How to Make Your Home Smarter in 2021

National Tempura Day is January 7, which means there couldn't be a better time to try one of Long Island's many Japanese dining establishments. Tempura is a popular Japanese cooking style that involves lightly frying with a batter made from soft wheat and cold water. Whether you prefer tempura with shrimp, scallops, crab, or vegetables, almost everyone can agree that food tastes a little bit better when made Tempura style.

Take the time to celebrate National Tempura Day by trying one of these fantastic Long Island Japanese restaurants recommended by our REALTORS®.

• Inatome Japanese Steak + Sushi - 6 5th St, Valley Stream, NY 11581
  A short drive away from some beautiful Hewlett homes for sale is Inatome Japanese Steak + Sushi. This classic Japanese staple has been serving delicious tempura in Long Island since 1975. Their menu features various tempuras, including shrimp, vegetable, calamari, scallop, and soft shell crab. They also have fantastic sushi and hibachi, along with a great selection of beer and sake. Dine-in or order online for takeout.

You're ready to list your home among Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. Naturally, you're eager to present the best face possible for potential buyers. You've read a lot of online tips for getting your home ready, and you've talked to real estate agents about what to do. But now that you've made your decision, it's time to get serious about your presentation. You may be surprised to find some challenges to what you think would appeal to or turn off potential buyers. Here's what you should know.

What Buyers Will Like or Dislike About Your Home

1. Clutter
   You already know this. Clutter and dirt are real turn-offs for potential buyers. Be prepared to either clean your home to the max or hire to have it done. And keep it pristine; potential buyers will not appreciate that "lived in" look you're used to.

Board games have existed for thousands of years, even as far back as Ancient Egypt in 3500 BCE. While our games today may look far different from the original chess and checkers boards, they all have one thing in common: to challenge, entertain, and bring us together. Pick out a new game or an old favorite from one of these game stores around Long Island.

• Boardwalk Games Inc —14 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
  If you and your family are searching for the perfect board game for Games Day, head down to Boardwalk Games Inc first. This game store has a fine selection of classic tabletop games and the latest board games on the market. Whether you're searching for heirloom-quality wooden games or contemporary games that will become new favorites, make a game run down to Boardwalk Games, just a few blocks from the Port Jefferson homes for sale that you've been eyeing.

After a one-of-a-kind year, treat family and loved ones to a one-of-kind gift this holiday season. Join our REALTORS® in supporting local businesses by patronizing these amazing shops around Long Island. 

1. What a Girl Wants - 3490 Merrick Rd., Seaford, NY 11783
   Any female on your list will be delighted with a gift from What a Girl Wants. With their extensive selection of clothing and accessories, jewelry, and home decor, the family-owned shop offers something to suit every personal taste. They even have an assortment of gift items for the man in your life. What a Girl Wants provides free shipping for orders over $100. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.