Monthly Archive for September, 2010

Advice for Home Buyers: It’s Not Just About Chewing on Lead Paint Chips!

Published on September 30, 2010 in Advice for Buyers, Advice for Sellers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

You’ve found the perfect home, but before you close, you will most likely want to have a home inspection.  This should include consideration of the possibility of the presence of lead paint in the house.

Lead is a highly toxic metal and is especially dangerous to children – their bodies absorb more of the metal.  Even low levels of lead reduce IQ & attention span, cause learning disabilities and retard development.  Lead poisoning is a major health problem in this country for children.  It even impacts adults by increasing blood pressure and damaging the kidneys, nerves, and brain.  Any amount of lead is bad.

Why am I writing about it?  Because about ¾ of the homes built prior to 1978 contain some lead paint.  And there are plenty of older homes in this area.  The most obvious source of contamination is peeling paint.  However another primary source, and one not as noticeable, is contaminated dust created from the friction of opening and closing of windows, doors, scuffing of feet on stairs, renovations, etc.  Even though most houses today are completely repainted inside and out, the danger of lead dust still exists.  This dust clings to carpets, floors, furniture, and toys. Young children get it on their hands and then put their hands in their mouths.  I’m sure I don’t have to delve into the problems with the dust created from renovations.  You get the picture.   Whether you’re selling or buying a pre-1978 house, you need to be aware of the requirements, disclosures and risk assessments available.  Contact me for a free pamphlet “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home.”

Donna Forest

603-526-4116

Lake Sunapee Area Real Estate – Signs of Improvement…

Published on September 29, 2010 in Advice for Buyers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

The real estate market today seems to be a mixture of news.  I checked our Multiple Listing Service for the number of houses sold from January to September 1st and compared them to last year in the 9 area towns.  Sales have actually increased by 9% – 152 sold homes in 2010, 139 solds in 2009.  The average days on market haven’t seen much change; it takes roughly about 5 months to sell a house (keep in mind that is an average – some take longer, some take less time).   And so far, homes are selling for an average of 91% of their asking price – same as last year.   If sales activity mimics ‘09, this year may end up ahead of 2009 as the last two quarters in 2009 had the highest number of sales.  The tempering factor is that right now there are 484 houses on the market.  Basically there is a 2 year supply of homes to sell.

The good news?  We‘re making slow but steady progress.   Fortunately, with NH’s lower unemployment rate and more stable economy, our state is poised to take advantage of market increases when they happen.  And for buyers, it’s still a great time to be buying with the wide range of choices and low interest rates.  If you’d like to know how sales are doing in your specific town, feel free to contact me!

Donna Forest

603-526-4116

10 Staging Tips if You are Selling a Home

Published on September 27, 2010 in Advice for Sellers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , , .

RISMEDIA, in their real estate magazine, often offers great tips for both buyers and sellers.  An article published in early spring summarized these timeless great suggestions for anyone trying to sell their home from Sandra Rinomato, host of HGTV’s popular “Property Virgins” show.

Before staging, the first step is to, “Get it clean, clean, clean,” said Rinomato. “If your house isn’t clean, it instantly sends up negative thoughts that the home is not well maintained. If your house is spotless, you’re ahead of the game,” she said.  Next, “stage” your house so “…potential buyers can superimpose themselves and their lifestyle on the house.”

Here are her tips:

1. Visit model homes and check out magazines for inexpensive decorating ideas which will appeal to the general public.

2. Home improvement can be as simple as spiffing up the outside with a fresh coat of paint, new shiny hardware on the front door and plant some flowers.

3. Declutter everywhere.   This will make rooms look larger, and don’t forget closets.

4. Replace light bulbs with energy-saving, but bright, bulbs.  Open or remove curtains. “Light, bright rooms give the impression this is a happy place—and everyone wants to move into a happy place,” said Rinomato.

5. Feature only a few pieces of furniture with broad appeal. Pieces pulled away from walls will make rooms look bigger.

6. Make sure a room’s primary use is obvious.

7. Keep kitchen counters clear; the same for nightstands and bureaus. Clean under the sinks in the kitchen.

8. Minimize the presence of your pets. Deodorize thoroughly.

9. Organize storage spaces.  It’s even worth renting a storage locker.

10. When you’re done, call in your friends and REALTOR to get an objective opinion.

RISMEDIA, March 19, 2010—(MCT)—

(c) 2010, The Orlando Sentinel (Fla.).

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.

Fall Foliage in the Lake Sunapee Area of New Hampshire

Published on September 23, 2010 in Sunapee Activities and Sunapee Community. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , .

While New Hampshire is great in any season, Fall foliage season is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular shows of the year.  There are many ways to determine the progress of the foliage, what places are the best to hike or camp in and enjoy the views, where the best outdoor recreation opportunities are during this special time.  For your convenience, we’ve listed below a number of websites which you will find most helpful if you are considering traveling to New Hampshire for this spectacular show of color.

New Hampshire Fall Foliage Guide

NH Fall Foliage Reports

Foliage-Visit New Hampshire

NH Tour Guide

Visit NH

We hope you’ll enjoy visiting our wonderful state during this time when it’s showing off its colors…and maybe you’ll decide you want to stay!

Some Great Advice on Buying a Home: The Art of Making an Offer

Published on September 21, 2010 in Advice for Buyers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

OK –so, of all the homes for sale, you’ve finally found the one you want to buy.  How do you know what to offer?  While it is a buyers’ market, you still need to be reasonable on where you start.  Low-balling the sales price tends to negatively affect the negotiation process.  Sellers generally will not even counter back; feeling that the buyers are not serious.  To make an effective offer, you should work with your agent to get information on comparable houses sold within the past year and get the pricing of the competition.  Chances are you have been out looking at the similar homes for sale so you will have a good feel as to how this property compares to the others for sale.  Another factor to consider is how long it has been on the market.  If the listing has been on for substantially longer than the average, you may be able to offer a much lower price.  Find out the list to sell ratio for that town.  In this area, the selling prices are running about 91% of asking.  The key to making a successful offer is to have good information.  Working closely with a knowledgeable agent will make this process easier, so give me a call if you want to work with an Accredited Buyer’s Representative!  603-526-4116

Donna Forest

“The Road Less Traveled” – Touring Country Roads in New Hampshire

Published on September 17, 2010 in Sunapee Activities and Sunapee Community. 0 Comments Tags: , , , .

One of the perks of living in a rural area is the ability to enter a whole new world of peace and quiet, even wilderness, just by getting into a car and taking a short drive. Sometimes we take this privilege for granted.  We forget how beautiful this area is and how fortunate we are to live here.  Click here to read more, then click on “Articles”, then “Touring Country Roads”.

Courtesy of Soonipi Magazine, www.soonipi.com

Seller Reduces Price on Comfortable, Country Cape – Newbury, NH

Published on September 16, 2010 in Advice for Buyers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

Significant price reduction – from $359,000 to $329,000!  A farmer’s porch provides a welcoming entry as well as a great place to enjoy your morning coffee.   Enjoy entertaining and barbeques on the back deck while listening to the babbling Winding Brook.  3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, oak floor, granite countertops, attached 2 car garage with bonus room above.  All on 4.4 private acres!  Visit www.140WindingBrook.com for more details and photos.

Donna Forest, Listing Agent

Helpful Hints for Selling a Home: What do you do with a “low-ball” offer?

Published on September 14, 2010 in Advice for Sellers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

First thing is don’t get mad!  These may be the buyers (in disguise) you have been waiting for!

Here are some helpful things home sellers should know about “low-ball” offers:

1. First, understand that, in this market, you should be prepared for the possibility of an unacceptably low offer.

Your agent will help you be ready and work with you to agree ahead of time what constitutes a “low-ball” offer on your house.  If you have an understanding and a plan ahead of time, it will ease the process.

2. Don’t automatically assume that buyers are trying to be insulting.  There are many reasons a buyer might submit a low offer.

A lowball may be all the buyers can afford; it could be an investor looking to steal the property, or a buyer who really likes your property and is just taking a shot at it, never knowing if you’re going to say yes or no.

3. If the initial offer seems out of the question, should the seller just ignore it or make a counter?

Even if the offer is so low, you wouldn’t consider selling at that price, make a counter-offer.  Keep the negotiation lines open.  You never know where it will take you.

4. In such a case, the next move will be revealing.

The smaller the move, the closer the buyer likely is to his goal.  A big jump could mean that there is hope of reaching agreement.  And you may have found yourself a buyer!

Based, in part, on an article written by Mary Umberger, a freelance writer in Chicago, which appeared in the September 8, 2020, issue of Inman News online.

Helpful “Do It Yourself” Selling Tips

Published on September 10, 2010 in Advice for Sellers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , .

RISMEDIA recently reprinted an article which was provided by Kiplinger and focused on 8 do-it-yourself projects which would add value to your home, and could be completed in less than a day’s work for less than $1,000 apiece.  Homes for sale need to stand out in the marketplace and such home improvement projects will make a difference.

1. Replace Sinks & Faucets

Especially in the kitchen, which is such a focal point for most buyers.  Incorporate low-flow aerators, as a significant number of buyers are seeking energy efficiency in their new home.  Kitchen remodels score high for recouping cost, usually 70-80%.

2. Backsplashes

This is one of the easiest ways to zip up your kitchen, especially if you use the peel-and-stick tile options which are now available.  If you have the skills, the grout-and-tile options will appeal to a larger number of prospective buyers.

3. Vanity Cabinets/Toilets

This is another area where the return is excellent.  New water-saving models of toilets are “surprisingly easy to install”.  If you have an old (attractive) dresser, consider using that as the base of a new basin sink.

4. Paint

For about $30 a can, a fresh coat of paint will immediately transform a room for dramatic return on your investment.  Use lighter shades to brighten and make a room feel larger; keep shades neutral to appeal to the largest number of buyers.

5. Crown Molding

Crown molding might not give you the highest return, but it will make your home stand out from some of the competition.  It’s a “wow” factor!  You might want the help of an experienced friend for this one, as it can be tricky.

6. Storage/Organization

Make your space more functional for storage and organization.  De-clutter, particularly in the garage, basement and closets.  Use new shelving or clear storage bins.

7. Replace The Front Door

It’s the first thing your buyers will see.  Consider using a steel door which will recoup more of its cost.  If you buy an energy-efficient door, you’re likely to get a tax credit as well.

8. Landscaping

Actually, before they see the front door, buyers will be looking at your landscaping.  This is a first impression which can color the way they view the entire home.  Add color that will complement your house.  Plants are better than trees or shrubs which can take a long time to mature and perennials are less work and offer immediate gratification and results.

These are excellent suggestions which will give your home a better chance of appealing to more buyers, thus increasing your odds of selling sooner than your neighbor.

This was reported by John Miley, Kiplinger.com

Is Your House Camera Shy?

Published on September 9, 2010 in Advice for Sellers and Sunapee Housing Market. 0 Comments Tags: , .

If you are getting ready to put your house on the market, it is important to make sure it photographs well.  Since 90% of buyers start their search online, good pictures are essential to grabbing buyers’ interest.   Before your Realtor arrives to take photos, here are some tips to help maximize your online exposure.

  • De-clutter your house.  Pay attention to the small details like removing refrigerator magnets, soap & sponges by sink, and  towels hanging on the stove.  Also, stash-or throw-all your piles away.
  • Watch out for strong colors as they may not show well in photos.   You may want to consider painting walls a more neutral palette or replacing too bold/busy bedspreads.  Ruffles and curtains may need to go as well.
  • Avoid having too much furniture in a room – remove excess pieces.
  • Make each room as light & bright as possible.
  • Pay attention to the exterior.  Good landscaping and a fresh coat of paint will look great on and off camera.

Talk to your Realtor to make sure they are using a camera with a wide angle lens and that they are putting as many photos as possible online.  You can count on me for this kind of good advice which will help your property stand out in the market and get the attention of serious potential buyers.  Give me a call!  603-526-4116, www.donnaforest.com.