Life in Eliot Maine

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T09:34:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving Delights
by Joanna Fuchs

On Thanksgiving Day we’re thankful for
Our blessings all year through,
For family we dearly love,
For good friends, old and new.

For sun to light and warm our days,
For stars that glow at night,
For trees of green and skies of blue,
And puffy clouds of white.

We’re grateful for our eyes that see
The beauty all around,
For arms to hug, and legs to walk,
And ears to hear each sound.

The list of all we’re grateful for
Would fill a great big book;
Our thankful hearts find new delights
Everywhere we look!

Happy Thanksgiving

from all of us at

October Market Stats

2010-11-17T10:01:00.000-05:00

We just posted the October 2010 Market Statistics to our website for the towns of Eliot, Kittery and South Berwick. We continue to see more new listings than sold properties (29 new versus 16 sold). But the numbers are leveling off, compared with the same months in 2009 (26 more listings than solds in October 2009).

If you follow real estate news, one statistic that is often discussed at times like this is the backlog of available homes. A backlog is defined as the length of time it would take to sell the current inventory of homes, at the current selling rate. In a "healthy" market, there will be a few months (some experts say 6) worth of properties available at any given time. Too few homes, and we have a Seller's Market. Too many, and it's a Buyer's Market. The entire country has been in a Buyer's Market for several years now.

In our core towns of Kittery, Eliot and South Berwick, that backlog is almost 14 months. Seem like a long time? It is. But not when you compare it with other backlog rates. According to the Wall Street Journal, in October there was a 107 month backlog of foreclosure properties. That's more than 8 years! And this weekend, we heard from a family member who's listing a property in
Chicago for sale. There are 340 competing properties!

So, with 14 months of backlog, we are looking at a Buyer's Market for the near future. But we are fairing much better here on the Seacoast than in other parts of the country.

November 2010 Election

2010-11-01T15:51:00.000-04:00

The polling questions, robocalls and yard signs are almost gone! Tomorrow is election day.

Wondering when and where to vote? Here's the information for Eliot and our surrounding communities:

Eliot: 8 AM to 8 PM inside the Gym at Marshwood Middle School

Kittery: 8 AM to 8 PM at Shapleigh Middle School

South Berwick: 6 AM to 8 PM on the 3rd floor of the Town Hall

York: 8 AM to 8 PM inside the Gym at York High School

There is a great sign on a fence across from Marshwood Middle School in Eliot: "If you don't vote, you don't count."

Are You Ready to Vote, Eliot?

2010-10-19T16:09:00.001-04:00

Election Day in Maine is just 2 weeks away. Have you decided who you're going to vote for? Or do you even know who the candidates and issues are? I would bet a lot of us are in that latter category!

Here in Eliot, there are both statewide and local ballots this November. There are two statewide ballots: one for candidate selection and one for referendums. Click on each of those links to see a copy of the ballots. From the numbers of automated calls from candidates (AKA robo-calls), telephone polls and flyers in the mail, I'd say there are some hotly contested races this year.

There are no local candidate elections this time around, but there are 3 town referendum questions:
Question 1 deals with changes to the Town's Firearms Safety Ordinance. Question 2 is a change to the Town's Commercial/Industrial Zone, which runs along the southern end of Route 236. If enacted, this would change the maximum building height, with planning board and fire chief approval, from 35' to 55'. This Ordinance came out of the Business Development Committee. Russ and Kristin are both members of the EBDC and would love your support on this initiative to increase the business possibilities along Route 236.
Question 3 asks if the townspeople want to take over possession and maintenance of Sawgrass Lane, which is located off State Road just north of the border with Kittery.

See you at the polls on November 2nd. You can vote from 8 AM to 8 PM at Marshwood Middle School or by absentee ballot returned before the polls close on Election Day.

September Market Statistics

2010-10-04T11:18:00.000-04:00

September's Market Statistics were just posted to our website.

The pending sales and sold listings are pretty much even when comparing 2010 with 2009. There was a big drop in the number of new listings (20 new for September 2010 and 41 new in September 2009). But looking at the data further, it looks like September 2010 was an anomaly since August 2010 was on par with September 2009.

So what does this mean? The local market continues to be flat. We are continuing to see more new listings each month than solds. This means there is an over supply of homes versus demand.

GMAC Halts Foreclosures - and Sales

2010-09-21T13:28:00.000-04:00

Several news agencies today, including Bloomberg and the Sun-Sentinel among others, are reporting that GMAC has halted foreclosure proceedings in 23 states. Maine is one of those 23 states.

This might come as good news for homeowners fighting to keep their homes - additional time to negotiate new terms or get paid up.

But this is bad news for home buyers in the process of purchasing a GMAC owned home. According to Bloomberg: "The company will also suspend sales of properties on which it has already foreclosed. The letter tells brokers to notify buyers that the company will extend the closing date on all sales by 30 days. Buyers will be able to cancel their agreement to purchase and get their deposit back, according to the letter."

GMAC, now Ally Financial, is one of the country's largest mortgage holders.

Your Home's Honey-Do List: Fall Edition

2010-09-21T12:03:00.001-04:00

Now that we've talked about when fall starts, it's time to look at what we need to do now that fall is here.

Probably the easiest thing on the list is to call and schedule a cleaning of your heating system. Why easy? All you have to do is pick up the phone and someone else does the work! Don't forget about alternative heating sources as well, such as wood stoves, fireplaces and the chimneys they use. These items need love too! Also remember to change your furnace filter, if it has one.

Now let's break it down a little. This way you can work inside if it's raining and outside if it's sunny.

Fall Outdoor To-Do List

- Look at your roof. From the ground with binoculars is sufficient, you don't have to haul out the big ladder. Check for damaged, loose or missing shingles. These could leak during rain and snow storms. (Dare I say ice storms as well?!) If there are damaged or missing shingles, you'll need to have these replaced. Check around the vent stacks and chimneys as well. Is the flashing in order? We saw so much water damage from flashing problems during those horrible rain storms this spring. If you have a flat or flatter roof make sure leaves and/or pine needles haven't collected. Lightly sweep them off.

- Remove bird nests from chimney flues and/or outdoor electrical fixtures.

- Check the caulking on windows and doors. Any gaps bigger than the width of a nickle should be re caulked with exterior caulk. Check your weatherstripping as well. Make sure you can't see any daylight from the inside.

- While you're checking caulk, head over to your electric service. Check the ring of caulk where the service line meets the box. This caulk dries out routinely and allows water to penetrate right in to your circuit breaker box.

- Clean the gutters! This one is so much fun! Just kidding. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water penetration. While you're cleaning, look for any damaged gutter sections or leaks and repair.

- Get rid of water. Check your downspouts and make sure the water coming out of your gutters is going at least 18" but preferably 3' away from your house. It's amazing the damage water coming out of gutter downspouts can cause - especially during hard rain storms.

- Disconnect water hoses and drain exterior faucets. Homes without frost-proof faucets have a shut-off inside the house. Remember to shut it off!

- Trim back your landscaping. Your house needs room to breath. There should be at least 6" but ideally a foot of clearance between your shrubbery and your house. Tree limbs should be cut back if they are closer than 5' to your house.

- Run all gas-powered lawn equipment to remove all fuel

- Do a test-run of your generator, if you have one. Better to find out there's a problem now rather than in the middle of a storm.

Fall Indoor To-Do List

- Check your thermostat. Have a programmable thermostat? Is it set for winter? Review the settings to make sure it matches your current schedule. If you don't have a programmable thermostat, buy one! Not only do they save you money on your heating costs, they're convenient! You'll never have to worry about forgetting to turn down the heat before bed or coming home to a freezing cold house again.

- Check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide detectors and check for dust on the covers of these alarms

- Check window and door and their locks for proper operation

- Check for water leaks. Get these sealed now before there's a problem.

- Check the caulking around your bathroom fixtures. You might be surprised how often a small leak from a tub or toilet turns in to a big problem.

Extra Credit

- Review your fire escape plan with your family

- Have nightlights for all stairs and hallways that might be travelled at night (especially important when you have guests who are unfamiliar with your house). Check bulbs and make sure you have replacements.

- Think ahead to holiday decorations. Is there a plug that doesn't work or an issue you run in to every year? Take care of it now while the weather is warm. Your frostbite-free fingers will thank you come December.

This is also a great list for prospective Sellers to use when getting ready to put your home on the market. Not only will buyers notice the attention to detail in your home maintenance, but you'll have fewer problems as a result of a home inspection. Trust me, this list contains some of the most commonly found problems during a home inspection.

Eliot Festival Day 2010

2010-09-14T11:05:00.007-04:00

There seems to be a rumor around town that there won't be an Eliot Festival Day this year. Not true! But after a quick Google search this morning, I'm starting to see why the rumor is out there. I had to really search to find any "official" information!

So here's what I've been able to gather:

There are no fireworks or events on Friday night. This was replaced by the fireworks during the Eliot Bicentennial celebration last month.

The festivities will kick off Saturday morning, September 25th with the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast. It runs from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM at the First Congregational Church of Eliot on State Road.

The Eliot 5K will run. You can register online or at Eliot Comm unity Service Department. The race starts at 8:30 at the Fire Station.

The Festival itself begins with a flag raising at Hammond Park at 10 AM. Then the food vendors, crafters, activities and entertainment are open for business, including the Kids Corner - a special section of games and activities for the little ones. This runs throughout the day in and around the Eliot Elementary School on State Road. (Reminder that State Road is shut down early in the morning and closed thru late afternoon.) There is no admission cost. The Festival is open from 10 -3. There will not be a parade this year.

The Kids Fun Run will be held. The event goes from the William Fogg Library to the Eliot Fire Station. There are several age groups, from 4 to 9. The run kicks off at 10:30. My son ran the Kids Fun Run last year for the first time. It was adorable!

Saturday evening, the First Congregational Church hosts a traditional Ham and Bean Supper. All are invited. This supper goes beyond the basic menu with scalloped potatoes, American Chop Suey, cole slaw, rolls and fantastic home baked desserts. It goes from 4 to 6. There is also concert at 7 - the Moore Family Gospel Singers.

Did we miss anything? Let us know if there are additional events and we'll get this post updated.

So When Does Fall Start?

2010-09-14T08:48:00.006-04:00

Ya, ya, ya. I know what you're going to tell me: look at the calendar! It says right there, the First Day of Autumn is September 22nd. But here in New England, the seasons seems to start and end with no regard for what the calendar says.

So when does fall start, for you?

Is it when the children go back to school? This used to be the unofficial start of fall. But the last couple of years, the first day of school (at least here in MSAD #35) has been a week before Labor Day - still well in to the summer season for me. And especially this year, when the temperatures that first week were in the 90's. Way to warm to be thinking fall.

Is it the end of Labor Day weekend? One last long weekend of sun and fun. You can often feel the turn of the season in the waters around New England by Labor Day.

For me, I think fall begins when I first reach for my slippers instead of my flip flops. This happened to me last night. I went home, kicked off my shoes and went to grab my trusty flip flops. But then I stopped and went off in search of my comfy slippers that had been pushed to the back of the closet since their last appearance in the spring. It was at that moment that fall began for me.

So what about you? When does fall start for you?

OPEN HOUSE

2010-09-07T12:37:00.007-04:00

Join us Sunday, September 12th to tour this great house!

3 bedroom, 2.5 bath
Colonial
1-car garage
Full finished basement with additional bedroom and family room
Wonderful layout with custom details throughout!

Open house runs from 12 noon to 2 PM.

For more information, click here. For directions, click here.

Eliot's Bicentennial Celebration Begins

2010-08-07T08:45:00.000-04:00

Today is the start of Eliot's Bicentennial Celebration. The big attraction today: the parade. For more information:
Homecoming today in Eliot SeacoastOnline.com

Lead Paint Deadline Extended, too

2010-07-01T11:20:00.002-04:00

The Environmental Protection Agency delayed the deadline for contractors to become Lead Certified.
A representative of the National Association of Realtors says, "Remodelers and other contractors have additional time to take classes and get certified in lead-safe practices under an EPA memo released June 18. The agency says it won't start penalizing contractors for failing to get certified until October 31, but they have to show they're enrolled in classes and scheduled to complete their training by December 31. The memo comes in response to concerns that many contractors were unable to complete certification prior to the deadline included in EPA certification rules that took effect earlier this year. Under the rules, contractors must use recognized lead-safe practices when doing work on houses with lead-based paint."

2010 4th of July Fireworks Around the Seacoast

2010-07-01T10:03:00.003-04:00

Here's a list of Fireworks Displays for the 4th of July weekend:

Portsmouth: Saturday, July 3 at South Mill Pond across from Portsmouth City Hall. The fireworks display starts at 9:15 pm. The rain date is Monday, July 5. The High-Hanover Parking Garage will charge a flat $3 fee from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. July 3.

Dover: The City's Annual Independence Day Celebration will be held on Sunday, July 4th. Fireworks will begin at 9:15. at Maglaras Park. Dover has a full day of family activities starting at 11 AM.

York: Two nights of fireworks in York! Saturday night at York Harbor starting at 9:00 and Sunday night at Short Sands starting at 9:30.

Ogunquit: Fireworks will be held Sunday, July 4th at 9:15. This is part of Ogunquit's 30th birthday celebration! The fireworks will be held on Main Beach, at the end of Beach Street.

Hampton: In addition to their weekly Wednesday fireworks displays, there will be a special 4th of July show on Sunday night at 9:30 at Hampton Beach.

Know of another local fireworks display? Let us know!

(And just a quick Eliot note: Eliot's annual fireworks will be on Friday, August 13th this year as part of the Eliot Bicentennial Celebration.)

Flood Insurance Program Extended

2010-07-01T09:50:00.002-04:00

It was a busy night for real estate related topics in the U.S. Senate last night. They voted unanimously to extend the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to September 30.

According to the National Association of Realtors, the bill is retroactive and covers the lapse period from June 1, 2010 to the date of enactment of the extension.

Tax Credit Deadline Extended

2010-07-01T09:47:00.003-04:00

Last night, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to extend the tax credit closing date. The new deadline is September 30.

"After a close brush with the deadline, Congress has passed an extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit closing deadline, the Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act (H.R. 5623). The extension applies only to transactions that have ratified contracts in place as of April 30, 2010 that have not yet closed. The legislation is designed to create a seamless extension - the new closing deadline for eligible transactions is now September 30, 2010. There is will be no gap between June 30 and the date the President signs the bill into law, said a representative of the National Association of Realtors.

Eliot Medical Marijuana Vote

2010-06-30T10:49:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday, July 7th, there will be a Special Town Meeting for voters in the Town of Eliot. There is only one agenda item: to vote on a local ordinance governing medical marijuana facilities within the town of Eliot. The Meeting will be held at 6:30 in the gym at Marshwood Middle School.

There is an application before the State from Green Relief MD to locate a growing and dispensary facility here in Eliot (in the big yellow farmhouse at the corner of Route 236 and Goodwin Road). The State DHHS will make its decision on which applications to approve on July 8th.

At a recent Public Hearing on the ordinance, there seemed to be some confusion. The ordinance is not to decide to allow or not allow a medical marijuana facility within Eliot. It simply adds a layer of local regulation on top of the State's regulations. The State governs who can perscribe this medication, who can receive this medication and where a facility can be located.

The details of the proposed facility and the ordinance have been written up in both the Portsmouth Herald and Fosters. You can read the entire text at the Town of Eliot website.

Eliot Bridge Closed for 2+ Months

2010-06-24T08:24:00.000-04:00

For those who travel the northern end of State Road, the bridge between River Road and Tidy Road will be closed for the next 8 to 10 weeks.

Eliot Selectmen Race Goes to a Recount

2010-06-09T07:08:00.003-04:00

Selectmen Mike Moynihan won Tuesday's election for a second term on the Eliot Board of Selectmen. His opponent: Planning Board Chairman Steve Beckert, who is also a former member of the Board of Selectmen. But, according to the Portsmouth Herald, there will be a recount in the race.

The vote count was 693 for Moynihan and 690 for Beckert. According to the Herald article, Beckert will officially ask Town Clerk Wendy Rawski for a recount today in writing.

All other races on the Eliot ballot were uncontested.

Results of the School District #35 and state questions:

School Question 1
Yes 1054 No 376
School Question 2
Yes 1056 No 376

Results from South Berwick are not yet posted. I'll update this when they are.

State Question 1
Yes 913 No 564
State Question 2
Yes 913 No 549
State Question 3
Yes 935 No 530
State Question 4
Yes 829 No 625
State Question 5
Yes 937 No 519

Statewide, Question 1 went to the Yes votes, repealing tax reform. The Governor's primaries went to Libby Mitchell on the Democrats side and Ron LePage for the Repbulicans.

Project Graduation Auction Tonight

2010-05-14T13:18:00.003-04:00

The Marshwood High School class of 2010 Project Graduation auction will be held at the high school in South Berwick tonight (Friday, May 14th). The Project Graduation committee relies on the Auction to fund a safe, substance free evening for the more than 200 members of the Class of 2010.

Items on the auction block tonight include VIP seating at graduation, a print by local artist Don Demers, vacation home rentals on Great East Lake and Sugarloaf Mountain, a lobsterin’ trip with Ed Foye, Patriots tickets and countless items of all types and price ranges.

The live auction preview and silent auction begin at 5:30 with the live auction at 6:30. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Admission is free; light refreshments will be served.

This year's Project Graduation will be held at The Works Athletic Club in Somersworth. Activities will include swimming, dancing, a hypnotist and lots of food and drink.

Please email Mark Gagnon at markgagnon@pgagnon.com with any questions.

Visit an Open House, Win a Trip!

2010-05-07T10:38:00.003-04:00

Attend a Maine Open House on Sunday, May 16, 2010 and enter a prize drawing to win a trip for two (3 days/2 nights) with airfare and hotel to your choice of several U.S. destinations. Restrictions and locations apply. Must complete travel by 4/01/11.

McMullen Real Estate Agency is hosting 9 open houses on Maine Open House Day. Click here to see which homes will be open, get times and directions.

For a list of all open houses being held on Maine Open House Day, go to http://maineopenhouseday.com/.

Welcome to Eliot!

2010-05-06T11:28:00.003-04:00

The Town of Eliot Business Development Committee officially dedicated Eliot's first gateway sign on Route 236 Wednesday, May 5th.

The sign is located just north of the Eliot/Kittery border in view of the northbound lane.

Present for the ceremony, from left to right, were Besty O'Donoghue, Chariman of the Eliot Board of Selectmen; Douglas Keith, member EBDC; Kristin McMullen Orr, Vice Chairman EBDC; Dwight Snow, Eliot Planning Board; Craig Goss, Secretary, EBDC; Russell McMullen, member EBDC; John Chagnon, Chairman EBDC and Mike Moynahan, Vice Chairman Eliot Board of Selectmen.

The sign is 4-foot by 6-foot and constructed of wood with a metal sheathing. It welcomes visitors to Eliot and features a hand-painted replica of the Town Seal.

The Eliot Business Development Committee is a volunteer Committee appointed by the Board of Selectmen. It is a 7-member board plus liaisons from the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board. The Committee is charged with promoting Eliot business along with encouraging economic growth within the Town.

Open Houses for Sunday, May 16 - Maine Open House Day

2010-05-05T09:41:00.006-04:00

Join us Sunday, May 16th for Maine Open House Day! Our brokers will have 9 open houses.

Schedule:

11:30 AM to 1 PM:

10 Jane Lane, Eliot
3 Bedroom, 1 Acre
$229,900

46 Whipple Road, Kittery
4 Bedroom, 2 Bath
$264,900

19 Quarry Drive, South Berwick
4 Bedroom, 3 Bath
$299,900

1:30 PM to 3 PM:

285 Goodwin Road, Eliot
4 Bedroom, 2 Bath

$329,900

10 Galway Lane, Eliot
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath

$379,900

1941 State Road, Eliot
3 Bedroom, 1 Bath
$299,900

3:30 PM to 5 PM:

170 Old Post Road, York
4 Bedroom, 2 Bath
$329,900

48 Bradstreet Lane, Eliot
4 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath

$335,000

10 Boyce Road, Eliot

3+ Bedroom, 2 Bath

$239,900

Every one of our open houses you attend on Sunday registers you for a 3 day/2 night trip with airfare and hotel!

Eliot Town Election Candidates -2010

2010-04-30T08:50:00.003-04:00

I just had this conversation last night: who's running in the June election? And the question was answered in this morning's paper!

Here are the candidates:
Selectmen (1 seat):
Michael Moynahan (incumbent)
Steve Beckett

Budget Committee (2 3-year terms):
William Jacques (incumbent)
Jeff Pelkey
(1 2-year term)
Joseph Carven (incumbent)

School Board (1 seat):
Jeffrey Donatello

Polls will be open from 8 AM to 8 PM on June 8th at Marshwood Middle School on Route 236 to vote on these candidates. The open-floor "Town Meeting" will be held Saturday, June 12th. Opening Ceremonies will be held at 6:30, with the meeting starting at 7. This year's Town Meeting will be held at Marshwood Middle School, NOT the Elementary School as it has been held in the past.

Maine Open House Day

2010-04-28T10:48:00.004-04:00

McMullen Real Estate Agency will participate in Maine Open House Day! Join us on Sunday, May 16th to tour our current listings. We're working on a schedule now and will have it posted soon. All open houses will be between the hours of 11:30 AM and 5 PM.

Update on Flood Insurance Program

2010-04-14T13:28:00.003-04:00

I just saw a news alert that the Jobless Benefits bill that the now expired National Flood Insurance Program is tied to is stalled in the Senate. The bills needs 60 votes to pass and that didn't happen. The news alert said there would likely be another vote later today.

The real estate application to this bill is this: any home being purchased that falls within one of a number of flood zones (there are different levels depending on the likelihood of flooding) must have flood insurance in order to acquire financing. Now there might be a program out there that wouldn't required the insurance, but I don't know of one!

Flood Insurance Lapse

2010-03-30T12:54:00.002-04:00

With all the rain we've had this month, I'm sure this is a topic many will be interested in: the National Flood Insurance program is on hold.

The extension of the program is tied to an unemployment benefits bill. Congress adjourned for their April recess without agreening on the bill.

According to the Insurance Journal, "As a result, the federal flood insurance program's authority to write new policies ends on Sunday, March 28 at midnight. After that time, insurance agents will not be able to provide new or renewal flood insurance policies, which are required by lenders to close on some real estate sales."

Congress will be back in session on April 12th. At that time, it could reinstate the NFIP and other affected programs retroactively. If you have a current flood insurance policy, you remain covered.

More Changes to Maine's Smoke & CO Detector Laws

2010-03-30T09:15:00.003-04:00

The State of Maine is tweaking the Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector laws that went in to effect last year.

Yesterday, Governor Baldacci signed into law LD 1497 as amended. It is an emergency enactment, so it goes into effect immediately.

There are numerous changes, the most important on the real estate front is that homes not previously required to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (see below) will not have to have them installed by the buyer prior to closing. Buyers will however, have to sign a certification form at closing stating they will install proper detectors within 30 days of taking ownership or occupying the home, whichever is later.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are required in multi family buildings and smoke detectors are required for any homes built since 1981. The smoke detector requirement extends to an home that has been renovated to add a bedroom or a conversion to a residence since 1985. Carbon monoxide detectors are also required for any homes built, converted or rehabbed and adding bedrooms since September 12, 2009.

Here is the actual text of the new smoke detector law: “10. Transfer of dwelling. A person who, after October 31, 2009, acquires by sale or exchange a single-family dwelling or a multiapartment building shall install smoke detectors in the acquired dwelling within 30 days of acquisition or occupancy of the dwelling, whichever is later, if smoke detectors are not already present, and shall certify at the closing of the transaction that the purchaser will make the proper installation. This certification must be signed and dated by the purchaser. The smoke detectors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements at the time of installation. The smoke detectors must be powered by the electrical service in the building or by battery. A person may not have a claim for relief against a property owner, a property purchaser, an authorized agent of a property owner or purchaser, a person in possession of real property, a closing agent or a lender for any damages resulting from the operation, maintenance or effectiveness of a smoke detector. Violation of this subsection does not create a defect in title.”

For carbon monoxide detectors, the language is similar, but the location of the detectors is specified. Also, the detector must be powered by both electrical service (plug-in is fine) and battery. Here is the text: “6. Transfer of dwelling. A person who, after October 31, 2009, acquires by sale or exchange a single-family dwelling or a multiapartment building shall install carbon monoxide detectors in the acquired dwelling within 30 days of acquisition or occupancy of the dwelling, whichever is later, if carbon monoxide detectors are not already present, and shall certify at the closing of the transaction that the purchaser will make the proper installation. This certification must be signed and dated by the purchaser. The carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements at the time of installation in each area within, or giving access to, bedrooms and must be powered both by the electrical service in the dwelling or building and by battery. A person may not have a claim for relief against a property owner, a property purchaser, an authorized agent of a property owner or purchaser, a person in possession of real property, a closing agent, or a lender for any damages resulting from the operation, maintenance or effectiveness of a carbon monoxide detector. Violation of this subsection does not create a defect in title.”

The State Fire Marshall's office is expected to release more information on these new changes in the coming days.

New Regulations for Home Renovations

2010-03-17T12:36:00.003-04:00

Starting next month, there are new regulations on the renovation of homes, child-care facilities and schools built prior to 1978. It's called the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule.

Contractors who do work on pre-1978 structures will have to be certified/trained in lead safe practices in an attempt to "avoid spreading lead paint hazards." So what are the safe practices? According to the EPA website, contractors will have to 1. contain the work area 2. minimize dust and 3. clean up thoroughly.

In addition, contractors will have to provide homeowners and/or tenants with a copy of a new EPA lead pamphlet prior to starting the renovation.

The Environmental Protection Agency adopted these new regulations back in 2008; they're set to take effect on April 22, 2010.

The rule applies to paid renovators who work in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities, including:
- Renovation contractors
- Maintenance workers in multi-family housing
- Painters
- other specialty trades

So how do you find a certified and/or trained contractor? Check out the EPA contractor database. You can search by zip code or state.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T09:12:00.001-04:00

May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.

New Listing: South Berwick

2010-03-13T10:54:00.003-05:00

19 Quarry Drive

South Berwick

4 Bedroom, 3 Bath Cape

3279 Square Feet

0.63 Acres

Attached 2-Car Garage

Old Mill Neighborhood

I-95 Detours at Exit 7 in Portsmouth

2010-03-10T15:44:00.002-05:00

I saw the orange signs go up last week and wondered what was in store. I just saw an article in Fosters that said exit 7 Northbound will be closed starting next week, and Southbound starting the week afterwards. More information

Market Improving

2010-03-05T12:44:00.003-05:00

Updated Current Market Statistics were posted to our website today. And the numbers look promising.

January and February show very similar activity. February 2010 saw double the number of sold transactions as compared with February 2009. And there were more than double the number of pending transaction in February 2010 over February 2009.

2010-03-04T14:37:00.003-05:00

Earlier this week, the Huffington Post published a list of what it called "17 Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books in the U.S." Included in the list: a regulation in Maine that all Christmas decorations must be removed by January 14th. (Who knew?!)

The resource for this article was a website dedicated to odd and unusual laws in our country, DumbLaws.com. If you have a minute, look through the list, they're broken down by state and then by town/city. There are some pretty funny, odd and unusual ones, along with laws completely outdated. But I do have to say, South Berwick's law that says it is illegal to park in front of Dunkin' Donuts isn't so dumb!

Wind Storm Photos - Eliot Maine

2010-02-28T13:36:00.004-05:00

Two days since the winds stopped, there are still thousands of people without power. A quick drive around Eliot, and you can see why. Wind Storm 2010 did a lot of damage to our little town.

We've uploaded pictures of some of the damage to our Facebook page. Click on the photo to see the album.

Eliot Area Shelter

2010-02-27T14:55:00.001-05:00

For those still without power and looking for a place to warm up, the American Red Cross is running a shelter at Marshwood High School.

I received an alert from MSAD #35 this afternoon that said the MHS is open for warmth, food, drink and to use shower facilities. People are welcome to spend the night as well.

Shipyard to hire 250 employees | SeacoastOnline.com

2010-02-25T21:30:00.000-05:00

Shipyard to hire 250 employees SeacoastOnline.com

Great news for the Seacoast economy!

Do You Have Unclaimed Property?

2010-01-29T18:08:00.004-05:00

The State of Maine keeps a database of Unclaimed Property. There's all kinds of stuff in there, from unpaid wages to paid-up life insurance policies to refunds, savings accounts, stocks and contents of safe deposit boxes.

I just saw a post by the Maine Association of Realtors on Twitter with the link to the Unclaimed Property Database. So of course I clicked to see what I might find under my name. Nothing! But I did find 750 entries listed right here in Eliot! Worth taking a look.

Are you on Twitter? Send me a note, I'm @KristinOrr.

Changes to FHA

2010-01-25T13:28:00.003-05:00

There are more changes coming to the loan program backed by the Federal Housing Administration, commonly called FHA. While the changes are being referred to as significant, I don't see that much of an impact.

Here are the hightlights:
1. The Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) will be raised from 1.75% of the loan amount to 2.25%. This can still be financed in to the loan so it will not have to be paid up front.
2. There will be a credit score requirement! Anyone below 580 will have to pay a 10% down payment, anyone over 580 will remain at a 3.5% minimum down payment. I don't see this as a limiting factor at all because while FHA didn't have a credit score requirement previously, the banks processing these loans did. It actually might open up financing opportunities for those in the under 580 category.
3. Seller concessions will be reduced to 3%. Previously, FHA allowed up to 6% seller concession, but the Buyer also had to contribute 3% of their own money.

All this sound like a foreign language? That's why you get a good Buyer's Agent who understands all this stuff!

Seacoast Showing Job Growth

2010-01-20T17:59:00.003-05:00

My Twitter stream has been full of references to an MSN article today about the best and worst places for job growth in the country according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Our area, Portsmouth NH/Maine is on the "best" list! We rank #8 to be exact!

I've looked up what's included in that Portsmouth, NH/Maine region before, and from what I remember it's Portsmouth, south to the Hampton area and north almost to Rochester, along with the KEYS region in Maine.

Check out the full article to read more. For some reason, the top of the page is blank - you have to scroll down to find the story.

1st Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Form

2010-01-17T08:56:00.003-05:00

The IRS has released the form all those 2009 1st Time Home Buyers need to fill out in order to receive the up to $8000 tax credit.

The form is posted to to the IRS website, along with instructions for completion.

Along with the extension of the tax credit in November, the government also increased the required documentation to receive the credit. For this reason, tax filers for 2009 and beyond won't be able to e-file when including the up to $8000 tax credit as part of their return.

New Listing: Eliot Cape

2010-01-11T14:08:00.003-05:00

10 Galway Lane
Eliot

$379,900

Three bedroom, 2 bath Cape with wonderful details throughout. In-laid hardwood floors, great kitchen with center island, gas stove and granite, recently renovated bathrooms. Open concept living spaces, 1st floor bedroom and a finished basement, which offers lots of space to spread out and play.

Outside, you'll find 4.5 acres of land to enjoy, a farmer's porch, a deck and patio plus a pool and hot tub.

Click on the photo for additional information and photos.

Eliot Business After-Hours Wednesday

2010-01-11T14:03:00.002-05:00

The Town of Eliot Business Development Committee hosts the next Eliot netWorks Business After-Hours this Wednesday, January 13th. The event runs from 5 to 7 at the Regatta Room in Eliot Commons on Route 236.

These events are great ways to meet Eliot business people and reconnect with those you already know. On average, there have been more than 50 people at each Eliot Business After-Hours.

Make sure you say hi to both Russ and Kristin at the event. They're both members of the EBDC.

Eliot Special Election Results

2010-01-10T11:32:00.003-05:00

Eliot voters choose two new selectmen and agreed to use TIF funds to study water and sewer along Route 236. Here are the vote totals:

Roland Fernald - 440
Orland McPherson - 384
John J. Murphy - 165
Richard Norek - 61
Ed Strong - 193

TIF Study Warrant Article - Yes - 384 No - 254

Both Fernald and McPherson have served on the Board of Selectmen in the past.

Candidate Forum

2009-12-15T10:59:00.005-05:00

Eliot OnLine will host a candidate forum for the upcoming Selectman election next month. The Forum will be held Tuesday, January 5th at 7 PM at the Grange Hall (across from the William Fogg Library) on State Road.

Prior to last spring's election, EOL held a similar forum where all candidates on the ballot had the opportunity to answer questions and tell the voters their opinions on current issues.

Eliot Special Election

2009-12-11T12:09:00.003-05:00

Eliot residents will have the opportunity to vote in a Special Election/ Referendum on Saturday, January 9, 2010.

There are two items which will appear on the ballot:

* To elect two Selectmen and Overseers of the Poor. Both positions fill a vacancy and expire June 2011. Those on the ballot: Roland Fernald, Jack Murphy, Edward Strong, Richard Norek and Orland McPherson.

* To see if the Town will vote to appropriate $220,000 from the Route 236 Municipal Development and Tax Increment Financing Development Program Account and authorize the Board of Selectmen to expend up to that amount for the purposes of conducting engineering feasibility and conceptual design studies to define routes and costs of the proposed sewer and water improvements included in said Development Program and paying legal and implementation costs associated with preparing those studies.
*Engineering work in Eliot: $83,000
*Engineering work in Kittery: 120,000
*Legal and Implementation: 17,000
Total: $220,000
*Estimated
THE BUDGET COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS $220,000

Voting will be held in the Gym at Marshwood Middle School on Route 236. Polls will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Absentee ballots are now available at the Town Hall.

Christmas Carols by Another Name

2009-12-11T12:00:00.003-05:00

This was posted on Eliot Online this week, so I can't take credit for finding it. Here's a list of 39 Christmas carols with their names changed. Can you figure out all 39?

1. Approach EveryoneWho Is Steadfast
2. Ecstacy Toward The Orb
3. Hush, The Foretelling Spirits Harmonize
4. Hey, Miniscule Urban Area Southwest Of Jerusalem
5. Quiescent Nocturnal Period
6. The Autocratic Troika Originating Near the Accent of Apollo
7. The Primary Carol
8. Embellish The Corridors
9. I Apprehended My Maternal Parent Osculating with a Corpulent, Unshaven Male in CrimsonDisguise
10. I‘m Fantasizing Concerning a Blanched Yuletide
11. My Singular Desire For The Impending Yuletide Season Is Receipt Of A Pair Of CentralIncisors.
12. During the Time Ovine Caretakers Supervised Their Charges Past Twilight
13. Celestial Messengers From Splendid Empires.
14. The Thing Manifest Itself at the Onset of a Transparent Day
15. The Tatterdemalion Ebony Atmosphere
16. The Coniferous Nativity
17.What Offspring Abides Thus?
18. Removed in a Bovine Feeding Trough
19. Creator Cool It Ya Kooky Cats
20. SeraphimWe Aurally Detect in the Stratosphere
21. Valentino, The Roseate ProboscissedWapati
22. Father Christmas Approaches the Metropolis
23. Ag Glockenspiels
24. The Slight Percussionist Lad
25. The Antelered QuadrupedWith The Cerise Proboscis.
26. The Event Occurred At One Minute After 11:59 PM-Visibility Unlimited.
27. Ornament The EnclosureWith Large Sprigs Of A Berry-bearing Evergreen.
28. Anticipation Of This Noel’s Memento‘s: Nil.
29. The Approach Of The Holiday Commemorating The Birth Of Christ Is Becoming Evident.
30. During the Dark HoursWhen Herdsman Attended Their Charges.
31. A Trio of Non-Occidental Potentates Is Our Identity.
32. A Meteorological Melody Is Manifest.
33. The Yuletide’s Diurnal Dozen.
34. Please Permit Pristine Precipitation.
35. ‘Rimey’, The Mannikin of Crystalline H2O.
36. Our Desire Is Your Yuletide Cheer.
37. Aged Matriarch Plowed Under By Preciptious Darlings.
38. Are You Experiencing Parallel Auditory Input?
39. Endeavor to personally experience singular, miniscule Yule

A couple really made me laugh, a few I'm still trying to figure out!

Breakfast With Santa

2009-12-04T09:17:00.003-05:00

Looking for something fun to do with the little ones this weekend? Take them to Breakfast with Santa at the Eliot Elementary School.

The event runs from 8 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, December 5th. Breakfast is buffet style with pancakes, muffins, pastries and other yummy breakfast goodies.

In addition to breakfast, children can sit on Santa's lap, meet Mrs. Claus, listen to Christmas stories read by EES Principal Mrs. Goering and make a holiday-themed craft.

Cost is just$2 per person with a family cap of $10. All are welcome. Proceeds benefit the Eliot Community Parent-Teacher Organization. The ECPTO provides thousands of dollars worth of supplies, field trips and enrichment programs to EES every year.

See you there!

Gift of Green

2009-12-02T13:42:00.003-05:00

Maine Housing is updating their Gift of Green program. Qualified buyers can now get up to $2500 for downpayment and/or closing cost assistance for the purchase of their first home.

You will also receive a certificate, worth up to $500, for a two-part home energy audit. That audit can really save some money by showing you ways to cut down of oil, gas and/or electricity.

These grants are on seperate from the up to $8000 first-time homebuyer tax credit.

Rates Increasing

2009-11-12T07:56:00.002-05:00

The Kittery Sewer Department will raise rates for all customers. This includes all public sewer customers in Eliot.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20091112-NEWS-911120422

Marshwood Middle School Scores Big

2009-11-11T08:03:00.002-05:00

Students at Marshwood Middle School averaged 15 points above the state average in recent math testing and 5 to 10 percent higher in reading.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20091111-NEWS-911110369

This follows similar results in 4th grade testing recently reported by the Great Works School.

Good job students and teachers!

Home Buyer Tax Credit Extended, Expanded

2009-11-06T16:14:00.002-05:00

Lot's of mortgage brokers and title company personnel breathed a sigh of relief today: President Obama signed the extension of the 1st Time Home Buyer tax credit today. The extension will cover qualifying transactions that go under contract by April 20, 2010 and close by July 1, 2010.

This bill also adds a repeat buyer tax credit. For those who have owned their current home for at least 5 years, are now eligible for a $6500 tax credit if they sell and buy a new home. There are no purchase price or size restrictions. I thought there might be, since early on this was nicknamed a "move-up buyer credit."

Buyers in both categories have to meet new expanded income limits,
$125,000 for single tax filers and $225,000 for married filing jointly. Those limits are higher than the current tax credit, which capped the income limits at $75,000 and $125,000.

There are a couple of disqualifications for the tax credit: the purchase price must be below $800,000 and the buyer can not be a dependent of the seller.

Tax Credit Expected to be Extended,Expanded Tomorrow

2009-11-05T16:35:00.003-05:00

It looks like President Obama will sign the expansion of the up to $8000 tax credit tomorrow morning. This bill also creates a new tax credit: $6500 for those who have been in their current home for more than 5 years.

The Senate passed the measure yesterday; the House today. The bill also extends unemployment benefits.

We'll keep you posted as details come out.

Eliot Election Results

2009-11-04T11:40:00.003-05:00

Here's how your friends and neighbors voted on the 7 ballot questions on November 3, 2009:

Question 1
Yes 1152
No 1408

Question 2
Yes 776
No 1748

Question 3
Yes 1046
No 1359

Question 4
Yes 975
No 1511

Question 5
Yes 1642
No 893

Question 6
Yes 1829
No 656

Question 7
Yes 1235
No 1187

There was also one local question put before the voters this year: the SAD #35 bond vote. Here are those results:
Yes 1686
No 872
South Berwick voters also passed this item.

And just a reminder that Eliot voters will head to the polls again in January to elect two Selectmen. These two positions were made vacant by the death of Selectmen Arnold Paul and the resignation of Selectmen Gary Sinden. Both newly elected Selectmen will finish out the terms vacated by Paul and Sinden.

Winter Home Tips

2009-10-29T10:56:00.002-04:00

My husband stumbled upon this site recently and sent me a link. It has a pretty good list of things you can do around your house to cut your winter heating bill.

All the items were submitted by readers of the website; some are not my cup of tea, while others were good ideas. Sometimes one or two small changes can make a big difference.

1st Time Homebuyer Tax Credit May Extend, Expand

2009-10-29T10:24:00.004-04:00

A Senate subcommittee is working on a proposal to extend the first time home buyer tax credit, and expand it to some current homeowners looking to buy a new home.

A short time ago, there were 5 different versions of an expansion/extension bill, but this is the only one that seems to have any life left.

I've read several articles this morning about the Senate proposal. One article said the new version will keep the up to $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers; and another said it will reduce that figure by 10%. Another component: the credit will be extended to buyers who have owned their current home for at least 5 years. This version also increases the income limits for qualifying buyers.

Now, the current tax credit is limited to people who have not owned a home for the last 3 years, so this new bill leaves out an (in my opinion) odd segment of the population: those who have not owned a home for in the last 0-3 years and those who have been in their current home for less than 5 years. I'd love to find out how/why these restrictions came to be.

The new proposal extends the credit to those who go under contract to purchase a new home by the end of April 2010 and close by the end of June 2010.

It looks like the bill will hit the Senate floor for debate either today or tomorrow. We'll keep you posted!

Eliot Festival Day

2009-09-22T08:59:00.004-04:00

The 29th Annual Eliot Festival Day kicks off this Friday night. The Festival has grown to 3 days over the course of its almost 3 decades.

Friday night features food, fun and fireworks! It's all held at the Boat Basin off Main Street (AKA Dead Duck Inn for those who've been here for a while!). The chili cook-off, antique car show and live music start at 5:30. There are usually food vendors as well. This is capped by the fireworks display at 8. Usually a good show and the weather forecast looks good!

Saturday starts early for those working at or participating in the pancake breakfast or the 5K road race. Some of the workers will be there at 5 am! I've been there in years past and while it's a lot of fun, that alarm clock going off at 4 in the morning is not!

The breakfast goes from 6 to 9 AM at the Congregational Church. It benefits the Eliot Lions Club. The race starts at 8:30 and 16 or so minutes later the first finisher will be back at the finish line! The race benefits the Eliot Community Service Department.

The actual Eliot Festival Day begins in earnest at 9 when all the food booths, vendors and such open for business. You'll find a kids area with games as well. The Festival is spread out all throughout "Downtown Eliot" from the school lawn, inside, the ball field, along State Road and north towards the library. The parade starts at 10:30, running from Eliot Commons to the library. The thrift shop at the Congregational Church will be open and the library hosts the Kids Fun Run at noon. You can register early at ECSD or register day-of.

Cap off a fun filled day with a traditional Ham and Bean Supper at the Congregational Church. If you've never been to a Ham and Bean Supper, take this opportunity to experience a quaint, New England tradition. It's all-you-can-eat served family style. And it's not just ham and beans. You'll have scalloped potatoes, American chop suey, cole slaw, rolls and all kinds of pies, cakes and cookies to choose from. (Which reminds me - I'm supposed to bake a cake for the supper!) There's a camaraderie and spirit that's truly unique.

Sunday afternoon and evening present 3 more activities. The Green Acre Baha'i School will dedicate a new building at 4:30 followed by their annual Turkey supper at 5. There is only one seating for this supper and you need to buy tickets in advance. Call 207-439-7200, ext 7000 or 7006 to RSVP.

Wrapping up the Eliot Festival weekend is the Salt River Trio. They'll play a coffeehouse concert at the McPherson Hall at the Congregational Church. Enjoy traditional and folk music, coffee and goodies starting at 7:00. Suggested donation is $5, with a cap of $15 per family.

Eliot Tax Rate Unchanged

2009-09-16T11:49:00.004-04:00

Was I surprised to open the envelope and see no change to the tax bill this year! With all the state budget cuts and increases in all expenses, I'd expected to see my tax bill go up several hundred dollars. But it's the same for 2010 as for 2009.

Here's how it breaks down:
2009 mil rate: 12
2010 mil rate: 12
1st payment due: November 17, 2009
2nd payment due: May 18, 2010

November Election - State Questions

2009-09-03T13:13:00.003-04:00

Nothing real estate related, but certainly of interest to Maine residents.

There will be 7 questions posed to Maine voters on November 3rd. And the topics are like a laundry list of hot-button issues!

The most talked about - at this point - the People's Veto Question on same-sex marriage in Maine. That questions will top the ballot, followed by 4 Citizen Initiative Questions, a Bond Question and a Constitutional Question. Here are the topics:
- whether to reduce excise tax
- whether to repeal the 2007 school consolidation regulations
- changing the state and local spending formulas
- allowing the use of medical marijuana

For more information, click on the link above from WCSH-6.

Eliot Business After-Hours

2009-08-27T08:10:00.002-04:00

Mark your calendars!

The next Eliot netWorks Business After-Hours will be Wednesday, September 9th. Join the Eliot Business Development Committee from 5 to 7 at the Regatta Room on Route 236 in Eliot. All Eliot business people and business owners are encouraged to get together, promote their business, make connections and have a fun evening! Food provided, cash bar available.

Russ and Kristin are both members of the EBDC and always enjoy these Eliot business events.

The EBDC would like to thank our sponsor for this event: Littlebrook Custom Builders.

For more information or to be included in the EBDC reminder email, contact the EBDC at EliotBDC@gmail.com.

Plans for Eliot's Bicentennial

2009-08-27T08:07:00.001-04:00

From today's Portsmouth Herald:

Events will begin Aug. 7 (2010) with an encampment at the Raitt Farm and parade, which will include floats, bands, and other units and vehicles, she said.
"In the evening, the Historical Society is holding a bicentennial ball at the Regatta Room at Eliot Commons," she said. "They are encouraging people to come in period costumes."
Tuesday will feature Green Acre Day, sponsored by the Baha'i community. On Wednesday night, there will be a concert by the Seacoast Wind Ensemble at Marshwood High School. Aug. 14 will be family day at the Raitt Farm with special games, food, music, and other activities, she said.
The committee is planning even more events, and Kent said members would appreciate feedback from the community.
Volunteers are needed to help with the planning and the events themselves. The committee meets every fourth Wednesday at Fogg Library at 6:30 p.m. Interested persons should call Kent at (207) 439-9313 or e-mail her at ogreygoose@comcast.net for information.

Kittery, South Berwick July Sales

2009-08-26T13:20:00.004-04:00

So yesterday we looked at Eliot's sales for July, and the year-to-date, comparing 2008 with 2009. Eliot's numbers were so different from the state average, I wanted to look at some other towns to see if I could find a pattern or similarity to the state results.

Kittery:

July 2008: 11
July 2009: 7

That's a decrease in sales. A 35% decrase to be exact. The State increase for July 2009 compared to July 2008 was 11.82%. Eliot saw a 75% increase!

What about South Berwick?

July 2008: 7
July 2009: 9

That's an increase of 29%. Closer to the Maine-wide statistic, but still off.

So what would happen if we put Eliot, Kittery and South Berwick together?

Eliot: +75%
Kittery: -36%
South Berwick: +29%

Total: +22%

So putting the 3 towns, together, that's about double the statewide increase for July 2009 as compared to July 2008.

Where do we stand for the year?

Kittery YTD 2008: 51
South Berwick YTD 2009: 32

Kittery YTD 2009: 49
South Berwick YTD 2009: 29

So both Kittery and South Berwick are down for sales in 2009 as compared with 2008. This was the same finding we had yesterday with Eliot's 2009 sales. I haven't come across statewide sales for YTD yet. If I do, I'll be sure to share them with you!

Eliot July Sales

2009-08-24T15:15:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend, I posted that Maine real estate sales were up for July 2009 versus July 2008. So I wondered how Eliot fared during that same time period. Here's what I found:

July 2008: 4 sales
July 2009: 7 sales

That's a 75% increase year to year!

So where do we stand year to year? Here's the data:

YTD January 1, 2008 to July 31, 2008: 27 sales
YTD January 1, 2009 to July 31, 2009: 22 sales

So we're really at 81% for 2009 versus 2008.

New Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Law

2009-08-22T08:26:00.004-04:00

Starting November 1, 2009, all homes purchased in Maine must have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The buyer will have to certify at closing, in a signed and dated document, that the home or apartment has both types of detectors in accordance with the law.

Here are some FAQ's about the new law, provided by the Maine Association of Realtors:

Smoke Detectors:

What kind and how many?

Smoke detectors may be photoelectric, ionization, or a combination of both, except if they are within 20 feet of a kitchen or bathroom with a tub or shower, in which case they must be photoelectric type detectors. They may be powered by electrical service (hard-wired), by battery, or by a combination of both. They must be installed in each area within or giving access to a bedroom. After 10/31/09, all smoke detectors installed in a new single-family or a multi-family building must be powered by electric service and have battery back-up.

What about Rental Property?
Landlords must provide smoke detectors in working condition at each occupancy. If there is a problem with a detector, the tenant must notify the landlord in writing, and the landlord must replace the faulty detector. The landlord may not be considered negligent if the tenant fails to provide notice of a faulty detector. Tenants must keep detectors in working condition by replacing batteries and by testing the detectors, and they must refrain from disabling any smoke detectors.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

What kind and how many?
Carbon monoxide detectors must be powered by the electrical service in the building. They do not have to be hard-wired, but may be the plug-in variety (which plugs into any wall outlet). They must have battery back-up. They must be placed in each area within, or giving access to, bedrooms. They are required in each apartment of a multi-family building, in any addition or restoration of a home that adds at least one bedroom, and in any conversion of a building to a single- family dwelling. Existing single family owner-occupied homes are required to have carbon monoxide detectors upon transfer of title to a new owner.

What about Rental Property?
Basically the same requirements for the landlord and the tenant as noted above in the section on smoke detectors.

What about new construction?
All new single-family dwellings must be equipped with at least one carbon monoxide detector in each area within or giving access to any bedroom in the dwelling. They must be powered by the electrical service in the building, and have battery back-up.

Sales Up in Maine

2009-08-22T08:23:00.001-04:00

In a press release to the media today, the Maine Real Estate Information System reports that home sales are up 11.82% in July 2009 compared with July 2008.

Median home prices decreased 13.8% to $165,500 in that same time period. Does that mean home prices dropped 13.8% during that period? No! It means the houses that sold in July 2009 cost less than those sold in July 2008.

Weather Tidbit

2009-07-08T08:47:00.004-04:00

Here's an interesting (or should I say soggy!) weather fact from WMUR:

Measureable rainfall in Concord, NH recorded rain 22 out of last 30 days and produced 8.80" of rain. The average rainfall for that period of time? 3.20"!!

No wonder my flowers are rotting in their planters!

Foreclosure Assistance Companies Ordered Out

2009-07-08T08:12:00.002-04:00

Maine's Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection ordered 15 foreclosure-assistance companies to stop doing business in our state. All 15 of the companies are located out-of-state.

The CCP says the companies promise to help homeowners avoid foreclosure, but simply took their money instead. Here's a list of the companies:
Federal Loan Modification Law center; Irvine CA
United Hope Alliance Corp.; Jacksonville, FL
National Foreclosure Counseling Services; Jacksonville, FL
Hope Now Modifications; Cherry Hill, NJ
Pathway Financial Management; Stanton, CA
Law Offices of Joel L. Schwartz; Northfield, NJ
BillsMadeSimple.com, Inc; San Diego, CA
Lewis Foreclosure Mediation Services, LLC; Phoenix, AZ
Apply 2 Save, Inc.; Coeur d’Alene, ID
HelpModifyNow.com; Newport Beach, CA
Ocean View Investment Services Co.; Ft. Lauderdale, FL
FHA All Day; Boca Raton, FL
Mason Capital Group, LLC; Encino, CA
The Hall Firm; New York City, NY
Fresh Start Mortgage Assistance Solutions; Beverly Hills, CA and Clearwater, FL

There are 39 licensed and bonded debt management companies operating within the state. You can find a list of these companies here. Look under “Rosters” and then “Debt Management Service Providers.”

If you have been working with one of the banned companies, or lost money to them previously, contact Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection Consumers. Here's their website, or call 1-800-332-8529 (TTY for hearing impaired: 1-888-577-6690), or write to Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection, 35 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333.

Fourth of July fireworks UPDATE

2009-07-03T08:43:00.001-04:00

Here's an updated list of fireworks displays in the area. The Portsmouth show has already been postponed until Sunday. Wonder how many others will be rescheduled too?

Fourth of July fireworks shows on Seacoast | SeacoastOnline.com

Independence Day Fireworks

2009-06-30T13:56:00.003-04:00

Here's a list of the upcoming Fireworks Displays for our area:

Portsmouth: July 3rd at 9:15 at South Mill Pond. Rain Date is July 5th. For more information, click here.

Dover: July 4th at 9:15. Fireworks will go off from Maglaras Park. Here's a list of the best places to view the display. Rain date is July 5th.

Hampton Beach: July 4th at 9:30. Display will be at the Top of C Street, on the beach. Rain date is July 5th. Click here for more information. Hampton Beach also does fireworks on Wednesdays throughout the summer.

Know of another fireworks display not listed here? Please send us an email and we'll add it to this list.

Market Update

2009-06-29T13:07:00.003-04:00

This week's Market Report is looking up again!

This past week we saw 11 new listings, 6 pendings and 8 sold properties in the towns of Eliot, Kittery and South Berwick. The full report is on the home page of our website.

We would love to see the "Pendings" exceed the "Listings," but we are seeing much better numbers than we did a few weeks ago.

For the month of May, there were 35 new Listings, with 23 Pending and 11 Sold. April provided similar numbers, with 45 new Listings, 24 Pending and 6 Sold.

I'll be interested in a few days to see how the June numbers turn out. Each week's numbers so far have been getting better. Stay tuned!

June rainfall in N.H. 5 times more than last year | SeacoastOnline.com

2009-06-24T07:25:00.001-04:00

I knew it had rained a lot, but 6.5 inches so far? Wow! No wonder my plants are rotting.

June rainfall in N.H. 5 times more than last year | SeacoastOnline.com

Changes to Maine's Foreclosure Laws

2009-06-19T18:47:00.003-04:00

New legislation went in to effect this week detailing what banks must do to start the foreclosure process in our State. From the list, it looks like all the information must be spelled out much clearer than was required in the past. And it also provides an easy way for consumers to respond to a foreclosure filing and a way to request mediation.

Here's a link to the details of the new laws:
http://www.maine.gov/pfr/consumercredit/pre-foreclosure_faq.html

Even before this new legislation, Maine's laws were already much more borrower-friendly than other states. There's got to be nothing worse than being in the difficult position of facing foreclosure and not having clear information. I hope this new legislation will really help some people.

MaineHousing's 'Gift of Green' offers incentives to buy home | SeacoastOnline.com

2009-06-18T20:50:00.001-04:00

This looks like a great program! I did a webinar last week. MaineHousing's 'Gift of Green' offers incentives to buy home | SeacoastOnline.com

Parents' Night (or Day!) Out

2009-06-15T21:02:00.002-04:00

The Family Resource Center in Kittery just announced a new program for summer: Parents Day Out.

Beginning on Monday, June 22, 2009, the Center will offer 3 days where parents can drop kids off to play while they run errands, go to an appointment or have dinner out!

Child care will be provided by credentialed staff. FRC Cares will welcome children ages 12 months to 12 years, for up to four (4) hours a day, three days a week.
Mondays, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Fridays, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM *
Saturdays, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Cost is $25.00 per day or $28 per evening. Additional siblings $15 each. Spaces are limited so sign up ahead of time.

To register, stop by the Family Resource Center at Landmark Hill 518 US 1, Kittery, Maine or call 207-451-9291

While you're at it, check out all their programs. I took my son to several of their Open Play and activity classes when he was younger and we always found the staff to be great and the facility clean and orderly.

* Friday evening care will include a healthy meal for your children.

Planning Underway for Eliot Festival Day

2009-06-14T08:19:00.002-04:00

This will be the 29th Eliot Festival Day. This year's theme will be "Coming Home to Eliot Again." EFD is always held the last weekend in September; this year it is the 25th and 26th.

Friday night will feature the annual Chili Cook-off, an antique car show and fireworks.

Saturday's the big day! It starts with a pancake breakfast at the Congregational Church, followed by the 17th annual Eliot Festival Day 5K Road Race and Kid's Fun Run. The parade and street fair follow.

Vendors looking to have a booth at Eliot Festival Day can now contact the Committee. Check out the 2009 Eliot Festival Days Web site for information.

Articles 44 through 46

2009-06-13T21:18:00.003-04:00

Article 44 was included at the request of our Road Commissioner, Bill Shapleigh. The Article looks to change the position of Road Commissioner from elected each year to an appointed position. The appointment would be the task of the Board of Selectmen. This would bring the Road Commissioner position in line with other department heads within the town, including police, fire and community service. Many did not understand the reason for this change. It went to a counted vote (versus a visual assessment by the Moderator) and passed by a margin of 55 to 33. Thus, starting with Fiscal Year 2010 (which will begin July 1, 2010) the Road Commissioner will now be an appointed position within the Town of Eliot.

Article 45 passed.

Article 46 was required to be voted on by ballot vote. This is the Town override of the new state regulation that the Town can not exceed the State's property tax levy limit. The proposed budget, and what was voted on in the previous 40 articles, would exceed that State Limit by more than $200,000. I could be wrong, but I believe Eliot has exceeded, and therefore voted to allow for it, each year since this State regulation was adopted a few years ago.

I cast my ballot for this Article and then had to leave to put my son to bed! When I hear the result, I will update this post.

Articles 35 through 42

2009-06-13T21:12:00.002-04:00

Article 35 fail and therefore was not adopted. This was a request for $20,000 to be used for emergency expenses. The Budget Committee recommended $0 since there is in excess of $79,000 in the Contingency Reserve Account already. It is believed $75,000 is the target amount for this account.

Articles 36 through 42 were adopted as written.

Article 43 caused a fairly lengthy discussion.

Articles 21 through 34

2009-06-13T21:08:00.003-04:00

Article 21 sparked quite a bit of discussion. After all was said, it passed as written.

Articles 22 through 28 were adopted as written.

Thanks to some detective work by Eric Christian, Article 29 was amended. Eric realized that the line item for Cross Roads was significantly more than last year's budget. ($7,500 vs $750 for 2008-9). He questioned the increase and it was quickly determined that it was in fact a typo! The Article was amended to $28,515 and quickly passed.

Articles 30 through 34 were adopted as written.

Articles 12 through 20

2009-06-13T20:00:00.002-04:00

After much discussion back and forth, Article 12 was adopted as written.

Article 13 was amended to the Budget Committee's recommendation of $17,500 for the purchase of police cruisers and equipment.

Articles 14 and 15 were adopted as written.

Article 16 was adopted as the Budget Committee recommended: $12,500 for fire truck reserve, down from $25,000 as requested by the Fire Department. During discussion, Chief Muzzeroll said he would agree with the reduction due to the recent sale of old vehicles, which would make up most of this difference.

Articles 17 through 20 were adopted as written.

Articles 6 through 11

2009-06-13T19:31:00.002-04:00

The Town Meeting begins with Article 6. Prior articles were voted on Tuesday at the polling portion of the Town Meeting.

Articles 6, 7 and 8 were voted on as written.

Article 9 (which covered salaries for the police department) was adopted as the Budget Committee recommended. This is $5,000 less than written. The money would come from the Overtime line item.

Article 10 and 11 were adopted as written.

Much discussion about Article 12. going on now. Article 10 is the expenditures to run the police department.

Eliot Town Meeting

2009-06-13T18:58:00.002-04:00

Opening Ceremonies have concluded.

The Boston Post Cane was awarded to Elizabeth C. Libbey. She is 101 years old.

The Boston Post Cane is awarded to the oldest citizen of a town. The Boston Post granted 700 canes to various New England towns. The Canes are made of ebony from the Congo with a 14K gold head.

Mrs. Libbey was not able to attend tonight's Ceremony due to a recent hip surgery. Her son Albert accepted the Cane on her behalf, along with two proclomations: one from Rep. Sally Lewin, the second from Governor Baldacci. Gov. Baldacci's proclomation declared August 16, 2009, Mrs. Libbey's 102nd birthday, as Elizabeth C. Libbey Day in the State of Maine.

There were no nominees for the Fabyan Drake Award this year and therefore no award was given.

Now on to the Warrant Articles.

Eliot Town Meeting Tonight

2009-06-13T16:12:00.002-04:00

Voters will have a chance to decide on the Town portion of our tax bill tonight. The proposal from the Board of Selectmen is $122,000 less than the current year's budget. The Budget Committee recommends an additional $60,000 less.

Even with these reductions, our tax bills are likely to go up this year. The State funding we receive is anticipated to be much lower than it has been in years past. The exact amount is still up in the air as far as I know. Maybe we'll find out tonight.

The Town Meeting starts at 6:30 tonight. It's held in the gym at the Elementary School. See you there!

$8000 Loans Available for Closing

2009-05-30T10:24:00.002-04:00

Guidelines for how Home Buyers can use the up to $8,000 tax credit at the time of closing on their home were released yesterday. According to regulations, the Home Buyer must still have the downpayment necessary for an FHA loan, but the $8,000 can be used to cover the cost of closing costs or to increase the downpayment.

Interested in taking advantage of this program? Give us a call or send an email.

Census: Maine has Oldest Population

2009-05-14T07:22:00.002-04:00

Maine has the oldest population in the country. Florida, who you would expected to be first on that list, is ranked 4th and tied with New Hampshire.

Maine's median age is now 42.

More Details on $8000 tax credit for FHA Downpayment

2009-05-12T13:34:00.003-04:00

Here's a little more information:

the money will be available to buyers through a bridge loan at closing. It hasn't been announced (or at least I haven't found it yet!) as to the procedures for transfering the tax credit back. Probably right though paperwork filed at closing, but we'll have to wait and see.

This change to the tax credit is great news! Often time a first-time buyer has the credit and the income to buy, but hasn't saved up enough for a downpayment and closing costs.

(More) RESPA Reform Coming

2009-05-12T13:27:00.002-04:00

The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced more reform to RESPA is on the way. RESPA- the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act - is designed to make the fees and so forth associated with a home purchase clear and easy to compare.

RESPA has a long way to go, so I'm interested to see what changes will actually come out of this reform. It goes in to effect on January 1, 2010.

It is hard for consumers, even with the current RESPA regulations, to compare an offering from more than one mortgage company. I often spend an hour or so breaking down a Good Faith Estimate from each prospective mortgage company for a buyer. The problem is that fees that are really for the same thing are often given different names by different companies. Makes it look like you're comparing apples to oranges, when it's really apples to apples. I'll take 2 or e GFE's and put them on one form with all the fees having the same names so it's easy to see where the difference in prices lies.

$8000 Tax Credit Will Be Available for Downpayment

2009-05-12T12:52:00.003-04:00

At the National Association of Realtors Midyear Meeting today, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan announced the $8000 tax credit will be made available for downpayments for homebuyers using FHA financing.

Details are expected in Donovan's Keynote Address.

Market Improving

2009-05-05T11:41:00.002-04:00

Each week, we post a Market Snapshot on the Home Page of our website. This shows the number of new listings within our core market area, along with the number of pending listings, sold listings and price changes.

It is an interesting exercise in and of itself. Sometimes there are typical shifts, like more sales at the end of the month or more expireds on the 1st of a month, and other times the numbers easily show the trend in the market.

Take this week for example: 18 new listings. A sure sign of the spring market! Looking at the listings themselves, I see another good sign: none are repeat listings (that I recognize!). This means they are all new listings to the market and not properties being relisted because they didn't sell.

Twelve pendings for the last week is great news! I think this is the largest number of pendings within one week we've seen all year. Coupled with the 10 pendings for last week, that's good news for our market.

Thumbs Up for Russ & Kristin!

2009-04-27T11:51:00.003-04:00

Both are members of the Eliot Business Development Committee. The EBDC recently hosted the first ever Eliot Business After-Hours. The Portsmouth Herald praised the committee for its efforts. Here's the link: http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20090414-OPINION-904140356

Congratulations to Russ, Kristin and the entire EBDC for a job well done!

10 Things Ever New Homebuyer Needs to Know

2009-04-27T10:19:00.002-04:00

Good reading!

We can help you with all 10 - that's what we're here for!

And don't forget, Kristin holds the Accredited Buyer Representative Designation.

New Jobs in Kittery

2009-04-24T19:49:00.002-04:00

The Navy Yard will add 405 new jobs this year. That's up from the 125 jobs originally planned. Here's more information:

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090424/GJNEWS_01/904249917

TIF Ceremony

2009-04-17T09:04:00.003-04:00

Last week, in a ceremony at the Governor's Office, the Route 236 Municipal TIF and the Eliot Commons TIF were made official. Kristin attended the ceremony to represent the Eliot Business Development Committee.

Pictured: Rep. Sally Lewis, R-Eliot; Kristin McMullen Orr, Eliot Business Development Committee; Richard Donhauser, Chair, Eliot TIF Committee; Mike Moynahan, Eliot Selectman; Jack Murphy, Chair, Eliot Board of Selectmen; Governor John Baldacci, D-Maine; Commissioner John Richardson, Maine Department of Economic and Community Development

Homeowner Tax Tips

2009-04-06T16:45:00.002-04:00

Tax tips for those who haven't filed yet this year (like me!), including information on the $7500 and $8000 Home Buyer Tax Credits.

9 days left to file!

Home Trends for 2010

2009-03-26T20:49:00.002-04:00

Here's a prediction of what we're going to have/want in our homes for 2010.

Interesting that it's all about the kitchen?

Home Sale Increase

2009-03-23T14:00:00.002-04:00

The National Association of Realtors latest numbers show February home sales were up 5.1% over January. The big reason? The $8000 1st Time Homebuyer Tax Credit. Close to 50% of February sales were to 1st Time Homebuyers.

How Do I Get the $8000 Tax Credit?

2009-03-12T09:06:00.003-04:00

There area couple of steps to qualify for the $8000 Tax Credit:
1. Be a First Time Homebuyer; defined as someone who hasn't owned a primary residence within 3 years.
2. Purchase a home in 2009.
3. Next spring, when you do your 2008 taxes, fill out IRS Form 5405 and submit along with your 1040.

We've put a copy of Form 5405 on our website. Click here to access the form.

Home Stability Info

2009-03-09T10:44:00.001-04:00

Here's a link to Fannie Mae's website with info on the refinance and modification programs announced last week.

http://www.financialstability.gov/

Making Home Affordable

2009-03-06T16:21:00.002-05:00

There are 2 programs within the federal plan.

The 1st is a refinance program aimed at homeowners who want to refinance - or may have tried to in the recent past - but couldn't due to declining home values.

The 2nd is a modification program for homeowners who are in default or at risk of going in to default. The modification program allows a homeowner to change the interest rate, term and/or principal amount of their loan without paying closing costs.

So what to you do? If you're looking to refinance, contact your local mortgage officer. If you want to modify, contact your mortgage servicer (the company you send your payment to each month). They'll walk you through the process.

1st Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

2009-03-04T14:59:00.003-05:00

Are you a first-time homebuyer? Or at least a buyer who hasn't owned a home in 3 years? Then you can take advantage of the up to $8000 tax credit if you purchase a new home in 2009. We've created a Q&A about the program. For more details, or to discuss your situation, give us a call or drop us an email!

Homeowner Afforability and Stability Act

2009-03-04T14:53:00.002-05:00

Details were released today on the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Act. It's designed to help homeowners who are in foreclosure or facing foreclosure but would be able to keep their homes if the payments were more affordable. The plan was just released today, so specifics will be worked out by individual mortgage companies now. Expect more details in a day or two. In the meantime, here's a pretty good article from Money.com:

http://money.cnn.com/2009/03/04/news/economy/guidelines/index.htm?postversion=2009030409