The Council Multiple Listing Service, or more commonly known as ‘CMLS’ is the association that works with over 200 Multiple List Services, or ‘MLS’ throughout the country. The CMLS is committed to providing their MLS members with resources that reflect a high standard of performance and professionalism in the Real Estate Industry, that in turn, build a better marketplace. The UCBR is a part of the local Ulster County MLS, and operates under the HVCRMLS, allowing members of the UCBR to have access to all the resources the CMLS provides its members in helping them achieve a better marketplace, and...

If you’ve been considering buying in Ulster County, now is the time to get in touch with your local REALTOR® and start getting to work. The 2019 New York State Housing Report Summary is just in. With the strength of the US economy, unemployment reaching a 50-year all time low, and lower mortgage rates, real estate activity was strong in 2019. 2019 showed increased median house prices, lower inventory, and shorter days on the market.  As we start 2020 with the strong market and lower mortgage rates, this housing market trend looks to continue. Because of the strong market in...

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) was first passed in 1968, as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 that President Lyndon B. Johnson signed as an amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Civil Rights Act in 1968 differed from the original Civil Rights Act in 1964, and expanded to include the prohibition of discrimnation of housing sales, rentals and financing based on race, religion, gender, national origin, family and handicap status. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act is now known as the Fair Housing Act by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. It is...

Lisa Berger, Director of Ulster County Economic Development, was the featured speaker at the Ulster County Board of REALTORS® and Hudson Valley Catskill Region MLS Annual Installation Banquet. The Ulster County Board of REALTORS® held its annual installation banquet in association with the Hudson Valley Catskill Region MLS on January 8th, at the Chateau in Kingston, NY. In addition to the installation of the new officers for both organizations, the Board Attorney, Al Fazio, spoke about the importance of understanding and full education around the Fair Housing Act. Featured guest speaker Lisa Berger, Director of Ulster County Economic Development also...

If this year is the year of making Ulster County your home, you’ve found your perfect REALTOR® and are gearing up to start the home buying process, the National Association of REALTORS® has put together a list of home design trends for 2020. They asked some of the Real Estate market’s most notable trend watchers and influencers what to expect and watch for this year. Here’s what you can expect to see influence both sellers and buyers this year in the Real Estate market.  Comfortable Dining Rooms: Homeowners have decided they don’t want to give up their dining rooms, that’s...

With the start of a new year, we tend to start setting goals for what we want to achieve this year, and the future. Maybe 2020 has been your year to make your next move, and you’ve been eyeing Ulster County. With its gorgeous landscapes and quintessential towns, buying a home with character and history adds to the charm of living in the Hudson Valley. Maybe you have looked at a few homes with your REALTOR® that are fixer-upper types, and are ready to take on the challenge. Before you get in over your head, here’s a few things to...

While enjoying time by the fire and catching up with family this holiday season, it’s often hard to think about getting out into the cold while cozied up inside. Since Ulster County is known for its outdoor activities, the winter is an amazing time to explore the area, and enjoy all the winter sports that are available to take part in right here in Ulster County. It also is a fun way to get out and exercise after indulging in all the wonderful holiday treats! Take advantage while you are enjoying time off, and see Ulster County in all its...

Buying a house is a big decision, it can be exciting, overwhelming, confusing and a relief once you have found your dream home and are all settled in. Using an Ulster County REALTOR® as you begin your home buying journey is a key first step. For most people, home buying is something that will only happen a few times during their life, and is often the most expensive purchase you will make during your lifetime. Making sure you have the right REALTOR® to help guide you through the process is an essential component for ensuring a seamless outcome. REALTORS® are...

You’ve made the decision to make Ulster County your next home, and we can relate to that decision: unbelievable beauty, incredible access to outdoor activities, a thriving year round community, while still accessible to New York City. As Ulster County has become a sought out destination for many, it’s easy to succumb to perusing online at what looks like your dream home, and wanting to go check it out. But don't let that be your main source of house hunting in Ulster County. REALTORS ® are still in business for that very reason, and play a crucial role that can...

Published on the November 10th, 2019 edition of the Daily Freeman about the Ulster County Board of REALTORS Annual Membership Meeting. Patrick Ryan, Ulster County Executive discusses initiatives for Ulster County at bi-annual UCBR membership meeting, and Real Estate Broker of the Year announced.  The Ulster County Board of Realtors ® held its annual membership meeting in association with the Hudson Valley Catskill Region MLS on October 30th, in Kingston, NY. In addition to discussing any updates to membership, the MLS services, and any major changes Realtors ® should be aware of, members had the opportunity to listen to Ulster County...