Romney home blends into Winnipesaukee shoreline beautifully

With Rick Santorum suspending his campaign today, it would seem that we’re getting a lot closer to former Governor Romney winning the Republican ticket for this fall’s presidential election vs. President Obama.  From time to time we get asked about Governor Romney and his home on Lake Winnipesaukee, as we were lucky enough to sell the property to him, as well as an additional transaction of an abutting property years later.  Prior to the NH primary I spent several days with various newspaper reporters from The L.A. Times, to N.Y. Times, to Reuters, to a Japanese newspaper and spent three hours one Sunday with a crew from Fuji TV in Japan.

The reporter from Fuji TV was actually one of the main reporters that did the reporting from the nuclear plant that was damaged after the tsunami last year and they were incredibly nice.  What struck me the most from the recent interviews was they truly wanted to find out if Governor Romney was truly as nice as he appeared to be, what was it like dealing with him in real estate and how is he perceived here in Wolfeboro?  I guess what made it fun was that he truly is as nice as you see, both in person and in a business deal.  I sold him a piece of abutting land to his home here in Wolfeboro and it was a relatively simple deal, that didn’t require his involvement, but at no time did I feel “handled” and passed off to others.  There were some interesting debates going on in Massachusetts then, yet he made time for me and offered up his private line, cell phone and assistant’s direct line.  I wish every deal was as professional and enjoyable as that one was, as he could not have been nicer or more genuine.

One of the questions that always comes up is “do you think Wolfeboro will have the challenges Kennebunkport has with the Bush compound such as traffic issues?”  My personal opinion is that it won’t be like that, at least not on the roadways, as there is no view of the Romney home from any roadway.  The topography of the land is such that the house blends in nicely behind some natural elevation changes.  The Romneys have done a brilliant job of having the house blend in with the surroundings vs. standout as some other trophy homes do.  While the property is as nice as you’ll find, it’s house/buildings are modest in terms of where they fit among the top lake properties.  There are many more properties in the surrounding area that far exceed the Romney compound in value. 

We do believe boat traffic will likely accumulate a bit more in front of their home, but luckily it’s not on the way to anything substantial, so it may not even affect traffic patterns on the water.  Having the Romneys as neighbors is nothing but positive, and they were credited with rescuing folks from a sinking boat not far off their shore several years ago.  Members of the family raced out on a watercraft to provide assistance to a boater in trouble.  While it’s hard to predict the full impact if he becomes our next president, I can tell you as a neighbor and someone lucky enough to have dealt with their family, we could use more Romney families in the world!

Gotta like the fashion!

With the excitement that surrounds the Masters each year, it’s a time of year in the Lakes Region where we are all antsy to get out and play.  Kingswood Golf Club in Wolfeboro opened its greens for play on Wednesday, and I had to tell a few friends from Massachusetts “the flags are in” – which is usually the second and most important step after “ice out on Winnipesaukee.”

While I’m sure it’s a bit damp out there, and the greens won’t exactly be running at high Stimp numbers, it’s still nice to be back out there.  Lake Winnipesaukee Golf Club tried to do the prudent/economical thing this winter by delaying the opening until May 11th.  This made sense, as few are around and, many years, that’s as early as we can go – but of course our  snow-less winter and very mild spring to date have the club dealing with some pressure to open sooner.

While we’re not exactly ready to hop in Lake Winnipesaukee just yet, the summer season is getting closer each day.  So, on your next trip to the Lakes Region don’t forget to bring your clubs!

With spring here and a record early ice out, we seem to be seeing a number of big parcels and big homes hitting the market, some for the very first time.  The value of any property is not limited to “what it is,” but rather what it can be. -And how much will it cost, to get it to meet its potential?  There are so many factors that go into evaluating property these days, that it’s a mistake to simply look at other large parcels.

The most common mistake real estate agents make is comparing large parcels with large frontage to each other.  While that makes logical sense, it doesn’t always work.  While the amount of frontage does have an impact, there are many more factors that go into figuring out just how many lots you can have.  Here are some of the categories that apply:

• Amount of acreage required per lot * (See H.I.S.S. study info below)
• Amount of road frontage needed for main road and additional building lots
• What is the actual zoning, and is it the same in all parts of the land?
• Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act and how it affects building at the water
• Docks, breakwaters, boathouses and other shoreland plans
• Fire protection requirements, which affect ALL new development
• Insurance issues that come from fire protections issues
• Effect on neighboring properties both during and after construction
• and many more…

* H.I.S.S. Study (High Intensity Soils Study) is how we determine how much land you need to create one build-able acre of land.  I will write a blog post on the H.I.S.S. and how it works in the near future.

If you have a large parcel of land with water frontage, first of all you’re a lucky person and likely have lots of friends who want to come visit.  However, if it’s a time in your life where you want/need to sell the parcel and move on, be sure to put much care and thought into choosing the people you work with, as you determine the value of your property.  All too often property owners list with their friends, not realizing the impact of what the unrealized potential of a property could be.  Unless you know what the potential of a piece of property is, or what it can be, then there is no way you can understand what it’s worth.  If you owe a friend a favor, hire those that understand land planning and land development.  If you do that, you’ll likely earn enough extra money in the potential of the land that you can take your real estate agent friend on the trip of a lifetime. read more »

Quite often I get this question when I am transporting Lakes Region island buyers around to various properties. Yes, it is true that there were rattlesnakes on the island, although it has been many decades since anyone has confirmed seeing one on the island. How the snakes got there is a mystery, although the ledges are an ideal habitat for them.

One of the stories on how the snakes got there is the Indians wanted to protect some of their possessions from the white man when he entered the area. The Indians transported their possessions to Rattlesnake and then set the snakes loose to keep the white man off the island. Another story is that two brothers lived on the island and had a falling out in which one brother built a stone wall down the island to split it in two and then in an effort to drive the other brother off the island he set the snakes loose. This, according to the legend, was a great failure as both brothers were driven off the island when the snakes multiplied rapidly.

There are many history reports of the snakes, and the Libby Museum in Tuftonboro has some of the island snakes on display for the public to see. In the early 1900’s there was a gentleman by the name of Jesse Whitten from Wolfeboro who considered himself a healer of sorts. He would harvest the snake tails from the island to use in his healing potions. There are also reports of workers from the lumbering operations who got bitten by the snakes. To try to eliminate the snakes the island was set afire, but the snakes were able to hide deep in the crevices in the ledges and survived. The island was finally eliminated of the snakes by the introduction of razorback hogs which hunted them.

Some people believe the island is named as such due to its shape and some believe it looks like an alligator. Whichever way you think, Rattlesnake is an island with a lot to offer. It is actually part of the Belknap Range and the peak of the island is known as Rattlesnake Mountain. Rattlesnake Mountain is 900’ in elevation, which is 400’ above mean lake level and 886’ lower than Mount Major. The panoramic views from atop the island are spectacular. There are many hiking trails on the island and great bonanzas of blueberries and raspberries. However, there is no public access to the island, so unless you own on the island or know an owner, there is no way to hike it.

The island is 2 miles long and approximately 5 miles in circumference. In the late 1950’s, early 60’s, there was a measured mile on the northwest side of the island so boaters could measure their boat speed. It is the largest non-bridged island on Winnipesaukee with 368 acres. It certainly is the tallest and easiest to recognize, a great landmark to help boaters orientate themselves on the lake.

To learn more about Rattlesnake Island or other New Hampshire lakes, visit our Lakes Region Info page.

Now that the winter season has rolled around, you might be afraid that you will have a hard time selling your New Hampshire home (especially with the threat of snow storms), but the trick is in how you advertise it.

The first way you can grab attention from potential buyers is to focus on the curb appeal.  There might be snow on the roof or the lawn, but you can use that to your advantage.  People searching for a home during this season will be looking for something that looks cozy and warm underneath the snow.  It’s important to make sure you’re clearing pathways without getting rid of the white blanket on the lawn or roof.

To create a cozier feel you might want to think about hanging a wreath on the door or putting some festive branches in your planters.  Although the holiday has passed, these decorations can last all season as long as they’re kept simple.  Simplicity should be reflected in all parts of your home décor, not just the rooms inside.  Make sure not to go overboard with decorations, or you’ll hide the appeal of the house itself.  Most home buyers won’t be interested in a yard cluttered with inflatable snowmen or a roof covered with Christmas lights.  Just a few special touches should do the trick.

Also, in your home’s listing you should make sure to show photos from both the spring and winter season so home buyers get a good view of the home year-round.  Another way to catch attention is to post photos of the views from the home because they are likely to attract potential buyers.

Whichever way you choose to advertise your home, make sure to showcase its best features.  Happy home selling!

Source: New Hampshire CDFA

A press release from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority website announced that $4 million in Community Development Block Grants would be awarded to various New Hampshire cities, towns, and counties.  The purpose of this donation would be to help create affordable housing for the citizens of New Hampshire as well as help to upgrade many public facilities.  These CDFA grants are meant to help the lower income residents of these areas.

The regions receiving the awards include Cheshire County, Marlborough, Winchester, Berlin, Coos County, Lebanon, Exeter, Laconia, and Franklin.  Some towns will be using them for community centers, child care facilities, low-income apartments, and learning centers.  So what does this mean for New Hampshire residents? Help is on the way for struggling towns and citizens.  The money the CDFA is donating is meant to help lower income families and businesses succeed and live more comfortably without the constant worry of money.

What do you think about these grants?  Will they make a difference for New Hampshire communities?

To see the full press release or find more information, visit the CDFA website.

Image via Gunstock

Visiting the Lakes Region this winter or just looking to try something new in the area?  Here are some suggestions for winter-themed activities to do while you’re here.  For a full list, visit the Lakes Region Tourism website.

Gunstock Mountain Resort – Gilford
One great option for hitting the trails is the Gunstock Mountain Resort which offers 220 acres of skiing and riding.  You can also go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on one of their many trails.  Another option for thrill-seekers is snow tubing on New Hampshire’s longest tubing hill.  To find out more information or to purchase a pass, visit the Gunstock website.

King Pine Ski area at Purity Spring Resort - East Madison
If you are looking to do some skiing or snowboarding while in New Hampshire, check out the King Pine Ski Area at Purity Spring Resort.  They offer a variety of options for people of different abilities and skill levels.  Along with skiing and snowboarding, they also offer snowshoeing and ice skating.  Visit the King Pine website for more information on pricing and events.

SledVentures – Lincoln
Interested in experiencing the snow in a new way?  Rent a snowmobile with SledVentures!  You can take a guided or private tour as well as rent your own snowmobile for the day.  All gear is included in the price, so SledVentures provides a great deal for a day of snow adventures.  For more information visit their website.

Dexter’s Inn – Sunapee
Not only is Dexter’s Inn an affordable, family-friendly resort-inn, but it also offeres a variety of activities and adventures.  Spend the day skiing or snowshoeing with Dexter’s Inn Trails by Norsk.  If you are new to skiing, they also offer lessons and equipment rentals.  After a day in the snow, warm up by the fireplace at the Inn.  To find otu more or make your reservation, visit the Dexter’s Inn website.

For more suggestions on places to visit or activities for your New Hampshire Lakes Region vacation, visit the Lakes Region Tourism website.  Do you have any tips on places to visit in the Lakes Region in the winter months?  Share them with us!

Image via Santa's Village

Between winter-proofing your home and shopping for Christmas presents, make sure you find the time to check out some of these holiday events going on in New Hampshire’s Lake Region.  For a full list or more information on these events, visit the Lake Winnipesaukee Travel Guide website.

Kids Night Out: November 4th – December 16th
Sill need to finish your Christmas shopping without the kids? Bring them to the Laconia Community Center for games, crafts, and pizza with kids their age.  It’s happening every night November 4th through December 16th from 5:30-9:00PM.  The cost is $15 per child, per night and registration is required so make sure you sign up today!

Ho-Ho-Hobo Santa Express: November 25th – December 18th
Enjoy a holiday train ride every weekend from November 25th to December 18th with the Ho-Ho-Hobo Santa Express Train in Lincoln, New Hampshire.  The trip is 80 minutes and goes down along the Pemigewasset River to the Jack O’Lantern Resort south of Woodstock.  Kids get a chance to meet Santa, taste hot chocolate and cookies, and enjoy the scenery.  For more information, check out the Santa Express Train website or call 603-745-2135.

Santa’s Village: November 19th – December 31st
Visit Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire every weekend from November 19th to December 21st to get in the holiday spirit with your kids!  There are plenty of sights and activities including cookie and ornament decorating.  You can also check out the shops, enjoy rides, and try some holiday refreshments.  Find out more on the Santa’s Village website.

Wolfeboro Festival of Trees: December 10th-18th
Visit the Wolfeboro Festival of Trees Charity benefit at the Wright Museum in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.  The event is being held on the weekends between December 10th and December 18th.  There will be plenty of entertainment, refreshments, and more than 65 Christmas trees decorated by local businesses.  Visit the Wolfeboro Festival of Trees website to learn more.

Wolfeboro’s First Night: December 31st
Enjoy a night of fun, food, and entertainment at Wolfeboro, New Hampshire’s First Night event on December 31st.  Performances begin at 2:00PM and continue on into the night.  Some events include ice skating, Doo-wop music, fiddle playing, a parade, and fireworks.  You can find out more information or purchase a button and entry to the event at the First Night website.

For a full list of events in the Lake Winnipesaukee area, visit the Lake Winnipesaukee Travel Guide website.  If you have any other tips on holiday events happening this year, let us know!

Happy Holidays from Prudential Spencer-Hughes!

Every four years, as the nation gears up for its next presidential election, our small state receives a large amount of attention from the media thanks to our early primary election.

(Photo Credit: CBS - www.cbsnews.com)

This time around, the Lakes Region is receiving some extra focus thanks to Wolfeboro property owner Mitt Romney, who also happens to be a strong contender for the Republican party presidential noimation.  CBS News recently visited with our own Kathryn Aitken, who discussed Romney’s fabulous summer home on Lake Winnipesaukee and what it’s like to have a presidential hopeful living among us.

Read the full article, “Mitt Romney’s New Hampshire Getaway” and feel free to share your comments about what you think life in the Lakes Region might be like with the American president as a sometime neighbor.

Lots of people want to move to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, and understandably so. However, one of the hurdles in making the dream a reality for some people is selling their existing home.  We have a client who wants to buy a home in Wolfeboro, and is selling this beautiful property in Weathersfield, Vermont.  Please pass this along to anyone you know who is looking for a home in Vermont.  Thank you!

260 Dan Jarvis, Weathersfield, VT

Spectacular country cape with 78 acres and views of Ascutney. Ideally situated with easy access to I-91, yet completely private and quiet end of the road location. Property consists of a magnificently landscaped yard with perennials, raised vegetable beds, blueberry bushes and fruit trees, swimming pool, approximately 6 acres of open pasture, sugar bush, wood lot with snowmobiling, hiking, cross-country trails throughout, brook and beaver pond.  Cape home has many desirable features: generous first floor master bedroom and bath, large kitchen, 3-season porch, office, stone gas fireplace and 2 woodstoves, plenty of storage including a 12×8 cedar closet, 2-car garage, a propane generator that powers the entire house, and incredible Ascutney views! AND there are several outbuildings including a 30′x 40′ 2-story barn, 20′x 50′ equipment barn, sugar house and sheep barn. Come take a look!

Listed by: Debra Staniscia/VCP Sotheby`s International – Ludlow

Adam Dow info@adamdow.com 603.569.6060