When I moved to Ulster County more than 30 years ago someone told me that I would never make a living here.  How wrong he was.  Not only have I made a living; I have prospered, as have many others who came and stayed. As each day passes I am happier about the decision I made years ago to move to Ulster County.
 
Ulster County and the Catskills known primarily as a vacation destination in past years, has become a destination for a growing number of those looking for a nice place to live and work.  It is a wonderful place to live and work as well as to vacation. 

The Numbers Tell The Story

The indicators are that the economy is moving…and many are moving to Ulster County. And, one reason is real estate values can’t be beat. 
 
Here are some statistics from the first quarter of 2004 for comparison: 

Average Selling Price
Ulster	$224,003
Rockland	$336,750
Westchester	$555,000
Total Properties Sold: 328

Economic Vitality  & Opportunity

For a slightly different perspective, the retail sectors in every Ulster County community are expanding based on consumer demand.  It tells the same story. Consider the Village of Saugerties, where I reside.  Whereas just about every other storefront might have been vacant years ago, I don't think there is one vacancy today. 

Despite the growing number of people interested in relocating here and the consequent demand for housing in Ulster County today, there is still a wide variety of home styles and wide range of prices available. This condition seems unlikely to last, however, precisely because the market for housing is so strong and likely to remain so.  I recommend that anyone looking for a wonderful place to live and work and in which to raise children consider Ulster County.

Dave Kaplan, principal broker of ReMax Realty, states, “Transactions have increased by 20 percent over 2003. Most buyers are more savvy and do a lot of research on the Internet prior to contacting a real estate firm.”  In addition, Kaplan cites the new trend of  “many New York City residents relocating to Ulster County for the quality of life, schools, and historic architecture with plans to commute to the City for their work.”

Note:  Steve Hubbard, principal broker of Hubbard Real Estate, a member of the Ulster County Board of Realtors, and director and former President of the Ulster County Multiple Listing Service provided this market view on behalf of the Ulster County Board of Realtors.  Dave Kaplan, principal broker of ReMax Realty and former President of the Ulster County Board of Realtors was also a contributor.