Age is only a number. This stately antique has had many updates and owners have lovingly renovated over the years. If you are looking for the warmth and character of old with the freshness and appeal of today, then this is a must see. This move-in ready home has so many pluses: new roof, numerous windo replacements, new laundry room, new dining room, and a large custom built walk-in closet off the master bedroom, to name a few. Cooking is a delight in the light and bright kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Most recently completed is a bath to spoil you with luxurious marble and tile, a clawfoot soaking tub, and a walk-in shower with rain showerhead. Enjoy summer evenings on the wraparound porch or meditate in the yoga hut tucked in the backyard. The attached barn provides ample storage space or use for your four-footed friends. Come live your dream with cherished yesterdays and gracious tomorrows. Offered at $295,000. For more photos and details, visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/VXC9U3/516-ROUTE-114-Sutton-NH-4706482
Donna Forest, Listing Broker, 603-526-4116
DO NOT LOOK – unless you are prepared to fall in love with this captivating home! It is like stepping into the pages of a Better Homes & Gardens magazine only nowyou can call it your own. No details have been overlooked. The dramatic cathedral ceilinged great room with fireplace will be the center of your entertaining.Handcrafted kitchen cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances; it is a kitchen that makes every inch count. Sleek contemporary bathrooms, neutral colors, light filled rooms; all reflect an aura of simple but subtle elegance. Step outside to find multiple decks all with tranquil views of the picture-book setting of garden, lawn and grounds just begging you to sit down and relax. This home is easy to care for and effortless to close up for the winter to match any lifestyle. If you are looking to downsize and simplify your life, this home might just be the one for you. Offered at $385,000. For more photos and details, visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/MCPTD5/195-Shaker-Street-New-London-NH-4700569
Donna Forest, Listing Broker, 603-526-4116
Teamwork from the Team that works –Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team
- Overpricing – Even in a good market, a house priced too high will just sit.
- Not Prepping Home – Decluttering, depersonalizing, cleaning. All a must do before selling.
- Neglecting Curb Appeal – First impressions count. And you don’t get a second chance at enticing buyers.
- Ignoring Repairs – Poor maintenance will leave buyers wondering what else is wrong with the house. And can be deal killers when the home inspection is done.
- Being Emotional – When a house goes on the market it becomes a commodity and not your home. Making decisions based on emotions will cost you.
- Taking Offense at Low Offers – Buyers are trying to buy at the lowest price they can. An offer is most always a starting point for negotiations.
- Not Hiring a Professional – It’s a fact For Sale by Owners end up selling for less than if they hired a realtor.
If you are thinking of selling and looking for expert guidance throughout the process, then contact me – a certified Seller Representative Specialist! 603-526-4116, Donna@DonnaForest.com, www.DonnaForest.com
The Lake Sunapee Region is coming alive for the summer and soon families and friends will be flocking to the Harbors and Town Commons to hear local musicians entertain. Dust off your lawn chairs and wash your blankets and enjoy the music! To view upcoming events, visit https://lake-sunapee-living.com/dartmouth-lake-sunapee-region/lake-sunapee-entertainment/
Welcome to the original summer home of the Burke Family, for whom Burkehaven is named. Constructed around 1885, take a walk back in time, spend relaxing hours sitting on the incredibly inviting wraparound porch watching the activities in Burkehaven. Take a short walk to your owned 16.5 ft. of water frontage or boat slip on Lake Sunapee. Five bedrooms, den, library, cozy reading alcove, all represent a bygone era of tranquility and relaxation. Come take a look! 16'9" Pen Yan boat included in the sale. For more photos and details,visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/J6YJKH/6-Burkehaven-Terrace-Sunapee-NH-4698317
Emily Campbell, Listing Agent, 603-526-4116
Due to the lack of inventory, our market is seeing an increase in multiple offers on homes. While this is exciting for sellers, it can be frustrating for buyers. Below are some suggestions on how buyers can “sweeten the deal” in order to be the winning bid.
- Obviously the offer with the highest price will get the sellers’ attention. Be prepared to offer over asking price.
- If your offer is contingent on financing, it’s possible the appraisal may come in lower than the selling price. You can state in your offer you will pay the difference between the appraisal price and purchase price.
- Find out the sellers ideal closing time and tailor your offer to meet that date.
- Have as few contingencies as possible in the offer.
- Consider using an escalation clause, offering to outbid another buyer by a certain amount.
Bottom line, you need to put your best foot forward with an offer that has the least number of contingencies, best price, and a large down payment to set your offer apart from others. For more invaluable advice, contact me, an Accredited Buyer Representative, before you start house hunting. 603-526-4116, www.DonnaForest.com, Donna@DonnaForest.com
Live in one apartment and let the two tenants pay your mortgage! Could also be converted back to a large single family home. First floor unit (B) has spacious living room with oak floors and exposed beams, kitchen has a new floor and neweer appliances, updated bathroom. First floor unit (C) has a gorgeous stone fireplace with woodstove insert and cozy loft. Second floor unit (A) has two bedrooms, spacious open concept living area and washer/dryer in full bath! Each unit currently has garage space. Enclosed wraparound porch. Ask me about the 100,000 yards of gravel if you're looking for some additional income. All on almost six acres of level and rolling land! Offered at $320,000. For more photos and details, visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/H7CG7X/51-Franklin-Highway-Andover-NH-4693083
Anne Marie Appel, Listing Agent, 603-526-4116
Teamwork from the Team that works –Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team
- Don’t try to second-guess interest rates or the market by waiting for the “right time”. If you find a home you like, buy it.
- Accept the fact that no house is perfect. Concentrate on the items important to you and let the minor flaws go.
- Get approved for a mortgage first before even looking. This will set your price range and also enhance your offer.
- Don’t look at every house on the market just because they are there. Be picky and look at the most appealing. Then add to the list if nothing fits.
- Don’t worry if you feel buyer’s remorse after making an offer. It is common and will pass. Buying a home is a big decision but the benefits far outweigh the negatives.
- Work with an experienced local agent. Buying can be emotional so pick someone you’re comfortable with and respect.
Contact me if you are looking for an accredited buyer’s agent with over 24 yrs. of experience to make your buying experience a success! 603-526-4116, www.DonnaForest.com, Donna@DonnaForest.com
Curb appeal is important for many homeowners who want to feel good about where they live or attract a new buyer. Whether you want to freshen up a home you’ve owned for years or plan on selling, here are some exterior makeovers you can give without spending a fortune. Focus on designs that make a big impact.
A fresh coat of paint
Outdated brick and worn concrete rejuvenate with lighter paint selections. For shutters, window casings, eaves and the front door, consider khaki in a shade just a bit darker than the house.
A makeover for focal points
Thoughtful improvements like an updated roof, glass front door or new windows can make a vast difference. Consider also revamping your pathways and planters. Create a focal point with landscaping for one of the easiest and most effective ways to transform a house from blah to beautiful.
Accentuate the positives
If you have a charmer hidden under overgrown shrubs, bushes and trees, clear away the clutter to allow the home’s frame to speak volumes. Reveal a stunner simply by getting rid of anything in the way of the authentic style of your home. Doing a bit of research into your home’s beginnings may offer some ideas for enhancing its character.
Showcase your entryway
Create visual appeal and a welcoming environment by showcasing the entryway. Go with a new color for your door, add an inexpensive portico or tear down one that hides your home. New garden beds around the entrance warm up a bland exterior. Clustering plants along your home’s foundation near the entryway ties in the natural surroundings and makes it more welcoming. Make the most of the grand entrance to your house.
Green up the walls
Choose decorative vines or crawling foliage with fruits and vegetables. This is a great way to develop a formal look for your exterior or maximize space for a garden. The key to growing on your home’s walls is using an anchoring system that works with your siding and keeps plants from rubbing against the walls or adhering to them. This can damage your house and your vertical garden. Blend landscaping into your home by growing plants up the sides of walls.
Soften hardscapes
Large slabs of stone on a patio or steps can look handsome or cold. Take the edge off by surrounding them with small-leaved ground covering like deadnettle or creeping thyme. Plant crawling ground cover around rock edges and in between pavers. It’ll add warmth and color contrast, and offer an aesthetic that says “natural” instead of “ignored.”
Expand or add a deck or porch
By expanding or adding a deck or porch, you can make your exterior a haven for relaxing and gathering. Think about how you can craft an outdoor living space that works year-round. For instance, include built-in benches with storage, plenty of space for flowers and seasonal greenery, pull-down clear porch curtains to keep the elements out, and maybe even a firepit to warm things up.
Working with local home exterior design professionals or contractors can make the job of revamping your exterior much easier. But, if you have the time and motivation to attack the project yourself, it can be truly rewarding.
Teamwork from the Team that works –Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team
With rising prices and low inventory, it’s challenging to buy your dream home. Below are some tips to help position yourself for success.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage before looking. This is different than getting pre-qualified. Pre-approval requires documentation and is not based on estimates.
- Work with a Realtor who has experience and a proven track record. They will provide invaluable advice.
- Be prepared to move quickly. You don’t have days to think it over.
- Don’t make lowball offers. Your offer should be as attractive as possible. Things to consider – make a larger deposit, offer a flexible closing date, don’t sweat the small stuff, and have as few contingencies as possible.
- Decide what you are willing to compromise on ahead of time. Figure out what matters most – is it location? Size? Style?
It’s expected to continue as a sellers’ market and you need to be mentally prepared to up your game when it comes to buying. Contact me if you want expert guidance through every step of your home purchase. 603-526-4116, Donna@DonnaForest.com, www.DonnaForest.com
You’ll be moving in the right direction with Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team.