This December, the Lorenzo State Historic Site in Cazenovia transforms into a festive wonderland, offering two unique ways to celebrate the holidays. Whether you’re looking to enjoy an elegant evening or step back in time with a guided tour, Lorenzo has something magical in store.
With 2024 marking the 50th anniversary of Christmas at Lorenzo, this year’s events promise to be more memorable than ever.
Guided Holiday Tours

When: Tuesday, December 10 – Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 1 PM – 4 PM
Cost: $6 per person
Take a closer look at Lorenzo’s rich history during the Guided Holiday Tours. Each room of the mansion will showcase stunning holiday decorations, offering an intimate glimpse into how the season was celebrated in years past.
Learn about the estate’s history, from its founding by Colonel John Lincklaen in 1807 to its legacy as a centerpiece of Cazenovia. This year’s tours are especially meaningful as they celebrate 50 years ...

Let’s face it: Central New York winters are no joke. Snowy sidewalks, freezing temperatures, and skies that seem permanently gray can make even the most winter-loving among us shiver. But despite its challenges, winter in Syracuse and the surrounding areas has its own charm—if you know how to embrace it.
Here’s how to make winter your friend—even if it’s usually your frenemy.
1. Lean Into Cozy Like a Pro

Winter in Syracuse is the perfect excuse to hibernate stylishly. Stock up on candles that remind you of freshly fallen snow or baked goods from Wegmans. Grab a fuzzy blanket, queue up your favorite show, and let the snow pile up outside while you enjoy the warm indoors. Bonus points if you add a mug of cocoa or a local Upstate NY cider to the mix.
2. Find Joy in Local Winter Activities

Syracuse offers plenty of ways to enjoy winter if you’re willing to venture out:
Take a trip to Beaver Lake Nature Center for snowshoeing or cross-country ; ...

When it comes to navigating the complexities of real estate transactions, not all buyers and sellers have the same needs. Senior clients, in particular, face unique challenges when making decisions about their homes. Whether it's selling the family home, downsizing, or relocating to a senior living community, these transitions require a REALTOR® who truly understands the intricacies involved. That’s where the SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) certification comes in.

What is the SRES® Certification?
The SRES® certification is a designation awarded to REALTORS® who complete specialized training to work with clients aged 50 and older. This certification equips agents with the knowledge and skills needed to help seniors navigate the emotional and financial aspects of buying or selling a home.
An SRES® designee is more than just a real estate agent—they act as a trusted advisor, guiding clients through difficult decisions, connecting them with; ...

Living in a smaller home or apartment doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped. With a few smart tricks, you can make your space feel open, airy, and much larger than its square footage suggests. Whether you’re working with a cozy city apartment or a compact room in your home, these tips will help you create a spacious vibe without adding any actual square footage.
1. Embrace the Power of Light

Lighting can make or break a room’s sense of space.
Natural Light: Maximize natural light by keeping windows clear and using sheer or light-colored curtains. Mirrors strategically placed across from windows can reflect light and make a room feel larger.
Layered Lighting: Use a mix of overhead, task, and ambient lighting to brighten dark corners and create depth.

2. Choose Light and Neutral Colors

Light shades, such as whites, soft grays, and pastels, reflect more light and make spaces appear larger. Keep walls, ceilings, and large furniture pieces in similar tones for ...

The average age of first-time homebuyers in the U.S. has surged to 38, reflecting major shifts in the housing market and broader economic pressures. Compared to the late 20s age range common in the 1980s, today’s first-time buyers are much older, and the overall share of first-time buyers has dropped from 32% to 24% in just the past year. The increasing age can be attributed to several complex factors, including fierce competition for housing, higher property prices, and affordability issues that make entering the market challenging for many younger buyers.
The Biggest Issue of the Housing Market

One major obstacle is the current housing shortage, which limits affordable home options and fuels competition, particularly against wealthier or cash-heavy buyers who can offer more or close quickly. This competitive environment often drives up prices and pushes traditional first-time buyers out of the running. In addition, the rising cost of rent exacerbates the difficulty of savin ...