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Letter from Cindy Landis on Real Estate Market: Buyers Are Conservative; Sellers Must Woo Them

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Dear Neighbors,

Jan. 9, 2019: Wishing all of you a happy and healthy 2019!

The year 2018 marked ten years since the 2008 financial crisis. Some of the changes in buyer behavior that we see today continue to be a reaction to that event. Today’s buyers are cautious, having watched or experienced the real estate realignment of 2008-09. They tend to underspend their budget “just in case” or to prepare for “a rainy day.” Additionally, millennials consume data of all sorts, using it for analysis and decision-making rather than relying on their hearts and hunches. Technology, as applied to real estate data, has also been a boon for potential buyers. In short, a more cautious and informed generation of homebuyers has emerged.

Other characteristics of today’s buyers are a desire to focus on a move-in–ready home and one that is close to transportation. Convenience and condition rule. Bearing this in mind, steps to achieving liquidity in real estate are thinking like a buyer and behaving accordingly. Stage your home to appeal to buyers: fresh paint (and color schemes), fewer things, and refreshing your home’s look.

Pricing your home correctly is also of the highest importance. Compare your home to similar homes both in the village and in other local areas to make certain that you are competitive; keep in mind that changes to the federal tax code make Westchester taxes less deductible than in the past. Accept that markets move; get ahead of a trend. And above all, use a professional for advice so that you don’t get dragged down in the details.

Highlights of 2019:

The village townhouse market was the big winner in 2018. Sales (although still few) improved by 50%, from 6 to 9 units, and the price per square foot rose 10% from $609 to $668. The median also climbed from $1,052,500 to $1,250,000, +19%.

The coop market also performed well. Sales were off by 7% (really only 3 fewer closings: 38 v. 41) but median rose to $595,000 from $535,000, an 11% increase. Price per square foot rose to $461 from $451.

Single-family detached home sales stalled for part of the year, and the statistics show it. Unit sales declined to 39 transactions from 50, down 22%. The median price was $2,100,000, a decline of 11% from $2,350,000. Price per square foot dropped slightly, by 3%, to $649. The positive news is that 2018 ended with several homes going into contract in the last month of the year.

In summary, the statistics seem to bear out the idea that buyers are very conservative in choosing their new residence, and sellers must woo them. Nonetheless, Bronxville is a community that is "often imitated but never duplicated." The charm, the school, the proximity to New York City, and the convenient yet sophisticated lifestyle have nearly universal appeal.

We will keep you up to date as 2019’s trends develop.

Warmly,

Cindy G. Landis, Brokerage Manager, Bronxville Office of Houlihan Lawrence

Pictured here: Cindy G. Landis.

Photo courtesy Ms. Landis

Editor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes articles from local institutions, officeholders, and individuals. MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements therein, and any opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff.

New Spate of Business Openings in Bronxville

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By Susan Miele

Dec. 12. 2018: It may not yet be winter, but new growth is occurring in Bronxville, with a spate of business openings.

The newest arrival is Whim, a clothing store with another location in Mount Kisco, which recently opened in the space once occupied by North on Pondfield Road. The shop caters to “the young at heart,” according to owner Vivian Hoffman, whose pedigree includes 40 years’ retail experience that includes 25 years in a senior role with Century 21 department store. The family-run business emphasizes affordability and chic comfort (think fluffy coats, cozy sweatshirts, and leggings), with the majority of selections priced under $100. Hoffman cites her longstanding contacts in the fashion industry as enabling favorable pricing. While the shop is well stocked with jeans, Haute Shore bags, accessories, costume jewelry, and even framed art prints, additional merchandise is forthcoming. Gift cards are also available.

The Shade Store, soon to take over the former home of Yum Yum Tree, will offer custom window treatments, an exclusive material collection, and design advice. A small chain operation, there are more than 60 locations nationwide; the Bronxville location will represent the store’s second outpost in Westchester.

Across the tracks on Palmer Avenue, the former location of Fitness Together will soon be home to Celsius, another fitness facility that will offer high-intensity interval training. This will follow the recent opening of Hot Phiitness, also a provider of high-intensity interval training, located on Pondfield Road.

Earlier this year, Posh Beauty Boutique also opened on Pondfield Road, providing spa treatments like massages and facials.

All these are in addition to the spate of changes to the Bronxville restaurant scene, including the arrival of Root Vine & Juice Bar, Playa Bowls Bronxville, and several forthcoming eateries.

A well-occupied business district correlates with a higher demand on parking spots. The opening of the Kensington Road parking lot earlier this year was intended to help create a better proportion of spots to businesses; the current holiday season will help gauge the outcome of that. Once renovated, the additional parking spots that will result from the Village of Bronxville’s recent purchase of the Avalon lot will also further benefit that ratio.

“A vibrant business district is a gift for the holidays,” said Mayor Mary Marvin. “I am thrilled our merchant, landlord, Chamber, and government partnership coalesced into such a positive outcome.”

While the number of store vacancies is favorably low, cautious optimism is in order, as it’s not uncommon for stores to close after optimizing sales from the holiday season.

Photo by A. Warner

Bronxville Life & Style: Wonderful Local Holiday Gifts, Food & Decor

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By Karen Talbot

Dec. 5, 2018: You will find Holiday décor, food, gifts and specials at our wonderful local stores below! Happy shopping!

HOLIDAY SPECIALS FROM POSH!

As the most wonderful (and most hectic!) time of the year begins, we remind you to take a break and enjoy a little relaxation.

We will be offering 15% off all Gift Cards purchased in-store or online on Tues. Dec. 11!

For the entire month of December there will be SPECIALS offered each day for the 25 Days of POSH.

These specials will be posted to the POSH Beauty Boutique Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. Follow @poshbronxville to take advantage of these special offers.

Posh is not normally open on Mondays, but on Mon. Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) we will be open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, and on Mon. Dec 31 (New Years Eve) we will be open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

POSH Beauty Boutique is a luxury spa in the heart of the village of Bronxville. We offer an extensive menu for you to select from including: the very best facials, massage,eyebrows, make-up and spray tan.

Call 914-361-1277 for an appointment or visit our website www.poshbronxville.com to book your appointment online.

POSH Beauty Boutique

118 Pondfield Road

Bronxville, N.Y. 10708

914-361-1277

CLOAKING

TONEY TONI HOLIDAY TRUNK SHOWS & SPECIAL GIFT ITEMS

During the holiday shopping season Toney Toni and the Gang, a fashionable women's clothing store that has been in Bronxville for 23 years, will be filled with unique sweaters, blouses, coats, dresses, scarves and jewelry to wear to Holiday parties or perfect for gift giving.

They will also be hosting a Holiday Trunk Show December 14 & 15 featuring handmade jewelry by Ela Rae and scarves by Inouitoosh.

Breast cancer awareness month may be over, but the fight to find a cure is still on. Toney Toni will be selling its 14K rose gold with diamond Kim studs designed by Kim Linn & Ela Rae......'tis the season for gifting and giving back! All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society - Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

TONEY TONI AND THE GANG

70 Pondfield Road

Bronxville, New York

914-793-0737

Store Hours: Mon. to Sat.. from 10:00am to 6:00pm and Sun. from Noon to 5:00pm

Shopping by appointment is also available

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GIVE THE GIFT OF SANCTUARY: BRONXVILLE WELLNESS SANCTUARY

Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary builds on an ancient tradition of mind, body and spirit focus that is essential to total health, life balance, and true peace. Our clients experience an increase in well being by participating in our individualized holistic services. Our highly trained team is here to help you experience deep relaxation and healing.

For the Holidays, give the Gift of Sanctuary for body, mind & spirit with a gift certificate for a service-Massage, Facials, Energy Healing, Meditation... or gift a dollar amount.

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax!

Click here to purchase a gift certificate online.

BRONXVILLE WELLNESS SANCTUARY

14 Studio Arcade

Bronxville, New York

914-337-9356

HOLIDAY DECOR FROM TRYFOROS & PERNICE

Tryforos & Pernice, family owned and run, has been decorating people's homes with beautiful flowers since 1963. During this Holiday season, they are featuring show-stopping decorated table top trees.....handmade with fresh fir, magnolia or English boxwood in traditional or contemporary styles. These 26" high table top trees can be made larger and taller with a few days notice. They will last a month or so in your home.

There are lots of handsome wreaths and garlands made out of noble and silver fir, magnolia, boxwood, eucalyptus and juniper to choose from, and a variety of wreaths decorated for indoor use.

Everyone loves amaryllis and paper whites narcissus for themselves or as gifts, and these can come in decorative crates or terra cotta containers.

TRYFOROS & PERNICE

73 Pondfield Road

Bronxville, N.Y.

914-337-2525

Store Hours: Mon. through Sat. from 9am to 6pm and Sun. from noon to 5pm

www.tryforosflorist.com

CANDY ROX: SO MANY FUN GIFT ITEMS & STOCKING STUFFERS

Candy Rox has an abundance of delicious candy and unique gifts for this holiday season. Stocking stuffer options for children as well as adults...everything from games, putty and collectibles to holiday socks, flask mittens and light up hats...something for everyone. Jewelry, bath bombs, pjs and of course our large assortment of Squishable pillows are just some more popular must haves this holiday.

New items such as our Pixel art sets are being touted as the modern day lite brite. Ukuleles in a range of colors and materials continue to be a hit and new musical products such "Rock and Roll It" piano and drum pads are two wonderful new additions that are flexible and portable and will inspire the musician in children ages 6 and up. New merchandise continues to arrive daily.

Whether for clients, employees, teachers, friends or family, customized baskets, platters and Candy Rox towers are the sweetest way to show your appreciation and spread some

As always, enjoy free gift -wrapping with all of your purchases and if you cannot make it into the store, shop candyrox.com or call us at 914-779-6750 and we can take your order over the phone and ship within the US.

CANDY ROX

66 Pondfield Road

Bronxville, N.Y.

914-779-6750

MINI's PRIME MEATS & SPECIALTIES

Mini's Prime Meats & Specialties has been a popular butcher store destination in Bronxville for 16 years. Owner, Paul Chietro and his knowledgeable staff offer high quality products and everything you will need for a delicious dinner anytime of the year.

This unique ONE-STOP shopping experience will be featuring some specials for the Holidays. In the beef department you can order a whole Filet Mignon, tied and ready for roasting or a Prime First Cut Standing Rib Roast. You can also consider a Crown Roast of Pork (16 chops min) or a Whole Leg of Lamb, seasoned with rosemary and thyme and oven ready. Easy to serve Spiral Hams and dozens of other meat and poultry choices are available.

About a year ago, Paul added fresh seafood to his store such as Farmed Salmon and Wild Cod. In the frozen section of his store are Maryland Crab Cakes and Seafood Cakes, made from crab, scallops and shrimp. Everyone loves fresh shrimp which is peeled and deveined for Holiday gatherings.

Mini's makes it easy to complete a meal with an assortment of fresh seasonal vegetables or prepared sides of Sauteed Spinach, Twice Baked Potatoes or Cheesy Mac and Cheese. They also have a wonderful assortment of frozen Ravioli in many varieties.

Start your meal with noteworthy Appetizers: Mini Quiche, Beef a la Wellington, Pigs in a Blanket or Sea Scallops wrapped with Bacon. They also carry Dufour pastry selections: Four Cheese Roasted Garlic Puffs, Smoked Swiss and Bacon Tartlets and Parisian Mushroom Pate.

Make your Holiday dinners with ease from their great selection of Appetizers, Mains and Sides. Mini's is a truly unique shopping experience and don't forget the fresh breads from Arthur Avenue, their dried pasta and fresh or frozen sauces such as Bolognese or Marinara.

MINI'S PRIME MEATS & SPECIALTIES

15 Park Place, Bronxville

914-779-1948

Store Hours: Mon. - Sat. 8:00am to 6:00pm

LUCENTE NURSERY: FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS TREES AND WREATHS

Lucente Nursery has everything for Holiday Décor, including fresh cut Fraser fir trees ranging in size from 4 ft. up to 15 ft tall.

An added feature is they can deliver and install your tree for you. They also have beautifully decorated or plain Fraser fir wreaths from one foot to five feet in width.

The Holidays are not complete without handsome poinsetta's in a variety of sizes from 4.5"....6"....8" and 10" in red, white or pink. Roping is available in garland (western cedar) or Douglas fir and in boxwood to decorate your front door, mantle or stairway. Other items to consider are attractive mantle pieces, centerpieces and fresh Holiday arrangements.

Buy Holiday plants or paper whites for yourself, a loved one or as a hostess gift.

Lucente also carries, lights, tree stands, ribbons, bows and more!

Come and see the large Santa on the property, which children can sit on his hand and pose for pictures.....perfect for Christmas cards. They also allow photographers to come and use their property as a backdrop for pictures.

LUCENTE NURSERY

1 Askins Place

New Rochelle, N.Y.

914-632-5599

Store Hours: Mon. through Sat. from 9am to 5pm and Sun. from 9am to 3pm

www.LucenteCorp.com

Top photo: A. Warner

Note: This content is sponsored by the participating companies

Business Brief: Owners of Kensington Paper in Bronxville Selling the Business

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By Staff

Nov. 7, 2018: This week, Ann Marie Pitkin and Paisley Kelling of Kensington Paper (“KP”) in Bronxville announced that their tenure at the helm of their store in Bronxville is coming to an end after fifteen years and that they are seeking a buyer.

Kensington Paper sells personalized stationery, invitations for weddings and special occasions, party essentials from menus to special party favors, fine gifts in all price ranges, monogramming, and more.

"We have had a fabulous time curating KP, creating fantastic invitations for the life events of our customers, and mostly being immersed in the Bronxville community,” said Ann Marie. “Getting to know our customers has been the highlight of our experience at KP. But, alas, life moves on and we find ourselves ready for new adventures.” Paisley said, “It’s been a fabulous run. ... We adore our loyal and discerning customers from Bronxville and local communities.”

KP is seeking a buyer for its business and would love to “find a local buyer who would continue the KP tradition as a small business dedicated to providing curated products, great customer service, and memorable branding.”

Photo courtesy Kensington Paper

Gramatan Village Names Sherry Saturno New Executive Director

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By Kathryn Urbina, Director, Member Services and Programs, Gramatan Village

Oct. 17, 2018: Gramatan Village has announced the appointment of Sherry Saturno as its new executive director, effective October 15.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sherry to Gramatan Village as our new executive director,” said Kerry Walsh, president of the board. “Sherry is an innovative leader with a passion for our mission to support older adults in our community. She brings a wealth of experience in the field of aging, a collaborative spirit along with distinguished records of professional and academic achievement. We look forward to Sherry leading Gramatan Village to new heights as it enters its second decade. Please join us in welcoming Sherry to our community.”

Sherry Saturno, LCSW, LNHA, DCSW, joins Gramatan Village from Sprain Brook Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and throughout her career, she has served in managerial positions in nursing homes as well as hospital settings. She is a nationally recognized award-winning specialist in the field of aging and has been the recipient of numerous awards for her academic, professional, and community work. In April, Sherry was inducted into the National Academies of Practice as a Distinguished Practitioner in the Academy of Social Work.

In 2017, Social Work Today magazine named Sherry as one of ten notable social workers in the country. She is a frequent speaker at professional conferences and forums. Additionally, she is a field instructor for Fordham University’s School of Social Work and Pace University’s Dyson College of Arts and Sciences in Mental Health Counseling. Sherry’s civic and community service activities include leadership roles with United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester End of Life Coalition, and Columbia University School of Social Work Alumni Association, among others.

Sherry is dually licensed as a clinical social worker and nursing home administrator in New York and a diplomate in clinical social work. She holds master's degrees from Columbia University School of Social Work and Long Island University School of Management and Public Service and is a Stanford Certified Project Manager.

“I am truly excited to have the opportunity to work alongside Sherry,” said Kathryn Urbina, Gramatan Village’s director of member services and programs. “She is a true professional and her enthusiasm, warmth, entrepreneurial spirit, and strong commitment to supporting aging-in-community will enable Gramatan Village to move forward with enhanced programs and services.”

Gramatan Village is a membership organization that engages community residents who want to remain in their homes and in the neighborhoods they love. It provides a network of volunteers, community partnerships, and peer connections that enable members to stay independent and fully engaged in the community. Gramatan Village is recognized as a leader in the National Village Movement. For more information, contact us at 914-337-1338 or CLOAKING or visit our website, www.gramatanvillage.org.

Pictured here: Sherry Saturno.

Photo courtesy Kathryn Urbina, Director, Member Services and Programs, Gramatan Village

Editor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes articles from local institutions, officeholders, and individuals. MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements therein, and any opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff.ditor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes articles from local institutions, officeholders, and individuals. MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements therein, and any opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff.

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