Want to upgrade your home in 2021? Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or staying put, adding some smart home features is a great idea! Our real estate agents are always talking to potential buyers who are interested in homes with smart upgrades, making this an excellent investment. It's also easy to get started! Follow these simple tips and you'll have your upgrades done in no time. 

1. Consider Your Unique Needs
   The right smart home upgrades for you will depend on your unique needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. For example, if you work from home, a smart doorbell might be a great idea. This will allow you to see who's at the door so you can decide whether to open it or not. On the other hand, if you spend most of your days away from home, then devices like smart locks, a smart garage door opener, and a programmable thermostat might earn top spots on your wish list.

When you're craving comfort food, few things satisfy the stomach and soul like a hearty plate of pasta. Our real estate agents head to these top restaurants around Long Island for delicious and authentic Italian cooking with a modern twist.

• Scarpetta Beach - 290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, NY 11954
  Go for the spectacular views and stay for the upscale Italian classics at Scarpetta Beach. Every table at this waterfront restaurant, just minutes from Montauk homes for sale, looks out over the ocean. Customer favorites include polenta and short rib and bone marrow agnolotti. Enjoy patio seating anytime thanks to the cozy heat lamps. Scarpetta Beach is open daily from 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Sometimes yesterday's design trends just don't seem to fit with today's lifestyles. If you're selling your home, you'll want to appeal to as many buyers as possible, and that may seem difficult if there are spaces that might go unused or just aren't very functional. The good news is you don't have to keep the space for its intended use.

Staging your Long Island home for sale is a good idea, and it can help you use that tricky space as a plus that will add a little extra appeal for buyers.  One space you might want to look at changing is a formal dining room. If there is eating space in the kitchen, why not showcase the dining room as extra space buyers will use every day. Of course, you'll want to consider your space and the types of buyers you'll see, but our real estate agents recommend considering one of these spaces that will catch their attention.

Just because it's winter is no reason to give up on the more strenuous walking regimens we developed in warmer weather. It's all a matter of having the proper gear: down outerwear; layers underneath, starting with thin, long-sleeved, wicking baselayer; warm, wicking socks; sturdy footwear; a face covering for windy days; and good gloves to keep hands warm. The next step is targeting the right destinations for your hikes. Are you bringing the kids? The dog? Do a little research, and be sure to check the weather, so you don't dress too warm or not warm enough for the temperature.

If you're looking for a home with outdoor adventuring destinations nearby, our real estate agents can help. While you're taking a break from house-hunting, how about checking out these places for some inspiration?

1. Blydenburgh County Park - Veteran's Memorial Highway, Smithtown
   This richly forested, 627-acre park at the headwaters of the Nissequogue River offers year-round delights for explorers. Hike around 100-acre Stump Pond on a hike led by the Greenbelt Trail Conference guides. Year-round horseback riding is offered. Dog owners can also bring their canine friends for a romp in the dog park. Enter at the northern entrance by following Route 347 to Brooksite Drive North; turn left on New Mill Road and follow to the park entrance at the end. The park is open year-round to Suffolk County residents and their guests, so if you're looking for a house among Smithtown homes for sale, put this gem at the top of your list of places to visit.