of the community. You'll hear the history of the Jacob Burns Film Center and learn about its upcoming initiatives, and why the residents here consider it the ideal location to live. If you like an urban feel, charming older houses, and a vibrant culture, Pleasantville is your town! Get full show notes and more information here: https://connectnorthofnyc.com/7