Cathy Clark - Cape Cod Real Estate

Welcome Home to Cape Cod
Welcome to Cathy Clark - Cape Cod Real Estate Sign in | Help

Cathy Clark

  • What's the Cape Cod Market Like Right Now?

    I get this question a lot. 

    The Cape Cod market, like other vistor-driven areas of the country is cyclical.  The holidays also affect most markets.  Most people begin thinking about buying a home or are actively searching as we get closer to Spring.

    So even though we haven't reached the end of February, I thought I'd run some quick numbers just comparing January, 2008 to February, 2008, to date.  So far, it would appear that this year is no exception.

    According to the Cape & Islands MLS, January saw 436 homes either under contract or sold.  There were 5,016 homes in the inventory.  So far for February there are 635 homes sold or under contract.  Given the skittishness of Wall Street, forecasts of a collapsing real estate market, and more stringent criteria for mortgage approval, and increase of 200 in sales and pendings isn't too shabby!  There are also about 480 fewer homes in inventory.

    So what does this mean?  Is it a Buyer's Market or a Seller's Market?

    Maybe.  Gee thanks. Great answer, Cathy.  That helps a lot!

    Well, here's my take on it as I gaze into my crystal ball and all numbers are open to interpretation.  It's more of a Buyer's market than a Seller's market but there are qualified Buyers out there who ARE buying.  There are also Sellers who are motivated to sell. 

    So is it a good time to buy or sell?  Depends on your own personal situation. 

    If you are a seller in an up-side down mortgage (owe more than it's current market value), probably not.  However, if you have equity in your home and room to negotiate with a valid Buyer, you can probably either move up and get more for your money or taken the equity and downsize.

    Buyers need to have a good credit score and debt to income ratio.  Interest rates are still good, and mortgages are being approved.  Speak with a lender to see what you could qualify for.  Be realistic.  If you qualify for $300,000, don't start looking at $450,000 homes thinking that you're going to find the deal of the century.  Not likely.  Stay within your range, know what you want to pay monthly, keeping mind taxes and insurance. 

    All real estate is cyclical and local.  The numbers we hear on the news are National.  Even local news outlets are using statewide statistics.  Different counties are experiencing varying levels of foreclosure, inventories and sales. 

    Whether you want to buy or sell, the Spring market on Cape Cod is looking up for both!

  • I Have a Dream.....

    I’ve been thinking more so this year than ever in the past, about the legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    I’ve always been inspired by his words and actions.  Dr. King’s messages of non-violent protest, equality for all in education, politics, and day-to-day life have given so many opportunities to more people than I believe even he aspired to.  But I don’t believe I’ve ever thought about it as extending beyond those of color. 

    I was very young in the 60’s, but became very aware of this struggle during the 70’s when “forced bussing” became a lightening rod in Boston.  I still can never forget that picture of a “white guy” using the American Flag as a weapon in, of all places, my “hometown”!  (I wonder where he is now.) After all, the “North” was supposed to be so much more “liberal” than the “South”, wasn’t it?  Yet Boston was as divided by race and socio-economic status as the South.  It was a real eye-opener to me.

    My mother, having been raised as a typical Irish-Catholic in Boston, had a different view and was embarrassed by the actions of our neighbors.  And she spoke with me at length about it.  But more importantly, she didn’t just talk about it.  She lived it and she set the example I still live by today, and that by which I teach my children.

    Still, today though, there are many jokes and euphemisms, which are part of our everyday language.  I’ve heard them from my own children’s mouths and I’m dismayed.  Even in a supposedly “enlightened” society, there are still distinctions. There are still many people (parents) who make these comments, pass them onto their children, who in turn, infect others with the “disease”.  My kid’s only saving grace is that they don’t actually understand them until I explain what they actually mean.  As naïve as they are about inequality, it still concerns me that they could be influenced by their peers and the parents of those peers.

    Yet, I’m glad they are naïve and I must explain these things to them.  That tells me that we’re making progress and gradually but, ever so slowly, moving beyond these misconceptions about race.

    But it’s not just about race.  Or religion.  Or socio-economic background.  Or physical or mental capabilities. It’s about giving everyone a chance at becoming successful.  Just like Mary’s earlier post: Reaching out to give them a “leg up”.  Not as “charity” but as a human being helping another human being able to realize the American Dream.

    I apologize for the length of this post, but I believe that Dr. King didn’t only affect people of his own race.

    I believe that Dr. King gave many others the strength and fortitude to assert themselves and their rights to be equal.  I believe that Women, the “Disabled”, the “Economically Depressed” and many others have benefitted and found inspiration in Dr. King’s words and actions.

    Would we have two viable Presidential candidates, one of color and one a woman, without Dr. King?  Would we have a Mormon winning primaries?  Would we have a woman of color as our Secretary of State, if not for Colin Powell, who would never have been the first "of color"Sec'y of State ?  Would we have benefitted from Thurgood Marshall?  Gloria Steinham?  And a host of others?

    How wonderful that Dr. King's very simple message has translated into so much change in our society.  Wow.  Rather makes you think that even those most humble of "us" can and should make a difference.  We don't need to lose our lives over it, as so many have.  They made it much easier on us  to make a differenct.

    You never know where it will lead.

    As a CSNY song touts:  “Teach Your Children well” and, more often than not: “Teach Your Parents Well”

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6pphVs8bF0

  • Homeless for the Holidays, 2007

    One of the many traditions of giving on Cape Cod is now in its 6th year in Buzzards Bay and will begin on Wednesday, December 12, 2007. 

    Beginning at 8:00 a.m. Bourne, MA Firefighters will camp out in the parking lot of Mezza Luna on Main St, Buzzards Bay, for 103 hours (ending Sunday, December 16th). 

    Why do they do this?  To raise money for those of us who are less fortunate.  This was the brainchild of Firefighter Craig Poirier and has since taken on a life of its own.

    They accept cash donations and non-perishable food items, as well as toys which are donated to Toys for Tots.  Over the past five years, this group has raised more than $60,000 in cash, about 15,000 pounds of food and over 15,000 toys.  Every year, the turn-out is better than the last. 

    Despite the devastating loss of Mezza Luna Restaurant in a fire two months ago, the generosity of the Cubellis Family once again proves why they are so respected in the Town of Bourne.  Their family’s 70 year-old restaurant, a fixture here, went up in flames, fought by the very Firefighters who will be homeless.  Mr. Cubellis couldn’t imagine this event being held anywhere else. 

    So, next to the burnt remains of the restaurant, the Firefighters will pitch their tents, get the fires burning in the barrels, Mr. Cubellis will keep them fed, and they will do what Firefighters do best:  Look out for those who are in danger and need help.

    The weather between now and Sunday does not look good.  Three storms of varying intensity have been forecast.  Including rain, sleet and snow. But this is a hardy group of individuals and they’ve weathered worse.

    With charitable donations down everywhere because of economic conditions, our help is needed more than ever.

    The goal this year is to exceed last year’s donations of $17,000 by another $3,000. 

    We hardy and crusty New Englanders can surely venture out into a little bad weather to help them reach their goal! 

    So take a little detour to Main Street in Buzzards Bay.  No matter how small your donation, it will help a lot of people.

    And a huge thank you to all who participate in this wonderful example of how people who give so much always find a way to give more.

     

     

     

  • Those Who Can Teach, DO. Those Who Can’t, DON’T.

    Recently on another forum, someone used a phrase that has always raised the hackles on the back of my neck.  This will be the only time I repeat it:

     

    “Those Who Can, DO.  Those Who Can’t, TEACH”.  Arrrggghhhh!

     

    Now, I have never been a teacher but I know some truly amazing ones.  Some were my own teachers, others my children’s.  As a parent, I’ve spent a lot of time volunteering in my children’s schools.  And it never ceases to amaze me why, on Earth, would anyone want to do that job?!?!?  Very little respect from many, disinterested students and parents, and a pay scale that is so far below what many college graduates expect.  Add onto that, behavioral and discipline issues, long hours, some very demanding parents and students, and in some cases, violence.  And, no, most teachers don’t take the summer off.  Most either further their education or work to supplement their meager income.  There are some who may make enough money from teaching to support a family, but that’s only after 30 some-odd years.  I employed Claims Examiners for a health insurance company who made more than most Teachers.

     

    I long ago figured out that I was not cut out to be a teacher.  I just don’t have what it takes.  I’ve watched them in action and I know I could never manage a classroom of 25-30 4th graders, never mind a class of pre-teens and teenagers overdosing on hormones!  Two teens is plenty for me, thank you very much.

     

    So when this phrase was most recently used, I did my usual “calling to the carpet” but began thinking about it even more.  What makes a Teacher want to be a Teacher?  And why don’t we, as a society, give them the respect they deserve?  I almost liken it to being President of the U.S.  What makes a person even think they can do that job?  Many say that anyone who wants to be President must have a huge ego, to think he (or she) can handle being the most powerful leader in the World.  That may be true.  I wouldn’t know.

     

    But to be a Teacher.  Now that’s power and influence.  But to do it and do it well, must take an absolute absence of ego. To take a 5 year old mind, educate and guide it to the cusp of adulthood.  To give that child the broad knowledge needed for a lifetime in just 13 short years.  To teach that child the basics. Plus reasoning, problem-solving, character, social skills, compassion, etc. What a responsibility.  I agree that parents are responsible for those things, as well, but lets face it, once in school our Teachers spend more time with our children than we do.  Yet, they, and the impact they have, generally get no respect and go unnoticed!

     

    You’ve got to have a special “calling” to be a teacher.  The desire for public service, a lack of “what’s in it for me” (unlike the aspiring politician) and the inner knowledge that, despite the many challenges, you may just inspire many children to accomplish great things.  At the very least, you will have contributed to your community and the future.  Every “child”, no matter how old, remembers at least one Teacher.  Mine were Miss Hannaford, who taught in a “mobile classroom” (translate: trailer)  and never spared the hugs in 1st grade, Mr. Keefe, 8th grade English who forced me to love reading, Mrs. Zeoli 7th grade Algebra (that poor thing. She tried and I love her for it.), Mr. Almquist, Sophomore, World History, a passion I still carry to this day.  Mr. Sullivan, Mythology and Religion.  There are many others whose faces I can still “see” in my mind, but can’t recall their names.  Their impact on me lasts to this day.  And I know that my children will remember many of their teachers for the rest of their lives. I know I’ll remember them.  They have given my children such a wealth of knowledge.  They have been more than willing to respond to (and grateful for) my emails, phone calls, etc.  They’re always available to me and my children.

     

    You’ve got to really want it to make the sacrifices our Teachers do.  But, oh, the Rewards.  I hope more qualified college graduates will choose this profession.  I hope our society begins to recognize what our Teachers do for our children.  I believe the former depends on the latter.

     

    Our future depends on it.  What a noble profession.

     

    What does this have to do with real estate?  Not much, really.  Just my rant for the day. But I know a few retired Teachers who are doing quite well in real estate.  I believe their experiences have helped them in their current, chosen profession. 

     

    Many tips o’ the hat for our Teachers.  Thank you.

     

  • Halloween Happenings on Cape Cod, in Plymouth and Salem, MA

    Autumn is probably my favorite time of the year and Halloween my favorite holiday.  The crisp, cool air, the cranberry and other harvests, and of course the foliage.  I love Halloween because it just seems to be more fun without the hassle of some other holidays.  There's no big feast to cook, no mega shopping, no rush.  When my children were younger I would decorate my entire yard with jack-o-lanterns galore, harvest themes and the like.  Never too scary, but definitely fun.  It would take about two weeks to complete.

    I don't do that anymore.  There just doesn't seem to be time.  But I still enjoy the dilemma of my friend's children about "what to be", trick-or-treaters, and the fact that, on November 1st, its OVER!  The other holidays seem to linger on more for some reason.  The only leftover is the candy!

    I thought I'd give you some events occurring on the Cape surrounding Halloween.  There seems to be many available for most ages.  I'm also going to include some from Plymouth and Salem (one of my old stomping grounds).  I hope you'll find something that will make you want to get out and enjoy the season!

    These are provided by CapeCodTravel.com and you can find other events throughout the year at their website. 

    Friday, October 26
    Haunted Forest, 5:45pm-8:15pm. Explore the forest in the dark. Suitable for ages 3-12. Wear your costume, refreshments & games, guided walks leave every 15 minutes. Space limited, reservations requested. Non-member adults $12; children $10. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, off Route 6, S. Wellfleet. 508-349-2615.

    October 26 & 27
    Haunted Pirate Ship Aboard the Mayflower II, 5:30pm-8pm. Haunted pirate ship designed for children of all ages. Mayflower II, Plymouth Harbor, Plymouth. 508-746-1622.

    Saturday, October 27
    Halloween Celebration, 5pm-8pm. Benefits the Cape Cod Children’s Place. Wine & beer tasting, gourmet foods. Performance by Crabgrass, the Cape’s premier bluegrass band. $50; $90 for 2. Candleberry Inn, 1882 Main St., Brewster. 508-896-3300.

    Halloween Stroll, 1pm-3pm. Main Street, Orleans.

    Fall Family Festival, 1pm-4pm. Centerville Historical Museum, 513 Main Street, Centerville. 508-775-0331.

    Ghosts, Myths & Legends Tour, 5:30pm & 7pm. $10 per person. Reservations required. Historical Society of Old Yarmouth, Yarmouth Port. 508-375-0124.

    Sunday, October 28
    Music at the Mansion, 4pm-5pm. A celebration of song. Highfield Hall, 56 Highfield Drive, Falmouth. 508-495-1878.

    Wednesday, October 31
    Children’s Halloween Celebration, time TBA. Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum, High Pole Hill Rd, Provincetown. 508-487-1310.

    Safe Trick or Treat, Cape Cod Mall, Route 132, Hyannis.

    Safe Trick or Treat, Main Street, Hyannis.

    Annual Halloween Children’s Parade, 10am. Begins at the Brewster Ladies’ Library, Rte 6A and continues to the Brewster General Store. Children are encouraged to dress. Brewster.

    Plymouth is also a fun place to be at this time of year.  The Lantern Ghost tours are a hoot and there are several for almost any age group.  Not to be missed!  There are plenty of other events throughout October and November and something for everyone.

    http://www.visit-plymouth.com/deadofnight.htm 

    Salem seems to become the hub of the universe this time of year for obvious reasons.  I lived there for about four years in my younger days and loved every minute of it!  I went back a few months ago and while much has changed, much more has pretty much stayed the same.  It's hard to change a place with so much history. The strangest thing for me was driving in Salem.  I was a public transportation girl or walked everywhere!  Driving in Salem was a new experience.  I recommend that, if you go, find a spot, park the car and hoof it. You'll find a lot of nooks and crannies you'll miss if trying to drive everywhere.

    There's entirely too much to list here so I'll just provide the link with all the haunted happenings.  Enjoy! http://www.salemweb.com/hh/

    Boston is also a great bet this time of year.  Again so much to do, so little time!  Here's a link to a site that appears to have it all.

    http://boston.citysearch.com/roundup/38068

    Happy Halloween!

     

  • Should I Take My House Off the Market?

    This question is always asked by Sellers around this time of year, especially as we near the holidays.  Are there really people looking for homes at this time of year?

    Yes, there are, for a variety of reasons.  Some may need to move before the end of the year, others after the 1st of January due to relocation, tax purposes, etc.

    In some cases, Sellers will withdraw the listing and wait for spring.  That, naturally, will make a limited number of homes available for viewing by these Buyers.  Your home definitely won’t sell if it’s not listed!  Of course, it's your decision as to whether or not you want to wait.

    An Agent I cooperate with in Maryland, Cindy Hartman, posted this list on one of our Real Estate Blogs and I thought it was worth repeating here!

    Thanks, Cindy!

     

    Top 10 Reasons to List Your Property During the Holidays!


    1. People who look at property during the holidays are serious buyers and are more ready to make a decision.

     

    2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays, so the property has less competition.

     

    3. Houses “show better” when decorated for the holidays with the wonderful lights and festive colors associated with the season.

     

    4. Buyers are more emotional during the holidays and often base their decision on the warmth and good feelings they receive when viewing the home.

     

    5. Buyers have more time to look for a house during the holidays because they have designated time off from work to purchase a home.

     

    6. Many people want to buy before the end of the year for financial and tax reasons.

     

    7. January is traditionally the month for transfers. Transferees can’t wait until the spring to buy. These buyers need a home now and houses must be on the market to capture these buyers.

     

    8. Sellers can restrict showings during personal family events and still take advantage of their homes being spruced up and decorated “show ready” property.

     

    9. Sellers can sell now – but specify a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year if it is agreeable within the negotiations of the contract.

     

    10. By selling now sellers have the opportunity to buy during the spring – when more properties are on the market.

     

    http://www.homesbuddy.com/    http://www.homesbuddy.com/ , Cindy Hartman - Maryland

     

  • Cape Cod & Islands MLS Announces YTD Statistics

    The Cape & islands MLS recently published 2007 year to date statistics with a comparison to the same time last year.  The results have surprised many given the condition of real estate throughout the country and media reports of a falling market and glut of inventory.  It just proves, once again, that all real estate is local!

    Despite the reports of higher than normal inventories, the Cape actually has fewer homes actively listed as of the end of August.  4,262 compared to 4,477 in 2006.  Condos on the other hand have about 280 more actives this year than last, an increase of almost 16%.

    Sales statistics reflect the active inventory.  There have been 2,226 residential sales this year vs. 2,220 last year.  Thirty fewer condos were sold this year than last, about a 5.5% reduction.

    Average sale prices have decreased in the single family market but not to the degree experienced by many areas.  Under 1%, in fact.  Condo sale prices decreased on average by about 7.5%.  Active list prices are down by 2.2%.

    I find these statistics interesting.  Many Cape Cod Buyers are listening to the national media outlets and deciding to "wait until spring, 2008" believing that the bottom will fall out of the Cape market and bargains will abound.  If I had that crystal ball, I'd be rich!  However, the numbers generally don't lie and the Cape does not appear to be suffering the setbacks we hear about around the country.  Cape Cod 5 just sent me an announcement that the jitters on Wall Street have pushed rates up .125%.  If everyone waits until Spring to begin looking again, there's no guarantee that rates will be as low as they are now and will a glut of Buyers then create a Seller's Market?  Food for thought.

  • July 2007 Home Sales

    The Massachusetts Association of Realtors® has released July 2007 sales figures for Massachusetts with comparisons to July of 2006.

    Despite the national media’s reports of panic in the housing market, Massachusetts has experienced very little change over the same month last year. In fact, there has been some rather good news!

    Single family home sales were UP 6.0%, with an increase in the median selling price of 1.3%.  Not so bad!  Condominium sales basically remained unchanged (-0.1%) and the median selling price increased 6.3%!

    With interest rates still at historical lows, it's still a good time to buy or sell property.

    The best place to start is by searching the properties available and contacting a local lender.  There are several local lenders who have a great reputation.  James Snyder at Cape Cod 5 is one of them.  You can email him at jsnyder@capecodfive.com.

    There are a lot of choices out there, both year round and seasonal.  Don't miss the boat!

    Drop me an email at catherinemclark@verizon.net to get started on your search!

     

     

     

     

  • You May Have Had the Right of Way....You're Still Dead

    Late last night, a five-car accident occurred in Falmouth on Route 151, near the Mashpee line.  One died, one was thrown from the car, six were sent to local hospitals.  The report in the Cape Cod Times was terrifying.  You can read more about it here: http://capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070715/NEWS/707150362. 

    One emergency worker said it was the worst scene he had witnessed since 2001.  I recall that one, too.

    Last weekend there were five accidents in my town (Bourne) alone, three within 1 hour, all of which occurred during the heavy drive-times clogging traffic on both bridges.

    As a “local”, I really don’t venture too far from home in the summer during the “great escape” times.  Even locally, though, I saw an out-of-state car make a u-turn in the middle of a very busy intersection just this week!  I damn-near had a heart attack.  A mini-van, chock-a-block full with vacation paraphernalia and kids.  They could have died so many different ways.

    Last summer, my son was retrieving a ball from across the street (not a thorough-fare, at all, but in the summer we call it the Pocasset Speedway).  He and his friends looked both ways, the “all clear” was given, but the landscapers were working and the car was speeding so quickly it came over the hill, they never heard it.  He literally had to “dive” from its path.

    Now, Massachusetts drivers don’t have the greatest of reputations, by a long shot!  LOL.  And I feel privileged to live in an area that people will spend so much time in traffic and come from such distances, just to spend a weekend.  I’ve driven from Ocean City, NJ to the Cape during the summer.  And you really have to want it to do it every weekend!

    A local resident has a sign that he puts in his yard all summer.  It says something to the effect of “You came here to relax, so PLEASE SLOW DOWN!

    Many visitors to Cape Cod come from “the city”.  And so many different cities, not just Boston.  Everyone’s in a rush to get to their destination.  I can certainly understand that.

    We have one stop-light in my Village.  During the summer months, even with a green light, I pause because inevitably someone is going to fly through, completely oblivious, in their haste to reach the beach and that Mai Tai.

    PLEASE, slow down.  You’re used to driving on the highways at breakneck speeds or driving in a city environment where pretty much anything goes.  I did that myself 10 years ago.  Directionals?  What are they for?  Waiting at a red light, turning green, and allowing the driver opposite you to take a left?  Going 30-35 in a 30MPH zone, rather than 50-55?  What’s that all about?

    Someone came to Cape Cod to “escape” for the weekend, week, summer, whatever.  And he’s now gone from his family forever.  No one knows right now whose “fault” it was.  And, quite honestly, does it even matter?  I don’t know how old he was, was he a husband, a father?  I do know he was someone’s son.  He was someone’s friend and there are many grieving people right now.

    We don’t know the cause, but speed, based on my personal experience, was most likely a factor.  Maybe not on his part, but probably one of the six cars involved was going too fast.  Route 151 is straight and wide.  I try to avoid it at all costs because I see so many speed-demons.

    Please slow down.  And I don’t think this thought is limited to Cape Cod.

    When I was learning to drive, my Mom taught me the most important lesson: “Drive Defensively”.  She wasn’t so much worried about me.  She was concerned about everyone else who could hurt me.  It was always best to be aware of what was going on around me. Pause, think, look.  Let the other guy go ahead of you.  If (s)he cuts you off, let’em go.  “No skin off your nose”, she said.

    As I’m teaching my daughter to drive, my mother’s favorite quote came back to me:

    “You may have had the right of way. You’re still dead”.

     

  • Massachusetts Issues a Moratorium on Foreclosures

    Massachusetts just issued a moratorium on foreclosures due to past subprime lending practices.  Please click on this link for more information:

    https://www.naca.com/index_main.jsp

    In reality, most lenders do not want to foreclose on your home.  It's a lot of work for them and they end up losing money.  Most lenders will work with you if you simply call them.  So many people who have run into difficulty lose their home without ever even talking with their lender.  EMC Corporation has set up what they call the MOD SQUAD which is a team of counselors dedicated to modifying loans.  Check out these two articles for more information:

    http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/bear-stearns-subsidiary-emc-mortgage/n20070402082209990036

    http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18184371/

    Lenders really don't want your house!  They want to keep your business but they can't help you if you won't talk with them.  If you are aware of someone who may benefit from this information, please pass it along!

    Cathy

     

  • Doom & Gloom on the Upper Cape?

    The questions I’m most often asked these days?  “Is it a Buyer’s Market?”  “Is the Market Down?” 

    Of course, there is no simple answer.   It depends on where you are and what you want to buy or sell.  Real Estate Markets are regional but all the reports we hear about in the media are either state-wide or national.

    Crunching numbers and statistical analysis were part of my “former life” so I decided to revisit my old mind set and analyze where we’re at specifically on the Upper Cape, town by town.

    The news is not nearly as bad as the gloom and doom reports we keep hearing.  In some cases, It’s actually pretty good!  Especially considering that the last six months are generally our “slow” season which includes the holidays!

    Overall, sales in the last six months are actually up modestly in Bourne and Falmouth compared to the same time last year, but down in Sandwich and significantly down in Mashpee. 

    Price range is a major factor.  Interest rates are still good and prices have moderated, allowing more first-time Buyers to realize the dream of home ownership in the lower price ranges and others to sell and move up.

    For example, the $250-$299K bracket in Bourne saw an increase in sales while the $300-$349K took a dip. The $350-$399K range, though, increased but the $400-$750K price range decreased.  This varies for the Towns of Falmouth, Mashpee & Sandwich. 

    Two towns have seen average sale prices increase, the other two have experienced an average decrease.  On average, homes are taking 59 days longer to sell over the same time frame last year. Mashpee has the highest average days on market but has seen a modest increase in the average sale price.

    There are many homes in all price ranges for sale on the Upper Cape but there are Buyers out there!  Some Buyers are waiting it out believing that prices will continue to drop.  While we have seen some prices decrease, I don’t believe they’ll go much lower, in my humble opinion.  Interest rates are still very reasonable and we’re in our biggest selling season.  Realtors on the Upper Cape have experienced a steady increase in calls from Buyers who are actively searching for properties.  While we’re not seeing multiple offers on one house as we did in the past, we are seeing more reasonable offers that Sellers are willing to consider and negotiate.

    My overall assessment?  If you’re looking to Sell, be reasonable at setting your price and be willing to negotiate.  If you are a Buyer, forget the “low-ball” offers because Sellers are just turning them down. They’re willing to wait, too!  Buyers basically get the same advice.  Make a reasonable offer and be willing to negotiate.

    While I’m still crunching some of the numbers, if you’d like more information on a specific town or price range, call or email me and I’ll let you know where you stand!

     

  • Ranch For Sale in Bourne

    Front Entrance
    Handicapped Accessible

    • 1,326 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm ranch - MLS® #20606996   $254,400 - Schooner Pass Condo

     -  Spacious and airy ranch-style condominium in beautifully landscaped Schooner Pass. The patio and back yard provide unusual privacy not usually seen in a condominium complex.
    Soaring cathedral ceiling in the living room with wood burning fireplace and newer slider to the patio and back yard. Adjoining the living room is the dining area leading to the kitchen.
    Two bedrooms and two full baths, one of which is customized with handicapped accessories.
    A short drive to the Cape Cod Canal and beaches. Catch a hockey game or ice show at the Gallo Ice Arena or a Bourne Braves baseball game at their new field at Upper Cape Vocational Technical High School. Ample parking for guests.
    This is a prime location for both Off-Cape and local commuters.
    Come take a look!

    Property information

  • Townhouse For Sale in Bourne

    Steps to Canal

    • 1,317 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm townhouse "Full Basement!" - MLS® #20703371   $279,900 - Canal-Front Complex!

     -  Enjoy all the Cape Cod Canal has to offer! Walk, bike, run, skate, fish or simply relax with the cool breezes. Tucked away in a corner setting it becomes your own private retreat. Just minutes from the Bourne Bridge, it's convenient for Off-Cape commuters as a summer getaway or year-round home. Bedrooms are spacious and each has its own private bath. The full basement could be finished as a guest suite, workshop or hobby area. This home is immaculate and in move-in condition!

    Property information

  • Townhouse For Sale in Monument Beach

    Screened Porch to 4th Fairway

    • 2,210 sq. ft., 3 bath, 2 bdrm townhouse "Bayberry Style" - MLS® #20703601   $479,900 - Brookside Golf Course

     -  Grab your clubs! This Bayberry Style Townhouse is in excellent condition and includes many upgrades including a finished basement with family room, office and full bath. The open floor plan offers a spacious living room, sitting room, kitchen and dining room. The Master Suite completes the first floor. Relax on the screened porch or deck overlooking the 4th fairway at Brookside. The second floor includes another bedroom, full bath and loft.

    Property information

  • Ranch For Sale in Buzzards Bay

    Tucy Front

    • 1,116 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm ranch - MLS® #20703480   $298,800 - Renovated and Like New!!!

     -  Looking for a brand new home but don't want to pay the price? Tired of looking at homes under $300K that need too much work and updating? Your search is over! The current owners have replaced everything from the Kitchen, Roof and Siding, Furnace, Windows and more. You'll find extra touches in every room. Along with the 3 bedrooms, there's a mud room with built-ins and cubbies for storage, laundry area and half bath with frosted pocket door. The sunken family room has a cathedral ceiling and office area. The renovated kitchen and dining area has a slider leading to a 2-tiered deck, great fenced in back yard with a garden and outdoor shower. The neighborhood park is at the end of the street and 2 beaches are just minutes away. Truly a pleasure to show.

    Property information

More Posts Next page »