Opening Doors Together
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to enjoy this issue of LifeandHomes, We're thankful to have you as part of our community.
Whether you're buying your first home, searching for your next investment property, or are simply interested in staying informed about local market trends, we're happy to provide you with the information you need each step of the way.
In each issue, we strive to highlight local listings and feature skilled industry professionals who understand the challenges of the ever-changing landscape of buying and selling homes. After all, real estate is more than property. It's about strengthening our community and helping you create comfortable spaces where you can make lifetime memories.
We encourage you to visit and support the trusted local businesses and professionals represented in this March issue. From real estate professionals, contractors, home service providers, legal services, and more, they are valuable partners in your real estate journey.
Thank you to our readers, advertisers, and those who visit us at LifeandHomes.com for your ongoing support. We're excited to continue serving you and being a reliable resource for all your real estate needs.
Sump Pump Maintenance Before Spring Thaw
If you have a sump pump already installed in your home, verifying it is in good working order is an important step ahead of the spring thaw.
Below are steps you can take to make sure your sump pump is in good working order before the spring thaw.
• Unplug the unit from the power supply before performing any maintenance.
• Clean the basin that the sump pump sits in, remove any large or loose debris.
• Remove the sump pump and check for damage or corrosion.
• Clean the sump pump inlet screen. Located at the bottom of the unit, this keeps debris from getting inside and causing damage.
• Inspect the float switch and the check valve to make sure they both operate freely.
• Check the power source. Most sump pumps are plugged into a GFCI outlet. Test the reset button and verify your unit is receiving power.
• Check the drain lines and the discharge pipe. It should be clear of obstructions and discharging water at least 20 feet from your home.
After placing the unit back in its basin and reconnecting to the power source, test it out by pouring water into the basin until it triggers the unit to turn on. Verify that the float switch is functioning by slowly pouring in water. The float should rise freely with the water level and turn the unit on, then off again after discharging the water. With a little preventive maintenance, you can be prepared for when the snow and ice melt –without a big mess. (ahfc.us/)
Call a Plumber or DIY?
When should you call a plumber instead of attempting a repair yourself?
In a HelloNation article, plumbing Expert Grace Bahorik suggests simple projects like unclogging a sink, tightening a fitting, or replacing a showerhead are often manageable forms of DIY plumbing that carry minimal risk. These small repairs can be reasonable when the problem is limited and clearly visible.
However, not every plumbing issue should be handled alone. Certain situations can quickly escalate, leading to major property damage and higher plumbing repair costs. One example is a burst pipe. Water from a burst pipe can spread rapidly behind walls or beneath flooring, causing mold growth, damaged drywall, and even structural problems if not handled by a professional plumber.
Sewer backup is another serious issue. Warning signs can include several drains clogging at once, strong odors coming from sinks or tubs, or water backing up into the home. Storebought drain cleaners or rented tools may provide only temporary relief. In many cases, a deeper blockage requires a professional plumber to properly diagnose the problem and complete a lasting plumbing repair.
Water heater repair is also identified as a situation where DIY plumbing can create safety risks. Water heaters involve gas lines or electrical components that require proper training to handle safely. Leaks, strange noises, or a sudden loss of hot water are signs that it may be time to call a plumber rather than attempt a complex repair.
Problems involving the main water line, hidden leaks, or the sewer system often require permits and specialized equipment. Attempting to fix these issues without proper knowledge can lead to repeated plumbing repair needs and added expense.
In addition to technical concerns, some plumbing work must legally be completed by a certified professional plumber. Work on a main water line or sewer connection may require documentation and inspection. Unapproved repairs could create issues during a home sale or affect insurance coverage.
Understand your personal limits. Knowing when to call for professional help can protect both your home and your budget. (PRNewswire)
Test Your Knowledge
A. On average, how many lightbulbs are in a U.S. home?
B. Which household appliance was originally called a "dome" in the early 1900s?
C. What is the typical height of a standard ceiling in a modern home?
D. What common item was originally used to make glass?
E. What is the most common type of refrigerator in homes today?
Answers:
A. 40-50 bulbs
B. Clothes Dryer
C. 8 feet
D. Sand (silica)
E. Top-freezer refrigerator
Fred Macchia, CCIM
Commercial Consultant
hen seeking commercial-investment real estate counseling, the person to turn to is the Certified Commercial Investment Member. This professional will help you achieve your investment or commercial real estate goals. CCIMs bring a full-time commitment to the field of commercial-investment real estate.
They recognize the value of working closely with the client’s entire team of professional advisors. As a specialist, a Certified Commercial Investment Member is fully trained and properly qualified to work with attorneys, accountants, developers, bankers, appraisers, and architects. With the CCIM, these professionals will assist in meeting the client’s real estate investment goals.
10434 Mapledale Road, Barneveld
Executive Ranch featuring 4 bedrooms, large eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, and family room with a fireplace. Located on a private cul-de-sac.
1005 Birchwood Circle, Rome
Two-story, 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, eatin kitchen, formal dining room, living room,garage.
403 Elm Street, Rome
TWOSTORY
acres available on the corner of Reservoir Rd and Rt 12b. Convenient location, close to the village with a country setting, close to thruway. Option to have driveway on either road w/DOT approval. Gas & electric avail at road, will require well and septic. MLS#S1662430
pine ceilings & walls run throughout the home, adding warmth & rustic character. The bright, open living space is designed for e ortless entertaining. A new septic system & energy e cient construction add long term value. The home also features both front & back covered porches. Set on a private 1.6-acre lot, this property o ers over 200 feet of frontage on West Canada Creek & borders state land for added privacy. Located directly on a snowmobile trail, it’s a dream setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing! Virtual tour: https://youtu.be/9wUiaJkLOag
Nestled on the serene banks at the junction of Woodhull Creek and Bear Creek, this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath double wide manufactured home o ers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine cozy evenings in the spacious living room warmed by the glow of the pellet replace. The eat-in kitchen, complete with a stainless steel refrigerator, makes meal prep a breeze, and the convenience of a rst- oor washer and dryer simpli es daily living. Wake up to breathtaking water views from the master bedroom, and spend your afternoons relaxing on the deck overlooking the creek. Family gatherings are made memorable with a dedicated re pit area. A shared driveway ensures easy access, and a 1-stall garage with a workshop provides ample storage for snowmobiles and other equipment. Purchasing this property grants you access to Bear Creek Golf Club, along with over 500 acres for various recreational activities. Enjoy year-round outdoor fun, including ATV riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Embrace the tranquility of waterfront living and create lasting memories in this idyllic setting. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing!
Gateway Properties Of Upstate NY, Inc. is Proud to Welcome Katelyn Griffith as our Newest Licensed Real Estate Agent!
Katelyn brings several years of valuable experience in the real estate industry, having worked with other agencies where she successfully assisted buyers and sellers through smooth, professional transactions. Her dedication to client service and attention to detail make her a strong advocate for those navigating today’s market.
In addition to her real estate background, Katelyn has experience as an insurance agent. This added expertise gives her a solid understanding of property coverage, risk management, and the importance of protecting her clients’ investments — an advantage that truly sets her apart.
A native of Remsen, Katelyn holds a paralegal certificate from Herkimer County Community College, further strengthening her knowledge of contracts, documentation, and the legal aspects of real estate transactions. With her well-rounded experience and commitment to personalized service, Katelyn is ready to confidently guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Please join us in welcoming Katelyn to the Gateway Properties family!
99 Deer Hollow Road, Forestport $375,000
WATERFRONT LIVING ON WOODHULL CREEK & BEAR CREEK!
Katelyn Griffith Lic. R. E. Salesperson
Nick Polce Owner/Broker
Welcome
Step inside and you’ll find 5 spacious bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, providing room for everyone. The heart of the home features a chef-inspired kitchen with stainless appliances and granite countertops. With an abundance of cabinetry space, this kitchen makes everyday meal preparations or large gatherings a breeze. The kitchen flows seamlessly into formal and casual living areas along with the dining room, ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.
Upstairs, the luxurious primary invites you to relax and unwind under the cathedral ceilings, complete with a spacious walk-in closet and a spa-like bath. Three additional bedrooms and a full bath offer flexibility for family and guests alike. Downstairs, take advantage of the versatility that the fully finished basement with walk-out can provide you. Enjoy the luxury of the game room, home gym, and multiple gathering spaces designed for relaxation and fun. Each room is filled with natural light and designed with attention to detail, offering both style and function.
Step outside to your private retreat - over 5 acres of manicured grounds and wooded beauty, perfect for outdoor enjoyment, gatherings, or quiet evenings surrounded by nature. Located within the award-winning Whitesboro School District, this home offers the rare combination of privacy, luxury, and convenience in one of the area’s most exclusive neighborhoods.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make this extraordinary property your forever home.
7513 Glass Factory Rd, Holland Patent
$679,900
5-bedrooms | 2-full baths | 4,155 square feet | 58+/- acres
Experience over 4,000 sq/ft of grand space with beautiful details throughout. Huge kitchen, oversized primary rooms, and a flexible floor plan that allows for gracious living. Great baths and cozy spaces add to the appeal and character of this meticulous, carefully maintained home. Excellent plus condition, with out buildings, garages, and prime acreage. All with added bonuses of 790 feet of road frontage on Whittaker Road.
Amodio Realty, Inc. Pays it Forward by Giving Back
Real Estate Rebate Program Honors Local Heroes
BY RICHARD BARRETT Aug. 2018
Amodio Realty Inc., located in the Town of Lee, wanted to show its appreciation to the military, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, health care professionals, and teachers for their service to country and community, but wanted to do it in a way that went beyond mere words.
So the small family real estate agency, staffed by Stephen Amodio (Broker/Owner), his wife Betsy (President/Owner), and their daughter, Lucciana, decided to do something extraordinary with their business after learning about Heroes Home Advantage and a courageous woman named Michele Ladd, its founder.
Stephen Amodio, a former Marine whose own family includes many community heroes, heard about Ladd’s noble mission of honoring hometown heroes by offering discounts and rebates on real estate services, and he wanted to get on board. He did his due diligence first, spending nine months researching and speaking with other realtors nationwide who were already participating.
Amodio Realty, Inc. joined the Heroes Home Advantage program in January of 2017 and is currently working with about a half dozen heroes. He has closed on several properties already, but explained that it’s not about being pressured to obtain listings, move properties and meet sales quotas. It’s about giving back. He discovered through census tract records that in the tri-county area he exclusively serves, these categories of community heroes when
combined comprise 50% of their total population.
As of August 2024, Amodio Realty, Inc. now serves 8 counties: Oneida, Herkimer, Madison, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, St. Lawrence and Hamilton!
“We can never repay our heroes for their service, but we can honor them with a small token of our appreciation,” Amodio said. “We are looking for opportunities to honor local community heroes. That is our goal.”
Amodio Realty gives 25% of earned commission directly to the hero, (up to $5000 per transaction), when we close on the sale and/or purchase of their residential or commercial property.
“It’s a small gesture in comparison to the their daily sacrifices and service to our community and country,” he said.
He also works closely with a comprehensive, likeminded network of community partners who offer additional rebates and discounts on their related
products and services. The savings to heroes when all is said and done can be thousands of dollars. As word of mouth about the program spreads, Amodio envisions adding a half-dozen sales staff and expanding his cadre of committed community business partners even further. He graciously welcomes those who respect the program’s mission and embrace its spirit of honoring community heroes for their contributions.
“We’re hungry for more hero partners,” he said. “The door is wide open to virtually any business, but we discourage people from using the program to leverage their business and not follow through on their promises.” There are no fees involved, no catches, and no restrictions on how Amodio’s rebate can be used. The program is open to all qualified active, retired and volunteer heroes, both buyers and sellers, including first-time home buyers.
Amodio can’t hide his enthusiasm for the program and the people it serves.
“We’re enjoying doing this,” he admitted. “We always get a great reception.”
Heroes Home Advantage has representation in 40 states. For more information, visit AmodioRealty.com or HeroesHomeAdvantage.com
Article written by Richard Barrett Editor, Accent Magazine Reprinted and edited with permission Special Thanks to Jason Gulla with Gulla Graphics
The Mistakes We Make Can Become Our Greatest Success
Bette Nesmith Graham was an underpaid secretary, single mom and mother of invention. She started her company, Liquid Paper, in her kitchen, and sold it 21 years later for
In 1951, Bette Nesmith (later Graham) found herself divorced and raising a curious child, Michael. She got a job as a bank secretary, which, in those days, meant mostly typing documents and contracts. She worked hard but was never a perfect typist. The state-ofthe-art typewriter, the IBM electric, had no way of redacting mistakes. One typo meant starting over.
Frustrated by the waste of time, Graham started looking for a solution. Type slower? Practice more? Neither did the trick. Then, one day, while painting a holiday design on the bank window, she got an idea: Why not paint over typos with a miniature brush and paint that matches the document’s color?
Graham went home and began mixing tempera paint with water in the blender. She packaged her formula in empty nail polish jars and tried it out at work. It saved her so much time that her coworkers began asking for their own bottles. She created a label with the name “Mistake Out” and began selling it.
It wasn’t long before Graham was selling 100 bottles a month. Then a large order came in from General Electric, and her business
$48 million. But as part of her lasting legacy, she also pioneered childcare in the workplace, Zen gardens at the office and a continuing education program for employees.
exploded. She renamed the business Liquid Paper and recruited her young son and his friends to help out by filling small bottles and packaging product.
As the business continued to grow, Graham became CEO and outsourced manufacturing, with factories in Brussels and Toronto. And then she had another innovative idea: Believing women were more natural nurturers and could run companies in a more human way, she established an on-site day care for employees and created a generous pension plan and a continuing education program.
She also believed all people should have the opportunity to better themselves. To aid in that goal, she established the Betty Clair McMurray Foundation in 1976 to aid disadvantaged women and the Gihon Foundation in 1978 to further women’s efforts in business and the arts.
After 20 years, Graham sold Liquid Paper to the Gillette Corporation for $48 million in 1979. A year later, she died at age 56 after experiencing a stroke.
The story might end there, except for that curious boy, named Michael, who filled tiny
bottles with product and helped his mother package and ship them. Having learned to work hard from his mother, he joined the Air Force. When that didn’t work out, he studied music, formed a band and recorded songs at a local studio. The producer liked what he heard and told Michael about an upcoming audition for a TV show. Michael gave it a try, and a few songs later, he was performing as Michael Nesmith with The Monkees — carrying on his mother’s tradition of innovation and persistence. He also inherited his mother’s fortune and continued contributing to causes to help women succeed.
It is said that luck just seems to find some people. For Bette Nesmith Graham and her son Michael, it was work that created the luck they were looking for.
It’s Okay to Start Over...PassItOn.com By The Foundation for a Better Life®
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