Student loan debt is frequently cited as one of the most common reasons that younger generations postpone buying a home, but don't let that stop you from shopping! While it's true that student loan debt can have an impact on the purchasing process, it's far from an insurmountable hurdle.

By taking the time to clean up your credit, investigate assistance programs, work on your debt-to-income ratio, and get pre-approved for a mortgage, you can put yourself in position to purchase a home. Our real estate agents know what it takes to buy a home, and we've got the details on how to navigate the process when you have student loan debt.

Our REALTORS® say there's no food quite like the classic Long Island bagel.

The bagel has long been one of the staple snacks around Long Island. You might be surprised at just how many ways there are to prepare a bagel and transform it into a complete meal. From delis to diners, everyone has their take on this mainstay. It shows up for breakfast, lunch, and just about all the time.

Today, we're drawing attention to this unsung hero of the food pyramid thanks to a little-known observation: July 26 is National Bagelfest Day. It's time to enjoy the bagel like never before, and no other place in America unlocks its full potential like Long Island.

Let's take a look at five favorite places Long Islanders love to go for a bagel:

1. My Three Sons Bagel Cafe – 597 Willis Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596
   Williston Park homes for sale are just a short hop from what many locals describe as the best bagel on Long Island. Soft on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and always hand-rolled, My Three Sons Bagel Cafe is a family-owned and operated business with a history dating to 2000. Homemade cream cheese and spreads complement the artisanal style.
   
   

As first-time home buyers enter the Long Island real estate market, finding a new home is more of a challenge than they initially expected.  Often, house hunters start their search with a "wing it" mentality.  That's not always the best way to approach such a significant purchase in your lifetime.

Today, our real estate agents break down seven habits successful home buyers have in common so you can start your adventure in homeownership on the right path.

1. Plan Ahead
   Picture the type of home you want and create a plan on how to achieve your goal. Becoming pre-approved for a mortgage is a great first step.  It proves to sellers proves you're a serious buyer. Get preapproved for your mortgage before you start shopping for a home.
   
   

Whether you're looking to celebrate National Ice Cream Day on July 21 or simply searching for a sweet treat to cool off on any summer day, Long Island is a fantastic place to enjoy some ice cream.  It's only fitting since the first ice cream parlor in America opened its doors in New York City in 1790.

Residents of the city have been enjoying the fabulous flavors of local ice cream shops ever since, and today Long Island is home to a wealth of options for satisfying your sweet tooth. Our REALTORS® offer this list for some of the best spots for ice cream on Long Island.

1. Herrell's Ice Cream – 46L Gerard St., Huntington 11743
   Looking for something sweet close to Huntington homes for sale? Then be sure to stop by Herrell's Ice Cream, where there's always something new and delicious to try. Herrell's is a cheerful, old-fashioned ice cream parlor, serving up memories for more than three decades. This shop also pioneered the "Smoosh-in," where ice cream is blended with chopped up cookies, candy, and other treats.