Curling up with a good book is the perfect way to relax. Every bookworm can agree that where you read is just as important as what you read. We can all relate to reading the same sentence for 15 minutes as a result of being in the wrong place. Noisy, crowded and uncomfortable are not adjectives one wants to use to describe their leisure spots. Reading nooks are little areas within a home that are comfy, cozy and free of distractions. Explore the must-have elements every reading nook needs.
Get Cozy in a Corner
You may think you need a lot of space or to rearrange for a reading nook. All you need is a little corner or any space that is secluded from everything else. Reading nooks can be anywhere; consider a corner in your bedroom, a bay window or even a shed.oftness is a Must
Increase the coziness of your reading nook with softer fabrics. Invest in a plush blanket to create a welcoming cocoon. Paint the walls softer hues to ensure a cozy, distraction-free space. If a big rug beckons, consider faux fur or a great shag rug to spend a few hours with your favorite author.
Softness is a Must
Increase the coziness of your reading nook with softer fabrics. Invest in a plush blanket to create a welcoming cocoon. Paint the walls softer hues to ensure a cozy, distraction-free space. If a big rug beckons, consider faux fur or a great shag rug to spend a few hours with your favorite author.
Comfort with Cushions
Soft fabrics are great, but they won’t give you as much comfort as you need to finish a few chapters of your latest read. Grab some cushions and layer them on the floor, bench or bay window. They are a much cheaper alternative to purchasing a chair. You may also want to purchase larger pillows to line the wall for increased comfort.
Lighting is Vital
A reading nook in front of a big window is always a nice addition. You get an ample amount of natural light, fresh air and peace. The only catch is when the sun goes down, your reading nook will no longer be the ideal place. To get the best light possible, add a lamp or hang a few strings of white lights. Better yet, opt for a with a dimming option to set the mood as you please.
Keep it Simple
Too many distractions can take away from your reading experience. There’s no need for tech gadgets, save for an e-reader. An abundance of framed photos, home décor and other distractions can also take your attention away from the page. Keep it simple by sticking with basics to get the most out of your reading nook.
Source: www.bhgrelife.com
Appreciate the historic period details of this renovated antique cape. Enjoy entertaining in the fully updated, light-filled "dream" kitchen. Gather around the kitchen island and spacious Great Room addition with warming pellet stove. Formal dining room and master bedroom with walk-in closet complete the first floor. Natural woodwork and exposed beams throughout. Three additional bedrooms and full bath on the second floor. Both bathrooms are completely renovated with heated floors. The in-law apartment below provides extra income or privacy for family or friends. Mature perennials and cozy outdoor spaces. Easy access to boating, hiking, and biking. Make this your vacation home or year-round dream! Offered at $265,000. For more photos and details, go to http://tour.circlepix.com/home/V7EDPE/203-US-Route-4-Route-Enfield-NH-4668404
Anne Marie Appel, Listing Agent, 603-526-4116
As we approach the end of 2017, there are a number of articles out with predictions on what the 2018 housing market will bring, based on the opinions of economists and housing experts. While no one can say for sure, it sounds like it could be similar to what we experienced this year. Below are some of the highlights.
- Interest rates are expected to gradually rise from around 4% to 4.5% by end of year.
- Low inventory will continue to be a challenge for buyers.
- Millennials could be the most active home buyers in 2018 and they will be looking in higher density, amenity-rich neighborhoods.
- Baby boomers haven’t downsized as much as anticipated. Some speculate this is due to the fact they are working longer and also desire to age in place and not move.
- Home values are expected to grow – some predict 3.2% and others are at 4.7%.
Whether buying or selling, contact me if you’d like to know how the market could impact you. Donna@DonnaForest.com; www.DonnaForest.com; 603-526-4116.
Come visit the Gallery of Trees at The Inn at Pleasant Lake, 853 Pleasant Street in New London, NH. A beautiful display of trees will be decorated by local businesses and available to view from December 26 through January 1, 2018 from 1-7 p.m. You will have the opportunity to vote for your favorite tree and donate to the New Hampshire Food Bank. Hot chocolate will be served to keep you warm. For more information, go to www.innatpleasantlake.com or call 526-6271. Enjoy the Holidays!
Teamwork from the Team that works –Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team
To buy a home, or to not buy a home. It’s a common debate for many people. There’s no denying that renting is basically paying for someone else’s monthly mortgage without receiving any equity from the property, but that does not always mean that buying a home is the better option for each individual. Everyone’s situation is different, and home buying can be expensive. People’s lifestyles also change and their motives for wanting to buy a house are just as varied. Determining whether or not it’s worth buying a home has a lot to do with individual specifics. It’s highly recommended to speak with a real estate agent who can give you detailed real estate advice based on the information you provide. However, the general costs and rewards of home buying can be found right now to help steer you in the right direction.
Maintenance Costs
When you buy a home, you are taking on the responsibility of maintenance costs. They’re inevitable for all homeowners, but they can be significant depending on the specific property. Before buying a home, maintenance costs and unexpected repairs must be considered. It’s recommended to hold back 1% of the home’s value annually for maintenance and appliance replacement, but that does not cover unexpected repairs.
Property Taxes
Property taxes can be a significant expense. The actual amount can fluctuate, and this must be considered before buying a home. There are a variety of factors to determine the amount of property taxes, such as the area, state, and local budget cuts, renovations, as well as many other things.
House Insurance
Many mortgage loan lenders require homeowners to have house insurance. Unlike rental insurance, which covers possessions, homeowners’ insurance covers both possessions and the cost of the property. Although it’s an extra expense, it’s beneficial to have even if it is not required. As for the cost of home insurance, it depends on the specifics, but you can get an estimate by dividing the home’s value by 1000, and then multiplying that by 3.5 (HomeGuides).
Tax Deductibility
A benefit that comes when you buy a home is the tax deductibility of mortgage interest. This number is hard to estimate from a general standpoint because it greatly depends on your specific financial situation. However, owning a home can provide you more savings than if you were to rent, simply because of the tax deductible.
Home’s Value Appreciating
The appreciation of a home’s value is generally high. However, this can change rather quickly depending on the housing market, as well as many other factors. ABC News estimates home prices will appreciate around 3%, according to the historical average. The thing that many people forget is that as a home’s value increases, the cost of maintenance and insurance does as well, due to inflation.
In terms of liquid money, home ownership won’t bring you much of that. However, buying a home does have the potential to bring you a high return on investment. More importantly, your monthly bills go towards something you own. When renting, you’re essentially paying someone else’s mortgage without receiving any ownership. Many additional factors also need to be considered when determining if buying a home is worth it, such as whether you want to buy a home as an investment property, plan on flipping the house, or want to retire in it. The first step is to answer the inevitable question, “Can I afford a home?” and these general guidelines can help you determine that.
Source: Reprinted from www.bhgre.com/bhgrelife/
Come see this special condominium at Hilltop Place in New London, NH! Lovely airy and bright unit in a quiet and private location with many other significant upgrades and improvements. Beautiful new custom kitchen was installed in 2015. The Master bath also offers a brand new (2017) fiberglass walk-in shower with both hand-held and overhead shower heads, a removable seat, mutiple grab bars, and built-in shelves for convenience. Large den/office (3rd bedroom) with direct access to screened porch and open balcony. Generously sized living room has a propane fireplace installed. The unit is fully air-conditioned and has been converted to baseboard hot water heat. Move right in! Offered at $229,600. For more photos and details, visit www.HilltopPlaceNH.com
Marilyn Kidder, Listing Broker, 603-526-4116
Teamwork from the Team that works –Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team
Low housing inventory has been the topic of conversation nationally as well as in NH this year. There just seems to be a lack of homes for sale. So why now? It’s a combination of many factors: homeowners are moving every 10 yrs. compared to historically being 6-7 yrs., many homeowners are staying put as their mortgage interest rate is lower than what rates are now, there was a lack of new construction during the recession, and owners don’t want to sell as they are fearful they will not find a home to buy. As a result of having low inventory in many markets, prices are going up. In NH, the median sales price is up 6.2% through October compared to 2016. A stable market has a 6 month supply of existing homes to sell. Anything less means home values will rise and anything longer than 7 months will cause prices to fall. As of October, NH as well as the rest of the U.S., had about a 4 month supply. Bottom line, buyers will continue to compete for homes and sellers will see home values rise. Contact me to see how this market impacts you! 603-526-4116; www.DonnaForest.com; Donna@DonnaForest.com
Having read numerous articles lately on the housing market, my takeaway is most economists feel 2018 will see an increase in total home sales and median sales price. National Association of REALTORS Chief Economist Lawrence Yun expects sales to increase 3.7% in 2018 and the National median existing home price to rise around 5.5%. Freddie Mac forecasts home sales to increase about 2% and about 4.9% in price. Core Logic predicts a price increase of 4.7%. The reason for this optimism is the economic environment remains favorable for housing and mortgage markets; we have moderate economic growth, solid job gains, and low interest rates. Freddie Mac forecasts these conditions to continue into next year. What are the downsides for 2018? Limited inventory will be a persistent problem. This will keep prices elevated and prevent some buyers from home ownership. Also, the proposed tax reform plan includes a limit on mortgage interest deduction when could impact home values, especially in higher priced cities with home values over $500k. In the words of Lawrence Yun, "Assuming no changes to the tax code that hurt home ownership, the gradually expending economy and continued job creation should set the stage for a more meaningful increase in home sales in 2018." Contact me if you're wondering how the market will impact you! 603-526-4116, Donna@DonnaForest.com, www.DonnaForest.com
This home is just two miles to Mt. Sunapee Resort and Lake Sunapee State Park for skiing, family fun, boating, swimming, etc. Well-maintained, sunny and bright home on 10.1 acres with beautiful views to the west of Mt. Ascutney and Croydon Park. Bult in 1983, the house has two decks off the rear of the house, plenty of parking, a large partially finished basement, which could easily be completed as a bunk room or family room. Come take a look at this great home in a super location! Offered at $239,000. For more photos and details, visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/8HQ8HX/2265-Brook-Road-Goshen-NH-4653472
Susie Moore, Listing Agent, 603-526-4116
Don't let all that food on Thanksgiving widen your waist! Sign up for the Sunapee 5K Turkey Trot in Sunapee Harbor Thanksgiving day. Register on Wednesday, November 22, 5-8pm at the Harbor House Livery. Bibs and pins can be picked up on race day, 7-8am or at pre-registration. Race starts at 9am. The 1K Chicken Run for kids begins at 8:15am. For more information, visit www.sunapeeturkeytrot.com