Winnipesaukee Forum

Winnipesaukee Forum - Blogs http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php Dedicated to Lake Winnipesaukee and the Lakes Region of New Hampshire en Wed, 22 May 2013 02:52:56 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/images/misc/rss.jpg Winnipesaukee Forum - Blogs http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php Lakes Region Waterfront Sales Report - April 2013 http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=338 Fri, 10 May 2013 13:37:52 GMT *Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2013/04/Copy-rs_logo_medRes.jpg (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/)* *Lakes Region Waterfront Sales Report - April 2013* *There were ten waterfront homes sold on Lake Winnipesaukee ...

Lakes Region Waterfront Sales Report - April 2013

There were ten waterfront homes sold on Lake Winnipesaukee in April at an average sales price of $805,588. That total is up from the seven sales last April but the average price is down from $2.15 million. This is due to only three sales exceeding the million dollar mark last month compared to the five out of seven that were over a million last April.

The least expensive sale on the big lake was at 251 Dockham Shore Road in Gilford. This is a 1938 vintage, four bedroom, seasonal cottage on a third acre lot with 50’ of frontage, a sandy beach, and a dock. Now this charming little place is only 968 square feet so you get the idea that the bedrooms are tiny, but who cares? There’s a knotty pine living room with cathedral ceilings and a field stone fireplace and a great screened porch to tell tall tales on. What more do you need? This property took a little time to sell. It was originally listed in September 2010 at $699,000 and then relisted in May of 2012 at $499,000. The price was subsequently reduced to $399,000 and sold then for $350,000. The current tax assessment is $684,960. I’m thinking the buyer got a pretty good deal…

The property that sold closest to the median price point is at 56 Loch Eden Shores Road in Meredith. This property sold well below the assessed value of $812,600 but it took a while to find a buyer, too. It was first listed for $859,900, was reduced to $749,000, and finally sold after 402 days on the market for $695,000. Built in 1955, this house was a little newer, but it also had that knotty pine interior, cathedral ceilings, requisite stone fireplace, and enclosed porch. It was also a little larger with 1,411 square feet of living space and three bedrooms and one and a half baths. The house is located on a private .48 acre double lot and has 190 feet of southwesterly facing frontage in a quiet cove. Sounds like a skinny dipping spot to me…

The largest sale on Winnipesaukee in April was at 62 Sticks and Stones (will break my bones?) Road in Moultonborough. This 1929 vintage, 2,431 square foot, five bedroom, log sided home also has a large great room with knotty pine walls, cathedral ceilings, and a stone fireplace, but the price is also creeping up due to everything else it has. The house has lots of porches; one on the lakeside, a farmer’s porch on the front, plus a screened one so you can tell lies at night without getting bit by the bugs. The house sits on a 5.22 acre parcel with a level lawn area, 375' of sandy southwesterly facing frontage, and a forty foot permanent dock. Permits are in place for a new seven bedroom Adirondack home and a seasonal dock system for five boats. This property was listed at $1.74 million and sold for $1.625 million after just 40 days on the market. It is assessed for $1.484 million. I bet someone is excited, what do you think?

There was one sale on Winnisquam at 210 Black Brook Road in Meredith. This is a 3,500 square foot, three bedroom, three bath, gambrel style home on a 1.31 acre lot with 252’ of frontage. This home was built in 2003 and offers fantastic views of the lake from the deck, the great room, and from a Light House Tower! I wonder if there is a damsel in distress up there? The home has vaulted ceilings, floor to ceiling fireplace, custom wood work, a kitchen with hickory cabinetry and Jenn-Air stove, and even an adorable guest cottage. There’s a two car garage and a 24’ dock to tie up your motorized vehicles. This home was listed for $799,000, reduced to $699,000, and finally sold for $600,000 after 587 days on the market. It is assessed at $672,100. See the pattern?

There was also one sale on Squam in April and to me it is a quintessential Squam lake property. Located at 55 Laurel Island Lane in Holderness, this classic 1940’s compound includes a charming 3-4 bedroom seasonal main home with a field stone fireplace, knotty pine interior, and a fantastic wrap-around porch plus a two bedroom guest cottage. Pretty special! There’s also a three car garage and two additional outbuildings offering other bunkhouse possibilities. The private 1.27 acre lot has 180’ of frontage, a boat house, and dock. This property was listed at $1.399 million in June of 2012, relisted this year at $1.05 million, and sold for $975,000 in just nine days. I think they had a buyer waiting and I bet he’s extremely happy…

Please feel free to visit www.lakesregionhome.com to learn more about the Lakes Region real estate market and comment on this article and others. Data was compiled using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System as of 5/7/13. Roy Sanborn is a REALTOR® at Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty and can be reached at 603-455-0335.

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=338 Roche Realty Group Sales Surge 61% Year-to-Date http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=337 Wed, 08 May 2013 17:56:28 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Posted written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc. *Meredith, NH*—During the period 1/1/2013 to 5/3/2013 Roche Realty Group, Inc. experienced a 61% increase in total sales volume...

Posted written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

Meredith, NH—During the period 1/1/2013 to 5/3/2013 Roche Realty Group, Inc. experienced a 61% increase in total sales volume compared to the same period during 2012, according to Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group, with offices in Meredith and Laconia. “We are very pleased with the encouraging sales activity we have experienced this past winter and into the spring months. It certainly is a great indication that the market is improving and that many individuals are finding some great values out there in the marketplace.” Roche indicated the company had total sales volume of $30,659,408 involving 104 transaction sides. This sales volume resulted in Roche Realty Group being ranked as the #10 real estate firm in the state of New Hampshire in total sales volume for that period of time. “There are hundreds of real estate firms throughout the state of New Hampshire and this is a great testimonial to our individual Realtors® success, to be ranked so high in the state of New Hampshire. Our company was one of the top 3 independent real estate companies in the entire state of New Hampshire.”
During 2012 the company had gross sales of approximately $80,000,000 involving 305 transaction sides, which represented at that time a 17% increase in unit sales over the previous year. At the current time, the company has almost 60 pending sales ready for closing, which is another great indicator that the year 2013 is off to a very good start.
On the waterfront side, sales activity on Lake Winnipesaukee has been steady, however not exceptional year-to-date. Year-to-date there has been a total of 24 waterfront sales on the “Big Lake,” including all towns, with the highest sales price thus far at $2,350,000. The majority of the sales year-to-date (17 sales) have been selling below the million dollar mark, and it appears we are below our average selling price of last year, so far year-to-date. This is a good sign for buyers—those who have engaged into the marketplace have acquired some very substantial assets at attractive pricing. “With governments throughout the world increasing the money supply, interest rates at record low levels, and a stock market that just broke through 15,000 on the DOW, we are seeing a very strong interest from individuals looking for attractive hard assets that can be levered with low financing costs. The end result of countries printing money generally turns out inflationary, and investments in quality real estate work well during periods of rising inflation.” Roche indicated that Roche Realty Group had the highest number of transaction sides of closed sales on Lake Winnipesaukee year-to-date (10 transaction sides) from 1/1/2013 to 5/6/2013 for all towns on Lake Winnipesaukee. Data was pulled from the Northern New England Real Estate Network MLS system and Roche Realty Group was in the #1 position in unit sales activity for Lake Winnipesaukee properties compared to all state-wide offices. At least we’re at a good start for the first four months of the year and all of us at Roche Realty Group are looking very optimistically for a strong finish as we approach the summer selling season. ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=337 <![CDATA[Rockin' Realtor No Apology Tour]]> http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=332 Sun, 05 May 2013 22:06:31 GMT Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2013/04/Copy-rs_logo_medRes.jpg (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/) *As of May 1, 2013 there were 1060 residential homes on the market in the twelve Lakes Region (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/) communities...

As of May 1, 2013 there were 1060 residential homes on the market in the twelve Lakes Region communities covered this report. The average asking price was $491,334 and the median price point was $261,750. This compares to 1195 homes on the market last May 1 at an average price of $500,195 and a median price point of $257,000. The current inventory level represents a 13.6 month supply of homes to sell.

As real estate agents, it’s always nice to have a house listed that looks great, shows beautifully, and that you don’t have to make apologies for. You know, you don’t have to say buyers things like “Well, he’s going to fix that when he gets time,” or “Sorry, they are still cleaning up and need to get some painting done,” or “Well, they had a cat but you’d want to put new carpet in anyway, wouldn’t you?”
A quick spin around the MLS to look at the listings that have come on the market recently revealed some great homes that I am pretty sure won’t need excuses. Let’s call this the Rockin’ Reelters No Apology Tour. No acoustically low key concert here, just good old rock and roll and houses you can dance through.

The first home is at 136 Watson Road in Stonewall Village in Gilford. Built in 2003, this contemporary, open concept ranch has 1,736 square feet of living space. The master suite is located on one side of the home,there's a central living area, and the other two bedrooms on the opposite end. This place is perfect if your son is a drummer and on tour with our band or your mother-in-law comes to visit a lot. This home has a well appointed eat in kitchen, hardwood floors, and two sliding glass doors that lead out to a large deck looking out to a private back yard. There’s a full basement and a two car garage to provide plenty of storage. Stonewall Village is a condominium form of ownership and the fees include landscaping, plowing, and trash removal to make your life even easier. This home is priced at $265,000 and definitely worth a look.

Down in Alton at 27 Ridge Road is a beautiful, 2,576 square foot, three bedroom, two and ½ bath, cape built in 2008. It has wonderful curb appeal and the pictures of the inside also look pretty nice. This home has a beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and hardwood floors that extend in to the living room. Other no apology amenities include a spacious first floor master bedroom suite, a finished walkout basement, central air, a gas fireplace, a two car garage, a charming farmer’s porch, and some pretty good landscaping to boot! This home is priced at $268,400. Not sure where the $400 came from, but it looks good to me…

If you're looking for in-town Laconia, then check out the open concept ranch at 35 Regan Way. This 1,560 square foot, three bed, two bath home was built in 2007 and features hardwood and tile floors, cathedral ceilings, an eat-in kitchen, a deck, a fenced yard for the pets, full basement, and a two car garage. This home is in “move-in ready” condition and is offered at $269,900.

Another home just down the street, at 773 Elm Street, is a meticulously maintained four bed, three bath, colonial with 2,146 square feet of space built in 2004. The agent says this house is like new and “shines.” I know this agent pretty well, and I know he doesn’t exaggerate. Even the pictures back up his claim so I know you won’t be disappointed when you go look! This home has a kitchen with a breakfast bar, maple cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and gleaming tile floors. There's a first floor master suite, spacious living room, hardwood floors, a full, unfinished walkout basement, deck, and a two car garage. This home is priced at an even $270,000.

Also priced at $269,900 is a quality construction, three bedroom, four bath contemporary home at 585 Cherry Valley Road in Gilford. I am assured by the agent that it fits our stringent “no apology tour” criteria. This home was built in 2004 and has 2,404 square feet of living space. It boasts a large kitchen with center island and hardwood floors, a master suite with a private deck and lake views, an entertainment room in the finished lower level, tiled and heated breezeway/mudroom, a heated two car garage, and a large covered porch. This is billed as a “must see” home so go take a look at it and let me know what you think! If the agent apologizes for anything, I want to know about it. We gotta keep this tour real you know...

Data compiled from the NNEREN MLS system as of 5/1/13

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=332 John Goodhue of Roche Realty Group Sells Landmark Commercial Building http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=329 Thu, 02 May 2013 14:34:59 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/4-30-13-goodhue-commercial-e1367331580131.jpg *Laconia, NH*—A historic former hosiery mill located at the dam at 151 Elm...

Laconia, NH—A historic former hosiery mill located at the dam at 151 Elm Street in Laconia has recently been sold. The brick and clapboard, four story structure was built in 1890 and underwent extensive renovations in the year 2000. John Goodhue of Roche Realty Group in Meredith represented the buyer, Centrex Corporation of Amesbury, Massachusetts. Steve Weeks, Jr. of Weeks Commercial represented the seller in the transaction. The building included approximately 8,532 sqft. of usable space on four floors. The building included a freight elevator, plus an office and 1,800 sqft. apartment on the top level with a deck overlooking the scenic dam in Lakeport, which connects Paugus Bay of Lake Winnipesaukee to Lake Opechee. The building sits directly on the waterway connecting the two lakes and was used for manufacturing and warehouse space. According to Goodhue, Centrex Corporation is a packaging and labeling firm, owned by Diana Goodhue, which will be relocating to the Lakes Region. Roche Realty Group has been a leader in commercial, business, land, condominium, and subdivision development throughout the Lakes Region, and has a published significant sales report contained on their website www.RocheRealty.com. ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=329 Island Living on Lake Winnipesaukee http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=326 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:16:49 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/4-24-13-windswept_island.jpg Lake Winnipesaukee… home to over 72 square miles of immense beauty. When you ask most people...

Lake Winnipesaukee… home to over 72 square miles of immense beauty. When you ask most people about their favorite experience on the lake, they usually respond with memories of shimmering red sunsets, evening boat cruises to Meredith, or hot summer days anchored in one of the many protected coves. It is easy to see why it has become such a sought after destination. For me however, the lake has provided something beyond its natural beauty.

Growing up in the lakes region, I had spent most of my summer days playing along the shores of the many surrounding lakes. Having grown up in the real estate world, I was fortunate enough to visit most every nook and cranny the big lake had to offer. On one particular sunny day, we decided to spend an afternoon docked at Windswept Island. True to its name and no more than 120 ft across, this island sat looking over the most expansive part of the lake. Even in the heat of the summer, there was a constant cool breeze that lapped the shores of the island.
Over time, this little island became a continued hot spot for our boating destinations. However, it was neither the gorgeous views nor the cool breeze which kept us coming back. It was the feeling of getting away from it all that stuck the most. Even though we were just a few miles from mainland, this little island provided the sense of being on a mini vacation; just far enough away to make even simple obligations fade from the back of your mind.

Naturally, my family decided island living was for us. By the time of my mid-teens, we had purchased a small cabin on Welch Island. Through many years of use, I have come to several conclusions that may help others in deciding whether an island property is right for them.

1. Unlike mainland waterfront, you only get the late spring to fall months of use.

2. Contrary to mainland waterfront which range from $450,000 to several million, island properties are far more affordable, with typically properties ranging between $250,000 to $450,000.

3. Outside of Black Cat Island, Long Island, Oak Island, Governor’s Island, Worcester Island and Christmas Island which are bridged, most island properties require a boat and a mainland boat slip or slip rental at a local marina.

4. Many island properties rely on lake water for showering and cooking, drinking water must be carried by person.

5. There are approximately 270 islands on Lake Winnipesaukee alone, obviously most are not habitable, but they provide a scenic landscape to the lake environment.

6. Most island properties provide ultimate privacy and serenity, compared to mainland living.

7. The water clarity is generally most favorable on the lake.

8. The wooded landscapes, with large undeveloped centers of the islands provide an ideal environment for hiking and exploring.

9. Many of the larger islands provide under- water electrical and telephone service.

10. Several of the larger islands have common parking/boat launch areas on the mainland.

Post written by Chris Roche, REALTOR®, GRI, CBR. Email: croche@rocherealty.com ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=326 2012 Winnipesaukee Waterfront Sales Report http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=310 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 18:55:01 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/4-19-13-post.jpg During 2012 we experienced a strong year for Lake Winnipesaukee waterfront sales. There were 123 waterfront...

During 2012 we experienced a strong year for Lake Winnipesaukee waterfront sales. There were 123 waterfront mainland homes sold (excluding island sales, condos, and land). This resulted in a 30% increase over the preceding year in unit waterfront sales, and our best year since 2007. The year was much more favorable than 2011, which showed only a 9.2% increase. If you count island property sales there were 130 total sales. With island property sales included, the average sales price for all towns amounted to $1,017,367, which increased from the average of $994,688 the previous year. Moultonborough recorded the most waterfront transactions with 42 sales at an average price of $924,131. Wolfeboro had the highest average sales price at $1,630,669 involving 13 transactions. The second highest community was Gilford at $1,486,792 with 12 transactions, followed by Tuftonboro in third place with $1,336,250 with 10 transactions. Alton on the other hand had the second highest volume in unit sales with 27 lakefront sales at an average sales price of $858,778. The unit numbers make sense when you consider that Moultonborough has a total of 66 miles of shoreline and Alton has approximately 33 miles of shorefront. These two towns have a lot of shorefront when you consider the entire coast of New Hampshire has only 12 miles of ocean-front. When you look at the entire “Big Lake” there are approximately 240 miles of shorefront. Wow—that’s a lot of homes when you consider how many homes can be built along just 1 mile of shorefront. It certainly shows that Lake Winnipesaukee is a very desirable location to park your boat and get a good night’s rest. We all know that Lake Winnipesaukee is an absolute gem…that’s probably why Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, was rated the #1 retirement place in the country under the category “Leisure living for recreational and cultural opportunities” (rated by MacMillan Travel-5th edition of Retirement Places Rated).

Roche indicated the market has been improving each year since 2008 and the numbers are showing some nice increases this year. The Lakes Region is within a 7 hour drive in excess of 50+ million people and the Baby Boom generation is 77 million strong. These demographics will propel us well into the future. Roche Realty Group has experienced a substantial increase in unit sales and sales volume in the year-to-date sales figures for 2013.

Roche Realty Group can be reached at (603) 279-7046 or (603) 528-0088, or through their website at www.rocherealty.com.

By Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

*The above figures were obtained from the Northern New England Real Estate Network (NNEREN) from 01/01/12 to 12/31/12 for waterfront owned excluding island, condo, and land sales. ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=310 <![CDATA[The Real Estate Sky Isn't Falling]]> http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=309 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:16:09 GMT

The Real Estate Sky Isn't Falling

There were 71 residential home sales in March in the twelve communities covered by this Lakes Region Real Estate Market Report. The average price came in at $227,182 with a median price point of $166,000. This compares to 64 sales last March at an average price of $314,161 with a median price point of $199,200.

For the first quarter of 2013 there were 172 residential transactions in these same towns compared to 171 in the first quarter of 2012. That’s pretty consistent, if nothing else! The average sales price for the first quarter of 2013 was $226,492 compared to $272,526 in 2012. The median price point also dropped from $176,200 in 2012 to $169,000 in 2013. Sales are steady, but once again prices are down.

You could say this is all doom and gloom! Should you bend over and kiss your real estate patootie goodbye?! I really don't think so! Market data is all about numbers and what is selling. Sometimes numbers by themselves can be misleading. It just so happens that a lot more inexpensive homes are selling right now compared to higher end homes. That’s just the way it is. There are a lot of bank owned and lower priced homes on the market that are being scooped up. It has been that way for the past few years.

So before you think that the real estate sky is falling and your home value is continuing to slide down the cliff that is not necessarily the case. It is pretty easy to see why our numbers are down so far this year. In the first quarter of both 2012 and 2013 we had about the same number of sales below $200,000. But, in 2012 there were 24 homes that sold over the $500,000 mark for a total sales volume of $21.5 million. There were seven sales over the $1 million mark. This year there were half the number of sales over $500,000 for a total of only $10.9 million in sales and there were just two sales over a million! This definitely has had an impact on the average and median prices so far this year!

There’s no doubt that your home's value has been affected over the past few years, but quality homes have retained their value better than those that are poorly maintained, ill kept, and poorly presented in the market place. It also seems that there is a definite shortage of really nice, mid-price homes on the market right now. If you are contemplating selling your home, think about what it has to offer in this market compared to some of the other homes that are available. Talk with several real estate agents to get their opinion of your home, where they feel the market is, and see how they can position you to get the maximum return on your investment. With fewer really nice properties on the market there is less competition which makes this a good time to sell.

The fact is, is seems like the mood in the housing market is a much more positive than it has been for a long time. The news from all over the country touts that the housing markets are on the mend and prices are beginning to rise! According to a recent AP article, new home construction is picking up with a 46% increase in new home starts nationwide in March compared to March of 2012. But remember that real estate is very local and we were one of the last markets to feel the pinch when things went bad. The AP article stated that “Housing construction fell 5.8 percent in the Northeast but showed gains in the rest of the country led by a 10.9 percent rise in the South. Housing construction was up 9.6 percent in the Midwest and 2.7 percent in the West.”

So, we may a little behind in terms of a new construction rebound but we have been blessed with a very strong second home, vacation, and waterfront home market so I don’t believe we will be far behind in a market upturn. I'm banking on that along with some nice new properties coming on the market at realistic prices to lead the way...

Data was compiled using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System as of 4/15/13

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=309 A Great Boating Option on Lake Winnipesaukee http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=306 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:44:43 GMT *Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2013/04/Copy-rs_logo_medRes.jpg (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/)* *A Great Boating Option on Lake Winnipesaukee* *S**ummer is coming. Trust me.* It will be here before you know it! This time of year many people start to...

A Great Boating Option on Lake Winnipesaukee

Summer is coming. Trust me. It will be here before you know it! This time of year many people start to think about buying a place on the water so they can enjoy everything the Lakes Region has to offer from their own home base. We often have buyers that aren’t quite up to speed on how much homes really cost on the lakes and are looking for that “little cabin for around a hundred thousand or so…” Well, those don’t exist anymore around here (no, not even on the small lakes) and if I found one I would own it myself. As real estate agents, we often get these buyers to look at water access or water view properties as alternatives. The fact that they are more affordable and the property taxes are a whole lot less expensive are pretty compelling reasons to consider these options. The savings gained by having a property off the water can then be applied to purchasing or leasing a slip for your boat so you can enjoy those spur of the moment cruises when the spirit moves you. Hey, with the money saved, you might even be able to talk the wife into buying a little bit bigger boat!

An intriguing option for summer boating fun is being offered by The Akwa Marina Yacht Club in Laconia. It is just up past the Boardwalk in the Weirs at 95 Centenary Ave. It is owned and operated by the Mailloux family. They have 76 boat slips that they rent and can accommodate just about any size boat. The slips have modern shore power, water connection, four way ties, 24 hour video surveillance, WiFi Internet, and some pretty stunning views. But this marina is a whole lot more than just a space to keep your boat.

Akwa Marina has three different cabanas that can be rented for the season to store all the gear you need to enjoy your summer on the lake but don’t want to lug around with you. Some even have electrical outlets for that all important mini fridge. There are also large 12’ x 14’ Beach Suite Cabanas that have a glass sliders with a deck overlooking the lake and are complete with a wet-bar, mini-fridge, and cable TV. The Club also has a beautiful sandy beach, swim raft, deep water pool with a poolside HDTV, tanning deck with lounge chairs, hot tub, a barbecue and picnic area, volley ball and Bocci courts, two fire pits, and pool table.

The really great thing they offer is that if you don’t own a boat and you don’t want to, you can join the American Boat Club and take a lot of the hassle and cost out of owing your own! Based at Akwa Marina, the American Boat Club offers several different size boats either on a half day or full day reservation basis that can also be strung consecutively. Reservations can be made online and you can have up to four different times slots reserved at any one time. When you arrive for your cruise on the lake your boat will be fueled, cleaned, and ready to go. No maintenance, no fuss, just a great day on the lake and at the fraction of the cost of owning your own boat. Obviously, you need to be licensed to operate a boat so take your course before the summer gets here if you haven’t already! Right now they have three pontoon boats, two 21’ Sea Rays, and a 24’ Sea Ray in their fleet. Additional boats will be added as the club grows to maintain an adequate ratio of members to boats so you can enjoy the lake when you want. The cost for this program right now is $3,600 for the season and looks to me like a really affordable way to enjoy boating on Winnipesaukee. The only other cost is that you have to fuel up before you bring the boat back.

The big news at the Marina this year is the large covered pavilion that will house a new bar and grill providing a great place to hang out, have lunch, and enjoy the views. It will be open to the public starting in mid-May. The Akwa Marina Beach Bar will specialize in seafood and offer fish and chips, lobster rolls, seafood platters, haddock sandwiches as well as standard pub fair such as burgers and dogs. There will be healthy choices, salads, and a kids' menu. You will be able to get there by foot, car, or by boat with transient docks available so you can come for lunch by water. You will even be able to call ahead and pick up baskets of food delivered right to the docks for you to enjoy on your cruise. How great is that?

The center piece of the pavilion is the bar which is made from a 1904, 28 foot wooden sloop named the “Anona.” In the early days this boat plied the waters of the Great Lakes. There are sure to be a bunch of landlubbers congregated around it, especially on rainy days when there will be drink specials offered. Kurt Mailloux says it is “always sunny at the Akwa Bar even when it is raining.” The views from the pavilion are just amazing and I suspect that visitors and locals alike will find this watering hole to be just the ticket on a lazy summer afternoon. It really is pretty cool. I think I found my new lunch spot!

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=306 Three Real Estate Myths? http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=299 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 22:50:08 GMT *Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2012/11/rs_logo_web-Copy.gif (http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2012/11/rs_logo_web-Copy.gif)* *Three Real Estate Myths?* Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2013/04/zeuu.jpg ...

Three Real Estate Myths?

A recent article on the Fox Business News website by Brendon DeSimone cautioned readers not to be fooled by three real estate myths. Hey, what do you know, Real Estate Mythology! The first myth was that spring is the best time to sell a home. It has long been the conventional wisdom that spring was the time when buyers with families are out looking so they can find a new home to be into by the time the new school year started. No one wants the kiddos traumatized by starting mid-year at a new school. We've got video games for that! In the Lakes Region spring has always been a big selling period. Buyers finally have been able to dig themselves out from under the snow banks and are excited that they can actually see the properties they might want to buy.

But the article says that the best time to sell is actually the holiday season and right after. I can certainly agree that the buyers out looking for property on the second day of Christmas or when the weather is a balmy twenty four degrees are definitely serious! And, many buyers feel that a new year brings bright, new possibilities in home ownership leading them to embark on the search for a castle to call their own.

The following chart shows how many homes were sold each month in the twelve towns in this report. Our biggest sales months come during the summer and the fall. But homes sell all year round. I really think the best time to sell your home is when you have it ready to sell. Make sure it is in the best possible condition with all repairs taken care of, a fresh coat of paint where necessary, and above all make sure it is clean, clean, clean. And, I can also guarantee that no one is going to buy your home unless it is on the market.

The second myth is for buyers and that is always to start with your lowest offer on a property. The truth is you don’t necessarily want to start with your highest and best, but you almost certainly won’t get anywhere with a low ball offer on a well priced home. You will most likely anger the seller to the point where you won’t get as good a deal as if you had come in with a more appropriately thought out offer. Now, it is true that some homes are overpriced and probably will sell well off the asking price, but those sellers are generally not very receptive to low ball offers. You may be better off pursuing a more reasonably priced home. That’s why you should have the advice of a REALTOR® to help you determine property values and seller motivation before you make an offer. Most of the time, low ball offers will get you nowhere.

The third myth is that a cash offer will trump all others given the risk involved in getting financed today. Buyers always tend to believe that a cash offer is something that seller’s can’t resist. The article asks you to consider that you received two offers on your home that is listed at $399,000. One was cash for $375,000 and the other was at full price but financed with 25% down, a pre-approval letter, and quick contingency periods. The article recommends that the agent for the buyer with financing provide the seller with everything possible to prove that his client can meet the terms of the financing contingency and make the case that his deal is better. He might even arrange that the seller or seller’s agent talk with the buyer’s lender. It also helps a lot if the lender is someone local and that has a reputation of being able to provide superior customer service and be able to work through the glitches that always seem to pop up.

Other things to consider in the deal would be how much of a deposit that the cash buyer is putting down, the condition of the property, and how well it will fair in a home inspection. Is the cash buyer likely going to try to negotiate more on defects found in the home inspection? Is the value of the home questionable at all and does the cash offer request an appraisal to be done? There’s a lot to consider in either offer! Getting financing on any home today can be a little daunting to say the least. But, any deal that can eliminate financing altogether certainly carries a lot of weight by eliminating the appraisal and underwriting process. And that’s another reason why you need a REALTOR® to help you evaluate and give you assistance in the decision making process. Maybe next week we’ll get into legends…

As of April 1, 2013 there were 936 residential homes on the market in the twelve communities covered by this Lakes Region real estate market report. The average asking price was $513,337 and the median price point was $249,900. Our inventory is down a bit from last April when there were 994 homes available which is great news, but the average price and median price point is also a bit lower as well. Our current inventory represents just a little over a 12 month supply of homes on the market. Not too bad...

Data was compiled as of 4/1/13 using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System.

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=299 Lakes Region of NH Waterfront Sales - March 2013 http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=298 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 22:46:54 GMT *Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2012/12/rs_logo_web-Copy.gif (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/)* *Lakes Region of NH Waterfront Sales - March 2013* *There were five waterfront sales on Lake Winnipesaukee ...

Lakes Region of NH Waterfront Sales - March 2013

There were five waterfront sales on Lake Winnipesaukee in March, 2013 at an average price of $869,200. Two of those sales did break the million dollar mark. Last March we had a banner month with fourteen sales at an average of $797,086! So things do seem to be a bit off so far this year on the big lake. For the 1st quarter of the year there were eleven sales at an average price of $917,364 compared to twenty six sales at an average of $807,469 for the first quarter of 2012. Let’s hope activity will pick up now that winter is behind us!

The least expensive sale on the big lake was at 34 Belknap Point Road in Gilford. This 1,365 square foot home was constructed in 2000 and has three bedrooms, one and a half baths, a large living room, plus an unfinished walk out basement for additional living space if desired. There is a great deck for outside entertaining and taking in the lake and Mt. Washington in the distance. The half acre level lot has 50’ of frontage, a sandy beach, dock, and waterside shed for the gear. This property was called the “Best Deal in Town” and was priced at $459,000 and sold for $438,500 after 339 days on the market. It had previously been on the market starting way back in 2004 when it was listed at $759,000. Prices have really come down since then! The current assessed value is $462,130.

The median price point home is located at 42 Rollins Road in Alton. This is a 3,810 square foot, open concept, contemporary home which was built in 1997. It has three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a beautiful kitchen with maple cabinetry, stainless appliances, and granite counter tops. The finished lower level walkout features a second kitchen, family room, and a bunk room. There is also another family room over the heated detached garage. The house sits on a private, well landscaped, half acre lot with 85’ of frontage in a protected cove. This property looks like a real winner to me and I think it must have to the new owners as well as it was only on the market for 27 days. It was listed at $915,000 and sold for $847,500. The current tax assessment stands at $738,600.

The largest sale of the month was a 4,881 square foot contemporary home at 134 Black Point Road in Alton. This incredible home has it all including a gourmet "Zarse" kitchen. I had no idea what that was so I Googled it and learned that it is the custom, high end kitchens done by a cabinet maker of the same name in Wolfeboro! They make some very nice stuff! Beyond a stunning kitchen, this home has three bedrooms including a first floor master suite, five baths, a living room with cathedral ceilings, gas fireplace, and a wall of glass looking toward the lake. The lower level walkout has a beautiful family room and a second custom kitchen. Other features include hardwood and tile floors, custom built-ins, sun room, large deck with a hot tub, pantry, two laundry rooms, two sitting rooms, an elevator, and geo-thermal heat. There are attached and detached two car garages. This stunning home sits on a 1.3 acre lot with 90' of frontage and a 33' x 18' boathouse. This is a great home and I can imagine how happy the new owners must be. This property was on the market at $1.55 million and sold for $1.425 million with an assessed value of $1,303,300. Nice deal!

The only property that sold on Winnisquam last month was at 334 Black Brook Road in Sanbornton. This property consists of a four room, two bedroom, 864 square foot year round cottage on a .48 acre lot with 64’ of frontage. The cottage has a knotty pine interior, fireplace, a galley kitchen, and that so called rustic charm. Rustic charm either means the place is kind of cute in a redneck sort of way or that it needs a fair amount of updating. Not sure which one this property is but the most important thing is that the cottage is just steps away from a nice sandy beach and dock. The location, view, and the frontage is what this property is all about. This property was listed at $419,000 and sold for $398,500 in just eleven days. Its tax assessed value is $367,700.

There was also one sale on Squam at 18 Leavitt Road in Holderness. This is a 1947 vintage, one bedroom, one bath seasonal cottage on a .18 acre lot with 76' of sandy frontage and a dock. It sits just fifteen feet from the water! How cool is that! Originally, this cottage was listed at $399,000, then reduced to $379,000, and sold for $320,000. It took 620 days to find a buyer but with an assessment value at $375,800. I think the new owners are going to have a great summer on Golden Pond!

Data was compiled as of 4/10/13 using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System.

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=298 Success at Auction for Lakes Region Chemistry-Free After-Prom Committee http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=281 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:21:07 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc. Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/pk-zyla-auctioneer.jpg On March 21, 2013 PK Zyla, a...

Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

On March 21, 2013 PK Zyla, a well-known auctioneer and Realtor®, and Roche Realty Group assisted the Lakes Region Chemistry-Free After-Prom committee in spear heading an auction at John Cook’s Mame’s in Meredith, NH. This important event is to raise money for the after-prom committee to give these young adults a safe place to go after the prom. The auction drew a very spirited crowd of over
75 people and raised over $6,300, far surpassing last year’s figure of $5,300. The auction also achieved an unprecedented 67 overbids which were prompted by the generosity of John Cook, who gave a $10 gift certificate with every overbid. A large number of local restaurant gift certificates were auctioned off, as well as certificates to local salons, fitness centers, area attractions, clothing, jewelry, gift baskets, overnight stays at local inns, and a cornucopia of other assorted merchandise. A good time was had by all and the committee is already working on next year’s fund raiser.

]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=281 Mortgage Insurance Changes and the Prime Minister of India http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=280 Sat, 23 Mar 2013 15:06:51 GMT *Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2012/12/rs_logo_web-Copy.gif (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/)* *Mortgage Insurance Changes and the Prime Minister of India* Residential home sales in the *Lakes Region (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/) towns ...

Mortgage Insurance Changes and the Prime Minister of India

Residential home sales in the Lakes Region towns covered by this report in February were not very spectacular. There were just 46 homes sold at an average price of $268,188 with a median price point of $169,000. We had 59 sales last February but with a lower average price of $209,025 and a lower median price point of $145,000. Sixty six percent of the sales were below the $200,000 mark. It is really great to see the average sales price up for the month and there was a big cheer in the press about it, but on a rolling 12 month basis our average sales and median price is still a bit lower than the previous 12 months. I wish we could get both the ying and the yang going in the right direction every month, but that might be asking for a little too much.

So what is PMI? PMI stands for a lot of things. There’s the Prime Minister of India who everyone knows is Manmohan Singh, a household name... maybe in New Delhi. In business, it stands for Phillip Morris International, in the computer world it can stand for Portable Management Interface, and there are those in certain circles that recognize it as the Plumbing Manufacturers International association. In the wonderful world of real estate PMI stands for Private Mortgage Insurance which is exactly that; a privately issued insurance policy that partially protects the lender who has loaned money to a homebuyer who could not come up with a 20% down payment to buy a home. While PMI is an additional cost, it has helped many buyers get into a home who otherwise would not get a loan. After all, lending someone a couple hundred grand to buy a home when the buyer has only a few thousand dollars, a ball of lint, and a marble collection as a down payment does not seem like a wise investment for any bank or mortgage company.

In today’s market, a majority of the loans we see are FHA and require only a 3.5% down payment. These loans do not have Private Mortgage Insurance, but rather a type of Mortgage Insurance (MI) backed by good old Uncle Sam (MI also stands for Mission Impossible…which it would be for some home owners without it.) Historically, homeowners that have FHA loans and were in their homes for 5 years had been able to get rid of their MI Premium when the value of the property they purchased reaches 78% of the loan (LTV.) That happens as the principal is paid down or when the value of the property increased (remember the good old days?) The problem is that the FHA is still on the hook for the full amount of these federally insured loans even after the MI is cancelled upon reaching that 78% Loan to Value. One government analysis showed that 10-12% of the claims come after the MI is cancelled leaving Uncle Sam holding the proverbial bag of do-do. The “claims” really means that someone lost their house. In order to avoid these losses, any loans registered with HUD after June 3, 2012 will require the borrower to pay PMI for the entire life of their loan. The only exception is if the borrower puts at least 10% down and then the MIP will last for a minimum of 11 years. That may seem like a big deal, but it really isn't as most homeowners will end up refinancing anyway or perhaps even selling and buying another home down the road.

Maybe the bigger news is that as of April 1, 2013 FHA is also going to increase the size of its bite on the Mortgage Insurance Premium by 10 basis points or by .10 percent. Right now, FHA has an upfront MI Premium of 1.75% and a monthly MI Premium of 1.25 %. On a $150,000 home purchase this is what the MI looks like: The buyer is required to have a 3.5% down payment or $5,250 making the base loan amount of $144,750. The upfront MI Premium of $2,533.13 is added to that making the total loan amount of $147,283.13. This is not really an out of pocket upfront cost as it is rolled into the loan so the buyer doesn’t really feel it. The current monthly MI Premium of 1.25% of the loan amount in this case would be $147,283.13 X 1.25% or $1,841 per year or $153.42 per month. After April 1, the rate becomes 1.35% which increases the monthly premium to $165.69. So basically, it’s another $12 out of a buyer’s pocket every month on this size loan. Now that may not be earth shattering by itself, but nothing else is going down in cost either!

What else can you do? There are other options out there such as Rural Development loans which have a 2% upfront “guarantee fee” and only a .40 annual MI rate so that may be a better option for some buyers. There are some programs on conventional loans where lenders pay the PMI but the borrower pays a higher interest rate which can also save you some money. VA loans have no PMI so perhaps you can do a short stint in the Navy, see the world, and then buy a house. To qualify for a lower PMI rate on a conventional type loan you need to have a good credit score and the bigger the down payment you have the better. How do you completely avoid PMI or MI? The best way, obviously, is to scrimp and save to get the 20% down payment that once was the standard for buying a home. Hey, we all know how easy it is to save, right?

Thanks to Jen McCall at Merrimack Mortgage for clarification on mortgage insurance and invaluable insight about Manmohan Singh.

Data was compiled as of 3/18/13 using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=280 Roche Realty Group Sells 45-Unit Christmas Island Resort on Winnipesaukee http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=279 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:18:48 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc. Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/macdonald-welch-ganong-christmas-island.jpg The landmark...

Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

The landmark Christmas Island Resort located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee has recently been sold. John Ganong of Roche Realty Group in Meredith was the listing agent and Joe MacDonald and Steve Welch of Roche Realty Group in Laconia were the selling agents in the transfer of this 45-room motel consisting of several buildings along Weirs Boulevard in Laconia. The property included approximately 1,000 ft. of shorefront on Paugus Bay of Lake Winnipesaukee with 3.2acres and 16 individual docks along the lake.

This well-known family resort was constructed and owned by Phil Roux in the late 50’s and early 1960’s. The solid brick structures were enhanced with a beautiful level lakeside setting including natural sandy beaches, stonewalls and indoor heated pool. In addition to the docking, the resort included a boat launch, volley ball and shuffleboard courts. The grounds were beautifully landscaped. The property was connected to scenic “Pixie Island”.

According to John Ganong the listing agent, the seller of the property was Christmas Island Motel Corporation, Thomas Roux President. “Tom did a great job in operating and maintaining this fine resort for many years”. Ganong also mentioned that the Christmas Island Steakhouse, which is separate from the transaction, was not included in the sale. The steak house will continue to operate as it has for many years offering outstanding cuisine for everyone.

Joe Macdonald and Steve Welch, the selling agents for Roche Realty Group, indicated that the buyer of the property is Lakehouse at Christmas Island LLC. Romeo Lacasse along with Robert and Ralph Meisner are the developers and Ben Lacasse will be the project manager. The existing resort will be torn down. A new luxury 18-unit townhouse community will be called Lake House at Christmas Island. All of the townhomes will include top of the line new construction with modern amenities and energy conservation features throughout. This small community will be clustered along the 1,000 ft. shoreline of Lake Winnipesaukee. Each of the townhomes will feature panoramic views overlooking Paugus Bay on Winnipesaukee and will be sited along the shoreline with individual deeded boat slip included.

Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group said “this is real exciting news for the Lakes Region. Where can you find 18-new luxury townhouses, each with their own deeded boat slips sitting right on the water with 1,000ft of shorefront? New construction activity has been picking up all over the country and the timing of this waterfront community in the Lakes Regions could not be better. This is one of the largest resort sales that have taken place in the recent years here in our area and Roche Realty represented both the seller and buyers in the sale”.

The developers have an outstanding reputation for developing quality, custom-built homes and the buyer reviews have been exceptional. Roche Realty Group is very pleased to be associated with them again.

Pictured Left to Right Joseph Macdonald, Steve Welch and John Ganong of Roche Realty Group, Ben & Romeo Lacasse of Lakehouse at Christmas Island LLC, developers. ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=279 Roche Realty Group Completes Sale of 26 Homes in Willow Pond at Long Bay http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=278 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:57:09 GMT Image: http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t520/rocherealtygroup/rochelogoJPGsmallCustomCustom.jpg Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc. Image: http://www.rocherealty.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/lacass-welch-mcdonald.jpg Romeo Lacasse, developer of Willow...

Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

Romeo Lacasse, developer of Willow Pond at Long Bay in Laconia on Lake Winnipesaukee announced the final home sale in this planned community. Joseph MacDonald and Steven Welch of Roche Realty Group, Inc., with offices in Laconia and Meredith, were the exclusive agents in the sale of all 26 homes. Willow Pond at Long Bay is surrounded by three spring fed ponds and abuts the NH State Forest and also has deeded access to Lake Winnipesaukee with two sandy beaches, a private pool, tennis courts and boat club on Winnipesaukee. Romeo Lacasse and his partners, Robert and Ralph Meisner are very proud of their accomplishments at Willow Pond. They commented that “this professionally planned and architecturally designed community of single family cape-style homes blend beautifully around the several ponds overlooking Winnipesaukee”.
Steve Welch and Joe MacDonald commented “considering we marketed this new community of fine homes during such a downturn in the real estate market we did well by selling all 26 homes, Willow Pond is now completely all sold out!”

The homes included 3-4 bedrooms, 3 baths with a 2-car attached garage. They ranged in size from 1,775-3,400 sq.ft. The prices generally ranged from approx. $325,000-$410,000. A large number of the homes were purchased as vacation properties and semi-retirement residences.

Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group indicated that the developers of Willow Pond are in the final stages of completing another fine community in Laconia called “Nature’s View at Paugus Bay” a 51-lot subdivision off Elm Street in Laconia, overlooking Paugus Bay. Roche Realty Group again, is the exclusive marketing agent for these affordable new homes. Nature’s View features 3-styles of homes with master bedrooms on the first floor that start at $219,900 and go to $239,900. Both Welch and MacDonald are the exclusive marketing agents and only have 13 remaining premium lots available.

With all the positive national articles coming out on real estate we see the year 2013 as being a great year for the completion of this fine community.

Pictured above in front of the last house sold at Willow Pond, left to right, Benjamin & Romeo Lacasse, project manager and developer of Willow Pond, Steven Welch and Joe MacDonald of Roche Realty Group, Inc. ]]> Roche Realty Group http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=278 Lakes Region Waterfront Sales Report - February 2013 http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=277 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:56:38 GMT Image: http://lakesregionhome.usmblogs.com/files/2012/12/rs_logo_web-Copy.gif (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/about-roy-sanborn/) *There were three sales in February on Lake Winnipesaukee (http://www.lakesregionhome.com/lake-winnipesaukee/)at an average of $1.26 million.* That’s down from...

There were three sales in February on Lake Winnipesaukee at an average of $1.26 million. That’s down from last February when we had seven sales that were all below the million dollar mark resulting in an average price of just $606,429. While the total number of sales are down this year so far, at least a few high dollar properties are moving.

The largest sale in February is a brand spanking new Scott Fuller Development home at 34 Boathouse Road in Moultonborough. This 5,500 square foot, high quality contemporary has all the features expected in a grand lake home on Winnipesaukee including a great room with soaring cathedral ceilings, massive stone fireplace, and a wall of windows facing the lake that opens out to a massive lakefront deck. There’s a first floor master suite with a fireplace and private deck and a gourmet kitchen that is open to the great room and dining areas. Upstairs are three quest suites, a media, bonus room, and loft area from which you can view the stunning great room below. The walk out lower level has a large family room with a fireplace, billiard room, and home theater (of course!) This home sits on a private .89 acre lot with 180’ of frontage, a sugar sand beach, and sunset views. The exterior is finished in cedar shingles and clapboards with a natural stain for that Adriondack feel. Sounds pretty spectacular to me! This home was listed at $2.5 million and sold for $2.35 million.

At the other end of the spectrum, the least expensive sale on the lake was at 40 Governor Wentworth Highway in Tuftonboro. This property consists of a 1960’s vintage, year round 2/3 bedroom home and a Victorian era three bedroom guest cottage on a half acre lot with 91’ of frontage on Winter Harbor. The main house has basic amenities including an eat in kitchen living room, den, one full bath, two beds down and a large room on the second floor for sleeping a herd of kids and will probably make way for a new waterfront home. The guest cottage looks more interesting with its wrap-around porch and would be a neat structure to keep as it is also located steps to the lake. This property was originally listed at $795,000, was reduced to $635,000, and sold for $585,000 after 469 days on the market. The current assessment is listed at $782,700 so whether the new owner is going to build new or use as is, I bet he is delighted with his purchase.

There were no sales in the month of February on Winnisquam or Squam! Ouch!

If you are a property owner on a lake I would highly encourage you to visit the Lake Winnipesaukee Watershed Association’s website at www.winnipesaukee.org. This non-profit organization is dedicated to protecting and preserving the water quality in the Lake Winnipesaukee watershed area. Its ongoing activities include coordination and assistance to the UNH Lakes Lay Monitoring Program on Lake Winnipesaukee, educational outreach and awareness programs, assistance to communities in milfoil prevention activities, and development of the Lake Winnipesaukee Watershed Management Plan. There is a wealth of information here about how to do your part in keeping our lake pristine and they also post their newsletters on line that you will find extremely informative. Lake monitoring data can be found on http://winnipesaukeegateway.org/ along with recreation information, watershed maps, and info about the watershed management plans. These are two great sites that everyone who loves Winnipesaukee should visit!

As of this writing there were 176 homes for sale on Lake Winnipesaukee with 73 of those below the million dollar mark! You can get onto lake with an island property generally starting in the $200-400,000 range. There is a camp available right now on Bear Island for $169,900. I’m not saying it’s great, but it is a buy at $100,000 below assessed value! There are sixteen homes available on Winnisquam starting just under $300,000 and many, many homes on smaller lakes in the are starting perhaps for a little less. So, if you want your piece of waterfront heaven in the Lake Region this would be a great time of year to start your search.

Data was compiled as of 3/12/13 using the Northern New England Real Estate MLS System.

]]> Roy Sanborn http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/blog.php?b=277