GOP Picnic On Saturday, Erie County GOP Chairman Michael Kracker hosted the annual GOP Picnic at the Buffalo Airport Hotel. Dozens of supporters, elected officials and candidates were on hand as well as BNAR Gov't Affairs Committee member Lisa Avery and Gov't Affairs Dir. Brenda Alesii. Year in and year out the BNAR supports bi-partisan elected  leaders who promote Realtor-friendly issues and our industry.

We are proud to donate net proceeds from the BNAR’s first multicultural event, “Loving Our Differences,” held on June 1, 2023.  Our friends at Journey’s End Refugee Services tirelessly work to help people from around the world live in a safe and clean environment, with the hope that many will realize the American dream of home ownership. Our work together reinforces how Realtors live, work, and support local communities every day.

  4 Factors To Consider When Determining How Much Home You Can Afford Figuring out how much home you can afford is one of the most important questions you’ll need to answer before you begin house hunting. But as home prices and interest rates have increased in the past few years, you may be wondering how your buying power has changed. To get a rough estimate of what you can afford, most lenders suggest you spend no more than 28% of your monthly income — before taxes are taken out — on your mortgage payment, which includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance. In addition to having a firm grip on your income and expenses, it’s important to understand the role the following factors play in how much home you can afford: Your Credit Lenders look closely at your credit score when determining whether you qualify for a loan. Generally, the higher your credit score the more options will be available to you, including better loan terms and a lower interest rate. Because of the large rol...

  Flowering Spirit Flowers in bloom have the power to lift our spirits and bring joy to our lives. Whether it’s a single bloom or a field of wildflowers, the sight and scent of flowers can have a positive impact on our mood and well-being.  Here are some reasons why flowers in bloom can lift our spirits: 1. Beauty: Flowers are beautiful, and their vibrant colors and intricate shapes can be mesmerizing. The sight of a blooming flower can be a feast for the eyes and a reminder of the beauty that exists in the world. 2. Scent: Many flowers have a pleasant scent that can be uplifting and invigorating. The scent of flowers can trigger positive memories and associations, and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. 3. Connection to nature: Flowers are a reminder of our connection to nature. They are a symbol of growth, renewal, and the cycle of life. The sight of flowers in bloom can be a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. 4. Symbolism: Flowers have been used a...

Setting Limits  In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Many people find themselves working long hours, checking emails after hours, and sacrificing their personal time for work. However, it is essential to set limits to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Here are some tips on how to set limits: 1. Prioritize your time:  Make a list of your priorities and allocate your time accordingly. Determine what is most important to you and make sure you are dedicating enough time to those activities. This may mean saying no to some work commitments or social events. 2. Set boundaries:  Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid checking emails or taking work calls during your personal time. Let your colleagues know when you are not available and stick to your boundaries. 3. Learn to say no:  Saying no can be challenging, but it is essential to set limits. If you are feeling overwhelmed, learn to say no...

Finding Your Place Finding the right place to live can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take the time to find a home that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you find the right place for you. Firstly, consider your lifestyle and priorities. Do you prefer a quiet suburban neighborhood or a bustling city center? Do you need easy access to public transportation or do you prefer to drive? Do you need a large backyard for your pets or a small apartment for just yourself? By understanding your lifestyle and priorities, you can narrow down your search and focus on areas that meet your needs. Secondly, research the local community. Look for information about the schools, crime rates, and local amenities such as parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. This can give you a better understanding of the area and help you decide if it’s a good fit for you. Thirdly, work with a trusted real estate agent. A good agent can provide valuable insights into the lo...

                                        Robert McDonnell Appointed President  of  HUNT Commercial Real Estate Corporation BUFFALO, NY – June 27, 2023 –  HUNT Commercial Real Estate Corp. has announced the appointment of Robert G. McDonnell as its fifth President since its founding in 1911. McDonnell will be responsible for the overall management, strategic initiatives, business development, and multi-state growth of the commercial real estate organization, including the commercial property management arm, HUNT Property Solutions. McDonnell has served as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer since 2019 and has been instrumental in leading HUNT Commercial to record year-over-year revenue growth, recruiting efforts, and operational efficiencies. McDonnell was initially recruited to HUNT Commercial in the early 1990s, where he learned the complexities o...