Frequently Asked Questions
I am concerned that I will not own the land, and that it is only leased. What are my rights to the land as a leaseholder?
The rights of a leaseholder are very similar to that of an owner, in that the home can be sold, mortgaged, willed or rented by the owner of the home and holder of the lease. In fact, New York State has very specific laws that govern thee types of communities and specifically protects the leaseholder as homemaker. Also, the leasehold community allows communities to keep strict rules in place, keep the community clean, tidy, and uniform, which maintains the property values of the entire project and allows for appreciation of your home. In addition, the leasehold helps keep the initial cost of purchasing the home lower and more affordable. A leasehold estate at Summerset Landing also means no worrying about landscaping, trash pick up, well or septic maintenance. The 99-year land lease community at Summerset also has a full time manager on staff. We will offer a community center, exercise facility and recreation area in the future to further enhance your enjoyment of the community.
What do I get for my Lease Fee?
The fee helps pay for the ground your home sits on, the property taxes for the ground and common areas, all of the infrastructure in the ground, and other services: water, septic, grounds and road maintenance, landscaping, trash removal and the proposed community center.
What about Taxes?
Taxes on the homes at Summerset Landing are extremely affordable since only the home is assessed for individual taxes and not the land or homesite. Property taxes run about $1500 per year ($125 per month) before STAR exemptions. Homesite taxes are included in your lease fee. Each home is assessed individually by the town of Stuyvesant assessor. The municipality creates a separate tax bill for your homes property school and town/county tax. Homes are assessed separately and your taxes are not lumped into your lease fee, so that you are assured that you will receive your full exemptions and STAR benefits directly, without any question to your proper tax due. Taxes will be paid to Summerset Landing monthly and taxes are due when the lease fee is due, on the first of each month.
What is my Home’s Warranty?
Your home carries a Manufacturers Warrantyon its structure and appliances. Under this warranty the structure and the mechanical systems used in your home are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship. Any covered items found to be defective will be repaired or replaced at no cost to you.
What about Basements?
Homes are built on a crawl space with a concrete pad. Garages, sheds and attics are the main source of storage.
What storage options are available?
All of the home sites are large enough for at least a 1 car garage and there are some lots large enough for a 2 car attached garage. Storage sheds are also allowed for homeowners that choose not to have a garage. Homes can also be built with full walk-up or drop stair attics.
What about Pets?
Cats and dogs are allowed, however, cats must be kept indoors and dogs must be walked on a leash and be picked up after.
Can I plant flowers on my property?
Yes, there is a space designed for your own personal plantings. A community garden is in the planning stages. We welcome you input on the location and design.
Are there rules for the Community?
Summerset has a printed list of rules to ensure we keep the community beautiful and residents respect each other’s privacy.
Who is the home Manufacturer?
Summerset Landing features homes built by Marlette and Eagle River. Marlette is owned by Clayton Homes. Clayton is the largest home manufacturer in the country and is owned by Berkshire Hathaway.
How much does it cost to heat and cool these houses?
All of new the homes at Summerset Landing are energy star, well insulated homes, heated by a high efficiency propane furnace. The cost to heat and cool these homes is low since they are so efficient. In addition to efficiency, Summerset Landing has a propane coop available with a local distributor who gives a large discount to Summerset Landing residents who buy into the coop.
How long does it take to move into my new home after it is ordered?
Depending on the season it should take about 3 to 4 months. There are peak construction periods, which sometimes can cause delays. Weather may prohibit progress as the local construction team prepares the foundation for your home.
