Waterfront Estate on Greenland Cove!

Escape to the coast…

at 7 & 16 Periwinkle Point, Bremen.

This light-filled, waterfront home offers the peace and serenity you have been searching for! Enjoy your own dock and float on pristine Greenland Cove. Open ocean just minutes away! Polished wood floors greet you the moment you walk in the door. The captivating granite fireplace soars into the cathedral ceiling making it visible from living room, kitchen, dining area as well as the second floor. Fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar for casual dining. En-suite master makes one-floor living possible here. Bonus room, two bedrooms. and bath on 2nd floor. Views from every room!! Extra garage bay in the spacious basement for that boat you have always wanted! Simply landscaped-easy to maintain. Offer your guests their own privacy in the detached two bedrooms, winterized home just up the hill. Could be rental opportunity with separate access to the water or place a caretaker here.

This is the perfect home to get away from it all!

 

MLS#1296952

Great Opportunity in Damariscotta!

Great location, great opportunity …

at 61 & 63 Church Street, Damariscotta.

This is the perfect opportunity to owner occupy this quaint residence located within a short walk to downtown Damariscotta. Get help with your mortgage from the two unit Gambrel cottage on the same lot! Main house has two bedrooms, two & a half bathrooms and an attached garage. Nice yard for gardening or outdoor fun. Both rental units are one bedroom, one bath. Great rental history on both buildings. This property is in the C-2 zone which allows for an office location as well. Owners have kept this property in great shape. Main house has been cosmetically updated just recently with new appliances and bath fixtures. 

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

MLS#1300952

March 2018 Market and Sales Update

Single-family existing home values in Maine continue to rise, and sales have remained in healthy territory. Maine Listings today reported that 822 homes changed hands in February, an increase of 5.93 percent compared to February 2017. The median sales price (MSP) for homes sold reached $194,450, up 8.03 percent, comparing February 2018 to February 2017. The MSP indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half for less.

Now is a great time to list your property, because buyers are searching for homes in anticipation of spring. Realtors are reporting that multiple offer situations are common in areas that are at full employment. In Maine’s rural areas, buyers are more cautious, but they are finding great values.

According to the National Association of Realtors, sales of single-family existing homes nationwide were up 1.8 percent in February, and the national MSP of $243,400 represents a 5.9 percent increase from February 2017. Regionally, February sales in the Northeast dipped 7.2 percent, while the regional MSP increased 3.6 percent to $258,900 compared to February 2017.

Newcastle Realty has had a very strong start to the 2018 selling season. As of March 21, 2018, our brokers have closed 32 transaction sides with a total volume of $8,069,001—a 37% increase over our same Y-T-D sales in 2017. By comparison, Tindal and Callahan has posted 24 sides for $6,208,000 in volume, and Drum and Drum Real Estate has sold $2,531,500 with eight sides.

Most of the early 2018 property sales in the local area have occurred in Waldoboro (11), Jefferson (8), Wiscasset (9), Boothbay (14), and Bristol (10). Just a few sales have happened so far this year in Boothbay Harbor (6), Damariscotta (4), Edgecomb (2), Nobleboro (2), Bremen (4), Dresden (2), and Newcastle (4). Towns showing just one or two sales include South Bristol, Westport Island, Somerville, and Whitefield, and no 2018 sales have been posted yet in Alna or Southport.

There are currently 310 single family homes for sale in Lincoln County (down from 325 last month), with 28 percent of those priced at or above $500,000. The 619 residential sales that have occurred in the past 365 days represent transactions in the range of under $100,000 (13%), $100,000-$249,999 (50%), $250,000-$499,999 (26%), $500,000-$999,999 (9%), and $1 million-plus (2%).

The current market absorption rates for Lincoln County homes is 2.5 months (under $100,000), 3.9 months ($100,000-$249,999), 8.1 months ($250,000-$499,999), 14.8 months ($500,000-$999,999), and 20.3 months ($1 million and up). This tells us how long it would take for existing inventories to be absorbed into the market at current rates of sales if no new listings were introduced.

Newcastle Realty tracks Lincoln County and statewide sales, along with other important metrics, which keeps our brokers fully informed of current market conditions and emerging trends as they serve buyer and seller client needs. Questions or comments may be directed to Dennis Hilton, President of Newcastle Realty at dennishilton@cheneycompanies.com or 207-380-3435.

*         Sales statistics based on information from the Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. (d/b/a Maine Listings) for the period 1/1/18 through 3/21/18.

Broker Debi Fox Goes the Extra Mile at Newcastle Realty

Debi Fox, one of Newcastle Realty’s seasoned broker team, has been selling real estate in Lincoln County for 18 years.  After selling her business, Fox Glass Works in Damariscotta in 2000, she re-activated her broker’s license. Debi comes by her involvement with real estate naturally.  Her husband, Bruce Lilly, is a local area builder, and growing up, her parents bought and renovated three homes.  She loves seeing the potential in what might be done, and helping clients’ brainstorm ideas for renovations and upgrades.
A client from outside of Maine shared her experience of buying her home in Maine; “Debi Fox went above and beyond what I thought a broker would do.  She arranged and attended house inspections, helped me decide on future contrators, when I didn’t know anyone. The sale wouldn’t of happened without her.  There was no part of the process that I was disappointed with.”
 
Debi goes the extra mile to work with buyers and sellers, who find her open, honest, flexible and very detail oriented.  Now is a great time to list property, as inventory is low in Lincoln County. Debi can be contacted at Newcastle Realty’s office, 87 Main Street in Damariscotta and can also reached at 207-563-1003 or on her cell 207-350-1474. Her email address is debifox@cheneycompanies.com. To learn more about Newcastle Realty, please visit www.MyNewcastle.com.home.org.  

Waterfront Condo w/Boat Slip in Newcastle offered by Newcastle Realty!

Location, location, location …

at 75 Main Street, Unit #2, Newcastle.

Walk to downtown Damariscotta from this waterfront condominium complete with your own boat slip! This two bedroom, two bath, first floor home offers lovely views down river and a deck to view them! Sellers have added their own special touches to this already beautiful unit: gourmet kitchen with “Candlelight” custom cabinets, granite counters, walnut eating bar as well as stainless appliances. New tile floors in entry and kitchen-gleaming Norway pine in bedrooms and living room. Master suite has redesigned closet space as well as tiled bath with shower. You will find custom window shades in living, dining and master as well as newly installed air condition units throughout. The building itself is impressive with all propane heat, security and fire alarms, elevator and workout room on the lower level. Each owner will have 2 parking spaces- one in the garage and one outside.

Whether seasonal or year round, this condominium will allow carefree living in a waterfront setting!

MLS#1300952

2018 Year-to-Date Market and Sales Update *

Realtors across Maine report steady activity in most markets. According to Maine Listings, sales of single-family existing homes increased 0.21 percent comparing January 2018 to January 2017. The value of those homes, tracked statistically by the Median Sales Price (MSP), indicates a jump in home values of 5.26 percent to an MSP of $200,000 during that same time period. The MSP indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half for less.

Now is a great time to list your property, because buyers are searching for homes in anticipation of spring. Realtors are reporting that multiple offer situations are common in areas that are at full employment. In Maine’s rural areas, buyers are more cautious, but they are finding great values. (Contact a Newcastle Realty broker today if you plan to buy or sell Maine real estate this year).

Nationwide sales have dipped 4.8 percent comparing January 2018 to January 2017. The National Association of Realtors today announced the national MSP in January was $241,700, an increase of 5.7 percent from January 2017. Regionally, sales in the Northeast declined 7.6 percent while the regional MSP of $269,100 represents a climb of 6.8 percent comparing January to January.

Newcastle Realty has had a very strong start to the 2018 selling season. As of February 22, 2018, our brokers have closed 17 transaction sides with a total volume of $5,571,301—a 47% increase over our same Y-T-D sales in 2017. Our current median sales price is $205,000. By comparison, Drum & Drum Real Estate has posted four sides for $1,062,000 in volume and a current MSP of $320,000, and Farrin Properties has sold $230,000 with three sides and an MSP of $75,000.

Most of the early 2018 property sales in the local area have occurred in Waldoboro (5), Jefferson (6), Wiscasset (4), Boothbay (11), and Bristol (6). Just a few sales have happened so far this year in Boothbay Harbor (3), Damariscotta (2), Edgecomb (2), Nobleboro (2), Bremen (2), Dresden (2), and Newcastle (2). Towns showing just one sale include Westport Island, Somerville, and Whitefield, and no 2018 sales have been posted yet in Alna, South Bristol, or Southport.

There are currently 325 single family homes for sale in Lincoln County (down from 360 last month), with 25 percent of those priced at or above $500,000. The 618 residential sales that have occurred in the past 365 days represent transactions in the range of under $100,000 (14%), $100,000-$249,999 (50%), $250,000-$499,999 (25%), $500,000-$999,999 (9%), and $1 million-plus (2%).

The current market absorption rates for Lincoln County homes is 2.5 months (under $100,000), 4.7 months ($100,000-$249,999), 8.3 months ($250,000-$499,999), 13.7 months ($500,000-$999,999), and 20.3 months ($1 million and up). This tells us how long it would take for existing inventories to be absorbed into the market at current rates of sales if no new listings were introduced.

Newcastle Realty tracks Lincoln County and statewide sales, along with other important metrics, which keeps our brokers fully informed of current market conditions and emerging trends as they serve buyer and seller client needs. Questions or comments may be directed to Dennis Hilton, President of Newcastle Realty at dennishilton@cheneycompanies.com or 207-380-3435.

  • Sales statistics based on information from the Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. (d/b/a Maine Listings) for the period 1/1/18 through 2/22/18.

# END #

Newcastle Realty Enjoys a Strong Start to the 2018 Selling Season

In just the first seven weeks of 2018, the team of brokers at Newcastle Realty have already reached more than $5.5 million in real estate sales, according to Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc., more than any other firm in Lincoln County.

Company owner Dennis Hilton credits Newcastle Realty’s success to the energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism of his team of 14 brokers. He pointed out that Realtor Bill Byrnes is currently the #2 top producing agent in Lincoln County (based on a report generated on 2/20/2018), and another four Newcastle Realty agents are in the Top 20 (Dean Jacobs, Laura Blake, Debby Schling, and Debi Fox).

“The market is very busy right now,” says Hilton. With high demand and low inventory, Hilton urges anyone who is even contemplating selling this year to contact Newcastle Realty now to discuss options and strategies for marketing their property. “Don’t wait until everyone else decides to list their home for sale. By entering the market now, you have a limited opportunity to stand out from the crowd,” added Hilton. “We are showing properties every day, and helping to negotiate a number of purchase contracts right now.”

His team of professional brokers meet regularly to discuss the latest trends, and they utilize certain market data and metrics to offer the best advice and to get the best results for buyers and sellers. Visit www.MyNewcastle.com to learn more, or to request a copy of their latest Real Estate Market Report. Newcastle Realty is a locally-owned company located at 87 Main Street in Damariscotta. They can be reached at 207-563-1003.

Custom Contemporary on Pemaquid Lake offered by Newcastle Realty!

Relax in your spacious screened porch while viewing the nesting eagles and listening to the loons at… 15 Porcupine Ridge Road, Bremen.

Exceptional well crafted Pemaquid Lakefront home located on a large private lot with 200 feet of waterfront. This custom built home features many attractive amenities including chefs kitchen with large pantry, hardwood floors, radiant floor heat, and large heated workshop with private entrance. Just a short distance from your dock & float and a sandy beach available at the association waterfront nearby. Excellent rental history! MLS#1300952

 

Realtor Carmen Reed Brings Enthusiasm and Energy to the Newcastle Realty Team

A relatively new member to the Newcastle Realty team of professional real estate brokers, Carmen Reed’s enthusiasm and passion for helping people makes her a great fit with the firm. One of the things Carmen loves most about helping people buy and sell a home or land, is the process of getting to know
each person’s story and working through all the steps involved in making such an important life decision. 
 
Among her recent client experiences, Carmen has worked with a client who was wrestling with the difficult decision to sell a family home, another couple who were selling property to be closer to grandchildren, and others who are moving to this area from out of state. In each case, Carmen worked to develop a connection and commonality with her clients, helping them to navigate the real estate process. This variety and meeting interesting people is what excites Carmen about being in real estate.
 
Given the current market conditions of high buyer demand and a low supply of inventory, Carmen emphasizes how important it is to be informed and educated about the buying and selling process ahead of time. Being pre-qualified for financing is an important step that she can also assist with, so her clients are prepared to make an offer immediately to avoid losing out on a special property. 
 
Carmen chose to join Newcastle Realty because they are locally-owned and committed to supporting the surrounding communities. She recognized that company owner Dennis Hilton and his team of professional agents have created a number of cutting edge services to offer clients. Since joining the team, she has been encouraged to participate in local and regional Realtor organizations and has been exposed to numerous educational opportunities. She has been mentored by experienced agents and feels supported by the whole team of brokers at Newcastle Realty, which provides Carmen with a strong foundation in order to be successful in her role.
 
A native of Wiscasset, Carmen resides in Nobleboro with her husband Michael Prentice and their three sons, where they also operate Bayside Plumbing and Heating. Having previously served as executive director of the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce, Reed has always loved being involved in her communities and sharing her passion for the local area with others. Along with being an advocate for her real estate clients’ interests, Carmen offers a wealth of personal knowledge that can help those new to the area with service providers, school system information, and ways to connect with others in the community.
 
Contact Carmen at Newcastle Realty’s office, 87 Main Street in Damariscotta at 207-563-1003, or on her mobile at 207-380-6613, or by email at carmenreed@cheneycompanies.com. To learn more about Newcastle Realty, please visit www.MyNewcastle.com.

December 2017 Market and Sales Update

Sales of single-family existing homes increased by double digits last month. According to Maine Listings, Realtors across the state sold 1,576 homes during November, which represents an increase of 11.46 percent from a year ago. The median sales price (MSP) for those homes rose 4.24 percent to $200,000. The MSP indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half for less.

The National Association of Realtors reported a 3.2 percent national increase in sales of single-family existing homes across the country. The national MSP rose 5.4 percent to $248,800. Regionally, sales in the Northeast were up 6.7 percent and the regional MSP rose 4.0 percent to $273,600.

As of December 20, 2017, the brokers at Newcastle Realty have closed 160 transaction sides this year with a total volume of $36,572,950. Their current median sales price is $200,000.

By comparison, Drum & Drum Real Estate has posted 90 sides for $27,702,850 in volume and a current MSP of $243,500, and Farrin Properties has sold $9,090,174 with 72 sides and an MSP of $128,500.

Most of the 2017 property sales in the local area have occurred in Waldoboro (56), Jefferson (50), Wiscasset (64), Newcastle (26), Bristol (57), and Damariscotta (34). Strong pockets of activity are evident in Whitefield (27), and Edgecomb (33). The peninsula to our south is always reliable and Boothbay has had 64 sales in 2017, with another 43 in Boothbay Harbor and 11 in Southport. Nobleboro (25), and South Bristol (9) lag a bit behind other comparable Lincoln County towns, as do Westport (21), Bremen (9), Alna (9), Somerville (9), and Dresden (18).

There are currently 360 single family homes for sale in Lincoln County (down from 450 last month), with 27 percent of those priced at or above $500,000. The 566 residential sales that have occurred so far this year represent transactions in the range of under $100,000 (10%), $100,000-$250,000 (50%), $250,000-$500,000 (28%), $500,000-$1M (9%), and $1 million-plus (3%). The current market absorption rates for Lincoln County homes is 2.4 months (under $100,000), 7.3 months ($100,000-$250,000), 9.6 months ($250,000-$500,000), 17.1 months ($500,000-$1 million), and 19.7 months ($1 million and up).

Newcastle Realty tracks Lincoln County and statewide sales, along with other important metrics, which keeps their brokers fully informed of current market conditions and emerging trends as they serve buyer and seller client needs.

Questions or comments may be directed to Dennis Hilton, President of Newcastle Realty, who may be contacted at dennishilton@cheneycompanies.com or at 207-380-3435.

Sales statistics based on information from the Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. (d/b/a Maine Listings) for the period 1/1/17 through 12/20/17.

Featured Property-193 Lower Round Pond Road, Bristol

Broker Lorrie Zeiner of Newcastle Realty is pleased to offer this charming post & beam Cape located in the historic Bristol Mills!

Home is where the heart is and you will have to leave yours here! This home is perfect! Sellers have updated this c. 1790 home without spoiling- granite kitchen, polished wood and tile floors, a beautifully appointed master suite, and the frosting on the “Cape” is a new two story heated workshop just steps from your door. Enjoy the gorgeous perennials, apple trees and a fenced garden area with a charming shed.

This private, tranquil eleven acre lot is just minutes away from the popular Pemaquid peninsula which offers not only a fantastic seaside ambiance but  a public beach, light house and restaurants. The historic downtown Damariscotta is only a short 15 minute drive so you can enjoy a night at the Lincoln Theater, lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants, shopping or take a river boat cruise!

You may also click here for more detailed information about this rare opportunity.

Featured Property-14 Boot Road, Bristol

Broker Lorrie Zeiner of Newcastle Realty is pleased to offer this cozy cottage in the woods a perfect all-season retreat in Bristol!

Read, write, paint or just relax! Enjoy the wildlife and nature that surrounds you while you sit in the sun room or your screened-in porch. The open kitchen-dinning-living room with island provides a great space for entertaining. You have two bedrooms and one full bathroom but if that is not enough for your guests, this property features a one-room studio that is ready for you to add your personal touch.

This three acre lot is just a mile away from the lovely Round Pond village which offers not only a fantastic seaside ambiance but  a public dock & landing, seafood market, general store, bakery and restaurants. The historic downtown Damariscotta is only a short 15 minute drive so you can enjoy a night at the Lincoln Theater, lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants, shopping or take a river boat cruise!

The Pemaquid peninsula is the perfect place to be for just the summer months or anytime of the year.

You may also click here for more detailed information about this rare opportunity.

2017 Year-to-Date Market and Sales Update

A tighter-than-normal home inventory level led to a decrease in sales across Maine last month. Prices, however, remain in positive territory. According to Maine Listings, the median sales price (MSP) for a single-family existing home increased 4.20 percent to $206,000 comparing July 2017 to July 2016. Sales waned a slight 0.53 percent.

The National Association of Realtors announced that July sales nationwide were up 1.7 percent over one year ago. The national MSP of $260,600 represents a 6.3 percent price increase. Regionally, sales in the northeast eased 1.5 percent while the regional MSP rose 4.1 percent to $290,000.

As of August 28, 2017, the brokers at Newcastle Realty have closed 103 transaction sides this year with a total volume of $24,696,000—a slight increase over their same Y-T-D sales in 2016. Their current median sales price is $215,000.

By comparison, the local Sotheby’s office has sold $20,539,250 with 48 sides and an MSP of $330,000, and Drum & Drum Real Estate has posted 56 sides for $13,598,970 in volume, with a current MSP of $215,500.

Most of the 2017 property sales in the local area this far into the year have occurred in Waldoboro (41), Jefferson (36), Wiscasset (40), Newcastle (22), Bristol (28), and Damariscotta (23). Strong pockets of activity are evident in Whitefield (21), and Edgecomb (21). The peninsula to our south is always reliable and Boothbay has had 35 sales in 2017, with another 31 in Boothbay Harbor and nine in Southport. Nobleboro (18), and South Bristol (6) lag a bit behind other Lincoln County towns, as do Westport (12), Bremen (2), Alna (6), Somerville (3), and Dresden (12).

There are currently 550 single family homes for sale in Lincoln County (down from 557 last month), with 24% of those priced at or above $500,000. The 642 residential sales that have occurred in the last 365 days indicate a market absorption rate of 10.4 months, and represent transactions in the range of under $100,000 (13%), $100,000-$250,000 (50%), $250,000-$500,000 (26%), and $500,000+ (11%).

Newcastle Realty tracks Lincoln County and statewide sales, along with other important metrics, which keeps their brokers fully informed of current market conditions and emerging trends as they serve buyer and seller client needs.

Questions or comments may be directed to Dennis Hilton, President of Newcastle Realty, who may be contacted at dennishilton@cheneycompanies.com or at 207-380-3435.

* Sales statistics based on information from the Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. (d/b/a Maine Listings) for the period 1/1/17 through 8/28/17.

Exciting Upcoming Real Estate Auction August 30th!

We are pleased to announce the upcoming owner-directed auction of 11 Totten Road in Gray, Maine — a full-service equestrian facility and farmhouse on 11.5 acres, just 20 minutes from Portland. Full auction details and photos can be seen at 11tottenroadgray.com. You may request a complete bidder’s package by emailing broker/auctioneer Dennis Hilton here.

Buyer’s brokers are welcomed and offered a 3% commission for bringing the winning bidder to the auction. An open house will be held on Wednesday, August 23rd, from 10am to 2pm, and the auction event will occur at the property on Wednesday, August 30th at 1pm.

About the property: New Boston Farm, a peaceful and private equestrian center just minutes from Route 95 and within 20 minutes of Portland, has been in operation since 1979. Featuring a 20 stall barn with attached 10,000 sf indoor riding arena with observation/judging area also includes tack room, grain room, hay loft and the accessibility for handicap riders. New Boston Farm is being sold as an operating farm with all intellectual property and is known for training, boarding and shows for the past 25 years. It also offers outside riding ring and show venue, paddocks and on-site parking for trailers.

The recently renovated 1830s antique cape offers approximately 1500 sf with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. First floor features farmers porch entering into mud room with loft open concept country kitchen and dining area and two living rooms each with fireplace. The second-floor master suite consists of large open master bath with double vanity and Jacuzzi.

Property is nestled on 11.5 acres of wooded and cleared land it also contains detached two bay garage and large storage barn. Although 11 Totten Rd has been successfully operated as an equestrian center, the property offers many other potential opportunities such as open storage area, indoor and outdoor agricultural opportunities suitable for a wide range of farming.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!

Featured Property – 18 Perkins Road, Boothbay Harbor

Broker Laura Blake of Newcastle Realty is pleased to offer this spectacular spacious cape-style home that is in walking distance of beautiful downtown Boothbay Harbor.

Relax and enjoy the privacy on your covered front porch, back deck or your own gazebo! When you are refreshed take a leisurely stroll downtown where you find some of the most incredible dining and entertainment establishments in the region.

This 2,846 sq. ft. cape offers three bedrooms (first floor master with full bath), open studio, two full and two half baths, an eat in kitchen with stone counters, cherry cabinets and an built-in island. The living and dining rooms have gas fireplaces. The high quality interior finish will amaze you!

Boothbay Harbor is a wonderful enclave of summer and year round residents. 

You may also click here for more detailed information about this rare opportunity.

Featured Property – 115 Martin Point Road, Friendship

Broker Lorrie Zeiner of Newcastle Realty is pleased to offer this remarkable cape-style home on 8+ acres with water frontage and beautiful views of Hatchet Cove in Friendship.

Make lasting memories here–spend your long summer days swimming, boating or looking for sea glass along your very own beach!

Post and beam cape (c. 1989) offers three bedrooms (one on the first floor), two baths, an open kitchen/living room with glorious ocean views!

Bonus room over the garage would make great guest space or studio. The 8.62 acres allows for privacy and room to grow!

Martin’s Point is a wonderful enclave of summer and year round residents. Vacation rentals are very possible with this special place!

View a video of the property here. You may also click here for more detailed information about this rare opportunity.

Laura Blake Brings Knowledge and Enthusiasm to Newcastle Realty’s Team

Laura Blake, a real estate broker in mid-coast Maine for close to a decade, has been with Newcastle Realty since 2014. Laura’s passion for her job and clients is evident in her positive, upbeat nature. Whether she is working with a buyer, finding the perfect home, or marketing a property to potential buyers, she does so with panache. Laura’s eye for detail and compassionate nature makes any real estate transaction a positive experience.

Raised in the Boothbay Harbor region and a graduate of University of Maine, Laura resides on Southport Island with her husband, Tom and their two golden retrievers, Parker and Gus. Laura enjoys walking, boating and spending time at their condo in Sugarloaf.

A member of the National Association of Realtors, Maine Association of Realtors, she currently is serving as secretary for the Lincoln County Board of Realtors. Laura is affiliated with Rebuilding Together and Friends of Windjammer Days.

Laura can be contacted at Newcastle Realty’s office, 87 Main Street in Damariscotta and reached at 207-563-1003. Her email address is laurablake@cheneycompanies.com. To learn more about Newcastle Realty, please visit www.MyNewcastle.com.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage and Roof Leaks?

Whether you’re dealing with a slow leak in the basement or a steady drip from a hole in the roof, water can wreak havoc on your home—and your bank account. Once the water recedes, one of the first questions you’ll have is whether your homeowners insurance covers water damage and roof leaks. Well, we have you covered with the answers below.

Is water damage covered?

In a word, yes! A standard homeowners insurance policy will cover water damage and roof leaks unless they’re the result of gross negligence on your part. Even if the roof leak is caused by a windstorm or a tree crashing through the shingles, you’re covered.

Roof leaks are typically covered if a windstorm damages a home and creates an “opening” in the roof, says Dennis Hilton, owner of Cheney Insurance and Newcastle Realty. Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover any “preventable” damage to a property, so the key here is determining if the leak is caused by a sudden and unexpected event. For example, rain that drips in through a pre-existing hole is generally not a covered loss, because the insurance company would likely say you should have fixed the hole.

If a broken or frozen pipe turns your basement into a swimming pool, you can file a claim with your homeowners insurance and the policy will cover damages. Of course, each policy’s terms may include specific coverages and exclusions, so always read the fine print.

When is water damage not covered?

Water damage due to sewage and drain backups generally requires additional insurance coverage beyond a standard policy, says Suzanne Strachan, manager of the Personal Insurance division at Cheney Insurance.

Say your rain gutters are clogged because you haven’t cleaned them. With nowhere to go, water flows down the sides of your home and pools around the foundation, causing interior water damage.

“This type of claim, known as seepage, is a maintenance issue and often isn’t covered under your home insurance policy,” says Strachan. That’s because the damage is due to neglect that could have been prevented through proper home maintenance. Damage caused by manufacturing defects in your roofing material or installation errors are also not covered.

Another type of water damage homeowners insurance policies specifically exclude is that from flooding caused by a natural disaster (e.g., a hurricane). But you can purchase a separate flood policy.

Flood insurance premiums are pricey, however, and depend on the risk of flooding in the area where your house is located as well as the value of the home and its contents, says Holly Harris, a flood insurance specialist with Cheney Insurance

How to protect yourself from hidden costs

According to a study by Erie Insurance, nearly 27% of homeowners mistakenly believe their insurance will pay for damage that occurs to their roof through normal wear and tear. So proper home maintenance (clean your gutters!) and routine inspection (check and maintain your roof!) can go a long way to ensure any pooling water and roof leaks are caught early and fixed. If left unchecked, bigger—and potentially damaging—problems are likely to occur.

And of course, the better maintained your property is, the higher price it will command when its’ time to sell! Reach out to any Newcastle Realty agent to discuss the market value of your home!

Six Things You Don’t Want To Say When Selling

You know that expression about loose lips sinking ships? It holds true for selling your home as well. Sure, there are some things you have to disclose to buyers—such as if your home has lead paint or is located in a flood zone. But there’s plenty more you might feel like saying when you would be truly better off keeping your mouth strategically shut.

We’ve already revealed the things buyers should never say to sellers. Now, let us share some things that sellers should never let slip to buyers, or the agents representing them.

To help hone your “less is more” attitude when it comes to talking with prospective buyers, here are a few doozies that agents recommend never, ever saying.

“Our house is in perfect condition”

“Your home is your castle, and in your eyes it may seem perfect—but don’t make claims that aren’t true,” says Ken Gray, a Newcastle Realty broker.

“The home inspection may reveal otherwise, and, as a seller, you don’t want to wind up putting your foot in your mouth,” he explains. Bottom line: “There simply is no such thing as ‘perfect condition.’ Every house, whether it is brand new or a resale, has something that needs to be fixed, adjusted, replaced, or improved upon.”

“It’s been on the market for X…”

“Never, ever discuss how long the home has been on the market with prospective buyers,” says Bill Byrnes, an experience Realtor that has been with Newcastle Realty for 17 years. This info is often listed and available on the home’s information sheet, but bringing it up—especially if the home has been available for eons—can send sellers the wrong message. No one wants to buy a white elephant—and, if they do, it’s probably because they think they’ll be getting it dirt-cheap.

“We’ve never had a problem with…”

If you’re hoping to move quickly, you may be tempted to tell a few little white lies. So you never had a problem with weird neighbors, eh? Or flooded basements? Or vengeance-seeking poltergeists? Realtors agree that your mistruths—however insignificant they might seem—could come back to you with teeth.

“You’re setting yourself up for potential liability,” explains company owner Dennis Hilton. “You may not even be aware of the problem at first, but it could translate into an embarrassing moment upon inspection.” So, come clean with what you know and admit what you don’t.

“We always wanted to fix/renovate that, but…”

Tempted to mention, “We always thought about knocking this wall down and opening the space for more light?” How about “We planned on renovating this bathroom but ran out of cash”? Mum’s the word when it comes to fixes you intended to address. Nobody cares about good intentions.

“When sellers point out things they might change, this only alerts the buyer of more upcoming costs for them,” says Newcastle Realty associate broker Debby Schling. Who knows? Your buyers may not even want to knock down that wall or redo the bathroom. So why plant those ideas, along with those dollar signs?

“We spent a ton of money on X, Y, and Z”

Just because you love the Brazilian Koa wood flooring you installed throughout the first floor, that doesn’t mean prospective buyers will be willing to shell out for it.

“The buyer doesn’t care whether you spent $10,000 or $100,000 on your kitchen,” says Schling. “They are only going to offer what they feel the home is worth in relation to area comparable sales.” So, save your breath, or else you’ll risk sounding like you’re trying too hard to justify your price. Desperation isn’t cool.

“I’m not taking less than X amount for my home”

When it comes time to sell, it makes sense that you want top dollar. We get it! But at the same time, it’s important to be realistic and open to offers within a reasonable range.

“If you send a message that you are inflexible or not open to negotiating, it may not invite buyers to even try to work out acceptable price and terms as they will feel defeated from the start,” says Byrnes. “Word may spread that you have this sentiment as a seller, and people may start to avoid the house.”

When you are considering buying or selling, reach out to the professional agents at Newcastle Realty. We know the business and the marketplace, and will guide you through the real estate process while helping you avoid some of the pitfalls!

Pirate Rendezvous Returns to Damariscotta!

Following a hiatus in 2016, the Damariscotta River Pirate Rendezvous will return on Saturday, June 24 – bringing a motley crew of buccaneers both young and old to invade the Twin Villages and raise funds for local non-profits.

The restructured event will be a bit leaner, with a focus on activities at the Pirate Bazaar located at Schooner Landing including music, pirate re-enactments, pirate history exhibits, non-profit fundraising as well as food and beverage service.

There will be no children’s area on Water Street, allowing that road to stay open to normal traffic. However, the event will continue to provide plenty of action and activities for little buccaneers, including the pirate invasion at high noon.

“This event has always been about the children, and we plan on continuing that tradition,” said Charlie Herrick of Schooner Landing, the event host.

Also continuing will be the participation of the Pirates of the Dark Rose professional re-enactment group. They will bring sword fighting, black powder weapons, artillery, and the armed topsail yawl SV Must Roos to the event.

While many of the details are still being worked out, the general event schedule has been established. The Pirate Bazaar will open at 10 a.m., pirates will attack at high noon and invade the village with their numbers bolstered by young pirates who will join the crew, and there will be a Kid Pirates Costume Contest at 2 p.m. Schooner Landing will provide musical entertainment through the day, and the Pirates of the Dark Rose will create their “Tortuga Village” with exhibits, games and other activities. A variety of non-profit fundraising activities will also take place. Activities will continue at the Pirate Bazaar until 4 p.m.

While Schooner Landing will now host the event, Pirate Rendezvous originator Greg Latimer will still be on hand to assist with both preparations before the event and operations during the event.

More announcements regarding the Damariscotta River Pirate Rendezvous will be forthcoming soon. For further information on the Damariscotta River Pirate Rendezvous, including sponsorship opportunities, contact Greg Latimer at 207-380-9912 or greglatimercontact@gmail.com.

The Brokers’ Team at Newcastle Realty Welcomes Dean Jacobs

Long-time residents of Damariscotta may remember Dean Jacobs working at the Waltz Pharmacy Soda Fountain when he was a young boy, or behind the counter as a pharmacist in later years. Raised in this community, Dean has been an integral part, then and now, of his family’s business on Main Street. Still very passionate about being a part of the community he’s always called home, Dean can now also be found in another Main Street location just a few doors down, at Newcastle Realty. Becoming a real estate sales agent enables him to share the passion he has for the mid-coast area, the people who live and work here, and the natural beauty intrinsic to this region. An avid skier, having the mountains only two hours away, adds to the charm of the lifestyle he enjoys with his family. 

 Dean credits Newcastle Realty owner Dennis Hilton with building a great team of real estate professionals, who are supportive and enjoy collaborating with each other. “There is a real sense of community and entrepreneurship among the Newcastle Realty staff,” says Jacobs. “A team that works together effectively makes each individual happier and more successful, and that translates to satisfied clients. I am looking forward to this new endeavor.”  

 Welcome Dean in his new role serving the community by visiting with him at Newcastle Realty’s office at 87 Main Street in Damariscotta. He can also be reached at 207-557-0669, or by email at deanjacobs@cheneycompanies.com. To learn more about Newcastle Realty, please visit www.MyNewcastle.com.

Carmen Reed Joins the Newcastle Realty Team

Carmen Reed is a people person, and is looking forward to helping clients navigate the process of buying and selling their home. Previously a director of a mid-coast area Chamber of Commerce, she has always loved being involved in community and sharing her passion for the area. Carmen chose to join Newcastle Realty because she recognized both owner, Dennis Hilton, and his team of professional agents, have the largest resources of cutting edge services to offer clients.   

A native of Wiscasset, Carmen currently resides in Nobleboro, with her husband Michael Prentice, and their three sons. Together, they own and manage Bayside Plumbing and Heating.  Along with being an advocate for her clients’ best interests, Carmen has a wealth of knowledge that can help those new to the area with service providers, school system advice, and ways to connect with community.

Contact Carmen at Newcastle Realty’s office, 87 Main Street in Damariscotta at 207-563-1003, or on her mobile at 207-380-6613, or by email. To learn more about Newcastle Realty, please visit www.MyNewcastle.com on the web.

 

The Home-Buying Process in 10 Simple Steps

Wouldn’t it be great if buying a home were as simple as playing a board game like Monopoly? All you’d have to do is find a desirable neighborhood, hand the bank a few bucks, and get your house. Of course, the home-buying process is more complicated in real life. We have put together the following list to help you anticipate some important steps.

Step No. 1: Chose an agent

The first step in the home-buying process is to find an agent you feel comfortable working with on what will likely be the largest financial decision of your life. Each of the brokers at Newcastle Realty are a great choice—they are efficient and professional, and can help with your search and help get you to closing.

Step No. 2: Find a lender

Once you’ve chosen a real estate agent you trust to be your advocate, ask him or her to recommend lenders. Choosing someone to handle the financial part of the home-buying process can feel like a scary step, but choosing a lender that’s competitive on rates, communicative, and available is key. Our agents work with several local and regional banks, and can offer you  recommendations and contact info.

Step No. 3: Clean up your credit

Now that you have a great agent and lender, you can ask for guidance on any credit score issues you may be facing. Whether it’s a small or large problem, the lender can provide guidance to help repair your situation and make sure you’ll be approved for a loan.

Step No. 4: Apply for mortgage pre-approval

A lender will help you determine exactly what you can afford and, therefore, which houses you should be considering. To arrive at a purchase price, you’ll factor in expenses like homeowner’s insurance, association dues, and utilities to make sure you can comfortably make your mortgage payments. The lender will then identify the total amount of money it’s willing to lend you.“Having a pre-approval letter in hand when you’re ready to purchase a home adds strength to your offer, which can be an important advantage in a competitive home-buying market,” says Lorrie Zeiner, a top-producing broker at Newcastle Realty.

Step No. 5: Create a home wish list

Once you know what your purchasing power is, talk with your real estate agent about your ideal home. Come up with a few “musts,” as well as “wants” you’d ultimately be willing to compromise on. Think bigger than just the color of the kitchen or the floor plan, advises Zeiner. For instance, do you want to be within walking distance of restaurants? Do you want space between you and your neighbors? Or is proximity to a good school the most important factor?

Step No. 6: Search the listings

Now comes the fun part: searching for homes that meet your parameters. Visit Newcastle Realty’s award-winning website for a smooth online real estate search experience. When you begin touring homes that are on your short list, take along a notepad and jot down your thoughts as you approach each home. Can you imagine yourself living there? “Peruse them and make note of what you like about each home,” says Zeiner.

Step No. 7: Make an offer

Your real estate agent will walk you through the steps required to make an offer on a home in your area. “Your offer will likely include earnest money that will apply toward your down payment on the home and may include contingencies such as hiring a home inspector,” says Dennis Hilton, owner of Newcastle Realty. Expect some negotiation, and discuss a competitive offer with your agent.

Step No. 8: Get final mortgage approval

Once your offer to purchase is accepted, you’ll work with your lender to get final approval for your home purchase by the date specified for the closing. The lender may require you to pay property taxes or homeowners insurance for the first year at the time of closing, so make sure you know what funds will be expected. “Don’t make any major purchases like that big-screen TV or riding lawn mower until after closing, especially if you’d be using credit, as that can affect your mortgage qualification,” says Hilton.

Step No. 9: Do your due diligence

The due diligence process usually includes getting a home inspection to make sure you haven’t missed any hidden problems on your walk-throughs. If issues are found, consult with your agent about options. Those could include asking the current owner to fix them or take the cost of repair off the closing costs.

Step No. 10: Attend the closing

Once all of the above steps are completed, you’ll be on your way to the closing table. This is when the deed to the home is transferred from the seller to the buyer. Every transaction varies, but plan to sign a lot of paperwork. An attorney or settlement agent will guide you through the process. Then you’ll officially be a homeowner and receive the keys to your new home. Congrats!

Newcastle Realty Unveils New State-of-the-Art Website

People love to search online for properties and real estate, and an easy-to-use search function is the foundation for any great real estate website. For more than six months, Newcastle Realty has worked with a leading web design firm to create one of the best search experiences anywhere. The new website was recently unveiled and can be found at www.MyNewcastle.com. It will automatically render itself to be easily navigated on any device, so a visitor can find what they are looking for from a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Search for all properties in Maine, or by county, town, or MLS number. A search can easily be limited to just those listings offered by Newcastle Realty.
 
“We are very excited to have one of the newest and most easily navigated real estate websites around,” said company owner Dennis Hilton. “Working together, our staff and web design firm have taken time to carefully evaluate what most people want–and what they feel they really don’t need–as part of their online real estate search experience.” 
 
Select properties are prominently featured on the home page, the design is fresh and uncluttered, information about the broker staff can easily be accessed, as well as the many cutting edge services offered to buyers and sellers. The website offers information about the local area, and describes ways in which Newcastle Realty supports the communities they serve. Visitors can easily request more information about specific properties, or ask to speak with a broker.  The “What’s New” blog keeps buyers and sellers informed on the latest real estate news, trends and educational articles.  A subscribe button enables visitors to sign up for periodic updates.  Ongoing efforts to maximize search engine results and rankings, as well as interfacing with social media outlets, such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube,  and Vimeo,  mean that clients who list their properties with Newcastle Realty are getting the widest possible exposure. Visit www.MyNewcastle.com to learn more. Newcastle Realty is located at 87 Main Street, Damariscotta and can be reached by calling 207-563-1003.

Tight Inventory Creates Opportunity for Home Sellers

Sales of previously owned homes tumbled in February as the housing market remained choked by tight inventory. Existing-home sales were at a 5.48 million seasonally adjusted annual rate last month, the National Association of Realtors said Wednesday. That was down 3.7% compared with January’s sales pace, which was the strongest in a decade.

The median forecast among economists surveyed by MarketWatch was for a 5.45 million pace. Sales in February were still 5.4% higher compared with a year ago, but the supply situation has worsened. Inventory was 6.4% lower than in February 2016. Meanwhile, the median home price rose 7.7% compared with a year ago to $228,400. At the current pace of sales, it would take 3.8 months to exhaust available homes for sale, the lowest in any February back to 1999.

Sales increased in only one region in February. They rose 1.3% in the South. The regional declines ranged from a 13.8% tumble in the Northeast to a 3.1% decline in the West. In the Midwest, sales were down 7.0%. Across the country, properties spent a median 45 days on the market, down from 59 days a year ago. That’s evidence of strong interest in home buying, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said. Despite all the headwinds, demand remains “surprisingly resilient,” he added.

What this all means to us in mid-coast Maine is that now is a great time to list your home if you are considering selling in 2017. If you would like to talk about your homes value, or how we can help you sell quickly for the best price, please contact a Newcastle Realty agent, or call 207-563-3435.

Sara Rogers Joins Newcastle Realty

A Midcoast native, Sara Rogers is excited to bring her talent and commitment to Newcastle Realty’s professional team of agents. Sara has always been interested in real estate and gets excited about helping clients envision the possibilities a new home offers.   She and her husband, Jason, along with children, Kadence and Logan, live in Nobleboro and love the friendliness a small town has to offer. A familiar face in the community, Sara previously worked at Cheney Insurance and at Newcastle Publick House.  Sara is enthusiastic about helping people to learn to love the Maine she has grown up in; the quiet, peaceful lifestyle, the beauty of the area and the welcoming nature of the community.  
 
Dennis Hilton, owner and manager of Newcastle Realty, the Damariscotta area’s leading real estate company, is pleased Sara has chosen to follow her passion for becoming a broker. “Sara is willing to do whatever it takes to get a job done.  She is dedicated, trustworthy and a good listener and will be an asset to our team and her clients.”
 
Sara may be contacted at Newcastle Realty’s office, 87 Main Street in Damariscotta and can be reached at 207-563-1003 ext 121, or on her mobile at 207-380-7218.  Her email address is sararogers@cheneycompanies.com.

Debi Fox Joins Newcastle Realty

Company owner Dennis Hilton and Designated Broker Lorrie Zeiner are pleased to announce that Debi Fox has joined Newcastle Realty, the Damariscotta areas’ leading real estate company.

“We are very excited to have Debi join our team of professional agents,” commented Hilton. “She is an experienced broker and well known in the local communities. We know she will do a great job for her clients working out of our full-service office.” Fox was previously associated with a larger, statewide firm.

Fox is a 30-year resident of Lincoln County, having grown up in Cumberland while spending summers in Harpswell. She went to North Yarmouth Academy and graduated from the University of Maine. Debi is married to a local builder whose family was among the first to settle in the mid-coast region, and they still own a part of the original homestead on the Kennebec River. She previously owned Fox’s Glass Works in Damariscotta for 20 years, and has been a licensed real estate broker since 1995.

Debi Fox may be reached by calling Newcastle Realty at 207-563-1003, on her mobile phone at 207-350-1474, or by email at debifox@cheneycompanies.com.

Newcastle Realty, found on the web at www.MyNewcastle.com, is part of The Cheney Financial Group, with over 26 professional associates serving the property ownership and insurance needs of thousands of families and businesses throughout Maine. Together, the CFG member companies have annual sales in excess of $49.5 million. You can learn more by visiting www.cheneycompanies.com or viewing the Facebook pages for Cheney Insurance, Newcastle Realty, and Newcastle Vacation Rentals.

If You Worry About Another Housing Bubble, Consider These Four Things

housing-bubbleIt’s 2016, and home prices are rising near the levels of the housing market just before the crash. Many are asking—and wondering — if we are in some kind of housing bubble. But are we? Here are a few things to consider if you’re worried about another housing bubble.

1. The overall economy

Unemployment is low, wage growth is strong and the tech sector is hiring in droves. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates last December, and they’re likely to raise rates again in the near future as the economy continues to grow and evolve.

2. Mortgage requirements

Despite what many will tell you, getting a mortgage can be intense. It requires full documentation, including tax returns, pay stubs, letters of explanation and thorough due diligence. As long as strong requirements remain in place to secure financing, one thing is for sure: A financial collapse, if it does happen, likely won’t spawn from abusive lending practices.

3. Housing risks

Let’s say you’re putting off buying a home because you’re worried about another financial crisis. If that’s the case, you need to define what it is that you are most concerned about. If you’re concerned about your job and the future of your income, that should play a bigger role in whether you buy a home.

If your financial house is in order, but you are still not sure about buying a home because you’re worried about the market being in a bubble, you should ask yourself, “Why am I buying a house to begin with?” If your intention is to buy a house to capitalize on some market appreciation and then quickly turn around and sell, well, then, yes, you should be concerned about not being able to recoup your investment, as real estate is a long-term hold vehicle.

If, however, you are looking to purchase a home to have a roof over your head, enjoy the home, and live there for the next five to seven years, at a minimum. You may do very well for yourself. This also includes the additional tax benefit you’ll have that you wouldn’t with renting.

4. The market itself

Ultra-low mortgage rates have been around for the last few years, so at some point interest rates have to go up. The question is when. If you’re trying to purchase a home and you are qualified at a 3.625% 30-year fixed rate, for example, and interest rates rise to 4.375%, you may not be able to qualify for as much house.

Rising rates also means fewer mortgage loan originations, which means profitability in the secondary market diminishes. The only way to keep profitability going is to keep the engine running with new loan originations, and the only way to do that in a higher interest rate environment is with less restrictive underwriting.

Looser credit to the degree of the financial crisis is unlikely, given regulations that were introduced in its aftermath, but it may lead lenders to extend mortgages to applicants with slightly higher debt-to-income ratios on conventional loans or to show a bit more leniency to self-employed borrowers, for example. That’s the only practical way to offset rising rates while supporting the housing market.

So, should you buy a house or not? That depends on whether you are comfortable with the interest rate and the payment that you’re getting, and whether you feel that you can afford that payment for the long haul. If you can afford the payment and your estimated property hold time is for a while, you’re likely in a safe position. Reach out to a Newcastle Realty broker today to talk about your real estate needs.

How Much Does Homeowners Insurance Cost?

No matter how safe and secure youhome-insurance-1024x576 feel in your home, it’s a fact of life that bad things can happen at any time—floods, fires, vandalism, theft. And that’s why homeowners insurance is a must. But how much does it cost? The average annual premium runs about $952, but a bunch of unique factors can go into calculating a specific quote, and that information could help you get a lower rate in some cases.

Age and Condition of Your Home: This includes everything from the roof to its pipes, heating system, and electrical wiring. For instance, the lead and galvanized pipes sometimes found in older homes can “result in higher premiums as they are more prone to cracks or leaks than the copper and plastic piping used in newer homes,” says Rosemary Campbell, a 30+ year veteran agent at Cheney Insurance, our sister company also located in Damariscotta, Maine.

Price to Rebuild Per Square Foot: Since homeowners insurance claims often require rebuilding whatever part of your home damaged by fire, smoke, or other covered peril, most insurance policies factor in the price per square foot to rebuild in your area based on current construction rates. While the national average is $95.51 per square foot, the overall cost of policies can differ drastically. It’s important for your agent to do a reconstruction cost estimate to ensure “the proper rating for building materials,” says Suzanne Strachan, Support Team manager at Cheney Insurance. While most policies pay replacement cost (the cost to rebuild a home), some pay only the depreciated current value for the whole house.

Probability of Insurance Claims in Your Area: “If your home is located in an area prone to tornadoes or forest fires, you’re going to have a higher premium due to a greater risk of damage,” says agent Kate Dunstan. In other words, the more known risk there is to your home, the stiffer the premium. For example, the annual cost of insuring a home in Louisiana is $1,722—the nation’s highest due to the claims filed after Hurricane Katrina. (The state with the lowest price: Idaho, averaging just $534.) Since every standard policy excludes coverage for natural disasters like earthquake and flood, be sure to check with your agent to see if you need the extra coverage. 

Your Credit Sore, Age, and Other Personal Info: You—yes you—also factor into how much you’ll ultimately pay in homeowners insurance. According to Brittany Carter of the Business Insurance team at Cheney Insurance, everything from your credit score, marital status, age, level of education attained, and frequency of claims submitted on prior insurance policies will increase or decrease your rate. Also, a home with a swimming pool, trampoline, or certain other “fun” features signals risky business to an insurance company—and your price quote will reflect that. Same goes for homes with pets or farm animals that could be dangerous (such as large dogs or horses).

Increasing Home Prices: Inflation or the increased value of your home in an upmarket may cause your premiums to increase each year. You may be able to snag a discount if your home has a nifty feature that an insurance company may find attractive like storm shutters, security systems, or carbon monoxide detectors. If your home doesn’t have these, consider upgrading. “Installing a security system for $30 per month may reduce your premiums by at least that amount—and provide additional safety for your family at the same time. 

The friendly agents at Cheney Insurance are happy to answer your insurance questions any time, just reach out to them at 207-563-3435. Tell them Newcastle Realty sent you!

Interest Rates Remain Low, But For How Long?

The interest rate you pay on your home mortgage has a direct impact on your monthly payment; The higher the rate, the greater your payment will be. That is why it is important to look at where the experts believe rates are headed when deciding to buy now or wait until next year.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has fallen half a percentage point since the beginning of the year and has remained at or below 3.5% for the last 11 weeks according to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

The chart below shows how far rates have fallen this year (on the left), and uses an average of the projections from Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association and National Association of Realtors (on the right). As you can see, interest rates are projected to increase steadily over the course of the next 12 months.

rates
How Will This Impact Your Mortgage Payment?

Depending on the amount of the loan that you secure, a half of a percent (.5%) increase in interest rate can increase your monthly mortgage payment significantly. According to CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index, national home prices have appreciated 6.0% over the last year and are predicted to be 5.4% higher next year. If both the predictions of home prices and interest rate increases become a reality, families will wind up paying considerably more for their next home.

Bottom Line

Even a small increase in interest rate can impact your family’s wealth. We suggest you meet with a Newcastle Realty broker to evaluate your ability to purchase your dream home. Click here or call us today at 207-563-1003!

Featured Property – 49 Mills Road, Newcastle

White Rear Outside
This classic 1870’s Victorian has been well cared for and is situated on a corner lot that is just a short walk to downtown Newcastle and Damariscotta. 

The 2,500 square foot home offers nine rooms, including a formal living room with gas stove, a dining room, farmers kitchen, and study. There is a master bedroom on the first floor, and two bedrooms, another study, and a music room on the second floor.

Nicely situated on a half acre overlooking fields and woods. Click here for more info, or call us at 207-563-1003 to view this property today!

What Does a Successful REALTOR Look Like?

Are you seeking help with real estate? When it comes to agents, there are a lot of choices out there, and making the right connection can ensure a successful outcome for you. Here are some things to consider:

Passion

Passion is one trait that the most successful leaders in every industry share. The brokers at Newcastle Realty share a passion for connecting people and homes, which make them the kind of REALTOR that customers recommend and return to time and again.

Attention to Detail

An effective agent needs to have all the answers and they need to have them fast. Attention to detail is not just for contract negotiations, it is for all aspects of the marketing, the search, and the eventual sale. Newcastle Realty brokers are always focused on the details.

Persistence

Our brokers have combined experience of over 100 years in the business, and are a tenacious bunch when it comes to serving clients. Add a dose of competitive spirit, and you get a persistent desire to deliver exactly what each client wants.

Curiosity

A successful broker never stops learning. Our brokers have to know about trends, technologies, marketing, finance, and so much more. Keeping up with these topics requires intellectual curiosity, which combines with persistence to create a super qualified real estate agent, just like those at Newcastle Realty.

Choose a Newcastle Realty broker

Work with one of our brokers and you will get the best of everything–someone who will work hard to help you achieve your real estate goals quickly!

 

Introducing Home Staging Services

In cooperation with Brittany Morgan Bardo of Alna, we are pleased to introduce the availability of expert home staging services to benefit our clients. Bardo, who is available for consultations and recommendations, has an extensive background in interior and exterior design and has built, bought, and sold several homes over the years.

Brittney is extremely pleasant and has a unique gift; she fully understands how to use colors, fabrics, and tastefully selected furnishings to make one room or an entire home more appealing to buyers—and that means we can put homes under contract sooner and for the highest possible price. She maintains an inventory of furnishings that can be deployed for photo shoots or showings, using a few items to accent a room, or completely furnishing a home as she did recently at The Standard, where we are marketing three new water view condominium units.

Here is what Brittany has to say. “Home staging is the art of visual merchandising, marketing, and using decorating techniques to create a pleasing environment that buyers feel at home in and want to stay in and own. Also, it is often hard for a homeowner to see their own home through the eyes of a potential buyer, but if they are committed to getting their best price quickly, I can help them stage, neutralize and declutter so prospects can actually envision the space as their own—which can lead to an offer. That helps both the seller and buyer reach their goals, and everyone walks away from the transaction happy.”

Contact a Newcastle Realty broker to learn more about how our Home Staging Services can help you get the best price for your home quickly.