More good news - March Pending Sales Up!

REAL ESTATE NEWS RELEASE - MARCH MARKET UPDATE

Pending home sales increased in March and are well above a year ago, another signal the housing market is recovering, according to The National Association of Realtors.  The Pending Home Sales index,  a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 4.1 percent to 101.4 in March from an upwardly revised 97.4 in February and is 12.8 percent above March 2011 when it was 89.9.  The data reflects contracts but not closings.  The index is now at the highest level since April 2010 when it reached 111.3.

This is a positive sign as we move forward in the Spring market.  For more information and comments from the National Association of REALTORS chief economist check out the NEWS RELEASE.

Just Listed - Magnificent Post & Beam Home

Magnificent Sawmill River Post and Beam Home has been featured in House Beautiful Magazine and has all the amenities you want in a country property.    Breathtaking panoramic views, decks & patios, heated pool, hot tub, regulation tennis court, pond, open meadow, gardens and a 3 car garage with fabulous guest house.    This home has an impressive display of beams with cathedral ceilings, gorgeous sun room, brick floors and a large kitchen complete with barbeque grill and high end appliances!     In addition the main house has large open dining and living area with woodstove, sitting area, 3 bedrooms, full bath, and 2 half baths.  The guest house comes with living room, bedroom, kitchenette, dining area and full bath.   This special property is meticulously maintained and must be seen in person.  Near Berkshire East Ski Area, Whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking and more.  Call today for a showing appointment.  $499,000.00

Homeowners Insurance - What does your policy cover?

I never worried about extreme weather living here in Western Massachusetts.   We've been so fortunate compared to other parts of the country.  Then 2011 arrived and we experienced horrific flooding and tornadoes that I never thought I would live to see.  Many homeowners discovered that their homeowners insurance did not cover the damage caused by the extremed weather.  It is very important to meet with your insurance agent and make sure they explain exactly what is covered.  You don't want to wait until it is too late.   

http://bit.ly/K851f8

Bridge of Flowers - A Mother's Day Treat

The Travel New England magazine made suggestions of wonderful things to do with your Mom on Mother's Day.   Touring the Bridge of Flowers made the list as a perfect Mother's Day treat.   I can't agree more.  The flowers along the bridge are spectacular.   There are fabulous places to treat her to lunch or dinner all within walking distance to the Bridge of Flowers.  

Did you know that the Bridge of Flowers was once an abandoned trolley bridge and is now a beautiful garden pathway.  It is open April 1 - October 30th.  It spans the Deerfield River connecting the lovely Towns of Buckland and Shelburne creating the Village of Shelburne Falls.  

Greenfield Savings Bank Home Buyer's Fair

The Greenfield Savings Bank if having a Home Buyer's Fair this Monday April 30th 5:30 - 7:30 at Chandler's Restaurant in South Deerfield.   There will be listings for you to preview, onsite pre-qualifications available and educational sessions including Bill Stevens, home inspector.  This is a great event!   Before it is too late, register at Greenfield Savings Bank.

Signs the Real Estate Market is Improving

This is a very good article that explains why the real estate marketing is showing of improving.   Several cities across the US are showing signs of real estate values surging by 9-15%. The other reason is earnings from big banks are reporting an increased in mortgage applications compared to this time last year.  All this is positive news for the real estate market and we can only hope it will continue.  You can read this article in detail at http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-04/D9U5D9D80.htm

Historic Church For Sale, Charlemont, Mass

This historic 1830 renovated church is located on the famous Mohawk Trail (Route 2) in the Town of Charlemont. More than 150,000 recreational visitors alone pass this amazing structure annually en route to the area’s year-round sporting activities, which include rafting, zip lining, bicycling, fishing, and skiing. This iconic structure offers easy access and parking, 5,000 sqft of space with multiple rooms including charming apartment creating wonderful opportunities for your commercial venture.  $150,000 
Check out the tour of this fabulous property!

Franklin County, Mass Home Show & Green Fair

Visit the Franklin County Home Show this weekend at the Franklin County Fairgrounds.   Saturday and Sunday 10-5.  Great way to get ideas and prices for all your renovation and building needs.  For more information and list of all vendors visit the web site Franklin County Home Show!

Pioneer Valley Region 1st Quarter Sales are in!

2011 vs. 2012 First Quarter Pioneer Valley Single Family Sales!

Antique Cape on 12 Acres, Heath, Mass

Move in and live comfortably while you complete the renovations in this Antique Cape on 12 acres.  It has a newer concrete block foundation, hot water baseboard heating system, wood floors, and updated full bath.  The eat-in kitchen has a cathedral ceiling and brick floors.   The second floor is unfinished with plenty of room for additional bedrooms.  The existing septic is designed to accommodate a 4 bedroom home.  Needs roof, siding, windows and more.  Open land, stream, pleasant views! $150,000

Real Estate Values going up in 2013?

Experts are predicting a rise in home prices starting in 2013.  I personally think it is too optimistic especially for this area.  On a positive note, the real estate market has improved and real estate agents are busier compared to this time last year.  The mild winter has created an earlier than expected spring market.    I do think we have hit rock bottom and will stablize for the next couple of years.  The foreclosure market is still very active and we must get those listings sold before you will see appreciation in property values.


What do you think about the market?  Do you think prices will begin to appreciate in 2013?  Your comments are welcome!


The Urban Land Institute released its Real Estate Consensus Forecast where 38 real estate economists and analysts voice their opionion about the future real estate market.   Click on the link below for the complete article.


http://www.dsnews.com/articles/expert-expect-to-see-broad-improvements-home-prices-rise-in-2013-2012-03-28

Greenfield, Ma Starter Home - Renovated Throughout $129,900

This perfect starter home has been renovated top to bottom and is ready for immediate occupancy.  Located in Greenfield and conveniently sited near the down town. Bright and cheerful rooms throughout featuring a wonderful new kitchen, first floor laundry with half bath, dining room, living room,  4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, lower level study or office area and family room.  New flooring including hardwood floors, tile, wall to wall carpet, and attractive laminate.  Fresh coat of paint, new trim, doors and electrical.  The list goes on!  Easy to show.   Check out the visual tour at: http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=2722649&prt=10003

Take a Hike this Summer in Western Massachusetts

There are several fabulous places to hike in Western Massachusetts.  The high ledges in Shelburne is a favorite to so many.  After your hike, stop by the village of Shelburne Falls  and explore the shops and stay for dinner!.


For guides and maps to other suggested areas to hike visit the MassLive web site at http://photos.masslive.com/republican/2011/07/travel_trip_massachusetts_hikes.html

Pioneer Valley Single Family Homes - Interesting Stats!

KEY POINTS

Pioneer Valley Single-Family Homes

Inventory – Rose 6.7 percent from 2,488 single family listings at the end of the 1st Quarter 2011 to 2,655 single family listings at the end of the 1^st Quarter 2012.


Days on Market - The average days on market rose 7 percent from 157 to 168.


An Eight Year View - The median price decreased 14.5 percent from $187,700 at the end of the 1^st Quarter 2005 to $163,900 at the end of the 1^st Quarter 2012.


Mortgage Rates -  30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 3.99 percent with an average 0.7 points for  the week ending March 29, 2012.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 4.86 percent with an average 0.7 points. (source: FreddieMac.com)


Listings Under Agreement   -  Single family listing which are under agreement rose 31.3 percent from 886 at the end of the 1st Quarter 2011 to 1,163 at the end of the 1st quarter 2012.


This information is provided by the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley

Arts & Crafts Style Contemporary For Sale Shelburne, Mass