Teri Degnan

Neighborhood Spotlight: Van Zandt and Kerry Hill Neighborhood, Newport, Rhode Island

Van Zandt & Kerry Hill in NewportLocated on the northern end of Newport, Rhode Island, homes in the Van Zandt - Kerry Hill neighborhood include single family homes with front- and/or backyards, duplexes and multi-families, condos, cottages, and apartments. Many homes along Malbone Road and Van Zandt Avenue, the main arteries through the neighborhood, were built around 1910-1920, though you’ll find plenty of homes here built before and after the early 20th century.

According to Realtor.com, the median “sold home” price in Van Zandt - Kerry Hill area is $504,000. It’s not uncommon to find first-time homeowners here as well as homes passed down in the same family for generations. Conveniently located and just minutes to the Navy base, Pell Elementary, shopping, and Newport Bridge, the Van Zandt - Kerry Hill area in Newport is a great place to call home.

If you have any questions about Newport's Van Zandt and Kerry Hill neighborhood or real estate opportunities in the area, contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting or browse current listings in Newport.

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    Neighborhood Spotlight: Eustis-Easton's Pond Neighborhood, Newport, Rhode Island

    Eastons Pond In Newport RIYou’ll find a wide range of homes in the Eustis-Easton’s Pond neighborhood of Newport, Rhode Island, including Capes, split-levels, cottages, raised ranches, some historic homes, and a few duplexes (though the area is dominated by single-family residences). A good portion of Eustis Avenue in Newport enjoys panoramic views of Easton’s Pond and is emblematic of the renovations, remodels, and rebuilds happening across the City of Newport.

    Many of the original homes here were built around the 1940s. According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price in the neighborhood was $825K in June 2022, trending up 30% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $568.

    At more than eight acres, there’s ample green space to enjoy at Braga Park, where you’ll find a playground, picnic area, and basketball courts in addition to both a soccer field and softball field utilized by local youth sports leagues and Newport County Public Schools.

    A number of desirable features of the Eustis-Easton’s Pond neighborhood include off street parking, good sized front and backyards, native trees and shrubs, and being within walking distance or close proximity to Easton’s Beach, Cliff Walk, and of course, the walking path around the pond itself. The path around the pond regularly welcomes walkers, runners, and no shortage of neighbors pushing strollers or walking dogs.

    If you have any questions about Newport's Eustis-Easton's Pond Neighborhood neighborhood or real estate opportunities in the area, contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting or browse current listings in Newport.

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      Neighborhood Spotlight: The Fifth Ward Neighborhood, Newport, Rhode Island

      One of the best known and most tight knit communities in Newport, Rhode Island, the Fifth Ward has deep roots in the City by the Sea. Dating back at least two centuries, this family-friendly neighborhood located on the southern edge of Newport Harbor was where many of the Irish laborers who built Fort Adams made their home, in addition to many Irish domestic workers who worked at the mansions and large estates.

      Today, the neighborhood still boasts plenty of Irish pride, especially as the annual Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade ends here, but it’s also a melting pot with people of many different backgrounds. The neighborhood is mostly made up of single family homes but you’ll also find duplexes, condos, apartments, and even one of the larger apartment complexes in Newport County here.

      If you have any questions about Newport's Fifth Ward neighborhood or real estate opportunities in the area, contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting or browse current listings in Newport.

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        Should I Buy a House in Newport County Now or Wait?

        Why you shouldn’t halt your home search, even though interest rates are on the rise.

        • Mortgage rates are fluctuating but still significantly higher now than they were throughout 2021 at the start of 2022.
        • Rents have steadily climbed alongside demand in Newport County, making saving for a down payment more challenging.  
        • Buyers can start accruing equity from the moment they buy, regardless of interest rate. 

        Beautiful Home in Newport CountyAnyone whose been seriously considering buying a home in Newport County has been watching interest rates rise significantly, then lower slightly, though additional increases are expected on the horizon. The Federal Reserve increased mortgage interest rates six times in 2022, and we’re expecting rake hikes into 2023. But it’s worth keeping perspective. 

        In March 2020, as the pandemic crisis started, interest rates plunged to record lows and remained under 3% through 2021. As inflation began to soar this year, so did interest rates. While elevated mortgage rates aren’t ideal, today’s 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate is still below the U.S. historical average. 

        As variables change in Rhode Island’s real estate market, so does decision making. Some buyers might find renting in Newport County more appealing than buying right now. While holding off might be the right decision if your credit and finances aren’t where they need to be, the reality is, rents have increased locally and throughout Rhode Island. 

        Higher rent makes it more difficult to save for a down payment. Moreover, as homeownership costs increase, so does rental demand in Newport. This makes both finding and securing a rental challenging. 

        Bottom line: both rental rates and mortgage interest rates will continue to rise. 

        The Good News 

        Higher interest rates do have a few silver linings. First, increased rates quickly separate casual buyers from serious buyers looking for homes in Newport County. As the buying pool shrinks, buyers have more leverage. 

        Second, we’ve seen inventory throughout Newport County increase. This is a far cry from during the pandemic, when housing supply hit a record low and buyer demand skyrocketed. While inventory in Newport still isn't abundant, and supply isn’t outweighing demand, there is more to choose from since many buyers have decided to wait. 

        Third, homes are staying on the market longer in the Newport real estate market compared to what we’ve seen over the past two years. Bidding wars, multiple offer scenarios, all cash offers and waived home inspections, and waived contingencies seen during the peak of the red-hot housing boom are fewer. Today, buyers looking for a home in Newport, Rhode Island, have room for negotiation, and that’s one of the many pivotal areas where working with a Realtor, especially one with experience in Newport’s housing market, is critical. Now you have a chance to jump back into the market and enjoy searching for a home with less competition.

        Building Equity = Building Wealth

        No matter where the interest rate stands, the moment you buy a property in Newport County, you start building equity. With each principal payment, you chip away at what you owe, and if you're able to pay a little over principal each month, it’s beneficial as that amount will accrue and go toward reducing the total amount of interest paid over the life of the loan. 

        As the National Association of Realtors explains, home equity gains are built up through price appreciation and by paying off the mortgage. Although the rate of appreciation has slowed, they are still going up. The takeaway is simple: pay a mortgage, gain equity, increase your wealth. 

        Why a Realtor Right Now

        Yes; the market is cooling, but it’s still a seller’s market in Newport, Rhode Island. While you’ll see headlines pointing to national averages, they’re just that – averages. Supply and demand are unique to specific locales, each with its own nuances. 

        Experienced Realtors in your market are well versed in these nuances, and typically have a network of colleagues who have clients looking to buy, considering selling, or might know about a property coming to market before it’s listed. 

        Realtors are also removed from the emotions that can develop throughout the home buying process, and thus, can come to a negotiation with a researched-based approach based on comps and other data points. A Realtor is your advocate and well versed in the legal jargon that will protect your interests during the negotiation process. Remember, anything that arises before the closing, whether it’s financing or a serious issue uncovered during the inspection, can restart negotiations.  

        Questions about buying Newport County real estate?
        Contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting

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          Kid Friendly Activities in Newport RI

          Kids Having Fun OutdoorsKite flying, seal watching, hands-on marine education, owl prowls, glass blowing, and fine art classes for beginners will all be waiting for you and your family to discover when you find your perfect home in Newport, RI. Your family will enjoy beaches and water adventures in warmer weather, plus an excellent selection of indoor and outdoor kid friendly activities in Newport when the temperatures begin to fall. You’ll just have to bundle up for the outdoor adventures. You and your family will have a lot of fun in Newport! 

          Kid Friendly Outdoor Activities 

          Go Fly a Kite: Kite flying is a wondrous activity for kids of all ages. Brenton Point State Park in Newport is one of the best places to fly kites in Rhode Island. There is an annual kite festival held in the middle of the summer. But you don’t have to wait until summer for kite flying fun with your kids. Bundle everyone up, remember to bring your kites, string, spools, and kite handles (and perhaps a thermos of hot cocoa), and enjoy a windy day the right way at this popular Newport kite flying destination. 

          Seal Watch Tours: Save the Bay is an independent, member-supported, nonprofit with a clear mission: “to protect and improve Narragansett Bay”. They operate three centers, in Newport, Providence, and Westerly. The organization provides hands-on marine science programs to students from kindergarten through college. Admission to The Exploration Center and Aquarium in Newport is $9 and $8 for college students and seniors. 

          There are three touch tanks and many exhibits at the center with wildlife from Narragansett Bay including turtles, seahorses, lobsters, and dogfish sharks. Colder weather makes the perfect time for a seal watching adventure. The seals like it that way (you’ll need to wear warm clothing). The center offers Newport Seal Tours from December 2022 to April 2023. The price is $22. You and your family will enjoy a tour of historic Newport Harbor and watch the seals on Citing Rock by Rose Island and around Newport Bridge. 

          Nature Walking with a Guide: The Norman Bird Sanctuary is a short 5 mile drive in neighboring Middletown. You can choose to explore the trails on your own (there are seven miles of trails) or enjoy a guided tour. Daily admission is $7 for adults and $3 for children 3-18 years. If you fall in love with the sanctuary after your first visit, consider joining as a member. Family membership is $65. The membership provides you with trail access and discounts on education, public programs, and camp. 

          The NBS has various events scheduled throughout the year. There is a free guided nature walk every Wednesday afternoon in November. You and your children can learn to spot wildlife and identify plants. NBS will also be holding Owl Prowls in December. The event begins at dusk as owls set up their nesting territory. After the evening walk participants will gather around a bonfire to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. There is also an upcoming “Story and Stroll” winter series for preschoolers in January 2023. 

          Kid Friendly Fine Art Classes & Crafts 

          Glass Blowing: With help from an experienced glass blowing professional, your children can make their very own ornament. The suggested age is 6 years or older. Your child needs to listen to directions, stay in one place and not touch the glass blowing pipes. An ornament is $42 and takes about 10 minutes to make. But you will need to be patient. Glass takes a lot of time to cool properly in a special oven. You won’t be able to take the ornament home for at least two days. Paperweight and vase projects are also for older students to make. Each project is designed as a hands-on beginner experience (with a lot of professional help). 

          It’s also a lot of fun to watch the glassblowers at work. They are working most weekdays and some weekends. Visitors are welcome to watch through a window in the gallery or from the street.

          Art Classes at the Museum: Newport Art Museum has a wide range of educational opportunities including learning art-making skills at the museum. Classes and workshops are available for youth and adults. A five session drawing class, “Drawing Fundamentals” is currently scheduled for November 21st to December 19th, 2022. Materials will include graphite, charcoal, and ink, and is open to all ages (children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult). The class is $260 per person. The classes are popular. The upcoming “Evening Wheel Throwing” on Mondays is full as is the “Holiday Clay Workshop”. There might be a spot or two left in the upcoming “Morning Wheel Throwing” on Tuesdays starting in January 2023. 

          Craft Classes: Cutie Curls is a retail gift boutique featuring works by local artists at 49 Long Wharf Mall in Newport. The boutique also holds crafts classes for children daily. Seashell and nature picture frames are available to decorate for $45 with all the fixings. Once your children have created their masterpieces the shop will glaze the frame and have it ready to pick up in 48 hours. 

          Cutie Curls has additional craft classes taught by visiting artists and hosts special events. On Saturday, November 26th from 4:00pm-6:00pm there will be a family fun event. “Santa Magic at Long Wharf Mall” will include kid's crafts, music, tree lighting, and a visit with Santa. The film “The Nightmare Before Christmas” will be shown outside starting at 5:30pm (you will need to bring your own chairs, and blankets and remember to dress warmly). 

          Indoor Games 

          Arcade Games: Ryan’s Family Friends Fun operates a number of arcades and bowling alleys in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. The Newport location is at 268 Thames Street and features over 50 skill and video games and a prize counter to cash in your game tickets after a day of fun. (please note, bowling is not available at this location) 

          We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs in Newport and the surrounding areas of Rhode Island. Contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting today!

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            Fun Facts About Newport RI

            Castle Hill Lighthouse in NewportNewport, Rhode Island has a rich and colorful history. There are hundreds of interesting things to discover. We provide content for popular national game shows. “What is Rhode Island?” was the correct response to the final Jeopardy in the season 38 premiere in 2021. The category was “The 13 Colonies”. The answer given by the host included sites in both Newport and Providence (Newport is home to America’s oldest Synagogue, and Providence is home to America’s first Baptist Church). If you included either town in your question, you were too specific and lost the money you wagered. We don’t want you to lose your money next time you compete on a popular national game show. Know your history. Take the time to learn the fun facts about Newport RI. We want you to win! (and it’s fun). 

            It Happened Here First 

            Traffic Laws: Galloping horses in the streets of Newport were becoming a public nuisance in 1678. The local authorities took action. They banned galloping and effectively created the first traffic law in the United States. 

            15mph Speeding Ticket: A motorist was speeding through the city streets of Newport at 15 miles per hour in 1904. The reckless motorist was sentenced to five days in jail. This was the first jail sentence for speeding in the United States. 

            Roller Skating Rinks: The first public roller skating rink opened at the Atlantic House Hotel in Newport in 1866. The inventor of the “rocking” quad roller skate, James Plimpton, leased the hotel and converted the dining room into a rollerskating rink. Mr. Plimpton made great improvements to earlier versions of roller skates (the earliest patented skates date back to 1760). His improved version, patented in 1863, led to the roller skating craze that swept America and the world by storm in the 1860s-1930s. The craze was affectionately dubbed “rinkomania”. 

            U.S. Open Golf: The very first U.S. Open golf tournament was played at the Newport Country Club in 1895. There were eleven players. The winner, Horace Rawlins, received $150 and a gold medal. The U.S. Open is one of the four Majors and is now played at various locations in the United States. 

            U.S. Open Tennis: The very first U.S. Open tennis tournament was played on the grass courts of the Newport Casino in 1881. It was originally known as the U.S. National Championship. 

            Newport Jazz Festival: The very first jazz festival in America was held at the Newport Casino in 1954. It was aptly named the Newport Jazz Festival and is now held at Fort Adams State Park in Newport. The history of the festival includes many notable performances, many of which have been recorded and filmed for the enjoyment of future generations. Verve Records released 12 records documenting performances from 1957 alone including jazz legends Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, and Carmen McRae. 

            Location, Location, Location 

            Motion Pictures: Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra are shown driving along the shore in the 1956 film “High Society”. The story is set in Newport, RI There are scenes that feature the mansions of Newport in the background. Some establishing shots were filmed in Newport, but they used a little old school Hollywood film trickery. Much of the filming was down in the MGM studios in California. The mansions definitely have “star quality”. They keep making appearances on the silver screen. The 1974 film version of The Great Gatsby with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow included the Rosecliff and Marble House mansions in Newport for Gatsby’s house. There are hundreds of films that have used Newport for filming: most recently scenes for “Hocus Pocus 2” and HBO’s “The Gilded Age” were filmed on location here. 

            Real Estate: The first duplex house was built in Newport in 1750 at 57 Farewell Street. Perhaps the builders were opening doors to savvy property owners looking to take on renters to help pay off mortgages, generate income and enjoy tax write-offs, or perhaps they were just thinking of housing for their in-laws. 

            The team of experts at Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting looks forward to helping you find your perfect home in Newport County and beyond. Whether you are searching for newly-built homes, waterfront homes, or homes with in-law suites, we are committed to providing you with a positive experience from contract to closing (and we’ll share a few colorful stories with you along the way). Contact us today!

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              Best Walking & Hiking Trails In & Around Newport

              Hikers on a TrailA walking trail list for Newport, RI would not be complete without the Newport Cliff Walk. The walk has become an itinerary requirement of out-of-town visitors young and old. During the annual jazz festival, the cliff walk is very alive with people looking for spectacular ocean views amongst gilded age mansions. It is a sight to behold. Fortunately, you will enjoy the Cliff Walk and many other excellent trails in your day-to-day life when you find a home in Newport. There are trails well traveled and there are a few lesser known trails where you and your family kind find a little solitude in the Ocean State. Here are some of the best walking & hiking trails in & around Newport, RI. 

              Walking Trails 

              Newport Cliff Walk: distance 3.5 mile 

              It is estimated that over a quarter million people walk this beautiful and historic walking trail along the Atlantic Ocean. The walk begins on the western end of Easton’s Beach and runs south ending at the east end of Bailey’s Beach. About two thirds of the trail are easy to traverse. Walkers will need proper footwear when venturing toward the southern half, as areas can be rough going with boulders and other natural obstacles to traverse. Rock surfaces can be slippery and some sections pass by 70 foot drops from the ocean cliffs. Watch where you step! The trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1975. 

              Memorial Blvd. to Forty Steps: distance 1.3 mile, 2.6 mile round-trip 

              The Cliff Walk is divided into five unique sections. The Memorial Blvd. to Forty Steps section is perfect for your daily casual walk or run. When you reach the 40 steps you will be walking the same steps used by servants, locals, and tourists since the 1800s. You can celebrate Rocky Balboa style at the summit. He climbed 72 stone steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art while training for the big fight in the 1972 film “Rocky”. You’ll have 40 stone steps to climb (but 80 steps total up and back). Please wear proper footwear, watch your step and be sensible. The steps can be very slippery. 

              Fort Adams Bay Walk: distance 2.2 mile loop 

              The trail running around Fort Adams is very popular with walkers, birders, and runners. Dogs can join in on the fun when properly leashed. The west side of the walk overlooks the east passage to the bay and provides exquisite views of the setting sun over Conanicut Island. Three lighthouses can be seen during your walk: Castle Hill Lighthouse, Beavertail Lighthouse, and Rose Island Lighthouse. Weather permitting, you will lose yourself in the tranquility of clear skies and saltwater air as you watch boats and yachts passing by. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-17. Parking is free, and there is a courtesy dock in front of the park visitor center for pickups and drop offs by boat. 

              Hiking Trails 

              Ballard Park : distance 1+ miles 

              There is a 13 acre nature preserve in the heart of Newport. It is on the site of a former granite quarry and was donated to the state in 1990. The five trails wandering through the park lead hikers past imposing rock ledges, over wetlands and streams on sections of boardwalks, and upwards to three scenic overlooks. Some trails are rugged and steep. There are local events at the park organized by Friends of Ballard Park including the Annual Ballard Park Pumpkin Tour and the Illuminated Garden in February. The Friends of Ballard Park was organized in 1996 “to protect, preserve and maintain Ballard Park”. 

              Beavertail State Park: distance 2.3 mile loop 

              The trail in Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, RI is well frequented by hikers, runners, and walkers. The trail follows the coastline and also wanders through the woods. The trail isn’t marked so you will need a good sense of direction. The trail in the wooded area can be very muddy and overgrown at different times throughout the year. But there are lots of birds, beautiful views of the ocean and a lighthouse. 

              Sakonnet Greenway Trail: distance 10+ miles 

              There are over 10 miles of trails on Aquidneck Island to enjoy in Portsmouth and Middletown thanks to the efforts of the Aquidneck Land Trust. There are many parking areas and trailheads to enter the trail. The trail passes through active farmland, wetlands, and forest. Dogs are permitted when properly leashed. Horses are also permitted on the trails with a few exceptions. If you plan your hike just right, you’ll finish at Newport Vineyards and Taproot Brewing Co. in Middletown and share a bottle of Gemini Red with your friends or a draft of Imperial Pumpkin Ale to celebrate a fine autumn hike. Be aware the wine will be in disguise for Halloween, the label reads Witches Brew this time of the year (but there’s no disguising pumpkin beer, what you see is what you get). 

              We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs in Newport and surrounding areas of Rhode Island. Contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting today!

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                Best Places to View Fall Foliage in Rhode Island

                Beautiful Fall FoliageMother Nature will roll out her magnificent red carpet of leaves, and you will enjoy all the colors of the foliage season in style in Rhode Island. There are wonderful scenic roadways to explore, bridle paths to trot, rivers to paddle, and fairways to hit as you immerse yourself in the wondrous colors of autumn in luxury fit for celebrities, bakers, and candlestick makers. 

                Rocky Point State Park: What was once an amusement park is now a beautiful park overlooking Narragansett Bay. Enjoy the fall foliage as you walk along the paved path by the water or explore the wooded areas on over 120 acres of land. There are original artifacts left over from the amusement park including the support towers for the gondola ride. The majority of structures have been removed due to safety concerns (and climbing on structures is not allowed). You will uncover some unique photo opportunities by capturing the rusting metal and fading paint from amusements of yesteryear along with the vibrant colors of the autumn leaves. 

                Goddard Memorial State Park: There are 18 miles of bridle trails traversing over 490 acres of land in what was once the estate of Robert Goddard (a Civil War officer and politician). Equestrians and walkers can both enjoy the bridle trails winding through the woods and opening to views of the bay. Walkers are well advised to watch their step on the horse paths while bathing in the canopy of colorful foliage, or their shoes will certainly need a bath! The park is also home to a 9- hole public golf course. The state-run course is an inexpensive way for players to take in the beauty of fall ($15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends). 

                Acadia Management Area: This is Rhode Island’s largest recreational area. There are over 14,000 acres to explore through miles and miles of trails. Most of the area is forested. The gravel roads are maintained and marked. They are used by equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers. The state would like to remind visitors to “act responsibly, show courtesy and share the road”. Kayakers and canoeists can paddle their way along Wood’s River while experiencing the heraldry of leaves. 

                Newport Cliff Walk: Gilded Age mansions and golden leaves are but for the eyes to behold while walking along the 3.5 mile Cliff Walk. This is free and open to the public. Your canine companions are more than welcome to join you when they are leashed and picked up after. Metered parking is available. 

                Scenic Roadways: Rhode Island has 8 designated scenic roadways. They range from 1.4 miles to 12.35 miles in length. Ministerial Road (Route 110) is one of these remarkable roads to travel in the fall. It is a highly recommended route to witness the colors of the season as it passes by the Great Swamp Wildlife Reservation, Worden Pond, and Larkin Pond along with remnants of stone walls from the farms of a bygone era. 

                The team at Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting looks forward to helping you find the perfect home in Newport and the surrounding areas of Rhode Island. We will make your home buying experience fun, exciting, and simple (Mother Nature will be taking care of the vibrant fall foliage and natural wonders). Contact us today!

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                  Top Home Features for Buyers

                  Beautiful Open Floor Plan with Outdoor SpaceSometimes you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. And sometimes you don’t know what you're missing because you don’t have it. While you don’t need to keep up with your neighbors, it is nice to know the features they have and enjoy in their homes. Some of the features may be of interest to you and your family, and others you might leave at the wayside. 

                  When shopping for homes, it’s a good idea to assemble a checklist of needs vs. wants. A comprehensive list will help you avoid emotional decisions, allow for compromise, and act quickly when the perfect home hits the market. Here are some top home features for buyers that may be of interest to you as you assemble your list of needs vs. wants. 

                  Open Floor Plan: The best way to make the common areas feel larger and encourage social interaction is with an open floor plan. We see many renovation projects where non-load-bearing walls are taken down to create a more open floor plan. Many modern and newly built homes are designed with an open floor plan. 

                  Energy Efficient HVAC and Appliances: The average household in America spends more than $2,200 on energy bills annually. Look for homes that feature Energy Star rated dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and HVAC systems. According to the federal government, you can save up to 20% on your utility bill with Energy Star home improvements. 

                  Green Architecture: Frank Lloyd Wright is credited with pioneering green sustainable architecture which he called “organic architecture” in August of 1914. The philosophy developed further in the 1970s with the advent of rising oil prices. Green architecture considers building with respect to the conservation of energy and the reuse and safety of building materials as well as its overall impact on the environment. You will save a considerable amount of money with intelligent features of green architecture design (such as strategic placement of windows, walls, and roofs to provide shade in the summer and solar gain in the winter). 

                  Outdoor Amenities: An outdoor kitchen complete with a built in grill-island, pizza oven, sinks, bar, cabinets, and kitchen appliances is a great way to cook and feed your guests for a fresh-air social gathering. A fire pit is an understated outdoor amenity, but an equally popular item to consider while assembling your list. 

                  Backyard Deck: Decks and patios have long been enjoyed by homeowners. The backyard decks have gained even more popularity during the pandemic, as families have relied on them for entertaining friends and guests in the comfort of the open air. A covered backyard deck or patio is a great feature. It will provide protection from the sun and rain while you enjoy your morning coffee or evening bbq. 

                  Exterior Lighting: Outdoor lighting will enhance the use of your backyard deck, patio, and outdoor kitchen. It will light the way and provide additional safety. 

                  Game Room: Entertainment and game rooms are great places for your children and their friends to gather. If your children have grown and moved out on their own, it’s a great place for the pool table, weekly poker game, or your collection of vintage pinball machines. 

                  Laundry Room: Buyers are attracted to homes with a dedicated room for doing laundry. Laundry rooms with freshly painted walls, shelving, a built-in ironing board, and a stackable Energy Star rated washer and dryer were highly desired by buyers in a recent survey. 

                  Storage: Having plenty of storage might be the number one feature to consider. We have included it at the end to keep it fresh in your mind. An increase of non-romantic co-buyers (parents and their adult children, siblings, and friends) has driven the need for more storage in homes during the pandemic. Kitchen cabinets, walk-in pantries, built-in wall shelving, large and intelligent closet solutions, bathroom cabinets, and storage in the garage and outdoor areas are all items to keep your eye on. 

                  We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs in Newport and surrounding areas of Rhode Island. Contact Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting today!

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                    5 Best Waterfront Restaurants in Newport RI

                    Waterfront Dining in Rhode IslandDock-to-table dining is an excellent way to spend the warmer months in Newport. You will be enjoying a meal at one of Newport’s critically-acclaimed waterfront dining establishments in the summer and every week of the year when you find your perfect home in this beautiful American seaside city. Here are some of the best waterfront restaurants in Newport, RI for your dining pleasure. 

                    The Reef: This waterfront restaurant opened its doors to the delight of locals and tourists alike in 2021. They quickly received recognition from Forbes magazine as one of “3 Reasons to Visit Newport …” New England classics are offered alongside internationally inspired dishes. Brunch menu items include a Butter Poached Lobster Benedict (lobster w/spinach, mushrooms, croissant, lobster infused hollandaise, and mixed greens) and an exceptionally satisfying Breakfast Burger (Angus beef w/fried egg, bacon, avocado, brown sugar maple aioli, and cheese served on a croissant with home fries). There is a fine selection of lunch and dinner entrees. But you can always order a classic lobster roll and draft beer while you relax with a little live music and enjoy the oceanic views. 

                    The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar: You will be met with a hospitable reception at this Newport classic restaurant. The employee-owned establishment has been serving raw bar delicacies, steak, and seafood along with an award winning wine list (with over 600 labels) for 35 years. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. The seafood featured on the menu is from a variety of sources including Brown Family Seafood, Foley Fish, and Newport Lobster (with a focus on sustainability). Start your meal with a Bag of Doughnuts (lobster & shrimp fritters with chipotle-maple aioli) or Sweet Corn Gnocchi (roasted tomato, local corn, feta, cilantro, and guajillo chili) followed by a Maine Lobster Steamed (w/drawn butter) or Karen Elizabeth Scallops (pan seared w/summer vegetable succotash, hominy, spring onion soubise, and tomato jam). Executive Chef Jennifer Backman has included an excellent selection of upscale seafood on the menu to enjoy inside or on the mahogany planked patio overlooking Narragansett Bay. 

                    The Black Pearl: The summer patio is open daily for lunch & dinner 10:00am-10:00pm at this legendary local wharf bar and formal restaurant. Generations of loyal patrons have been enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, food, and spirits since the early 1970s. Dinner menu items include a luxurious Lobster Risotto (w/cremini mushrooms, truffle, tomato, and parmesan) and a heartwarming Chicken Pot Pie (w/cremini mushrooms, peas, pearl onion, celery, and carrots baked in puffed pastry). Brunch includes a Bananas Foster French Toast (caramelized bananas, challah bread, brown sugar, cinnamon, spiced rum, and topped with whipped cream). 

                    The Lobster Bar: Lobster, shells, frosty drinks, and sunsets make for a perfect evening at this waterfront restaurant in Newport. Signature dinner entrées include a Lobster Ravioli (w/spinach garlic cream and roasted tomatoes) and the Rhode Island Clam Boil (steamers, littlenecks, mussels, corn, potatoes, and chourico sausage). Traditional lobster rolls are served along with variations including a lunchtime favorite: Bonnie’s Lobster Roll (a whole 1 ¼ pound lobster shucked, chilled, and served on a brioche roll with drawn butter). 

                    22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille: Steak and fresh local seafood are on the menu at this classic harborside tavern. The steaks are hand selected from the best USDA Prime and aged to perfection. They are served with your choice of béarnaise, blue cheese butter, bordelaise, 22B ‘steakhouse’, hollandaise, cognac cream, horseradish cream, truffle butter, or roasted garlic chimichurri. Dinner cuts from the grille include a 90 day dry-aged 22oz sirloin, prime grass fed 16oz ribeye, and a 32oz porterhouse for two. Miyazaki A5 Wagyu cuts from Southern Japan are also offered as a 2oz ribeye, 2oz tenderloin, or 2oz sirloin. There are a lot of wonderful menu items to choose from but someone at your table will want to order a steak! 

                    The team at Teri Degnan Real Estate & Consulting looks forward to helping you find the perfect home in Newport and the surrounding areas of Rhode Island. We will make your home-buying experience fun, exciting and simple so you can get out to the wharf and enjoy the culinary treasures of the land and sea without further ado. Contact us today!

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