What to Know Before Moving to Long Island

 

Long Island is one of the most popular places to move in the United States. It offers a variety of activities and attractions, from outdoor recreation to urban areas with plenty of shopping and dining options. If you're considering a move to Long Island, there are some things you should know before taking the plunge.

Let's take a closer look at what it takes to make your relocation successful.

Weather

The weather on Long Island varies depending on location, but generally, it experiences four distinct seasons — spring, summer, fall, and winter — each with its own unique weather patterns. In spring and fall the temperatures range from mild days into the mid-80s Fahrenheit (about 29°C) during the day with cooler nights averaging around 60°F (15°C). Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (32°C), while winters can be cold with temperatures dipping into the 20s Fahrenheit (-6°C). Snowfall averages around 35 inches per year with coastal areas typically receiving less snowfall than inland regions.

 

Things To Do

Long Island is home to a variety of attractions for all ages and interests. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate:

• Beaches such as Jones Beach State Park or Robert Moses State Park offer swimming, fishing, camping, and more
• Or perhaps hiking trails at Bethpage State Park or Sunken Meadow State Park
• Some popular golf courses include Montauk Downs Golf Course or Bethpage Black Golf Course
• Boating tours around Fire Island National Seashore

For those looking for more urban activities, there are:

•  Plenty of museums like The Hofstra Museum or The Heckscher Museum
• Theaters such as Patchogue Theatre for Performing Arts
• Sporting events like Brooklyn Nets basketball games
• Concerts at Westbury Music Fair
• Festivals like Oyster Festival in Oyster Bay
• Amusement parks such as Adventureland in Farmingdale
• Shopping malls such as Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City
• Wineries such as Raphael Winery in Peconic
• Restaurants like Nicky's Clam Bar in Port Jefferson Station
• Nightclubs like Revolution Bar & Music Hall in Amityville
• Music venues such as The Space at Westbury Theater
• And art galleries like the Art League of Long Island in Dix Hills

There really is something for everyone!

High Taxes on Property Owners

Property taxes are also very high in certain areas of Long Island. For example, Nassau County has a property tax rate of 0.8%, which means homeowners will pay $8,000 per year on a house worth $1 million. While this may not seem like much compared to other parts of the country, it can add up quickly when combined with other expenses such as utilities and groceries.

Don’t let that scare you from moving to this beautiful area. Our team can help!

 

Property Tax Consultants on Long Island

If you want to reduce your property taxes, we’re here to help. Based in Plainview, New York, P.T.R.C., Inc. specializes in minimizing clients’ property tax assessments with personalized service. Our number one priority is customer satisfaction.

Winter Home Care Tips

 

As the temperature drops, now is the perfect time to ensure your home is prepared for winter weather. Taking a few proactive steps now can save you from costly repairs later. Let’s explore some winter residence care tips to help keep your home warm and cozy during the cold winter months.

 

Basic Maintenance Repairs

Most homeowners are aware of basic maintenance repairs that need to be completed around the house, but too often, these items are put off until it’s too late. During cold weather months, drafts can develop and cause energy bills to skyrocket. Furthermore, water damage can occur if the plumbing isn’t properly maintained or insulated correctly.

Now is a great time to check for any signs of wear and tear in your windows and doors and inspect pipes and other plumbing fixtures for potential problems. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact a professional right away so that they can help prevent any further damage or expensive repairs down the road.

 

Landscaping Tips

The colder temperatures also call for some specific landscaping tasks that need attention:

• First, remove any dead leaves or branches from trees or shrubs near your house to prevent them from falling onto roofs or windows during high winds or heavy snowfall.
• Additionally, trim back all overgrown vegetation away from walkways, driveways, patios, and decks in order to prevent ice accumulation on sidewalks which could lead to slips and falls this winter season.
• Lastly, be sure to insulate outdoor faucets by draining them before freezing temperatures set in and wrapping them with an insulating material like bubble wrap or foam insulation covers before covering them with plastic bags.

Investing In Quality Equipment

Investing in quality equipment will help ensure your winter season goes smoothly. Consider:

• A snow blower will make it easier to clear away snow when it accumulates on walkways or driveways this winter!
• Investing in an efficient furnace filter will help reduce energy costs while keeping your family warm during those frigid days when temperatures dip below freezing outside.
• Installing storm doors on exterior entrances will provide extra insulation against cold air entering the home while adding additional security measures simultaneously.

Property Tax Consultants on Long Island

If you want to reduce your property taxes, we’re here to help. Based in Plainview, New York, P.T.R.C., Inc. specializes in minimizing clients’ property tax assessments with personalized service. Our number one priority is customer satisfaction.

Kick-Start Your Tax Planning For 2023

 

Let’s face it — tax planning can be overwhelming! Between changing tax laws to deductions, it’s hard to know where to start. But with proper planning, you can maximize the amount of money you get back and save more for your future.

Here are three key strategies to consider when kick-starting your tax planning for 2023:

Determine Your Tax Bracket

Knowing which tax bracket you’re in is one of the most important steps in tax planning. Your income level will determine what types of deductions, credits, and other tax breaks you may qualify for. Knowing your income level will also help you plan accordingly if you need to make changes, such as increasing your 401(k) contributions or deferring income until next year to avoid a higher tax bracket.

 

Know The Difference Between Tax Credits and Tax Deductions

Understanding the difference between a credit and a deduction regarding taxes is important. A credit is an amount directly subtracted from your total tax bill, while a deduction reduces your taxable income by reducing the amount subject to taxes. For example, if you have $10,000 in deductions on your taxes, then only $9,000 would be taxed instead of the full $10,000. Knowing which credits and deductions are available to you can help keep more money in your pocket come tax time.

 

Utilize All Available Methods To Cut Your Tax Bill

There are many ways to reduce your total tax bill, including taking advantage of available credits and deductions as mentioned above as well as contributing to retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s which can offer major tax savings over time. Additionally, you can consider applying today for a property tax grievance!

Our team is here to take the weight of your property taxes off your shoulders.

 

Ready to Save Money?

You count on one of the leaders in property tax challenges! For decades, Property Tax Reduction Consultants on Long Island has strived to minimize clients’ property tax assessment with personalized service. Customer service is our number one priority.

2023 Saving Goals

 

Saving money is essential if you want to achieve financial stability. Whether you’re reserving for a house, a car, or a vacation, having clear and achievable goals in place can help you stay on track with your savings. Here are some tips for setting financial goals that will help you hit your targets by 2023.

 

1. Set SMART Goals

SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. When setting financial goals, it’s important to remember these elements so that your goal is something tangible and realistic that you can work towards. For example, rather than setting a goal of “saving more money,” set a goal of “saving $10,000 by the end of 2023". This way, your goal is specific and measurable and provides an achievable timeline.

 

2. Make It Visual

Visualizing your financial goals can be extremely helpful in staying on track with them. Put up a chart in your home or office where you can write down what you need to save each month in order to reach your goal within the given time frame. Seeing how much progress you make every month will motivate you to keep going!

 

3. Automate Your Savings

Setting up automatic transfers from your checking account into a separate savings account is one of the easiest ways to ensure that you consistently save money each month without having to think about it too much. You can even set up auto-transfers for different categories, such as travel funds or emergency funds, if necessary!

 

4. Get Your Property Taxes Lowered

Taxes can be a heavy burden on homeowners, which is why the new year is the perfect time to apply for your property tax grievance. And we can help! Our main objective is to minimize our client’s property tax assessment with personalized service.

Property Tax Consultants on Long Island

If you want to reduce your property taxes, we’re here to help. Based in Plainview, New York, P.T.R.C., Inc. specializes in minimizing clients’ property tax assessments with personalized service. Our number one priority is customer satisfaction.

Last-Minute Holiday Spending Tips

 

The holidays are upon us, and with that comes the stress of finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. If you're in a crunch, don't worry! Here are some tips to help you shop smarter and spend wiser this holiday season.

 

Shop Online

Online shopping is one of the most convenient ways to get all your last-minute gifts. With websites like Amazon, you can find practically any present you need and have it delivered in just a few days. You can also take advantage of online deals and discounts that may not be available at brick-and-mortar stores. Plus, there's no need to fight the crowds or battle for parking spots—you can do all your shopping from the comfort of your own home.

Prioritize Your List

If time is running out and you don't have enough money to buy gifts for everyone on your list, prioritize! Start by buying presents for family members first. Then move on to close friends who always give you something special during the holidays. Once you've taken care of them, decide if there's enough money left over to buy something for everyone else on your list—or if it's better to save up and put those presents off until next year.

Avoid Impulse Buying

It's easy to fall into the trap of impulse buying when holiday shopping gets overwhelming. But resist the urge! Impulse buying often leads to overspending, so stick to your budget and only buy what you need (and what fits within your budget). It also helps to shop with a purpose—make a list before going out and check it twice before leaving the store. That way, you won't end up coming home with more stuff than intended (and an empty wallet).

 

Ready to Save Money?

You count on one of the leaders in property tax challenges! For decades, Property Tax Reduction Consultants on Long Island has strived to minimize clients’ property tax assessment with personalized service. Customer service is our number one priority.

Best Spots to Ice Skate on Long Island

 

Ice skating is an age-old tradition that becomes more popular once the winter and holiday seasons arrive. It’s a great way to enjoy some time going out, even when the weather is freezing cold.

If you’re in the mood to get your skate on this season, here are some of the best spots on Long Island to check out!

 

Ice Skating in Nassau County

If you live in Nassau County, here are some of the coolest ice skating spots to try.

• Andrew Stergiopoulos Ice Rink/Parkwood Ice Skating Rink: This ice-skating rink offers public skating, skate schools, and more for all ages!
• Newbridge Arena: For over 25 years, this rink has been a local favorite! From tons of hockey fun to its Hot Shots Ice Hockey league, starring the NYPD and FDNY, there’s plenty of fun to have here.
• Northwell Health Ice Center: This facility actually offers both indoor and outdoor skating rink options!
• Port Washington Skating Center: This center is perfect for little ones just starting out with their skating adventures. They offer camps as well as courses!

Ice Skating in Suffolk County

Here are some of the top spots for skating in Suffolk County!

• Dix Hills Ice Rink: This skating destination is open year-round, offering many public skating options. From lessons to pro equipment, they take their skating seriously!
• The Rinx: Since its founding in 1993, The Rinx has become a community staple. From public skating to good food, it’s the perfect place to bring the family.
• Buckskill Winter Club: This ice-skating rink offers both public skating and private rink rentals! Not only that, but you can find an on-site clubhouse that is the perfect place to relax and stay warm while hanging out.
• Southampton Ice Rink: Looking for the perfect birthday party spot this winter? Well, this rink, located at the Southampton Golf Range, is an ideal choice.

If you’re looking for even more options than the ones above, make sure you head over to this article to see a full outline of every ice skating spot on Long Island!

 

Property Tax Consultants on Long Island

If you want to reduce your property taxes, we’re here to help. Based in Plainview, New York, P.T.R.C., Inc. specializes in minimizing clients’ property tax assessments with personalized service. Our number one priority is customer satisfaction.

Snow Predictions This Winter on Long Island

 

The winter season is upon us! While many residents across Long Island are preparing for the holidays, another important factor is snow! We've got you covered if you're looking to prepare for whatever the winter weather will bring. Here's a breakdown of what's predicted for the 2022-2023 winter season:

 

Snowfall Predictions

According to AccuWeather, Long Island and New York City are predicted to have less snowfall than average this year. Between now and February, the expected number of inches of snow is between 18-23 for the whole season. Our average snowfall is around 29.8 inches.

 

In Comparison to Last Year

Last year, our average snowfall took a major dip. The 2021-2022 winter season only saw a snowfall of about 17.9 inches. So while this year will bring a small increase in precipitation, it's still not a large enough number to match our overall yearly average.

 

When is Snow Predicted to Begin?

It's been a chilly start to the season, but according to AccuWeather, we're not going to see any major snowstorms until later in the season. Much like last year, we won't see heavy snowfall until late January and early February. Unfortunately, we most likely won't be having a white Christmas!

Safety Tips For Snow

Even if we aren't predicted to get a ton of snow this season, it's always important to stay prepared! Make sure you're keeping these safety tips in mind:

• Stretch before you go out to shovel
• Avoid overexertion
• Keep as dry and warm as possible
• Stay hydrated
• Maintain awareness of all utilities when shoveling snow
• Offer assistance to individuals in your neighborhood who require extra help, including seniors and people with disabilities

Ready to Save Money?

You count on one of the leaders in property tax challenges! For decades, Property Tax Reduction Consultants on Long Island has strived to minimize clients’ property tax assessment with personalized service. Customer service is our number one priority.