Portsmouth NH Real Estate Blog

Great Closing Gifts From My Client!

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:35:02 -0700

Who doesn't like the Pampered Chef?

We are closing on a new vacation home for my client next month, and this same client is also a Pampered Chef distributor. So if you are looking for a great closing gift, why not spread the love, show some real estate camaraderie and support, and order a gift from my own client?

The Pampered Chef

She helps me with referrals, I might as well do the same for her!

Now the question is, do I get her a closing gift from her own shop??? :-)

Dear For Sale by Owner

Mon, 24 May 2010 23:15:01 -0700

Dear FSBO,

I appreciate the fact that you are, indeed, listed on our multiple listing service using an "entry only" listing service. It made your listing easy to find and show to my Buyers. Your description was detailed, the listing provided the right information, it got our attention and your photographs looked wonderful. I really wish we have been able to see it!

My Buyers were coming in for only one day and we had an extremely busy schedule today looking at 11 houses. We only had a certain time allotted for each house before we had to move onto the next. Since my Buyers needed to find a home that day in which to make an offer, we looked at as many appropriate homes as we possibly could.

I called you for an appointment to put into our busy schedule. You verbally obliged. The day before our rampage of showings began, I called you to confirm. "Oh yes", you said, "I will be there!".

You weren't there.

We walked around the grounds and quite frankly, this home probably would have made it into the top three. But we didn't know for sure, you were not there to let us in. I called you on your cell phone as we waited outside, no answer.

When we submit our offer, Mr. FSBO, please remember that it could have been on your home. But it will not be, I am afraid. I understand how schedules can sometimes get tossed up in the air, and we all have the potential to be late or simply unable to keep an appointment. I have a three year old, so believe me, I understand. However, if you listed properly with a real estate agent, things like this can be avoided. Agents can have other agents on their team who can cover for them, a showing will never be missed, perhaps only on the rarest of occasions.

Your home has been on the market since July of last year, Mr. FSBO. I think it is safe to assume that it is simply not working. Contact a REALTOR today. It could definitely make the difference between SOLD and "still on the market".

Sincerely,

Your Local REALTOR

Porthsmouth Book Club June Meetup - Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Wed, 12 May 2010 01:25:31 -0700

Tonight we discussed, "Book of Vice" by Peter Sagal and we expected a small turnout not because of the material but because of the number of RSVPs. However, it turned out to be a very large group for this particular group discussion which I was not prepared for! We had to bring out extra tables for all of the new people. I couldn't have anticipated a better evening.

Many of us enjoyed Mr. Sagal's satryical point of views on naughty vices, but his words fell short on ears that had not before heard his tones and voice. I love Peter on his NPR talk show, "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me..." as most people do who have ever heard him speak. You fall in love with him, his intelligence, his extreme articulation, his humor and his positive demeanor which never seems to evaporate. But if you are not familiar with him, the book might seem to feel a bit dry. You almost NEED to hear his narrative in your mind while reading this book.

Personally, I liked this book. I did have a difficult time getting through it, as most people, because it wasn't a novel. It wasn't the sort of book where you get to be attached to characters. But it was a lot of fun and for me, a lot of laughs.

I brought five nominations of books to the club tonight. We added another book to the selection which has been added countless times before. To my astonishment, this rogue book was picked. Our club actually picked, "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies".

If you have never seen this book before, you might be thinking, "WHAT?" I encourage you to look it up. This book has a cult following. Even the most reserved readers I have spoken with say that this book is hilarious and a "must-read". So let's take that into account.

Here is a brief synopsis from Barnes and Noble of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies:

So begins Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, an expanded edition of the beloved Jane Austen novel featuring all-new scenes of bone-crunching zombie mayhem. As our story opens, a mysterious plague has fallen upon the quiet English village of Meryton - and the dead are returning to life! Feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet is determined to wipe out the zombie menace, but she's soon distracted by the arrival of the haughty and arrogant Mr. Darcy. What ensues is a delightful comedy of manners with plenty of civilized sparring between the two young lovers - and even more violent sparring on the blood-soaked battlefield. Can Elizabeth vanquish the spawn of Satan? And overcome the social prejudices of the class-conscious landed gentry? Complete with romance, heartbreak, swordfights, cannibalism, and thousands of rotting corpses, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies transforms a masterpiece of world literature into something you'd actually want to listen to..

I am pretty sure this will be a LARGE group in June!

The Portsmouth Book Club

The Rosa, Portsmouth NH

7pm June 8, 2010

Portsmouth Book Club May Meetup - The Book of Vice

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 23:42:57 -0700

This evening we met at the Rosa in Portsmouth to discuss Little Bee by Chris Cleave. We had a great turn out, a huge group! I heard this book had the potential to create a good "back and forth" in a group discussion atmosphere, but I wasn't prepared for the intensely charged group, and our ensuing emotions, which we had this evening.

In Little Bee, two young sisters are running for their lives from a group of men with machetes in Nigeria who have slaughtered their entire village, and family, for the sake of oil. They run and run until they reach the beach where they accidentally meet Sarah and Andrew, an English couple on the rocks who are trying to enjoy a romantic holiday in hopes of salvaging their relationship. During their fateful meeting, the men with machetes arrive, and what happens next is atrocious. After the incident, they drag the two young children away and the English couple run back to their resort. Lives are changed forever on both sides. (I can't give away what happened on that beach! Think...Hotel Rwanda.)

One of the children survives, Little Bee, and she ends up years later on Sarah and Andrew's doorstep, the day of Andrew's funeral after he commits suicide. The book continues on as Sarah and Little Bee try and continue to live with each other, and help each other cope with loss.

I really liked the book, but had trouble with the character development. Sarah had been having a long term affair with a work-related married man who ended up on her doorstep, seemingly to stay, the day after the funeral. This, to me, was absurd. The affair was fine, and completely understandable and even normal, but the day after the funeral? It didn't seem real to me. It worsened with the lover's (Lawrence) complete lack of humanity in my eyes. He wanted Little Bee to be gone and he would do whatever it took to get rid of her because he felt she interfered with his relationship with Sarah and because he was worried that it could hurt his job (he was a civil servant and she was an illegal refugee). The inevitable consequence of her imminent death, if deported, was of no concern to him, he only cared about "owning" Sarah, and being free from any sort of work-related discrepancy. He was the kind of guy you wanted to crucify.

We had a great discussion this evening. Everyone had their own opinions. Some were emotionally charged, some were driven in logic. We all had our different feelings, and it made for a great night!

For next month, we picked, "Book of Vice: Very Naughty Things (and How to Do Them)" by Peter Sagal - the host of "Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me!" on NPR. I always listen to Mr. Sagal on the radio and I love his smart humor, so I was curious went I went surfing by his website today and was surprised to learn he had written a book back in 2007 on the upside of debauchery in the USA. I found it necessary to nominate the book and to my mischievious delight, it was selected.

I have not read this book yet but I can't wait! Mr. Sagal is a Harvard educated legend with humor and semantics. I am already looking forward to book club next month!

The Portsmouth Book Club

The Rosa, Portsmouth NH

7pm May 11, 2010

The Portsmouth Book Club - February Pick - The Hunger Games

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 00:44:36 -0800

Last month we discussed, The Help, by Kathryn Stockett. Our group rallied around this book in unison and gave it the universal thumbs up. Although the book was heavily weighted in feminine character and thought (there wasn't one strong male character throughout), the men enjoyed this novel as equally as the women. For me it was a bit of a slow start, but once it got going, you just couldn't put it down. I was up until 3am one evening (morning!) finishing this book because I just had to find out what happened next. I have never understood how an author can take on the roles in first person of someone living a life so far apart from their own, yet be able to make it convincing. And Kathryn Stockett is able to do this twice. She actually writes in first person for three main characters, two of them being African-American Maids in the deep and racist south during the sixties. She wrote it well. It was thought provoking and addictive. I would highly recommend this book.

Our next pick for February is, The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins. Some of you may wonder why we have picked a teen novel for the book club. That is the beauty of a book club, we pick from many different genres forcing you to read outside of your comfort level. This book actually came recommended from several Barnes and Noble managers. Honestly, I still can not believe this is a teen book. I have already read it and it is violent, extremely violent, yet it is distributed only by the Scholastic Press. As violent as it is, I suppose violence in books could be better than violence on the boob tube. I won't say too much about the book, except that I was so extremely riveted and fascinated, that I went out and bought the second book in the series (it is a trilogy). More adult than Harry Potter, no glittery vampires and wishy-washy love stories.....just a good dark story. I loved it!

Here is a brief synopsis of, The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins:

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival.

The Portsmouth Book Club

February 9, 2010 7pm

The Rosa, Downtown Portsmouth

Epping NH - New 2007 Colonial With a Pool

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 10:43:11 -0800

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

21 Fireside Drive, Epping, NH

Newly Built 2007 Colonial With Pool

4BR/1+2BA Single Family House

offered at $374,900

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	3,180
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	1 full, 2 partial
Floors	4
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	2.64 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

A spacious newly built 2007 colonial with four finished floors. Motivated sellers pricing this home over $30,000 less than the assessed value. Four bedrooms, master with private bath, two bonus rooms on the third floor, finished basement, above ground pool, energy efficient pellet stove, attached two car garage with direct entry, hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, second floor laundry, four-camera security system, two-tiered entertainer's deck leading out to the pool, stainless steel appliances in the gourmet kitchen and much more on two acres of land located in a private residential neighborhood. New stone retaining wall and walkways around the house, completely fenced in backyard for added privacy and a coy pond.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room
- Office/Den	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Stainless steel appliances	- Basement
- Washer	- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard	- Swimming pool

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- $30K Below Assessed!

- Newly Built in 2007

- Above Ground Pool

- Low Taxes

- New Stone Retaining Wall and Walkways

- Two Tiered Entertainer's Deck

- Second Floor Laundry

- Four Finished Floors

- Coy Pond

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

21 Fireside	Two Car Garage
Stainless Steel Appliance	Open Space
Dining Room	Large bedrooms

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 18, 2010, 7:24am PST

Portsmouth, NH Book Club January Pick - The Help

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 22:12:49 -0800

In our last meeting we discussed The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

First, I would like to openly admit that I did not finish the book, although I am the meeting founder and coordinator. This usually does not happen. But what can I say? A) I'm human. B) I'm a full time real estate agent slash mom. And I had an extremely busy month. So let's leave it at that.

This is one of the reasons I started my book club. There are many reasons, but one is the fact that I love to read but often lack the time. Book club forces me to find the time.

We had an interesting discussion on The Book Thief. It was seemed to be evenly divided in a male/female disagreement. For some reason, the women loved it and the men did not. It wasn't as cut, clean and concise as this, but close enough. Wonder why?

For the most part, the women loved the prose. The descriptions given by the narrator (who was "death" by the way) were beautiful, somber and very "Edgar Allen Poe-ish". Many of them didn't even make sense and were made up of abstract analogies which painted beautiful pictures, even if you didn't understand them. If you enjoy poetic literature, you will enjoy this book. Although not in comparison to 18th century prose or Jane Austin types of writing style, this is a whole new style which will capture your attention and satisfy your craving for good words.

But, if you are more obsessed with character development and story line, this may not be your next book choice. This seemed to be the main problem for the guys. They just couldn't get into it. But since I did not finish this novel, I can't say anymore!

Our next pick for book club is The Help by Kathryn Stockett.

Here is a brief synopsis from Barnes and Noble of The Help:

Be prepared to meet three unforgettable women: Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.

Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.

Minny, Aibileen's best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody's business, but she can't mind her tongue, so she's lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town...

Portsmouth Book Club

7pm. The Rosa

Downtown Portsmouth

January 12, 2010

Sold! - Mobile Home on Deeded Land in Seabrook NH

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:23:13 -0800

Closed: 11/24/09

Representation: Buyer's Agent

Listed: $80,000- REO

Closed: $75,000 **Unbelievable Deal**

Rollinsford, NH New Listing! Commercial Space - Former Town Sports Pub

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:18:47 -0800

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

480 Church, Rollinsford, NH

Former Town Sports Pub

Retail/Commercial

$1,500/month

Sq Footage

2,356

DESCRIPTION

The Bar is Open for Business! The bottom floor in this original 1848 property, formerly a local hotel in years past, and more recently a local sports pub on the bottom floor with a regular clientele base. Now under new ownership, seeking a tenant for the bottom unit. Reopen a new tavern! The bar still exists, fully plumbed, three access doors, small office in the back, room for coolers and refrigerator, lots of space for tables and chairs and plenty of parking in the adjacent parking lot for this tenant's use. Liquor license has expired, tenant to renew if a pub is opened. Space is also open for a variety of other uses. Build out is the tenant's expense, nice trade for a low rent.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Ample Parking 25+ Spaces

- Bar Still in Tact

- Fully Plumbed

- Existing Clientele Waiting for Bar to Reopen

LOCATION FEATURES

- Close to Downtown

- On Maine Border

LEASE TERMS

Long term, NNN, build out at tenant's expense.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

480 Church St	1848 Property, Bottom Fl
Large Open Space	Former Sports Pub
Parking Lot	Ample Parking

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 10, 2009, 8:55am PST

Seabrook, NH New Listing! 2001 Manufactured Waterfront Home

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:16:16 -0800

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

19 Cross Beach, Seabrook, NH

Waterfront property for only $165,000!

3BR/2BA Manufactured

offered at $165,000

Year Built	2001
Sq Footage	880
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	.05 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

A 2001 manufactured home in great condition with fifty six feet of waterfront. On its own land, no association fees here. The new owner can get a mooring, plenty of space to keep your boat too. Nestled in the middle of the Cross Beach Marshlands with direct water access to Blackwater River, a perfect place for bird watchers and water enthusiasts. This year round home has three bedrooms and two full baths, master with it's own bath, washer/dryer, new dishwasher and new garbage disposer.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central heat	- Walk-in closet	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Washer	- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Waterfront

- Less than 1 mile to beaches

- Moorings Available

- Newly Built in 2001

- Three Bedrooms!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Backyard
Kitchen	Master
Living Room	Moorings

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 23, 2009, 9:05am PST

The Portsmouth Book Club - December Pick

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:33:15 -0800

Our December pick for the Portsmouth Book Club is The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

Here is a brief synopsis from Barnes and Noble of The Book Thief:

It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.

Last week we finished and discussed Breakfast of Champions by Kurt Vonnegut. Our group ranged in opinions from a bit of distaste to overflowing appreciation and joy. Although I was leaning more towards distaste, I did appreciate the satyr and the way Vonnegut just puts it all out there in almost a reckless manner.

The Portsmouth Book Club
Second Tuesday of Each Month
The Rosa, Downtown Portsmouth
7pm

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Hampton Beach NH Penthouse Rental

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:13:52 -0700

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

22 K Street #301, Hampton, NH

Hampton Beach Penthouse Executive Rental

3BR/3.5BA Condo

$2,500/month

Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	1,797
Parking	2 dedicated
Pet Policy	No pets
Deposit	$2,500

DESCRIPTION

The Penthouse unit of the Beach Haven Condominium complex. Enjoy panoramic 180 degree views from double decks, over 1700sf of living space, open floor plan, cathedral ceilings, w/d hookups, three large bedrooms each with their own full baths, four baths total, master bedroom with walk in closet and jacuzzi tub in the master bath, fireplace, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, water views, elevator, secured access, garage parking for two, large storage unit on the first floor and so much more!

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Air conditioning	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Granite countertop
- Stainless steel appliances	- Basement	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool	- Cable-ready
- High-speed internet

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking	- Laundry on-site	- Storage space(s)
- Secured entry	- Elevator	- New property (< 5 years)
- Wheelchair access

LEASE TERMS

Year Lease Preferred

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Beach Haven Penthouse	Gourmet Kitchen
Open Concept	Full Deck
Dramatic Windows	Water Views

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 6, 2009, 10:00am PDT

Hampton NH Price Improvement and now offering $5k Towards Buyer's Closing Costs!

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:14:41 -0700

Skane Real Estate
By Rebecca Skane
Sellers! Let me get your home in front of thousands daily!
Buyers! Homes are selling fast due to the $8,000 tax credit, get in now!
Call me today and let me show you how I can help.

This SIX bedroom home, close to the beaches
with an in-law apartment, has dropped the price again
and is now offering up to $5,000 towards buyer's closing costs
if an acceptable offer is received!!
Hurry before they change their minds!
603.610.8944

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

431 Winnacunnet Rd, Hampton, NH

Up to $5k towards Buyer's Closing Costs! Hampton stroll to beach home with enormous in-law apartment for the extended family.

6BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $369,900

Year Built	1983
Sq Footage	2,767
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	.46 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Now offering up to $5k towards buyers closing costs if acceptable offer is received! This is the ideal home for an extended family. The downstairs in-law apartment has a separate ground entrance suitable for a wheelchair. There are six bedrooms and room for the whole family, plus the proximity to the beaches makes this property a wise investment.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- Hardwood floor	- Living room
- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Basement	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Guest parking

- Wheelchair access

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- In-Law Apartment

- 6 Bedrooms!

- Wonderful Deck

- Less than 1 mile to beaches

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Exterior	Back Exterior
Eat in Kitchen	Living Room
In-Law Kitchen	In-Law Living Room

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 29, 2009, 8:02am PDT

Dover, NH - New Commercial Rental

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 11:44:41 -0700

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

14 Chestnut, Dover, NH

Commercial rental! The middle unit in a three unit building, centrally located close to downtown Dover. Good exposure on a highly trafficked road wi

Retail/Commercial

$2,000/month

Sq Footage

2,045

DESCRIPTION

Commercial rental! The middle unit in a three unit building, centrally located close to downtown Dover. Good exposure on a highly trafficked road with successful neighbors. Ample parking in the back for clients and customers. Lease terms completely negotiable. With just over 2,000 SF, lease part of the unit or all, flexible terms and rate. Looking for a build-to-suit? Anything is possible. The possibilities are endless with this unit.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

- Middle Unit

- Ample Parking

- Rent all or portion

- Flexible rent terms

LOCATION FEATURES

- Central Location

- Downtown

- Major Road Frontage

LEASE TERMS

10/sf - 12/sf. 2045 SF available. Rent the entire suite or a portion. Build-to-suit available.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Great Location
Ample Parking	Facing Front
Facing Back	Large Space

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 21, 2009, 8:28am PDT

Public Open House

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:29:23 -0700

Public open house, this Saturday in Hampton! Send this flyer to any and all who are looking for alternative solutions to an extended family problem. This home is perfect with SIX bedrooms total, over 2,700SF of finished living space, and a full in-law apartment with its own kitchen area, laundry room and fireplace. Close to the schools and beaches too! This home is a gem.

Look What I Found! A Free Virtual Tour Solution

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:59:15 -0700

I recently came across a small problem with my virtual tours. We are able to place a link to a virtual tour on the listing in the MLS system. I created all of my own virtual tours on my real estate website and created separate links for these tours. But what I didn't realize is that the virtual tour link must not have any branding or link to your website. Well, it is ON my website, so I had a small problem. I was notified by my MLS regarding this issue.

Here is an example of one of my virtual tours I made using javascript:

http://www.newhampshirereal-estate.com/901-ocean-blvd-hampton-virtual-tour

Doing some research I found lots of virtual tour websites you can open accounts with which offer non-branding. But, you also have to pay.

NAH. There has got to be a free solution out there!

Enter Wix.Com. No, I am not affiliated. This is just such a cool site! And it is free.

This site creates great flash (cool!) websites, free! Just make a new website for each property. Create an account and you can create individual slide show tours. Use the blank template for each property. It will be a wix.com url and there will be wix ads on the bottom, but no real estate branding so it works. I am having so much fun with it!.

Here is my first Wix photo tour (click on the image). It is still a work in progress....

Thankful Thursdays - Hero Laid to Rest Today

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:29:32 -0700

I am thankful and honored to be the granddaughter to Detective Sergeant John F. Denley. Papa passed away last Saturday. He was laid to rest today in Melrose, MA. I was so proud at his funeral today and I wanted to share with you all just how proud I was, and the honor bestowed upon him and our family by the Melrose Police.

Papa served his country his entire life. He served in the Navy during WWII as a naval amphibian. After the war, he joined the Melrose Police Force where he served for 30 years, eventually making the rank of Detective Sergeant. After retiring (which he could never truly do), he served as a US Marshall for almost ten more years.

After mass this morning, our funeral procession took us from St. Mary's to Wyoming Cemetery. Along the way, policemen were lined along the route saluting Papa in his final journey. My heart swelled with pride and my eyes filled with tears.

At the cemetary the Navy was present along with many Melrose police officers. He was given full military benefits as the Navy representatives played the traditional Taps and showed great care with the flag folding ceremony.

But this is what got me. This is what made me cry with tears of pride and sorrow for my own loss. Before the priest committed the body to the ground, the police car doors were opened and the intercom was turned on. From the police station, we heard this solemn broadcast:

"This is an all call. All units.

Paging....

Paging Detective Sergeant John F. Denley.

Paging....

Paging Detective Sergeant John F. Denley.

Last Call.

Paging Detective Sergeant John F. Denley.

Job well done."

There wasn't one dry eye at the site. We found out later that this broadcast was heard in all cars all over town (at least, we were told this). I have never felt so proud, my heart still feels swollen and my eyes are still soggy.

I am going to miss Papa. He was the most loving grandfather, and Irish gem with the most beautiful sparkling blue eyes. He was so kind and gentle and he loved his family. I am going to miss spending time with him, but I know he is at rest now and happy. He is with his sweetheart once again.

I am thankful he was my Papa.

I am thankful to the Melrose Police Department for their honors.

I am thankful to the US Navy for their honors.

And I am thankful for all of the people who turned out to salute him on his way back home. Thank you so much.

Hampton NH Price Reduced by 15k! Oversized Extended Family Cape with In-law

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:43:27 -0700

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | 603.610.8944

431 Winnacunnet Rd, Hampton, NH

Hampton stroll to beach home with enormous in-law apartment for the
extended family.

6BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $374,900

Year Built	1983
Sq Footage	2,767
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	.46 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This is the ideal home for an extended family. The downstairs in-law apartment has a separate ground entrance suitable for a wheelchair. There are six bedrooms and room for the whole family, plus the proximity to the beaches makes this property a wise investment.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- Hardwood floor	- Living room
- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Basement	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Guest parking

- Wheelchair access

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- In-Law Apartment

- 6 Bedrooms!

- Wonderful Deck

- Less than 1 mile to beaches

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front Exterior	Back Exterior
Eat in Kitchen	Living Room
In-Law Kitchen	In-Law Living Room

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Aug 17, 2009, 8:57am PDT

The Last Facebook Account

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:29:37 -0700

I think I may be the last person in the free world to have a Facebook Account!

Rebecca Skane

Create Your Badge

Hampton, NH Just Reduced by 40K!! Two Multifamilies in Hampton Beach!

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:48:17 -0700

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coastal Realty | 603.610.8944

2 Boston Ave, Hampton, NH

Two building corner lot, five units, year round with ocean views
and roof top deck.

9+BR/2.5BA Multi-Family, 5 units

offered at $699,000

Year Built	1910
Sq Footage	3,133
Bedrooms	10
Bathrooms	2 full, 4 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2
Lot Size	.08 acres
HOA/Maint	$373 per month

DESCRIPTION

A once in a lifetime chance to own a piece of the "Island" in Hampton Beach. This property has been in the family for generations and has been owner occupied for the last 24 years. The income potential yields over a 7.5% cap rate using a generous expense number. POTENTIAL TO OWN ENTIRE BLOCK ON RIVER AVE. The lot behind this lot on River extends across the rest of the block. The owner will consider selling his lot to the investor who purchases 8 Boston. You could own the entire block on the coveted "island" area of Hampton Beach!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Family room	- Living room
- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Attic	- Basement	- Washer
- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Laundry on-site

- Storage space(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Roof Top Deck

- Ocean Views

- Corner Lot

- Two building compound (five units!)

- Two Fireplaces

- Year Round

- Family owned for generations

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior	Roof Top Deck
Ocean views from deck	More Views
Living Room Main House	Unit Dining Room

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coastal Realty

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Aug 11, 2009, 9:36am PDT

Portsmouth NH Sales Look Pretty Good

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:46:30 -0700

I just took a quick peek at the current Portsmouth real estate market on NNEREN. According to the stats, there are about 65 homes for sale in Portsmouth. And 25 other homes which are either contingent or pending!

It looks like Portsmouth, NH will be having a good few months coming up. And I bet it will only get better and better, with more and more people taking advantage of the tax credit before it ends. This was one economic stimulus action which has been very helpful.

Looking to sell your home? I am always available to help you sell a home in Portsmouth NH and in the surrounding areas. Just visit my website or contact me!

Investment Properties

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:09:22 -0700

A number of people are now looking for investment properties, mostly multi-families and duplexes. I have a number of buyers who are currently looking for these types of properties. A few years ago, these were hot properties. After the recent real estate decline, these types of properties weren't as hot anymore, and prices tumbled. Now that the prices are becoming more stable, the multi and duplex properties seem to be making a comeback. I suddenly have several buyers in the market! Have one to sell? Call me!

Aside from multis, I also have a number of buyers looking for NH and ME Mobile Home Parks For Sale, but only a few sellers. In a down market, mobile home parks thrive. I never realized how incredibly lucrative these types of properties are. I'm thinking I should start one of my own!

FSBOs in Seacoast NH

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:18:51 -0700

According to NAR®, less than 10% of all FSBOs are successful, why? There are too many reasons to count.

1. You can't get listed on the MLS without a Realtor. Sure, you can pay for an entry only listing, but a true Realtor® will list you for free, you only pay when your home sells.

2. Realtors®, who have the majority of the buyers, will not show FSBO homes, or will advise against buying them.

3. FSBOs may not understand the current market conditions.

4. Unscrupulous buyers target FSBOs with deliriously low offers and effective sales pitches.

5. FSBOs may not understand the real estate sales process, may not hire the right contractors, may not use the correct forms, may not know how to identify inappropriate sale contingencies, and often run into legal problems.

6. FSBOs do not generally have the time or the know-how to effectively market a home.

and on, and on, and on!

Visit my website and download your free NH FSBO guide.

The Most Common Home Styles in New Hampshire

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:40:31 -0700

The three most common home styles in New Hampshire are: The Cape, The Colonial and the Ranch. I was curious to know just how common they were as compared to the multitude of other home styles, so I went about it by looking at all of the homes sold in the past year in New Hampshire, and I made a chart.

Homes Sold in NH July 29, 2008 - July 29, 2009 (excluding condos and mobiles)

10,037 Homes Sold

You can see how the ranch (raised ranches, split level and single levels), Colonials (antiques and neo-colonials), and Capes heavily outweigh the rest of the styles. But don't go thinking that just because you have Gambrel, that it may not sell as well. The reason why more ranches, colonials and capes have sold rather than other styles is simply because there are way more of them! Also, some people may list one home under two or more different home types. This chart gives you a rough idea about how how common a certain house type is, not necessarily how one style out-performs another.

But I was a little surprised about the steep drop off from the Cape to the Contemporary and going forward. And according to NNEREN, unless I did my search wrong, not one Tudor style was sold in the past year! Perhaps I am only surprised because I grew up in a Tudor. I was also surprised with the New Englander numbers, but perhaps they are only more common in the larger cities and towns.

You would think with the housing boom of the 90's and early 00's that there would be more contemporary homes. Especially at the rate those builders were going at. They are my favorites, and a contemporary home in Portsmouth NH can be hard to cme by, but they do exist. Most of the new homes built them were the new-colonials, beautiful and romantic reproductions of the original colonials in New England (many of which are still standing!).

I hope you found this latest chart as intriguing as I did. Click the card below to visit me.

Barrington NH Commercial Corner Lot Price Improvement

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:12:34 -0700

AGAIN! Another $5K reduction. Seller is Motivated!

Rebecca Skane | Keller Williams Coast Realty | rskane@kw.com | 603.610.8944

Rt-125 and Commerce Way, Barrington, NH

Commercial Corner Lot on Busy Intersection

1.93 acres Vacant Land

offered at $119,900

Lot Size

1.93 acres

DESCRIPTION

Looking for a commercial lot on a busy road, hopefully even a corner lot, for a great price? Well look no further. This 1.93 acre plot of land is located on the busy intersection of RT-125 and Commerce Way in Barrington. The property is just on the other side of the Commerce Way Business Park and so you get all of the traffic from these extremely successful businesses, but no park fees! Exposure on two sides. There is a new driveway easement on the back side of the property and the driveway will be completed at the neighbor's expense shortly, which means you will have driveway access completed for you.

see additional photos below

LOCATION FEATURES

• Corner Lot

• Busy Intersection

• Estimated 18,000 Cars per Day

• Driveway to be completed at neighbor's expense

• Adjacent to busy Commerce Way Business Park

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Corner Lot	Next to Business Park
View from across 125	Wooded lot
High traffic Area	Partially Cleared

Contact info:

Rebecca Skane

Keller Williams Coast Realty

rskane@kw.com

603.610.8944

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 28, 2009, 12:04pm PDT