HOMES
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.
Selling a home on Long Island requires preparation, strategy and a clear understanding of today’s market. According to real estate professional Dawn Costello, sellers who take a proactive approach are best positioned for success — especially as buyer behavior shifts.
“I’m starting to see something new,” Costello said. “When you have 30 or 40 people at an open house and only one or two offers, it tells you buyers may be holding back.” She believes fatigue from repeated bidding wars plays a role. “Buyers are so exhausted from getting outbid they’re almost not even trying,” she said. “I’ve had buyers drive to an open house, see the line and go home.”
“Fatigued buyers need to feel like winning is possible,” she said. Anything sellers can do to reduce uncertainty and signal a straightforward transaction will convert into offers. These key things will help smooth the process.
Organized Information.
Gather documents early, including the survey, records for the roof, heating systems, appliances, cesspool maintenance, and any major upgrades. If you have solar panels, let your agent know if they were purchased outright or leased, and what cost a buyer would have to incur.
“If you can answer questions right away, it builds trust and keeps things moving,” Costello said.
Pre-Inspection.
Preparation extends to the home itself. Costello suggests a pre-inspection to uncover potential issues before they become negotiation points.
“Knowing about major issues gives you negotiating power,” she said. “You can get estimates ahead of time versus leaving it up to buyers to lower the offer blindly.”
Thoughtful Presentation.
Decluttering, staging and completing minor repairs can significantly impact how a home is perceived. First impressions matter. Offer Flexibility. She advises sellers to stay realistic and responsive once offers come in. Even in a competitive market, flexibility can make a difference. Be it on a closing date, leaving furniture, or minor repairs. When the price feels scary,
generous terms can tip a buyer over the line.
“Right now, some buyers may be hesitant to jump into bidding wars,” Costello said.
“That means a well-priced home with a prepared seller can still stand out.”
Costello’s advice is simple: be the easy choice. “In a market where buyers are tired, a well-prepared home with a flexible, organized seller isn’t just attractive — it’s a relief.”
Dawn Costello 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.
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rom 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
Vanessa Ambrosecchia Team Leaders The Lawyer Team
Darab Kevin Lawyer and Vanessa Ambrosecchia
Herald Content Studio articles are produced
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
Licensed RE Salesperson
Christine Ferramosca
Ferramosca SRS, RENE
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
Christine Ferramosca, right, meets with Steve DiDominica, co-owner, along with his brothers, Tom and Joe, of Dees’ Nursery in Oceanside
Merrick agent shares experience, advice on 55-plus community living
errick Agent Shares
Insight and Experience on 55-Plus Community Living
After more than 30 years in her Merrick home, Robin Reiss reached a decision many longtime homeowners eventually face: whether to stay or thoughtfully plan for the next chapter.
A licensed real estate salesperson with Douglas Elliman, Reiss relocated last year to a 55-plus community in East Meadow—a move guided by both foresight and practicality.
“If we were going to make a move, we wanted it to be our last,” Reiss explained. Her decision was driven by long-term considerations, including the convenience of single-level living and the desire to reduce ongoing maintenance responsibilities. That personal transition now enhances the guidance she provides to clients navigating similar decisions.
“I’ve advised clients for over 17 years,” she said, “but now I bring not only professional expertise, but personal experience—both practical and emotional.”
One of the most common misconceptions, Reiss noted, is the initial financial aspect of downsizing.
“What often surprises buyers is the initial price of entering a 55-plus community,” she said. While many homeowners benefit from strong resale values, those gains are frequently offset by higher purchase prices in the condo and co-op market, coupled with limited inventory—particularly in Nassau County. Downsizing does reduce your monthly expenses with fewer bills to manage. Renting in a 55+ community can also be a consideration.
“There is a notable shortage of affordable options in this type of housing,” she added.
For some, that reality leads to a different conclusion.
“From a purely financial standpoint, staying in your current home is at times the most economical choice,” Reiss said. “ Financial gain should not be the only consideration to move—it’s about lifestyle.”
That lifestyle shift is often a key draw. Many 55-plus communities offer a simplified way of living, where responsibilities such as snow removal and landscaping are managed
for residents as well as the ability to be away from home for periods of time without concerns of home maintenance. With clubhouses and activities, there is a social aspect as well. Reiss says she has met so many lovely people.
“After this past winter, not having to shovel or plow— just brushing off the car— was a meaningful change,” she said.
At the same time, Reiss emphasizes that community living comes with trade-offs, particularly when it comes to autonomy.
“It’s important for buyers to understand they are giving up a degree of personal control,” she noted. “Even small decisions—like what you can plant outside your home—may be governed by community guidelines.”
Beyond logistics, the transition is often deeply emotional.
“For many homeowners, the home represents decades of memories,” she said. “Letting go of that is not just a physical move—it’s an emotional one.”
To make the process more manageable, Reiss encourages a thoughtful, step-by-step approach.
“The most difficult part is simply getting started,” she said. “Breaking the process into smaller decisions makes it far less overwhelming.”
She also recommends
involving family early on.
“Walk through your home with your children and ask if there are items that hold meaning for them,” she said. “It’s not necessarily about financial value—it’s about sentimental connection.”
Location remains a top priority for many buyers. Reiss often sees Merrick residents, because of their love for Merrick, choosing nearby communities like East Meadow to maintain proximity to family, friends, and familiar routines.
“People who love Merrick often want to stay close,” she said. “East Meadow offers that balance—proximity with a different lifestyle.”
With demand for 55-plus housing continuing to outpace supply, Reiss notes that navigating this market requires both strategy and informed decision-making— areas where her combined professional expertise and personal experience provide meaningful value.
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 offices and building a strong industry reputation. Since returning to Douglas Elliman in 2021, Carolyn has driven significant growth through a collaborative, high-performance culture while mentoring agents and ensuring a seamless, professional experience for clients.
Robin Reiss is a seasoned real estate professional with over 17 years of experience in the industry, along with a strong background in human resources that enhances her client-focused approach. As a member of The Paul Conforti Team, she is known for her attentive listening, strong intuition, and ability to match clients with the right homes and opportunities. Robin is dedicated to guiding buyers, sellers, and investors through every step of the process with care, professionalism, and a commitment to successful results.
Carolyn Argento
Robin Reiss, real estate salesperson at Douglas Elliman
A glimpse into life at The Seasons at East Meadow, a beautiful 55+ neighborhood.
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
Annette Greenfield
Cynthia Nakashian Anna Diamantidis
Dimitra Strifas
Barbara Pugh Doreen Teta
Barbi Rogonia
Nadia Mierau
Louise Pitlake
Paul Conforti Lisa Deturris Lisa Isabella Lisa Pellegrino
Paul Deturris Michael Wright
Evan Mogelefsky
Leanna Serpico
Melissa Lobel John McConnell
Maria RussoSchwartz
Oscar Cervone
Phoebe Altman Seth Pitlake
Ronnie Gerber Praneet Mann
Gloria Rabson Gus Lafkas Jake Sakin
Gloria Datlow Gina Acierno
Ellen Kehrli
Susan Helsinger Steve Bernstein
Dorothy Harrington Carmela Dragonetti Elaine Richheimer Cathy Stone
Tina Canaris
Svetlana Vaksman Tayler Mollitor
Stern
Not Pictured: Christina Napoli, Diana Tores, Ahuva Gamss, Rozana Zemlyansky, Tatyana Agron.
For 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.”
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
be compensated by
Joseph DeVito
Joseph DeVito
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featured companies or purchases made through
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
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
Stewart House 2-bedroom in the heart of the Garden City Village Real Estate Salesperson Gold Circle of Excellence
Scott Wallace and George Korten, owner of George Martin
Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing
Michael Griffo, owner of Lenox & Park and Scott Wallace
Virtually Staged
fter 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.
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.