A renovation nightmare has become the reality for several homeowners on Long Island, who allege they have been victimized by a home contractor that has ripped them off for thousands of dollars.

Basic is available at any age, Enhanced to homeowners 65 or older. On Long Island, unlike in New York City and four other cities statewide, the STAR benefit applies only to school-district taxes.

Long Island: $698.4 million Mid-Hudson: $488.5 million Finger Lakes: $205.2 million Western New York: $178.5 million New York City: $158.6 million Capital Region: $144.5 million ...