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REALESTATEPLANNINGLAW.COM 718-698-2200 October 2024
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IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING
Working with Michel Nicolo is always a delight. Her dedication to clients and sharp insight make our collaboration seamless without fail. I’m thrilled to spotlight her in this month’s newsletter, showcasing her remarkable skills and her profound impact on every transaction. Michel truly elevates our field and community. WEAVING FAMILY, CULTURE, AND REAL ESTATE INTO STATEN ISLAND’S FABRIC Beyond the Sale Hello! I’m Michel Nicolo, your dedicated guide through the vibrant real estate of Staten Island. As an associate broker with DiTommaso Real Estate and over eight years of rich, full-time experience, I have the privilege of bringing dreams to life, whether it’s finding the perfect family home or securing a lucrative investment property. My journey to real estate wasn’t a straight path. I started as a high school teacher, where I learned the power of listening — a skill that became my cornerstone in understanding and meeting my clients’ diverse needs. My curiosity and passion for connecting with people soon led me across the globe, from the bustling markets of Asia to the colorful bazaars of India, mastering the art of negotiation and discovering the intricate dance of international sales. Eventually, the fast pace of New York City life nudged my family and me toward the unique charm of Staten Island. It was here, amidst the tree-lined streets and community-focused living, that I found my true calling in real estate. Staten Island, with its perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility, allows me to offer clients a slice of serenity not far from the urban buzz.
as the properties I show. Whether fielding a call late on a Sunday or navigating the complexities of a first-time homebuyer’s anxieties, it’s all in a day’s work. The joy and gratitude of clients when they step into their new home or capitalize on an investment fuel my dedication. Working in real estate, I’ve learned the importance of a reliable team. I’m fortunate to collaborate with some of the best in the business, including the incredible legal team at Merlino & Gonzalez. Their expertise and responsiveness are vital, especially in complex transactions where negotiation and legal intricacies come into play. John stands out for his exceptional communication skills and customer service skills. He’s always there, whether it’s an urgent call to clarify a title issue or a quick consultation to guide a client through a tricky process. Working with such a talented team gives me great confidence and truly makes all the difference.
Real estate is more than a transaction for me; it’s about being there for my clients at any moment, understanding that their needs are as varied
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718-698-2200
PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
Must-Try Kitchen Life Hacks Upgrade Your Routine
In the fast-paced world of modern life, everyone is searching for clever solutions to everyday
kitchen cupboards and drawers, and their aromatic compounds will act as a natural deterrent, keeping the moths at bay.
Avoid ingredients sticking with a clever trick. Are you ever frustrated by ingredients like honey or corn syrup sticking to your measuring spoons? If you’re making a recipe that involves dry ingredients like flour or sugar, make an impression with the bottom of the measuring spoon in the dry ingredients in your mixing bowl before adding the sticky ingredient. The indentation is about the same size as the measuring spoon. If your recipe does not call for dry ingredients, you can coat your measuring spoons (or cups) with cooking spray before measuring out any sticky ingredients. Revive towels with a sprinkle of baking soda. Getting your kitchen towels clean and fresh just got a whole lot easier. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda on your linens before tossing them in the wash, and watch as it works its magic, absorbing odors and leaving your towels feeling soft and revitalized.
problems. Luckily, the internet is a treasure trove of practical, time-saving “life hacks” that will revolutionize how we approach our daily routines. For those looking to get ahead in their kitchen, these ingenious tips and tricks are for you. Tongs are a great tool to juice lemons. Are you tired of wrestling with slippery citrus fruits and struggling to extract every last drop of juice? Try using
a pair of tongs instead of a hand juicer. The rigid structure allows you to apply far more pressure than your bare hands, making juicing a breeze.
Bay leaves keep pantry moths at bay. Dealing with persistent pantry pests? Ditch the harsh chemicals and take advantage of the power of nature. Simply place a few bay leaves in your
EASY STEPS TO PREP FOR COLD WEATHER Don’t Let Winter Freeze Your AC
“Game of Thrones” may have coined the phrase, “Winter is coming,” but it’s the reality we all face this time of year. The temperature is dropping, and winter’s cold, snow, and freezing conditions will soon envelop us. There’s always much to do to prepare for cold weather, and
keep things from falling into the top. Even a piece of plywood can work as a suitable cover. If you have a heat pump, however, you shouldn’t worry about covering the unit.
you may not realize your air conditioning unit needs some attention. Taking a few extra steps to protect your air conditioning unit will ensure it’s ready when you need it again when the heat returns. Winterizing your AC unit protects it from snow, ice, and rust. It also prevents unwanted critters from invading your unit and making it their home for the winter. The process can seem daunting if you’ve never touched your AC unit before, but it only takes a few minutes and is easier than you think. If your unit is under a tree or in an area where icicles or snow could fall into it, invest in a cover. You don’t need a cover over the entire unit, but one that will
Before winter arrives, clean your unit to the best of your ability. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris on top or inside the unit. You can even use a garden hose to rinse the outside. Once you’ve cleaned it out and are sure the warm weather is over, cut the power supply to your unit. This will ensure it doesn’t turn on during an unusually warm winter day.
Once the cold weather arrives, don’t just ignore your AC unit until spring returns.
Continue to check on it to ensure the cover is doing its job and remove critters nesting below or near it. Replacing and repairing an AC unit can become expensive quickly. Be proactive and winterize your unit to reduce risk and lengthen its lifespan.
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LEGAL STRATEGIES FOR A SECURE FUTURE IN NEW YORK FUTURE-PROOF YOUR SOLO RETIREMENT
Secure Your Health Care Decisions Long before health issues prevent you from making your own decisions, it’s wise to set up directives that lay out your preferences for medical care. Tools like a durable power of attorney, advanced directive, and HIPPA release form ensure your preferred person can make medical decisions on your behalf. Consulting with an elder law attorney to discuss these documents will provide clarity and control over your health care treatments in the future. Maximize Government Benefits As you approach retirement, understanding and accessing government benefits like Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security becomes crucial. The timing of when you choose to start receiving Social Security benefits can significantly affect the financial support you receive in later years. An experienced estate planning lawyer can help demystify these programs and assist in making decisions that maximize your benefits while minimizing potential pitfalls.
Manage Retirement Income and Assets Transitioning from a working income to relying on retirement savings and passive income sources can be daunting. It’s essential to plan how you will manage your finances once your regular paycheck stops. Whether through investments, interest from savings accounts, or methodical withdrawals from retirement accounts, ensuring a sustainable income stream requires careful planning. Ready to Secure Your Future? Aging solo in New York doesn’t have to be an uncertain journey. With the right legal and financial framework in place, you can look forward to enjoying your later years with independence and dignity. Our law firm specializes in creating tailored estate plans that protect your interests and prepare you for the future. Call 718-698-2200 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a secure and fulfilling solo aging experience.
As more New Yorkers choose to age alone, understanding the intertwining of legal and health care decisions becomes critical. If you take proactive steps today, you can secure your future with peace of mind and ensure your needs and wishes are met throughout your golden years.
Plan for Asset Inheritance Planning what happens to your assets after you’re gone is a profound gesture of care for those you love, whether or not you have a spouse and kids. Crafting a will is a foundational step in estate planning, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes and not left to the state’s default processes. Engaging with an estate planning attorney early allows you to make clear decisions, avoid potential disputes, and provide for any charities or causes important to you.
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MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
Beyond the properties and deals, I am deeply rooted in Staten Island’s soil. As an active member of the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation, I support and promote local businesses and guide new residents to the services they need to ensure they feel at home. My love for this community extends to supporting heartfelt causes like Rocco Strong and Michael’s Cause to uplift those in need. Ultimately, my goal is to strengthen Staten Island’s community ties and bring families together. Family is everything to me, and my Italian heritage deeply influences our close-knit bond. I have the deepest gratitude for my parents, who immigrated to America and instilled in me the value of hard work and dreaming big. Now, I am a proud mother of three wonderful children, each carving their own successful paths. My youngest is currently exploring life as a sophomore at Notre Dame, embracing every opportunity with enthusiasm. My son, a recent graduate from St. John’s University, is making his mark in the IT industry. Meanwhile, my eldest daughter is pursuing her passion in dentistry at Stony Brook. I draw immense pride and motivation from my family’s unity and accomplishments, which profoundly shape my dedication to my career and community work. I’m here not just to sell homes but to build a community and show the world that Staten Island is a beautiful place to live, one family at a time.
PUMPKIN PIE FRENCH TOAST
INSPIRED BY ALLRECIPES.COM
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• 1 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, or as needed • 1/2 cup half-and-half • 1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée • 3 large eggs • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice • 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts • 8 slices day-old bread • Maple syrup, to taste
1. Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium heat. 2. Whisk half-and-half, pumpkin purée, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice together in a bowl. Stir in walnuts until evenly distributed. 3. Place 1 slice of bread in the bowl and let it soak briefly to coat both sides. Lift bread to let excess liquid drip back into the bowl, then transfer to the hot skillet. 4. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until done. 5. Stir batter to redistribute walnuts and repeat with other slices of bread, cooking in several batches if necessary. 6. Serve warm with maple syrup.
–Michel Nicolo
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394 Manor Road Staten Island, NY 10314
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718-698-2200 | realestateplanninglaw.com WE KEEP YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Michel Nicolo Is Redefining Real Estate in Staten Island Page 1
Life Hacks to Transform Your Kitchen
Winterize Your AC Like a Pro Page 2
Estate and Health Care Planning for Solo Aging
Pumpkin Pie French Toast Page 3
Unveil the Magic of Fall Page 4
EXPERIENCE THE THRILLS AND CHILLS OF STATEN ISLAND AUTUMN ADVENTURES AWAIT!
Not So Scary Haunted House Oct. 19, 12–3 p.m. GraceOfNY.org/family-friendly-haunted-house Is your family looking for a haunted house that’s not as scary? Join The GRACE Foundation for a unique Halloween treat — their first family and sensory-friendly Not So Scary Halloween Attraction! Perfect for guests of all ages and abilities, this event promises a day of gentle thrills without the chills. The 40x40-foot maze, free of strobe lights, fog, animatronics, and loud noises, is designed to delight, not fright. Alongside the maze, enjoy the free Trunk-or-
October in Staten Island is a canvas painted with the vibrant hues of fall and the spirited fun of Halloween. This year, the island offers an exciting lineup of events tailored to celebrate Halloween in both thrilling and family-friendly styles. Don your favorite sweater, grab a pumpkin spice treat, and join the community for these unforgettable October festivities in Staten Island!
Fall Festival at The Mount Oct. 26–27, 12–6 p.m. CC-SI.org/staten-island-fall-festival/
Nightmare On Seaview Oct. 19, 6 p.m. GraceOfNY.org/staten-island-haunted-houses Dare to enter the island’s spookiest spectacle — Nightmare On Seaview — brought to you by The GRACE Foundation for one night only! Adjacent to the eerie abandoned Seaview Hospital, this haunted house experience promises heart- pounding thrills with live actors, theatrical rooms, and cutting-edge effects, including strobe lighting. Tickets are strictly limited to 500 and must be purchased in advance. Secure your spot for this unforgettable evening, and remember to bring your emailed ticket for gate admission!
Cherish the fall season with this delightful celebration at Mount Loretto for the annual Fall Festival, happening Oct. 26–27 from noon to 6 p.m. Enjoy the island’s biggest pumpkin patch, thrilling rides, flavorful food, and diverse vendors without leaving the city. Sip on sangria or craft beer in the garden while you soak in the street festival atmosphere and live music. It’s all the fun of a country fall fest right here in your backyard. Don’t miss this festive gathering at The Mount.
Treating in the parking lot for some festive fun! Tickets are limited to 200 for the maze, so
secure yours early for a truly inclusive Halloween experience.
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