Summary:

In this episode of Real Talk, Pam Stott interviews Michelle Larkin, the founder and executive director of Rebuilding Together Saratoga County. They discuss the organization's mission to provide home repairs for those in need, including older adults, veterans, and low-income families. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the impact of the Showcase of Homes fundraising event, and the vital role of volunteers in making a difference in people's lives. Michelle shares personal stories that illustrate the profound effect of their work on individuals and families in the community.

Takeaways

• Rebuilding Together Saratoga County was founded in 2003.
• The organization aims to make homes warm, safe, and dry.
• They have a waitlist of over 300 people needing assistance.
• Funding from the Showcase of Homes directly supports home repairs.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in the organization's success.
• The organization serves older adults, veterans, and low-income families.
• Ramps are a significant part of their services for accessibility.
• Community involvement is essential for the organization's operations.
• The Showcase of Homes has been a consistent revenue stream for years.
• Every ticket purchased helps support local families in need.
• Contact Information for Michelle: michelle@rtsaratoga.org

In this episode of Real Talk with Sterling Real Estate Group, guests Laura Muschott and Bridget Archer discuss the essential aspects of home staging.

They explore the process of preparing a home for the market, the importance of curb appeal, common mistakes homeowners make, and tips for maximizing appeal both inside and outside the home. The conversation emphasizes the emotional connection buyers have with homes and the significance of creating a welcoming environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

Key Takeaways

• Home staging is about making a home visually appealing to buyers.
• Neutral colors are recommended for painting rooms before staging.
• Curb appeal is crucial for making a good first impression.
• Cleaning and decluttering are essential steps in the staging process.
• Lighting plays a significant role in showcasing a home.
• Personal items should be removed to help buyers envision their own lives in the space.
• Staging can lead to higher sale prices for homes.
• The entryway should be inviting and well-maintained.
• Staging doesn't always require new furniture; existing items can be rearranged effectively.
• Every home can benefit from professional staging advice.
• Contact info: Laura Muschott: laura.sterlinghomes@gmail.com. Bridget Archer: archerdesignny@gmail.com

In this episode of Real Talk, Lisa Licata sits down with Mike Isles from Spa Septic to break down everything homeowners, buyers, and real estate agents should know about septic systems.

From how to properly maintain a septic system to what really happens during an inspection, Mike shares his expert insights—including costly mistakes to avoid, why "flushable" wipes aren't safe, and how a simple riser can save you hundreds in the long run.

Whether you're buying a home with a septic tank, preparing for a septic inspection, or building on raw land and need to understand perc tests—this episode is packed with must-know information for navigating septic systems in the Capital Region and beyond.

🔎 Key Takeaways:

• How often to pump your septic system (and why it matters)
• What a septic inspection includes (and why you should never skip one)
• Common myths about additives like RID-X and yeast
• What buyers should look for when purchasing a home on septic
• How septic system failures can derail a real estate deal
• Tips for installing a new system, including cost expectations
• What every land buyer should know about perc and deep hole tests
• Real talk on raised beds vs traditional systems
• Contact Mike Isles / Spa Septic at 518-584-5473 (O)

📍 Whether you’re a buyer, seller, agent, or builder—don’t let "poo be a problem for you."

In this episode of Real Talk with Sterling Real Estate Group, Lisa Licata sits down with Sam Gamello, a certified real estate appraiser with over 25 years of experience and owner of Olde Kinderhook Appraisal Services.

Whether you're buying, selling, or representing clients in a transaction, understanding the appraisal process is critical. Sam breaks down what an appraisal really is, what factors affect a home’s value, and how appraisal gaps happen in today’s fast-paced market.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• What’s included (and not) in a home appraisal
• Why accurate square footage matters—and how it’s measured
• How appraisers handle unique or hard-to-comp properties
• What to do if the appraisal comes in below contract price
• The difference between appraisals for purchases, refinances, and FHA loans
• How sellers and agents can help support a smooth, accurate appraisal process

Plus, Sam shares insights on local vs. national market trends, the impact of concessions, and how current appraisal standards are evolving.

📍 This episode is packed with practical info for anyone involved in Capital Region real estate.

📞 Need an appraisal or have questions?
Contact Sam at Olde Kinderhook Appraisal Services:
📱 518-542-7774

In this episode of Real Talk, Lisa Licata interviews Kerry Loiselle, a seasoned real estate agent, about essential tips for sellers preparing their homes for the market. They discuss the importance of decluttering, enhancing curb appeal, budget-friendly updates, and the significance of professional guidance throughout the selling process. Kerry shares insights on how to make homes more appealing to buyers, the value of pre-home inspections, and the local market dynamics that affect selling strategies. The conversation emphasizes the need for sellers to rely on professionals to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Kerry has been in real estate for 17 years, with 13 years at Sterling.
• First impressions matter; curb appeal is crucial for attracting buyers.
• Budget-friendly updates like paint can significantly enhance a home's appeal.
• Decluttering is essential for showcasing a home's space effectively.
• Neutral colors in paint help buyers visualize their own style.
• A good cleaning can make a big difference in bathrooms.
• Sellers should consider pre-home inspections to avoid surprises during buyer inspections.
• Mold and water quality should be checked before selling a home.
• Serious buyers are active even during the winter months.
• Relying on a professional's advice is key to a smooth selling process.
• Contact Kerry Loiselle at kerryloiselle518@gmail.com or 518-322-6650 (c)

In this episode, Lisa Licata interviews Michelle Viola-Straight, Executive Director of Military Home Loans at ClearPath Mortgages. They discuss the importance of VA loans for veterans, common misconceptions surrounding these loans, and the various benefits available to service members. Michelle emphasizes the need for education and preparation when applying for a VA loan, as well as the importance of building a support network to navigate the home buying process. The conversation also highlights community engagement and outreach efforts to assist veterans in understanding and utilizing their benefits effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Veterans can use their VA loan benefits multiple times.
• The VA loan is one of the best mortgage options available.
• Service-connected disabilities can waive the VA funding fee.
• There is no minimum credit score requirement for VA loans.
• Preparation is key for veterans looking to apply for a VA loan.
• Building a support network is crucial for veterans.
• Community outreach is essential for educating veterans about their benefits.
• Veterans should be cautious of misleading marketing targeting them.
• Creating a team of knowledgeable professionals can ease the home buying process.
• ClearPath Mortgages offers extensive support for veterans.
• Michelle's email is Michelle@ClearPathMortgages.com. You can call or text her with questions at 518-573-4414.

In this episode of Real Talk, Lisa Licata welcomes Drew Aiello, a branch manager at Fairway Mortgage Corporation, to discuss the current state of the housing market, mortgage rates, and the factors influencing home buying decisions. They explore the impact of Federal Reserve policies, the importance of pre-approval for buyers, and the demographic trends shaping the market. Drew emphasizes the urgency for potential buyers to act now rather than wait for lower rates, as the demand for housing continues to outpace supply. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and the strategies to navigate the competitive market.

Key Takeaways

• Mortgage rates are influenced by the 10-year treasury yield.
• Buyers should consider getting a cash guarantee to stand out.
• The Federal Reserve's decisions can significantly impact mortgage rates.
• Waiting to buy a home can lead to higher costs in the long run.
• Demographics indicate a strong demand for housing in the coming years.
• First-time homebuyers should be aware of their financing options.
• Pre-approval is essential for buyers in a competitive market.
• Understanding market trends can help buyers make informed decisions.
• Inflation rates are expected to decrease, affecting mortgage rates.
• The current housing market is characterized by high demand and low supply.

Contact Drew Aiello via email at drew.aiello@fairwaymc.com or phone call at 518-573-2435. You can also reach out to us at Sterling Real Estate Group and we'd be happy to connect you!

In this engaging conversation, Joe DiCaprio, owner of Empire Insurance, shares his journey in the insurance industry, emphasizing the importance of client relationships and adapting to the evolving landscape of insurance. He discusses the challenges posed by rising rates and inflation, the significance of personalized service, and the benefits of specialized insurance for new construction, pet insurance and everything in between. Joe highlights the need for consumers to shop around for insurance and the value of working with knowledgeable professionals in the field.

Key Takeaways

• Joe DiCaprio emphasizes the importance of client relationships over sales.
• The insurance industry is facing significant challenges due to rising rates and inflation.
• Personalized service and immediate response are crucial in today's market.
• New constructions often come with lower insurance rates due to fewer claims.
• Pet insurance can save clients thousands in unexpected medical costs.
• Consumers should actively shop for insurance to find the best rates.
• Educating clients about claims and coverage is essential for their financial well-being.
• The insurance landscape is changing rapidly, requiring adaptability from agents.
• Building a strong referral network is key to success in the insurance business.
• Joe's passion for helping clients is evident in his approach to service.

Contact Joe DiCaprio via text or phone at 518-350-0511 or email at joe@myinsurance.agency. You can also reach out to Sterling Real Estate Group at 518-688-2211 or info@sterling518.com.