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Smart moves for first-time buyers

How to plan ahead, compete in a tight market and make confident, future-focused homebuying decisions

BBy Christy Hinko

uying your first home is often described as a milestone but in today’s market, it’s also a strategy exercise. Between fluctuating interest rates, limited inventory and evolving buyer expectations, first-time purchasers must balance excitement with careful planning. The process is no longer just about finding a place to live; it’s about making a smart, forward-looking investment.

Understanding how to navigate the journey from budgeting to closing can mean the difference between a stressful experience and a successful one.

Know Budget

Before touring homes or scrolling listings, financial clarity is essential. Experts recommend determining not just what you can borrow, but what you can comfortably afford on a monthly basis. This includes mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and unexpected repairs.

Pre-approval from a lender provides a realistic framework and signals seriousness to sellers. However, buying at the top of your budget can leave little room for flexibility, especially in a competitive market.

Smart Shopping

In regions like Long Island, competition remains intense, requiring buyers to think strategically about pricing and positioning.

“Our Long Island market is highly competitive. They need to set the search $25,000 to $50,000 below their max budget. Be ready to view the property in the first three days of showings. The language in the terms of the offer benefiting the seller makes you stick out in a multi offer situation just as much as the price,” said Matthew Classie of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Bay Shore.

That approach allows room to compete without overextending financially. It also underscores a key reality: in competitive markets, terms and timing can be just as important as the offer itself.

Focused Search

With countless listings available online, narrowing your focus early can prevent decision fatigue.

“Narrow down the town you’re interested in and the style of home that fits your needs. It’ll save you a lot of time and confusion,” said Felix Gutierrez of ERealty Advisors in Manhasset.

Buyers should consider commute times, school districts, property taxes and neighborhood amenities alongside home features. Defining priorities such as number of bedrooms, outdoor space or proximity to transit helps streamline the process and reduces the risk of impulse decisions.

Future Planning

First-time buyers often focus on immediate needs, but long-term thinking is equally important. A home that works today should also accommodate changes in lifestyle, career or family size.

Will the space still function in five years? Is there room to grow, renovate or adapt? Even buyers who don’t plan to stay long should consider resale value and neighborhood trends.

Balancing present needs with future flexibility can prevent costly moves or renovations down the line.

Evolving Market

The concept of a “starter home” has shifted significantly in recent years, particularly in high-demand areas.

“On Long Island, the definition of a starter home has evolved. With inventory still limited compared to buyer demand, today’s buyers are broadening both what they’ll purchase and where they’ll look. Many are considering co-ops and condos in addition to single family homes, and expanding their search to a wider geographic area to find the right fit. Buyers are prioritizing condition, location, and long-term value over size alone. A starter home remains a strong investment because it allows buyers to enter homeownership and build equity,” said Crystin Quick of Douglas Elliman.

This broader mindset opens doors for buyers who might otherwise feel priced out of the market.

Timing Matters

Financing Options

Financing is a cornerstone of the homebuying process, and first-time buyers have more options than they might expect. Conventional loans are common, but government-backed programs such as FHA, VA and state-level assistance programs can lower barriers to entry.

Down payment requirements vary widely. While 20 percent is often cited as a benchmark, many loans allow for significantly less, particularly for qualified buyers. Grants and firsttime buyer programs may also help cover closing costs or down payments. Comparing lenders, interest rates and loan structures can yield substantial long-term savings.

Trying to perfectly time the market is rarely realistic, but understanding broader trends can still inform decision-making. Interest rates, seasonal inventory patterns and economic conditions all play a role.

Spring and early summer often bring more listings, but also more competition. Winter months may offer fewer choices but less bidding pressure. Ultimately, the best time to buy is when your financial situation is stable and you’re prepared for the responsibilities of ownership.

When Wait

Despite the appeal of owning a home, it’s not always the right move. Buyers with unstable income, high debt or limited savings may benefit from waiting.

Homeownership comes with ongoing costs beyond the mortgage, including maintenance, repairs and property taxes. Without a financial cushion, these expenses can quickly become burdensome.

Additionally, those planning to relocate in the near future may not benefit from buying, as transaction costs can outweigh short-term gains.

Winning Strategies

Preparation and flexibility are key advantages in a competitive market. Buyers should be ready to act quickly when the right property appears, while also remaining disciplined about their budget and priorities.

Working with experienced real estate professionals can provide insight into local trends, pricing strategies and negotiation tactics. Strong offers often combine competitive pricing with favorable terms, such as flexible closing dates or fewer contingencies.

Equally important is maintaining perspective. Not every offer will be accepted, and setbacks are part of the process.

Building Equity

At its core, buying a first home is about more than securing a place to live it’s about building a financial foundation. Each mortgage payment contributes to equity, creating long-term value that renting cannot provide.

Over time, that equity can be leveraged for future purchases, renovations or other investments. Even modest homes can serve as stepping stones toward larger financial goals.

Final Thoughts

The path to homeownership may feel complex, but with the right preparation and mindset, it remains an achievable goal. By understanding the market, defining priorities and making informed financial decisions, first-time buyers can navigate the process with confidence.

In a competitive landscape, success isn’t just about finding a home it’s about making choices that support both your present lifestyle and your future plans.

Photo by Aaron Huber

Define your priorities to help streamline the search process.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev

Know your budget before touring homes.

Photo by Tierra Mallorca

Keeping a broader mindset opens doors for buyers who might otherwise feel priced out of the market.

For many buyers, the search for a new home begins with a clear vision — a specific neighborhood, must-have features and a pictureperfect layout. But real estate professional Oksana Malayeva said that mindset can sometimes stand in the way of finding the right fit.

“I always say you need to feel the house, not see a house in pictures,” Malayeva said. “You need to come in and feel the house.” While online listings and photos are a starting point, they rarely tell the full story. Layout, flow and overall atmosphere often only reveal themselves in person.

Setting realistic expectations is key, especially in a competitive market. Buyers may enter the process with long wish lists, but Malayeva encourages them to focus on what truly matters.

“It’s about the layout more than anything,” she said, noting that cosmetic details like paint or finishes can be changed, while structure and functionality are harder to

alter.

Trusting a real estate agent’s guidance can also make a significant difference. Malayeva, who has shown countless homes across Long Island, often encourages clients to consider properties they might otherwise dismiss.

“The homes that they don’t want to see — that’s the house that they end up buying,” she said. “It’s been my experience.”

That approach may mean stepping outside of preconceived ideas. Buyers frequently rule out homes based on photos or location assumptions, but those decisions can be limiting.

“The houses are very

deceiving from the outside, from the pictures,” Malayeva said. “When you walk in, it’s a completely different house — totally unexpected.”

She recalls working with a buyer who insisted on having a basement — until she found the right home without one. By rethinking priorities and exploring alternatives, the buyer discovered a better overall fit.

“I ask people, ‘Why do you need a basement?’” Malayeva said. “Sometimes there’s another solution that works even better for their lifestyle.”

Ultimately, Malayeva believes the home-buying process should be guided by

both practicality and intuition.

“Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions people make,” she said. “You have to keep an open mind and trust the process.”

By balancing expectations with flexibility — and leaning on expert advice — buyers may find that their dream home isn’t always the one they first imagined, but the one they almost overlooked.

Oksana Malayeva

Lics. RE Salesperson ABR, SFR

Selling With Love Buying With Confidence

Turn-key, fully renovated legal mother-daughter home on a quiet Woodmere street—ideal for extended or multi-generational living. Originally 6 bedrooms and 3 full baths, this expansive 3,500 sq. ft. Hi-Ranch offers exceptional space and flexibility. Located in the award-winning Hewlett-Woodmere School District 14. Features include a stunning oversized chef’s kitchen, large bedrooms, walk-in closets, gas heat, ductless A/C, and a 2-car garage. The first floor offers a family room with woodburning fireplace, 2 bedrooms, full bath, second kitchen, and utility room. Bright interiors, oversized windows, and sliding doors lead to a deck with park-like views. A must-see!

Oksana Malayeva

Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies or purchases made through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.

The property highlights how an unplanned showings can lead to the perfect match for a new homeowner.

From beachfront condos in Long Beach to sprawling estates in the Hamptons, Long Island’s housing market continues to draw a wide range of buyers.

For Vanessa Ambrosecchia and her partner, Darab Lawyer, the work often involves navigating preferences while balancing geography, lifestyle and discretion.

Based in Rockville Centre, the pair said their experience working with high-net-worth clients revealed patterns that extend across the market.

How location shapes buyer decisions across Long Island

Ambrosecchia said buyer decisions are driven more by lifestyle needs than geography alone. “It all depends on how close they want to be to the city and what they’re looking for,” she said.

Areas like Long Beach have seen increased demand with buyers who want direct access to Manhattan. Convenience, combined with new condominiums, attracts those looking to balance coastal living and commuting.

South Shore communities such as Seaford and Wantagh attract yearround residents who commute for ��

waterfront properties and marinas, while maintaining shorter travel times.

Further east, the Hamptons draws buyers seeking seasonal homes or second residences. “You’ll get the Manhattan crowd going out to the Hamptons,” Lawyer said, noting that those buyers prioritize space and distance from the city.

Privacy and amenities drive high-end home searches

Both agents said privacy remains one of the most consistent priorities among high-end buyers.

“They want peace, they want privacy, they want tranquility,”

Ambrosecchia said.

That demand shapes where buyers look and what features they prioritize. Larger properties, fewer neighboring homes and fully equipped interiors are common

requests. In some cases, buyers look for homes that function as self-contained spaces, complete with gyms, entertainment areas and outdoor amenities.

�� begin through referrals rather than listings. Both agents said �� is central to building those relationships. �� and demand

The pair noted changes in buyer behavior due to low inventory. Low interest rates contributed to increased purchasing activity and many buyers have held onto properties as long-term investments. As a result, inventory remains limited, particularly in desirable areas.

“There’s not a lot of inventory,” she said. “Every home is an asset.” Today’s buyers continue to weigh similar factors: location, privacy and long-term value. While some seek seasonal properties or investment opportunities, others focus on �� both work and personal life. “It all depends on the buyer’s wants and needs,” Ambrosecchia said.

Darab Kevin Lawyer and Vanessa Ambrosecchia

Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies

Darab Kevin Lawyer Vanessa Ambrosecchia Team Leaders The Lawyer Team

n Long Island, where a home’s impression can make or break a sale, real estate professional Christine Ferramosca knows gardening shapes how homes are experienced and remembered.

“I simply love gardening,” she said. Her enthusiasm is rooted in family tradition and a practical appreciation for how greenery transforms a space.

“Flowers and plants are an easy way to freshen up a room and bring life to a space,” Ferramosca explained, noting she often stages listings with flower bouquets and potted plants.

Her connection to gardening traces back to her grandmother, Adelina, who emigrated from Italy in the 1950s carrying a handful of tomato seeds.

“They didn’t have much when they came over from Italy, but tomato seeds were among the things they brought with them,” she said. “The fact that they’ve been propagated and saved year after year for more than three generations makes them pretty special.” Each year, her family carefully saves and prepares

them for the next growing season.

“Each year, we reserve the seeds so we can grow them again the following year,” she said.

The variety falls into the heirloom category — irregularly shaped but rich in flavor. “Some people call them ‘ugly tomatoes,’ but to me they’re so beautiful,” she said.

The tradition shaped how her grandmother cooked. “She would can tomatoes and other food from her garden, so she could grab a jar from her basement pantry year-round,” Ferramosca said. “When in season, she would use them fresh in sauces or sliced with

basil, garlic, and mozzarella — simple and delicious.”

Today, Ferramosca blends that heritage with modern resources, frequently visiting trusted local garden centers like Hicks Nurseries, Heritage Farm & Garden, and Dee’s Nursery & Florist.

“I love going to the local nurseries,” she said. “I could spend all day walking through and admiring the plants.”

She emphasized the value of shopping local. “When you go to a reputable garden center, you’re not just buying plants — you’re getting advice, guidance, and quality that make a difference,” Ferramosca said.

For beginners, she recommends starting small. “If you feel overwhelmed, start with a pot of your favorite herbs by your kitchen windowsill,” she said. “They look and smell great, and you can pick what you need when you’re cooking.”

In real estate and in life, Ferramosca believes thoughtful touches leave a lasting impression rooted in care and continuity.

Christine Ferramosca SRS, RENE

Licensed RE Salesperson

Christine Ferramosca

Christine Ferramosca, right, meets with Steve DiDominica, co-owner, along with his brothers, Tom and Joe, of Dees’ Nursery in Oceanside

Low housing inventory and strong buyer demand continues to shape the real estate market across the Five Towns, where homes are selling quickly and, in many cases, above asking price.

Local agents say limited supply combined with an aging housing stock is also contributing to a growing number of rebuilds, as buyers weigh the cost of renovation against starting from scratch.

“There is low inventory,” said Gil Shemtov, a Woodmere-based agent with Douglas Elliman. “Whatever is coming on the market is moving.”

Ronnie Gerber, a Hewlettbased agent with the same firm, said properly priced homes are often generating multiple offers.

“If the homeowners are reasonable with the price, very often they’re getting over the asking, because they’re creating bidding wars,” Gerber said. Why low inventory is driving competition

Buyers need to be prepared because when it comes, and it’s good, it goes quick.

-Gil Shemtov

The shortage of available homes has created what agents describe as urgent demand, with buyers acting quickly when properties become available.

“Very, very good,” Gerber said of current demand. “There’s a lot of pent-up demand for houses, because there’s been so few for so long.”

Homes that are priced appropriately are moving at a rapid pace, Shemtov said, while overpriced listings tend to sit longer and lose momentum.

“If it’s priced right, it goes,” he said.

The pace of the market has left little room for hesitation. Shemtov described situations where homes receive multiple offers within days, sometimes before an open house even takes place.

“They can’t drag their feet because it’s gone,” Gerber added.

Aging homes prompting rebuild decisions

Much of the Five Towns housing stock dates to the 1950s, which is influencing how buyers approach newly purchased properties.

“Everything was built in the 50s,” Gerber said. “So, when people buy things and they start to think that they’re going to renovate them, as they start to do it, they realize you might as well just rebuild the house.”

Rising construction costs and outdated systems — including plumbing, electrical and roofing — are often revealed once renovation begins, agents said, shifting projects toward partial or full teardowns.

“If you’re going to put in a couple hundred thousand or a million dollars, you might as well rebuild,” Gerber said.

Shemtov said many homes fall into a renovation cycle of about 10 to 15 years, but buyer preferences are increasingly favoring newer construction or fully updated properties.

“A lot of people have the mindset that new and pretty is going to go much faster,” he said.

Renovated homes hold a clear advantage

Move-in-ready homes continue to command strong interest, in part because they offer cost certainty in an unpredictable construction environment.

“It’s always better to sell one that’s done,” Gerber said. “They know exactly what they’re spending.”

Buyers purchasing homes in need of work face both financial and logistical challenges, particularly when renovation costs are unclear.

“You never know how much money or how extensive it’s going to be,” Gerber said.

Shemtov added that many buyers prefer avoiding renovation altogether, especially in households where both partners are working.

“They don’t have time to do the renovations,” he said.

As a result, updated kitchens and bathrooms — often the most disruptive and costly upgrades — remain key selling points.

Market conditions expected to remain steady

Agents said the current conditions follow a slower winter season, when snow and weather limited both listings and buyer activity.

As conditions improved, activity increased on both sides of the market.

“I think it’s going to pretty much stay the way it’s been,” Gerber said.

Both agents expect continued competition for well-priced homes, along with sustained demand from buyers prepared to act quickly.

“The takeaway here is simple,” Shemtov said. “Buyers need to be prepared because when it comes, and it’s good, it goes quick.”

Carolyn Argento is a seasoned real estate professional with over 25 years of experience in sales and management. She currently serves as Sales Manager for Douglas Elliman, overseeing the Merrick and Long Beach offices, both key players in the South Shore market.

A Long Island native, she began her career in 1999 and quickly rose into leadership roles, managing multiple teams and offices, building a strong industry reputation. Since returning to Douglas Elliman in 2021, Carolyn has driven significant growth through a collaborative, highperformance culture while mentoring agents and ensuring a seamless, professional experience for clients.

Gil Shemtov is a Long Island native with over 20 years of experience in business, financial management and real estate investing. Known for his strong negotiation skills and hands-on approach, he works closely with clients to make buying and selling as smooth as possible. Gil has been an award-winning agent since 2014 and is a lead partner of the Tripodi Shemtov Team, recognized as the #1 Team on Long Island companywide in 2025 for volume, GCI, and rentals.

Ronnie Gerber is a Licensed Sales Associate with Douglas Elliman, specializing in the Five Towns and South Shore markets. A top producer since 2006, she ranked #3 in transactions and #7 companywide in gross commission income and volume on Long Island in 2025, earning the Diamond Award. A Five Towns native, she’s known for her integrity, market expertise and dedication to guiding clients through every step of the process.

Carolyn Argento

Carolyn Argento Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker

As May blossoms, we’re reminded of what truly matters fresh beginnings, connection, and the simple joys that brighten our days.

This season brings a renewed sense of energy and possibility a time to embrace growth, celebrate progress, and enjoy the longer sun-filled days ahead. As the #1 brokerage on Long Island*, Douglas Elliman is proud to help guide that journey Here’s to new beginnings, meaningful connections, and a season filled with light and renewal.

- Carolyn Argento

Patricia Del’Orben

Rick Daniels Robin Reiss Ronnen Kimchi

Roy Arbeit

Susan Sorid

Elyse Whiton

Cindy Dibiasi

Anita Bachrach

Michael Riccio

Nicole Ryan

Sarah DaSilva

Margaret Biegelman

Sheri Kutilek

Gail Rattner

Debra Fisher

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Cynthia Nakashian Anna Diamantidis

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Louise Pitlake

Paul Conforti Lisa Deturris

Isabella Lisa Pellegrino

Paul Deturris Michael Wright

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Melissa Lobel John McConnell

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Phoebe Altman Seth Pitlake

Ronnie Gerber Praneet Mann

Gloria Rabson Gus Lafkas Jake Sakin

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Ellen Kehrli

Susan Helsinger Steve Bernstein

Dorothy Harrington Carmela Dragonetti Elaine Richheimer Cathy Stone

Tina Canaris

Svetlana Vaksman Tayler Mollitor

Not Pictured: Christina Napoli, Diana Tores, Ahuva Gamss, Rozana Zemlyansky, Tatyana Agron.

or years, Jennifer Magro walked past the same house in her Valley Stream neighborhood, drawn to its front porch and the way it sat on the block.

“It was always my favorite house,” she said.

She never expected it would be hers. But when the 1940s house was listed by Joseph DeVito of Douglas Elliman, she recognized it immediately.

Magro reached out and saw the house that day. “By the next day, I knew I wanted it,” she said.

While well cared for, the house needed a few upgrades.

Shaping the house into something new

As the process moved forward, Magro’s working relationship with DeVito took on a different shape.

Rather than stepping away after the sale, he stayed involved as she began thinking through what the house could become. DeVito connected her with professionals, and they began walking through the space together, talking through ideas.

“We decided to sort of go into that project together,” she said.

Magro knew what she wanted but valued having someone help refine those ideas and translate them into practical decisions. “We walked around and decided what would be useful, what wouldn’t be useful,” she said.

Opening up and rethinking the layout

On the main floor, the kitchen and dining room were completely reworked. Walls came down, and the space was opened into a larger area that better fit Magro’s desires. Working with a designer DeVito recommended, she planned out the kitchen she always wanted.

An upstairs bedroom was converted into a bathroom connected to the primary suite, creating a more private space.

The property offered a large yard, which had appealed to Magro. The backyard was redesigned, while the landscaping and hardscaping were rebuilt.

Even now Magro and DeVito will meet to look at plants or talk through updates. “We have a great time going to the nurseries together and picking things out,” she said.

A process that didn’t end at closing Looking back, Magro said the experience changed how she thinks about working with a real estate agent.

“He doesn’t just sell you the house,” she said. “He wants to continue that work with you and bring it to your vision.” Magro said DeVito made the renovation process manageable. Now that the work is largely complete, she finds herself appreciating the details. “I sit here sometimes and think, ‘Look at my wallpaper,’” she said. “We did it.”

Joseph DeVito

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Joseph DeVito

After a slower winter season along Long Island’s South Shore, the housing market is beginning to regain momentum as warmer weather brings both buyers and sellers back into action, according to Leon Sanchez Jr. of Newman Realty in Malverne.

Sanchez explained that the winter months were largely shaped by seasonal trends and an ongoing shortage of inventory. Harsh weather conditions further contributed to a noticeable dip in activity.

“We experienced a bit of a slowdown this winter, mainly due to limited inventory,” Sanchez said. “It was one of the harsher winters we’ve had in recent years.”

Colder temperatures and shorter days led to fewer showings and a decline in new listings. However, as the weather improved, the market responded quickly.

“As soon as the weather turned, things started to pick up,” he said. “We’re seeing more inventory come onto the market.”

At Newman Realty, the

team continues to prioritize a smooth, client-focused experience, emphasizing strong communication, organization, and attention to detail that helps �� from listing through closing. In a market where available homes remain scarce, Sanchez noted that this level of service is more important than ever.

“There was a time when you’d see 50 homes for sale in Malverne — now it’s closer to �� the continued inventory constraints.

Sanchez also credited the �� multiple generations involved,

the brokerage has built a reputation for accountability, personalized service, and consistency — qualities clients recognize throughout every stage of a transaction. �� how each deal is handled, from strategic pricing and marketing to negotiations and closing coordination, ensuring clients feel supported every step of the way.

Buyer demand remains strong across the South Shore, �� buyers and young families eager to establish roots in the �� limited inventory continue to shape the market, interest has

not slowed.

“Younger buyers are still very active,” Sanchez said. “Newly married couples and growing families are continuing to purchase homes here every day.”

Overall, Sanchez described the current market as active and full of opportunity, with Newman Realty combining deep local knowledge and hands-on service to guide clients through an increasingly competitive landscape.

Leon Sanchez Jr

Leon Sanchez Jr. Licensed RE Salesperson Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies or purchases made through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.

Go to dining spots in Rockville Centre

For real estate professional Scott Wallace, dining out is as much about community as it is about cuisine. In Rockville Centre, he returns time and again to three favorite spots: George Martin The Original, Chadwick’s American Table & Bar and Lenox & Park Italian Bistro.

Wallace’s connection to George Martin The Original runs deep, stretching back to childhood. The restaurant occupies the former site of Back Street, a favorite of his grandparents.

“I used to go there as a treat with them on an occasional Friday night growing up,” he said. When George Martin took over the space, Wallace joined the original waitstaff while in college.

Today, that sense of history still shapes his experience.

“It’s a family atmosphere. The staff is phenomenal. They pretty much know everybody’s name,” Wallace said. He points to the consistency of service

— and standout dishes like the pork jaegerschnitzel — as reasons he continues to return.

At Chadwick’s American Table & Bar, Wallace finds a similar sense of familiarity. A regular since it opened, he values the restaurant’s approach to hospitality.

“They all make you feel like you’re part of the family. They all appreciate your business,” he said of his three favorites. “In a world where everyone loves to say no, these restaurants find ways to say yes.”

His go-to order there is the beef short rib over mashed potatoes, a dish he describes simply: “It’s so good. I love it.”

For Italian fare, Wallace

Stewart House 2-bedroom in the heart of the Garden City Village

366 Stewart Avenue Unit #C4, Garden City, NY

heads to Lenox & Park Italian Bistro, owned by his longtime friend Michael Griffo. The restaurant, he said, stands out for both its menu and atmosphere.

“It’s a very family focused restaurant,” Wallace said, noting the hands-on presence of ownership. “The food’s so good,” he added, citing favorites like chicken parmesan and pappardelle bolognese.

Beyond the meals themselves, Wallace said these Rockville Centre establishments play a key role in his work as a real estate agent. Frequent visits often double as informal meetings with clients and neighbors, reinforcing relationships that extend beyond transactions.

Whether he’s enjoying a vodka martini at the bar or catching up with familiar faces, Wallace sees each visit as part of a larger connection to the community — one built on good food, conversation and a shared sense of place.

S cott Wallace

R eal Estate Salesperson

G lobal Real Estate Advisor

G old Circle of Excellence

by featured companies or purchases made

This sun-drenched, top-floor corner 2-bedroom Co-op in Garden City, within the Garden City School District, offers exceptional space, comfort, and privacy in an elevator building. Perfectly positioned with views of Stewart Avenue and Franklin Avenue, the home is filled with natural light and features hardwood floors, a spacious living room with a dedicated dining area, and a kitchen with a separate breakfast nook ready for your personal touch. Both bedrooms are generously sized with ample closet space. Located near Seventh Street’s dining, shopping, and the LIRR, this residence offers the perfect balance of convenience and easy living. MLS# 981532. $639,000.

Scott Wallace Virtually Staged

Virtually Staged

Scott Wallace and George Korten, owner of George Martin

Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated

through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.

Michael Griffo, owner of Lenox & Park and Scott Wallace

Spring into summer

May moves outdoors

How Long Island homeowners can perfect lawns, gardens and outdoor spaces for summer ahead

MBy Christy Hinko

ay marks a turning point for Long Island homeowners, when spring fully settles in and outdoor spaces begin to rival interiors in both function and appeal. For those invested in high-end real estate, this is the month to refine landscapes, enhance curb appeal and prepare outdoor living areas for a season of entertaining. Thoughtful attention now ensures properties not only look pristine but also perform as extensions of the home.

Lawn Care: Precision and Consistency

By May, lawns across Long Island are actively growing, fueled by warming soil temperatures and consistent rainfall. Weekly mowing becomes essential, with blades kept sharp and cutting heights maintained around three inches to encourage deep root growth and a lush, even appearance. Scalping the lawn can quickly undo months of progress, leaving turf vulnerable to stress and weeds.

Fertilization should be approached with balance. A slow-release nitrogen blend applied early in the month supports steady growth without surges that require excessive maintenance. For properties with irrigation systems, May is the time to inspect heads, adjust coverage and ensure timers reflect seasonal needs. Overwatering not only wastes resources but can invite fungal issues that compromise the lawn’s uniformity.

Weed control remains a priority. Broadleaf weeds such as dandelions and clover are best addressed early, before they seed and spread. Targeted treatments, rather than blanket applications, preserve the integrity of premium turf and align with increasingly ecoconscious landscaping practices.

Garden Beds: Layered Color and Structure

Garden beds come into their own in May, offering an opportunity to layer color, texture and height. Cool-season annuals like pansies and snapdragons can still perform early in the month, but as temperatures rise, warm-season plantings should take center stage. Petunias, begonias and impatiens provide reliable color, while ornamental grasses introduce movement and contrast.

Perennials benefit from division and repositioning now, particularly those that have outgrown their spaces. This not only rejuvenates plants but also allows for more intentional design. Edging beds creates clean lines that frame the property, reinforcing a sense of order and care that resonates with prospective buyers and guests alike.

Mulching is essential in May. A fresh two- to three-inch layer conserves moisture, suppresses weeds and provides a polished finish. Dark, finely shredded mulch tends to complement high-end landscapes, enhancing plant color and creating visual cohesion across the property.

Trees and Shrubs: Strategic Maintenance

Spring-flowering shrubs such as azaleas and rhododendrons should be pruned immediately after their blooms fade, preserving next year’s buds while maintaining shape. Evergreen hedges, often used as privacy screens in upscale properties, benefit from light trimming to encourage density without exposing inner growth.

May is also a critical window for monitoring pests and diseases. Aphids, scale and early signs of mildew can appear quickly as temperatures rise. Integrated pest management strategies — combining observation, targeted treatment and proper plant spacing — help maintain plant health without overreliance on chemicals.

For newly planted trees and shrubs, consistent watering is key. Deep, infrequent watering encourages roots to establish beyond the surface, creating resilience during the hotter months ahead.

Outdoor Living: Preparing for Entertaining Season

Outdoor spaces are increasingly viewed as essential living areas, and May is the time to prepare them for use. Patios, decks and stonework should be thoroughly cleaned, whether through power washing or professional services. Any winter damage — cracked pavers, loose railings or weathered

Lighting and Ambiance

wood — should be addressed promptly to maintain both safety and aesthetics. Furniture deserves equal attention. Cushions should be refreshed or replaced, frames cleaned and layouts reconsidered to maximize flow and comfort. Group seating to encourage conversation, and consider adding accent tables or fire features to extend usability into cooler evenings. Outdoor kitchens and grilling stations should be inspected and serviced. Ensuring appliances are clean and functioning properly avoids disruptions during gatherings and reinforces the sense of effortless luxury that defines high-end living.

As daylight stretches longer into the evening, landscape lighting becomes an important design element. May is ideal for testing systems, replacing bulbs and adjusting placement to highlight architectural features, specimen plantings and pathways. Layered lighting — combining uplights, downlights and subtle pathway fixtures — creates depth and enhances security without overwhelming the landscape.

Incorporating elements such as water features, sculptural planters or discreet sound systems can further elevate the outdoor experience. These details, while often understated, contribute to a cohesive environment that feels curated rather than incidental.

Seasonal Perspective

May on Long Island offers a brief but powerful window to set the tone for the months ahead. Properties that receive careful attention now benefit from sustained beauty and functionality throughout the summer season. For homeowners and real estate professionals alike, the investment in lawn care, garden design and outdoor living enhancements is not simply seasonal maintenance — it is a strategic effort that underscores the value and lifestyle potential of the property.

In the competitive high-end market, these details matter. A well-maintained lawn, thoughtfully composed garden beds and inviting outdoor spaces signal a home that is not only visually appealing but also meticulously cared for, reinforcing its place at the top of the market.

Photo by David Hunter

Maximize your living space by entertaining outdoors.

Photo by John Oswald

Subtle pathway fixtures create depth and enhance security.

Photo by Tatyana Rubleva

Targeted treatments, rather than blanket applications, preserve the integrity of premium turf.

Photo by Meg MacDonald

Layer color, texture and height of flowers when planning your spring garden.

Hewlett Harbor Exclusive Properties

extraordinary

a lifetime.

$4,200,000

This expansive 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence is nestled in the heart of coveted Hewlett Harbor, situated on over an acre of lush property, and offering the kind of space and privacy that is increasingly rare these days.

$2,560,000

Welcome to this beautifully expanded Center Hall Colonial, where classic architecture meets modern living on a sprawling half-acre lot. Classic charm, thoughtful updates and an abundance of space inside and out make this the one you’ve been waiting to find.

$1,950,000

Welcome to your dream waterfront retreat, offering luxury, comfort and panoramic bayfront living, thoughtfully designed for both entertaining and everyday living.

$2,700, 000

This extraordinary residence in stunning Hewlett Harbor offers a truly unique living experience that will captivate your senses with its blend of luxury and masterful design.

$2,150,000

As leader of the #1 Real Estate team on the South Shore of Long Island, I am here to meet and surpass your expectations. If you’re in the market or just considering it, reach out and I will put my negotiating skills and industry expertise to work for you, helping you make the right move.

This

waterfront parcel of nearly 2 acres on prestigious Seawane Drive is right in the heart of highly coveted Hewlett Harbor, one of Nassau County’s most sought-after and exclusive communities. For the buyer with a vision, this is the opportunity of

Hewlett Harbor