Miami International Airport reported a high of 36 today, the coldest day in 86 years. And I suspect it was far more difficult for the huddled Miamites to deal with their weather than it is for us in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire to deal with ours. Everything may be relative, but we embrace winter and welcome it. This past weekend Alton Bay Sea Plane Base (B18) became operational when it froze sufficiently for snow plows to clear an ice runway. I saw a light plane land this afternoon, first of the season for me.

The Lakes Region boast extensive cross country ski trails thanks to the numerous centuries old forgotten roads and the maintenance of snow mobile clubs. The world of the woods can be very quiet at this time of year. The white bark of the birch and the darker forest of pine, fir and spruce exaggerate the stillness making a stark contrast to what must be taking place in the Sunbelt. At the same time I can feel some concern for the Mid-westerners and the minus 50 degree wind chills. New Hampshire is certainly a grand place to be in the winter.

Fresh snow on Mount Washington and other peaks gleam in the sunshine and softly glow at sunset. Grandeur, color and spaciousness beyond the ability to fully grasp. A new friend of mine recently relocated from an eastern city which I won’t name, though familiar to the whole world, to an Adirondack cabin near Lake Winnipesaukee. He has since affirmed to me what he had already suspected, namely that a home office with a lake and Mountain View far outstrips a corner office in a skyscraper. Balanced accessibility, a new sociological phenomenon.

Jim Ferriman      Jferriman@spencerhughes.com    my home office 603-267-9866

One of the popular features of the Spencer Hughes website are the live video cam shots of Lake Winnipesaukee. Charitably, the out of state second home owner can stay in touch with the seasonal changes of the lakes region or not so nobly, increase their enjoyment of the warmer climes they have since fled to. Nothing like a live computerized view of Winter Carnival activities on the frozen surfaces of Wolfeboro or Alton Bay while boating in the Caribbean.
At the same time he can switch to live closed circuit videos of his New Hampshire home on his computer or his cell phone.

 A Centralized Control System can activate not only smoke and fire detectors but also monitor water, carbon monoxide, freeze, and intruder sensors. Appliance Control Systems activate interior LED lighting systems and television/radio operation that will give the impression that the home is fully occupied. I know one couple who relied on live video to check on babysitters and later when their children arrived home from school to an empty house. Another couple provided for their elderly parents with a movement monitor worn on the wrist.

The possible configurations are enormous for the homeowner. Always losing your keys, then Biometric Locks may be the solution. Incredibly sensitive Motion Sensors and DVR hidden cameras provide a high level of criminal deterrence. I suppose that the biggest improvement in Home Security is the fact while options have increased prices have declined. Basic and efficient systems are now affordable for even the seasonal cottage owner, and I recommend them.

Jim Ferriman  jferriman@spencerhughes.com  603-267-9866/ 603-52-5385

I admire the results of planning and forethought. And every time I tie up at the Meredith town docks I’m impressed by the effort of the town fathers in creating this quintessential white New England village. Prior to 1830 almost every structure in New England was unpainted. But, at around that period, entrepreneurs began manufacturing paint and distributing it in containers. White paint became the paint of choice because it was easier and cheaper to produce than colored paint. Early promoters shrewdly marketed white as the “tint of wealth” and thereby increased their profit margin. No matter, it lent itself to the classical appearance of an apparent prosperity of villages then as it does now.
The current town fathers of Meredith certainly have taken those lessons to heart. The result is a strikingly beautiful town on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and one that is becoming a worldwide destination resort. The town offers accommodation and dining choices which are among the finest in New England. And access to the wide world is a Gulfstream V away at the Laconia Municipal Airport. The homes along the shoreline on Meredith Neck are some of the most impressive on the lake with wonderful views down the length of Lake Winnipesaukee. Especially in winter, Meredith evokes a memorable experience for all who can spend some time here. Check out www.meredith.com, you’ll see what I mean.
Jim Ferriman jferriman@spencerhughes.com 603-520-5385

For years I skied the “Champagne Powder” of Steamboat Springs and the advice I gave to talented teenagers was that if they wish to compete on a larger stage they should plan on finishing high school at a ski town in the Northeast part of the country. Why? Edging techniques can’t be taught in 2 feet of powder.

When I myself finally relocated I picked the Lakes Region of New Hampshire partly because of the proximity of Gunstock Ski Resort. Though now I teach by appointment only I did spend a half dozen enjoyable seasons instructing there. For me Gunstock is an instructors dream and the most teachable mountain I have ever experienced.

The secrets of Gunstock lie in the selective nature of the terrain slopes, the low number of mid-week skiers and the uniform consistency of the snow. Once over a period of 4 years a balance impaired skier from Florida, who maintained a second home on the Big Lake, and I worked together in 80 separate lessons that allowed him to become a capable intermediate skier.

The views of Lake Winnipesaukee and its islands from the summit of Gunstock are stunning. This one was taken on at dawn from near the top of the mountain off the intermediate Gunsmoke run. Its no wonder that many of the second homes in the region are principally ski chalets for family and friends. I suggest you check Gunstock.com for this season’s opening date.

Rattlesnake Island

Jim Ferriman Jferriman@spencerhughes.com 603-520-5385

According to a National Association of Realtors (NAR) statistic the combined total of second home sales in 2005 accounted for 4 out of every 10 real estate transactions. The NAR determined that these second home buyers bought 41% of the time for vacation purposes, 31% for use as a family retreat and 28% to diversify their investments.

Now, why would anyone at the end of 2009 care about statistical data from 2005? We can assert that the underlying motivations for the buyers haven’t changed. Mortgage interest rates remain attractive, the stock market is still uncertain, the geo-political scene is roughly the same and congress is no more or less united on any clear objective.

From a realtor’s standpoint home values appeared to have reached a short term peak during the summer of 2006 and since then the difference between the listing and closing price of the average residence has widened, in short the market has shifted to the buyer’s advantage.

The basic axiom of real estate is and has always been that of location. This certainly holds firmly for the second home buyer. The appeal of the area, the activity options available, the quality of life, the distance from the primary residence, the services present and the general interest in the area are key to the second home buyer.

What does the Lakes Region offer in amenities to the second home buyer? The local chamber of commerce of Wolfeboro, Meredith, Gilford, Tuftonboro, Alton and Moultonborough would be happy to recount the outstanding features of the Lake Winnipesaukee area for you and I suggest that you take the time to review all the information available. The key to a happy and successful second home investment is the research effort and continued discussion involving the whole family.

What brought me to the area was water. The Western part of the country is drying up at the same time it is filling up. Water experts have for a number of years warned that the net result for the inevitable water restrictions on land west of the 100th meridian line may well be calamitous for the large population centers. I believe them. And as someone once said, “good waterfront acreage is becoming scarcer and scarcer”.

Well, deer season starts in a week. Most of the Lakes Region fall into the J1 and J2 hunting sections, among the most productive in the state. Time to put away the golf clubs, stow the boat and clean the rifle. Another compelling reason for the New Hampshire second home buyer to consider property in the Lakes Region.

Regards,

Jim Ferriman      Jferriman@spencerhughes.com     603-520-5385

The Autumnal Equinox like the Spring Equinox occurs when the earth’s axis is inclined neither towards the sun nor away from it, the sun being vertical above a point on the equator. So says Webster’s. 

I say as we approach this semi-annual event that there is stillness and heaviness in the air, a somnolence, and a hesitation as the Lakes Region moves to the annual effusion of color that engulfs New Hampshire. I can’t imagine living in a place without seasons, a dreary sameness covering the land, not so here. Everyone senses the approaching explosion of color soon to erupt covering over familiar hillsides and woods. FALL, the absolute best time of the year. 

The local paper reports that the unusual amount of rain of the early summer months will result in a rare vibrancy and sharpness to the pigmentation of the leaves. This is the time for the hardwoods to come forth, the Ash, Beech, Birch, Maple, Oak and a cruise on the lake aboard the Mount Washington is a great way to experience a New Hampshire autumn. Each island seems to compete with its neighbor as a Currier and Ives poster edition. 

What else is on the agenda? How about the Sandwich Fair in a few weeks time. I have a favorite book on early New Hampshire titled “The Road through Sandwich Notch” by Elizabeth Yates, which makes the 200 plus year history come alive in this magnificent portion of New Hampshire. Also its time to split and store this season’s firewood. Firewood, warms you as you cut it, transport it, stack it and finally burn it, what a bargain.

From a realtor’s standpoint this is the time of the year when the serious buyers come forth. Those who have done their homework over the spring and summer and have a clear idea of what they want if not where to find it.

My own log shows a sharp spike in island property inquiries, more so than in previous years. So many who are approaching retirement have fond memories of their youth spent at one of the summer island camps on Lake Winnipesaukee. The urge to re-capture those feelings becomes nearly irresistible to them. My good friend and Spencer Hughes associate, Island Bob Parmenter, has gone so far as to live year round on Cow Island in his fantastic Adirondack home. Adventurous, of course, but his rewards are nearly immeasurable.

Our new and expanded web site is nearing completion. Adam Dow has been directing the effort through our web designers. Once on line our objective is to provide the most thorough, complete and user friendly service to our clients and customers here and around the world. Please make use of it as a way to stay current with the changing local real estate market.

Jim Ferriman             Jferriman@spencerhughes.com                        603-520-

I think that the summer season has begun. We’ve had some rain its true, as well as some unseasonable cooler weather for the past month, welcome to New England. At one time New Hampshire was thought of as a place to go to escape the heat and humidity of Massachusetts. Now the Lakes Region has become the much desired summer destination for those folks seeking to escape the drought and searing heat of an area from San Diego to Miami. I can certainly understand their very sensible objective. Having lived in west Texas, New Mexico and Colorado where the summer sun seems to trap everything in a deep dust dry as chalk, photographs of New England were overwhelming. Even those enamored by the skyline of a city as seen through the velvety smog of their high-rise condominium windows develop an irresistible urge to venture out to the frontiers in search of what, change. Perhaps in an effort to balance their lives and or sanity.

At any rate the cabins, motels and campgrounds are full. The influx of happy visitors, they’re on vacation, is invigorating to our region. I’ll hazard that one out of every three who stay a week or more will make an inquiry as to the local real estate market during their visit. Now, many of our incomers have visited Washington D.C., New York City, Glacier National Park and even Orlando, Florida but I suspect few ever feel the desire to inquire about real estate there. Why is that? Is the Lakes Region that unique? I would say of course, by all means, the primary goal of this blog is to convey this very singular perception.

I’ve written blogs highlighting the desirability of New Hampshire and the Lakes Region for business incentives, living standards and geographical superiority. But, probably for me the tipper is the sense of unity a family experiences while here. One of our agents, Jeremy Osgood, recently listed a magnificent gated waterfront estate in Moultonborough consisting of 4 permanent residences, 4 seasonal cottages, clay tennis court, gym, studio and 2 boathouses. It is difficult to imagine a family compound in a more graceful setting.

Last week’s analytic report on visits to the Spencer Hughes web site tallied 3,935 from a total of 21 countries. An encouraging figure for a firm whose specialty is the limited area surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee. Our realtors have an almost encyclopedic knowledge of the Lakes Region. If they don’t have a ready answer for your inquiries they know how to research for the solution. Enjoy your visit and we welcome your interest.

www.jferriman@spencerhughes.com             Jim Ferriman 603-520-5385

For some the joy is in the journey. For others it is where the journey can take them. Now I enjoy a day on the big lake by whatever mode of transportation I happen to using. But I have noted that sailing offers additional pleasures over motoring, at least for me. I like the involvement of handling the lines, the feel of the tiller, the positioning of the boat to the wind. That sense of accomplishment of having moved from point A to point B and back using only the natural forces and physics.

There are several sailing organizations operating on Lake Winnipesaukee. The Winnipesaukee Yacht Club dates from 1937 and operates as a private club based in Gilford. The Meredith Bay Sailing Association on Lake Winnipesaukee is a certified community sailing program whose objective is to provide people of Lakes Region sailing opportunities. There are also well established programs at several summer camps along the lake and Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro offers sailing seamanship as part of its curriculum.

I am an avid supporter and member of The Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association. The LWSA runs a sailing school for children from 8 to 16 years of age. Their fleet of over 20 boats supports an active classroom and water program for all interests, abilities and means. Sponsoring adult racing activities for a mixed fleet the association offers a convivial atmosphere before, during and after every event. Serious racers can participate in the J/80 fleet events held weekly through the summer months. The LWSA has the impressive national credentials of being named Fleet 1 of the J/80 class sailboat. This season’s kick off dinner will be held May 14^th at the Lyon’s Den in Glendale. This is a very active and committed group supporting and promoting interest in sailing for all ages and skills. Visit them most any Saturday morning a Fay’s Boatyard in Gilford and perhaps you’ll be invited to crew on a boat for the day’s sail. 

Regardless, every boater on Lake Winnipesaukee has many of choices for itineraries: lunch in Meredith, cocktails in Alton Bay, dinner in Wolfeboro, island hopping and sightseeing everywhere. The big lake is the crown jewel of the Lakes Region and provides unique experiences for everyone sampling the lifestyles offered here in New Hampshire.

Jferriman@spencerhughes.com   (603) 520-5385

The appeal of gated communities in the Lakes Region has been present since the founding of some of the earliest communities along Lake Winnipesaukee. Original motivations centered primarily upon security and safety. This appeal, while still present, has been by and large replaced by the desire of a property owner to have greater privacy and a greater increase in property value. The exclusivity of membership in a private community where a visible effort has been made to provide a safe environment for families sharing similar values is a powerful desire. Private communities that have well established rules for construction, maintenance and use serve to protect the value of homes of the members. This added emphasis of additional security and preservation of value is a strong incentive for post-9/11 baby boomers.

The international development efforts have experienced tremendous growth fueled by retirement and second homebuyers seeking to maximize their value of their fixed income projections. In Panama, Mexico and many Asian states entire communities have been designed from the ground up incorporating their own power supply, sanitation and security infrastructures. X-pats have migrated to take advantage of rather huge income gaps between the haves and have-nots within the host country. Political stability of host countries and environmental issues have taken distant secondary positions to financial interests with the result there are a number of ill-defined risks for the buyer.

Lake Winnipesaukee has competed directly for the second homeowner market with those emphasizing other domestic locations. Our region has not experienced the wide speculative interests of Florida and Sun Belt real estate and as a result has presented a more reliable economic forecast of value and worth. The wide disparities of construction efforts around the periphery of the lake do however skew appreciation expectations lowering or raising appreciation rates due to the proximity of more expansive dwellings.

Which brings us back to the subject of this blog. Premier gated communities along Winnipesaukee such as Grouse Point and the newer community of Meredith Bay present to the discriminating buyer well-conceived master plans that provide stable predictable environments for their families and their investment. These well-financed residential projects designed by experienced development groups take much of the stress out of the buyer’s decision concerning their major investment. And a good deal of the concerns of property maintenance can be eliminated from the buyer’s equation. Over the course of time I’m certain we will see similar development efforts of various profiles. The interest is not and never will be limited to only the wealthier of the second homeowners. The desire to physically and psychologically lock out the outside world remains as strong a motivation for the second homebuyer as it always has.

I first came to the Lakes Region on a vacation, like many do. My family and I had set aside 2 weeks to learn something about New Hampshire and visit with relatives who had a second home on Loon Pond. The setting presented an entirely different environment for my 3 children who had been born and raised in Colorado. I mean the novelty of a lake outside your back door was something you don’t have in most parts of the west.

But, children being children, by the third day I was given to understand that there was nothing to do. Unless of course one went fishing or canoeing or sailing or water skiing or swimming or kayaking, or just floated out on the lake in an inner tube. I guess it’s all in one’s perspective. So, I drove out to a chamber of commerce kiosk and picked up copies of things to do in New Hampshire. Just a few out of more than 100 brochures.

The next day, we were introduced to Lake Winnipesaukee by booking passage on the Mt. Washington from Alton Bay to Meredith and back. This turned out to be a major hit with everyone. The excitement of activities on the lake and the observance of what seemed like an exotic island life was we talked about that night around the campfire.We decided we wanted to see more of New Hampshire and picked out our favorite places to go.

The following day we all took a drive to the actual Mount Washington and rode the cog railway to the highest point in New England. No one really knew what to expect but we were keen on getting to the top via a steam engine. From the base the climb appeared to be impossible, from halfway up we were sure it was. The views seemed to encompass all of New Hampshire as well as Vermont and Maine. We were, the conquerors of fourteeners in Colorado, impressed. Shopping in the afternoon at the discount stores in North Conway proved to be a real bargain and practical side trip for everyone.

The day after we all went to the Loon Sanctuary in Moultonborough, had lunch in Sandwich at the Corner House and then drove up and over Sandwich Notch into Campton and on to the Waterville Valley ski resort. Earlier in our vacation I had read  “The Road Through Sandwich Notch” by Elizabeth Yates. And so I was able to point out and reflect on the individual histories of many of the 200-year-old stone foundations we saw along the dirt road. This book is well worth reading for anyone curious about the colonial life of the settlers in the interior wilderness of New Hampshire.

Late the following morning we made a visit to the Weirs for a more contemporary view of the life styles of those drawn to the Lakes Region. And then on to the nearby Fun Spot arcadeium completed our required “not to be missed agenda”.

Well rested the next morning we decided to stretch our legs on what we expected to be a stroll of a mile and a half up Mount Major. We came away with yet another understanding of and respect for the physical beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee, not to mention the vertical challenges of hiking in New England.

After the hike we all voted to travel the circumference of the lake itself. Everyone loved Wolfeboro and at Center Harbor we saw the Mt. Washington again taking on passengers for a new cruise. We had an early dinner in Meredith and walked along the town docks admiring the private boats and yachts moored there.

The following morning with our vacation dwindling down to just 4 days we felt we should see the White Mountain region again and so made drive and saw the state’s official emblem. Back then the Old Man in the Mountain still held onto his place on the cliff face in Franconia Notch. A quick trip over the Kancamagus Highway brought us by Loon Mountain Ski area, which impressed the Steamboat Springs skiers.

The next day the realization hit everyone with the same intensity that we only had 3 days left in New Hampshire. We were determined to spend every minute from then on at Loon Pond. I remember wondering what life would be like here for the other 50 weeks of the year. Fifteen years later we would find out.

Its great!

Jferriman@spencerhughes.com       (603) 520-5385