Did you know that October 22 is National Make a Difference Day? The idea behind Make a Difference Day is that every small bit of support can make a difference in someone's life and that everyone can do their part. This is the 30th Make a Difference Day since it was originally established in 1992, presenting the perfect opportunity to show your support to some of the many non-profit organizations on Long Island that make a difference in the lives of others every day. Our real estate agents have the details on five Long Island non-profit organizations to consider for Make a Difference Day this year.

• Rebuilding Together Long Island – 208 NY-109, Ste. 204, Farmingdale, NY 11735
  Dedicated to helping homeowners in need with necessary repairs, maintenance, and rebuilding efforts, Rebuilding Together Long Island has a network of 250 volunteers with a home base near Farmingdale homes for sale. You can become a member of that large network of volunteers to help make vital repairs, revitalize communities, and rebuild lives. Unable to volunteer? Rebuilding Together is also always in need of donations and sponsors for projects of all sizes.

If you're craving a home overhaul, you may hesitate to go through a demolition's time, expense, upheaval, and mess. You can still make your home more beautiful and functional with a renovation project that avoids many of the negatives associated with a demo.
  
Our real estate agents suggest 10 tips for a successful "no-demo" reno project.

For many of us, coffee is the elixir of life. It's hard to start the day without it. And October 1st is International Coffee Day. What better way to celebrate than by enjoying a cup at your favorite coffee shop? Of course, this can be more difficult if you've just moved to a new area. Our real estate agents can help you find the perfect house, but where are the coffee shops nearby? We've got you covered. Here are our picks for the best places in Long Island to stop for coffee on October 1st.

• Bean Coffee House - 17 Fire Island Ave., Babylon, NY 11702
  Located near Babylon homes for sale, Bean Coffee House imports coffee beans from all over the world. That includes French Roast, Sumatra Mandheling, Columbia Supremo, Ethiopia Longberry Harrar, and many others. All their coffee is fair trade and delicious. If you're a coffee fan who appreciates the nuances of different varieties, this is the place for you.

Our real estate agents know that financing is one of a homebuyer's biggest worries. It continues to be a concern even on your second or third home. In fact, homeowners have unique challenges when it comes to selling their existing home and buying a new one!

When there's a gap between the time you close on a new home and closing day on your existing one, it can introduce real financial peril. In many cases, this can stretch your budget to the breaking point. But even if the timing doesn't line up perfectly, you still have options you can pursue.

One of those is the bridge loan.