West Hartford CT Real Estate Agent | 's Blog

Where to advertise?! ONLINE! | CT Realtor makes sure every PC and MAC can find your Home For Sale

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:09:34 -0600

This is a brief post just to highlight that advertising is most effective online... and a central advertising point keeps Realtors and Sellers focused and effective. I have been advertising online for 5 years now with consistent results- SALES!

Here are some of the sites that automatically get my listings- 100% of the time.

www.Point2Homes.com

www.base.google.com

www.realestate.yahoo.com

www.cyberhomes.com

www.TheRealEstateBook.com

AND honestly, there are so many more that I couldn't possibly type them all here!

Connecticut Horse Property For Sale | Harwinton CT New Construction Home For Sale

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:28:25 -0600

New Construction in Harwinton! Horse Property, community barn, WOW!!

Relax on 3.6 acres of beauty. This home is being built this very moment! Well known builder's attention to detail shows in every element. The convenient location is a huge plus. This is Harwinton's newest neighborhood of high end homes. Horses and nature all right outside your door! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, granite, hardwood, GORGEOUS!

The Town of Harwinton, located in Litchfield County, was incorporated in 1737 from land controlled by the towns of Hartford and Windsor. The name is a combination of those towns, HARtford and WINdsor TOwN. Harwinton, Connecticut is the only town with that name.

With low taxes (the mill rate for the 2007 grand list is 26.3) and great schools, Harwinton is a win-win combination for large and small families, empty nesters, and those who love the beauty of Litchfield County CT.

More Info at www.CTMike.com $489,900

Fellow Realtor POISONED | Slipped Potent Pot-Laced Dessert | West Hartford CT

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 09:40:05 -0500

I'll make this one short ...

A fellow Realtor from my office went to one of his listings today to speak with the seller about the state of the market. His client offered him a piece of ginger cake and milk.

1 hour later, he came back to the office and slowly became numb, blood pressure up, and began having tremors.

After calling 911, the EMTs and police were able to figure out that his client had laced the cake with a marijuana concoction that sent his body into shock.

Sick joke by a sick individual that could have turned fatal.

Thank goodness he is ok now. I guess it's a lesson for all of us... watch who we trust!

CT Mortgage Rates | West Hartford CT Real Estate Market News | West Hartford CT Realtor

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 22:33:54 -0500

Mortgage Rates Came DOWN this week..

This is information everyone should know! Pass this link around and share the news...

1 year ago - average rate of 6.31% + 0.5% in fees and points
1 week ago - average rate of 6.35% + 0.7% in fees and points
This week - average rate of 5.93% + 0.7% in fees and points

MORTGAGE RATES PLUNGE IN FREDDIE MAC WEEKLY SURVEY

McLean, VA - Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.93 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending September 11, 2008, down from last week when it averaged 6.35 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.31 percent.

The 15-year FRM this week averaged 5.54 percent with an average 0.7 point, down from last week when it averaged 5.90 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.97 percent.

Five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) averaged 5.87 percent this week, with an average 0.7 point, down from last week when it averaged 5.97 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 6.17 percent.

One-year Treasury-indexed ARMs averaged 5.21 percent this week with an average 0.6 point, up from last week when it averaged 5.15 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 5.66 percent.

(Average commitment rates should be reported along with average fees and points to reflect the total cost of obtaining the mortgage.)

"Interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages are down almost 0.6 percentage points over the past 4 weeks, which will help to spur home purchases and loan refinancing in coming weeks," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist. "This means that the monthly principal and interest payment on a new $200,000 loan is over $76 lower than a month ago.

"Lower rates have occurred at an opportune time, as the July pending sales data from the National Association of Realtors were off 3.2 percent from June. The Mortgage Bankers Association reported that refinance applications are up 18 percent over the past 3 weeks through September 5th, indicating that refinance activity has already begun to pick up."

Freddie Mac is a stockholder-owned corporation established by Congress in 1970 to provide liquidity, stability and affordability to the nation's residential mortgage markets. Freddie Mac raises capital on Wall Street and throughout the world's capital markets to finance mortgages for families across America. Over the years, Freddie Mac has made home possible for one in six homebuyers and more than five million renters.

West Hartford Movie Theaters | Things to do in West Hartford | Criterion Cinemas review - Michael Chenkus, Realtor

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 10:56:12 -0500

Hi everyone! I'm back on my blogging box, and ready to roll.

Last week the Mrs. and I decided to take in a lovely summer evening in West Hartford Center and test out another of the new additions in Blue Back Square. There is nothing like a good summer movie in a brand new theater.

Criterion Cinemas sits directly in the center of Blue Back Square on South Main St. The facade is hard to miss, as it glows and welcomes you inside. (Not to mention Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Winebar is directly in front).

Step inside and you are transported to a modern spin on the classic feel of the studio days; days of Marilyn Monroe, Lucy and Dezi, and Gene Kelly. The color scheme is greys and deep reds mixes with chrome and stainless accents. It's a very modern look, while not pushing the envelope of a neon lit spaceship that so many cinemas go for.

There are only 6 screens at the theater, adding to it's charm. You don't feel overwhelmed by choices or screaming children with nothing to do on a Friday night... this is a place to simply take in a good film. First run films are the norm, with some indie flicks thrown in there from time to time.

I was suckered into a 'chic flick' so to speak -Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2- and had to endure for the sake of love. The Mrs enjoyed it thoroughly and even shed a few tears... and I actually enjoyed the film too! Here is info regarding the cinema. My suggestion is to park in/around the center rather than the Blue Back parking garages. Just remember to bring your quarters for the meter.

Bargain Matinees - All shows before 6PM Monday-Friday,and before 2PM Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays

General Admission - $7.50
Child (11 & under) - $7.00
Senior (62 & over, with valid ID) - $7.00

All Other Performances
General Admission - $10.50
Child (11 & under) - $7.50
Senior (62 & over, with valid ID) - $7.50
College Student (with valid ID) - $8.00 (Monday-Thursday only, excluding Holidays)

West Hartford CT Pond House | A+ Evening Out | West Hartford Community News and Reviews

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:53:49 -0500

Last night I ventured to the Pond House Cafe in West Hartford's Elizabeth Park with the Mrs. in what proved to be a fantastic night out.

For those of you unfamiliar, the Pond House is a cozy restaurant nestled in Elizabeth Park and yes, overlooking the pond. Next time, I will do my homework a little better, as this establishment is a BYOBottle of Wine house. Nevertheless, the food was fantastic and the outdoor atmosphere was equally ideal.

We started the night out with a fresh tomato and mozzarella salad made from the Pond House's very own garden fresh vegetables. There was a rather interesting looking "vegetable" that I couldn't figure out what it was. I bit in with adventure and curiosity, yet still didn't realize what I had eaten. GARLIC! Yes, I ate an entire clove of raw garlic as if it were a potato. Anyone who knows me well knows that garlic and I are NOT friends. Let's just say that a few hours later, I was feeling the effects of that yummy morsel.

HOWEVER, I knew I still had a good two hours to enjoy every bite I took before Mr. Garlic revisited me... and enjoy I did. I ordered the homemade Gnocchi with a pesto tomato sauce and grilled shrimp- Fantastic.

The Mrs. ordered the Summer Pasta, a mix of fresh mozz, tomato, grilled chicken, and pine nuts tossed into a penne pasta with balsamic reduction and oil. I have to say, I did reach my fork across the table several times.

For dessert, we split vanilla gellato and an iced Mocha coffee complete with chocolate gelato, chocolate chips, and whipped cream.

The evening couldn't have been better. Top it off with the summer event series at Elizabeth Park (we listened to the distant sounds of the band Pandemonium all night long), and this was an evening well worth repeating.

Enjoy!

Your West Hartford Realtor, Michael Chenkus

Farmington CT Homes For Sale | Farmington CT MLS | Fantastic Home with Inground Pool! LOOK!

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 23:12:34 -0500

CALL: 1-800-655-4158 x 103 for up to date pricing and directions.

This is a truly astounding home conveniently located in Farmington, Connecticut. The breezeway transports you into another world, flowing seamlessly to a backyard oasis. A brand new deck overlooks almost 1 acre of fenced in land, filled with seasonal flowers, shrubs, and a gorgeous inground pool. Sit back and relax, listen to the birds, and take in the peaceful estate-like grounds.

The main home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 and a half baths. With a formal living room, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen, den, AND great room... this home has room for everything you can imagine. The great room is ideal for home theater, a possible home office, or even a conversion to a 1st level master suite. Don't forget the fireplace! Warm up to a cozy fire for the holiday season.

4-car "carriage house" style garage. 2 wide x 2 deep, heated, plumbed, insulated with full second floor storage. Perfect for the enthusiast, collector or hobbyist. This home has been lovingly cared for. The pride of ownership shows throughout.

This is RIDICULOUS | Does anyone besides me think this is out of control?!!!

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:33:46 -0500

This photo below is a summation of my day... This is NUTZ! Yes.. we hear how other countries have been paying much more for years.. but they also don't have the landscape or territorial layout that the US has! If I drove a Yugo around town to work, or a moto-scooter all day, I wouldn't be too worried about $7 gas nevermind $4.29!

Our government needs to realize that our economy and way of life is structured around our highway systems and automobiles.. thus GAS!

PS> Does anyone else cringe when they look at this photo or is it just me? I snapped this today using my phone

Plainville CT Condos For Sale | Plainville Condo For Sale | Realtor Michael Chenkus

Thu, 15 May 2008 10:22:56 -0500

Plainville CT Condos For Sale | Plainville CT Realtor Michael Chenkus

Fantastic Opportunity! Peaceful setting surrounds this 1 bedroom, end unit condo. Private deck faces wooded picnic area. Washer/dryer, plentiful closets, and convenient commuter location. Enjoy the breeze as you relax all summer long. *New water heater. A pleasure to show.

Click Here for detailed photos and more info: http://www.michaelchenkus.com/Plainville/Connecticut/Condos/Plainville/Agent/Listing_1730491.html

Newington CT Condo For Sale | Newington CT Real Estate | Newington CT MLS Michael Chenkus

Wed, 07 May 2008 21:04:22 -0500

Gorgeous New Listing.. Newington Condo For Sale. This unit will blow you away.

Immaculate end unit. Bright, spacious layout. Vaulted ceiling, chair rail, molding, pillars, LG refrig. Flowing ranch w/ master suite, soaking tub, shower, walk-in. Eat in kitchen, private deck w/ view. Huge basement for storage or to finish. A Must See unit.

http://www.michaelchenkus.com/Newington/Connecticut/Condos/Newington/Agent/Listing_1712192.html

For a private showing, contact Michael Chenkus

Email: MichaelChenkus@gmail.com

Cell: 860-985-5559

West Hartford CT Real Estate | West Hartford CT Homes For Sale | Featured Listings in West Hartford

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 01:44:52 -0500

$419,900 West Hartford CT Spacious Ranch For Sale: Agent, Michael Chenkus

Don't miss this 2500 sq ft, 9 room bi-level Ranch with 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Large living room, Dining Room, & great room. Remodeled kitchen with copper range hood & tile breakfast bar. Central A/C & hardwood floors throughout. Large yard w/ possibility of seperate building lot. Finished lower level. A must see interior!

For complete details, directions, or to schedule a showing, CLICK HERE.

West Hartford CT Real Estate | Realtor Michael Chenkus | 24/7 Home BUYER Tips and Advice

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:06:39 -0500

Following my post for Home SELLERS... I figured BUYERS would want in on the fun too...

Below is a list of some really helpful tips for buyers. Call 24.7 anytime.

Of course, nothing is substitute to live question/answer, so don't hesitate to contact me anytime... MIKE

FREE 24 Hour Recorded BUYER Tips!

1-800-655-4158

- Buy With Me, the Appraisal is FREE! ext 11

- 5 Home Buying Mistakes ext 21

- Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved ext 31

-How to Save for a Downpayment ext 41

-5 Reasons to Buy a Home Today ext 51

Search West Hartford CT Homes

West Hartford CT Real Estate | Realtor Michael Chenkus | 24/7 Home Seller Tips and Advice

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:59:30 -0500

24.7 Real Estate Tips, posted by West Hartford CT Realtor, Michael Chenkus.

Hello everyone! Thanks for dropping by my blog. I figured I would post some of my most pertinent and hepfuly tips that are assisting sellers in today's market. These tips are available 24.7 for you to check out!

FREE 24 Hour Recorded SELLER Tips!

1-800-655-4158

- Fix-ups that help you SELL! ext 61

- How I Sell Your Home Faster and for More $$$$ ext 71

- Getting Ready to Sell? How to Prepare: ext 81

-Sell With Me and Your Pre-Inspection is FREE ext 91

West Hartford CT Real Estate | Buying a home in West Hartford? | West Hartford town info and Data

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 23:52:31 -0500

When making a financial decision as well as a life decision as important as a home purchase, you are best served to study data and details of the location you are considering.

West Hartford CT Real Estate has been strong throughout the past five years, dodging trends of other markets, and maintaining value as well as sales. (as show by the graph below)

This valuable data can help you determine what price range to shop in, how to best situate an offer, how to prepare for your move, among many other things. Your only chance to do your homework is BEFORE you go to contract. I encourage you to ask your Realtor the questions that matter. Have them provide the data you are looking for.

This is a fantastic market for both buyers and sellers (those priced right!). West Hartford CT Real Estate is a wonderful opportunity for growth, jobs, culture, children, and education.

I invite you to call me anytime. It will be my pleasure to assist in your real estate needs

Click here to Search the MLS 24.7:

West Hartford CT Real Estate Buyer Tips | Free Recorded Buyer Info 24-7 | Realtor Michael Chenkus

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:59:25 -0500

FREE 24 Hour Recorded BUYER Tips!

1-800-655-4158

- Buy With Me, the Appraisal is FREE! ext 11

- 5 Home Buying Mistakes ext 21

- Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved ext 31

-How to Save for a Downpayment ext 41

-5 Reasons to Buy a Home Today ext 51

Southington CT Real Estate | Greenway Commons compared to Blue Back Square in West Hartford

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:52:38 -0500

Plans to develop Downtown Southington got a huge boost recently, with comparisons drawn to nearby West Hartford Center. This is a fantastic opportunity for the town of Southington, CT.

Here are the details: The Greenway Commons project $50 million plan calls for 263 owner-occupied residential units and 22,000 square feet of downtown retail space on the 14-acre site of the vacant Ideal Forging complex on Center Street. However, the new complex may have the biggest effect on the business community.

Downtown shops, eateries, and business owners are looking forward to the increased foot traffic, open space, and what it means for their businesses- AND SO AM I!

I am very passionate about downtown revitalization. West Hartford did a magnificent job with their Blue Back Square. Southington is next with Greenway Commons!

SEARCH WEST HARTFORD, SOUTHINGTON CT REAL ESTATE. CLICK HERE
APPLY FOR A MORTGAGE: CLICK HERE

Bloomfield Home For Sale | CT HUD Properties For Sale | Michael Chenkus, West Hartford CT Real Estate Agent

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 15:12:29 -0500

Bloomfield: $130,000 | 3 Bed | 1.5 Bath | 1 Car Garage

Cape, HUD property for sale. Call for address or schedule a showing: Michael Chenkus

West Hartford CT Real Estate Agent, Michael Chenkus

CT Home Buyer News | CT Home Inspections and Radon | West Hartford CT Real Estate Agent Michael Chenkus

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 23:41:55 -0500

Unglitzy Radon still simmers on back burner

by George Krimsky from Republican American Monday March 18, 2008(This article struck my eye and is very well written. Radon is a natural occuring gas that is often times a part of a home inspection. Buyers and sellers alike should be aware of what it is and how it effects them.)

While driving away from a gas station last week, the resulting hole in my wallet left me drifting into a gloomy reverie over all the things to get depressed about these days. In the process, I almost rear-ended a panel truck.
As the truck pulled away, unscathed thanks to my screeching brakes, I noticed the sign on its back door: "Radon Reduction."

Radon! Now, that's a problem I had forgotten about. Wasn't that the hula hoop of public menaces, the fad scare of the ‘80s? All of a sudden, everyone was testing and ventilating their houses against cancercausing radiation seeping up through the foundation.

And then nothing.

Remember when we were told how insidious radon gas was - invisible, odorless and tasteless - but deadly, killing almost as many people from lung cancer as cigarettes? We still hear about the dangers of smoking, but no one talks about radon anymore. Has it miraculously disappeared?

Evidently not. I called the number on the back of the truck, and Ken Accashian of Woodbury answered. He couldn't talk at that moment, because he was on a job, which was encouraging news, at least from the employment standpoint.

So, I called the state Department of Public Health, and eventually located Francesca Provenzano, the state's main radon specialist. "Are you the loneliest official in Hartford?" I asked.

The silence at the end of the phone suggested this was not a good opening line. I explained that what I meant was: Didn't she have nothing much to do, because radon wasn't on anyone's radar these days, heh heh?

She was remarkably patient with me, and said that, on the contrary, radon is very much a continuing hazard, and raising awareness about it keeps her very busy. So, why, I asked, don't we hear much about radon any more?

"It's not glitzy. Since no one causes it, like asbestos or lead poisoning, no one gets outraged. So, there's not a lot of advocacy getting behind the radon issue."

Ah, because no one is to blame, there's no one to sue.

How boring.

Nevertheless, she continued, just because radon occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in soil, that doesn't mean it's harmless. "It's a known carcinogen that kills 21,000 people a year in this country," she said. Aghast, I consulted a number of health organizations on the World Wide Web, and they supported this assertion.

This wasn't such a fun interview anymore.

People shouldn't be alarmed, Provenzano hastened to add, but they should be aware that their house may contain harmful elevations of radon, which can be fairly easily remedied by a specialist.

That's where Ken Accashian (and about 48 others in Connecticut) comes in. His firm, HSW, both tests for and mitigates radon levels, often at the request of a prospective home buyer.

A test can cost about $150, and fixing it averages about $1,200, he said. Homeowners can conduct the test themselves with a do-it-yourself kit, and then send the results to a lab, but a certified professional is recommended for the remedy.

It usually involves drilling a hole through the basement floor into the ground and piping the gas outside.

The best time to test is in the winter, when a house is closed up, because measurements have to be taken in a sealed environment over a period of 48 hours, but the real estate market dictates timing more than the weather does.

Radon is measured in "picocuries," named after the French physicist Marie Curie, per liter of air. A level of 4 pCi/L or above should be treated, according to the federal Environmental Protection Agency, although there is no law requiring it in Connecticut, except in schools.

The average radon level in a home is under 2 picocuries, but houses in Connecticut have measured as high as 750. The level of radon in a specific area is an accident of geology. One house can escape, while the next door neighbor does not.

"You have to test," said Provenzano.

If I have depressed you, perhaps you can take solace in knowing that some problems can't be helped, are not caused by us and can be solved.

Naugatuck CT Real Estate | Renaissance Place | Naugatuck Real Estate Agent News

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:55:14 -0500

Renaissance Place back on track
Special district for Naugatuck's downtown plan approved

BY PAUL SINGLEY
REPUBLICAN-AMERICAN

NAUGATUCK - The Zoning Commission unanimously approved a special development district Thursday that will set parameters for a downtown revitalization project called Renaissance Place.

After more than four months of mulling over details of the plan, the commission voted 5-0 at Town Hall to move forward with the plan. The commission's decision allows developer Alexius C. Conroy to begin lining up financial backers for his $707 million project, which would be built in four phases over 15 years.

"We have gotten the document to a point that we're comfortable with, and that is fair," said Mike Ciacciarella, the commission's chairman.

The commission has been under pressure by borough officials for several months. More pressure came Tuesday, when Naugatuck officials applied for $30 million in state grant funding to make the project a reality and state officials said they wouldn't vote to approve the money until they knew the special development district was in place. Still, commissioners said the only thing they thought about was getting the plan right, no matter how long it took.

"It has the proper protections for the borough, and it has as much details as it should," Ciacciarella said. "We happen to be very thorough and we don't skimp on the details."

The development district spells out what can and cannot be included in Renaissance Place, a mixed use, residential and commercial plan, which is the first such project in Naugatuck history. It will include a mix of upscale condominiums, retail storefronts, office spaces, entertainment venues, hotels and other amenities in downtown.

A couple of the many stipulated agreements in the development district are that the plan cannot include tattoo parlors or adult-oriented entertainment venues. It also says buildings cannot be more than 120 feet tall.

The Naugatuck Economic Development Corp., the group that has worked toward downtown revitalization for the past three years, said the plan will allow the borough to begin generating tax revenue as well as creating jobs. The plan is expected to bring an annual $4.4 million in taxes and 2,500 construction jobs, as well as 950 on-site jobs.

Still, the corporation's chairman, Jay Carlson, reminded residents that a revitalized downtown is still years away.

"Work is just beginning, and one thing we need to explain to people is that this is a process and it doesn't mean we're going to have a shovel in the ground next week," he said.

He said people are excited for the plan, which taxpayers approved overwhelmingly at a referendum in May.

Michael O'Connor, vice president of Conroy Development Co. based in Fairfield, said his company will not let people down.

"The Zoning Commission had a difficult task in front of them, and I appreciate their efforts," he said. "The fact remains, though, that because this process has taken so long, we are behind schedule. We are not saying that is anyone's fault, but it's something we are going to have to be aware of moving forward."

Thomaston CT Real Estate | Thomaston CT Redevelopment | Thomas the Train

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:56:17 -0500

As many of you know, I am a huge supporter of revitalization and redevlopment of traditional downtown areas. I love the idea of walking from store to store, restaurant to restaurant, filling a day with all the things that a community has to offer.

Many of these redevoped areas end up being investor hotspots for real estate. Opportunity knocks when businesses and consumers flock.

Thomaston, CT has so much going for it. It has location (being right on Route 8 and Route 6). It has water, with the Naugatuck River flowing through, and it has old world charm. The Thomaston Opera House (pictured below) is host to theatre and arts throughout the year. New events like Hollywood movie filmings, Thomas the Train, and an influx of youthful exuberance have given Thomaston a fresh buzz.

It certainly is a beauty to see the town light up in the winter (The entire downtown lights their buildings with white light). With a greenery proposed for the banks of the river, Thomaston is a town itching for investors both commercial and residential, as well as residents who want all that a great small town offers.

If you are interested in learning more about Thomaston, CT real estate, and homes for sale, I will be happy to assist.

Email or call anytime... Michael Chenkus

Click to contact

West Hartford CT Schools Info | Moving to West Hartford | Search CT MLS Free, hosted by Michael Chenkus

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 12:31:06 -0600

I recently had a discussion with a friend who now calls West Hartford CT his home. He and his wife, along with his two children are incredibly happy and thrilled with their community.

All too often, you hear about the taxes of CT and the expense of living here. Well, that is often tied to feelings of value. We don't mind paying for things when we know they are worth it... and that is the case for West Hartford, CT. (If you missed my past post about Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center.. here it is: http://activerain.com/blogsview/316349/West-Hartford-CT-Real )

Their school system is rivaled by almost all towns in CT. Teachers seek jobs here, parents seek homes here, and students get an education like no other.

I could make this a long winded blog about each area, neighborhood, and school... but there are handy links directly to the West Hartford school website!

http://www.whps.org/hr/excel7.htm - Excellence with No Exception
http://www.whps.org/whps/moving-here - Why Move to West Hartford?
http://www.west-hartford.com/education/education.htm - West Hartford CT Main Site and Info

Welcome to West Hartford. I would be happy to assist you in your home search. If you are selling your home... be sure to work with an agent focused on all the wonderful reasons West Hartford is THE PLACE TO BE!

The truth about Real Estate Prices | The numbers tell the story | Current market trends

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:27:22 -0600

I am inspired yet again... Read this, make sense of it, and you'll see that we have a completely NORMAL housing market.

I often times explain to my clients roundabout figures for the Appreciation of Housing, one of the nation's biggest assets and prime methods for earning long term wealth.

Between 2001 and 2005, we were seeing record breaking appreciation in almost all markets. Homes were going up 10% a yr, sometimes more. Traditionally, you can count on an average of 3% appreciation a yr. (This is my analysis looking over data and seeing trends from the last 30-40 yrs)

Follow this math with me...

A home in 2001 sells for $100,000. Appreciates 8% per yr through 2005... market value of that same home at the end of 2005 was $136,048. (Using 8%, we have a modest appreciation percentage to represent what happened nationwide to home values)

OK! Now... if the same house had appreciated at only 3%, which is the approximate average of appreciation per yr of housing, that $100,000 would have been worth $112,550. BIG DIFFERENCE HUH?

So, here we are in 2008. Everyone is complaining about prices. Sellers complain they're "losing" money. Buyers complain that homes are overpriced. But really, what we're seeing, is the compression of the ball going from inflated to NORMAL.

At 3% per yr, projecting to 2009, that same $100,000 would be worth about $127,000 at the end of the year! Make sense? If not, read it all again. It really brings some reality back and counteracts all the negative Debbie Downers of the press. We're coming in for a soft landing right on track with the norm of Housing Appreciation.

This does stink for folks who bought at the top of the market... and Yes, I do feel for you if your mortgage amount is now higher than your value... but hold fast. You'll all be ok. Housing is still the #1 asset for the American dream. Think long term, which is primarly what Real Estate is.

Shame on YOU! How NOT to represent a home for sale.

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 10:28:42 -0600

CUT THE GRASS PEOPLE!!!!!! Even if it means you as the agent going out with a pair of shears... what does this say about the property for sale? Shame Shame Shame! This was posted on AOL and used as a tool to support the "terrible housing market" that the press loves to create and talk about. (PS. Rates are still at historic lows, and prices have come down and leveled off, so this is the time to BUY!)

It takes 5 minutes per listing to do a round and make sure that each of your signs is properly representing the home for sale. You'd be surprised what some windex and a sponge can do to get dirt, smudges and grime off of a for sale sign. Straighten out your posts, trim the grass, shovel the snow... sell the house!

Realtor Murdered in Vacant Home | CT Realtor Safety | REMAX Agents mourn loss of young Realtor

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:57:27 -0600

A young woman working at a RE/MAX in Canada was recently found murdered in a vacant home that was selling for $964,000. The details of the investigation are yet to be released, but it is known that she was showing the home to someone who called in previously, wanting to see 1 million dollar homes.

This post is meant simply to highlight that we as Realtors MUST be careful. Ladies, PLEASE trust your gut. If you don't know the client, don't show the house! It's that simple. We love paychecks only when we're still alive to spend the money. Our line of work has enough challenges and pitfalls... and most people don't realize this scary aspect of what we do.

This poor girl... I can't imagine what she went through that day. I hope the culprit is caught soon. This is a photo of the young RE/MAX agent, age 24! Being close to her age, I can't help but take this to heart.

Plainville CT Condos | Plainville CT Real Estate Agent Michael Chenkus | Buyers flock to Plainville condos

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 23:46:31 -0600

Michael Chenkus- Plainville CT Real Estate - Condos and Residential Agent. CLICK HERE to contact Michael

Several new listings have come up on the market in two very desireable Plainville condo complexes. First time buyers and folks looking for modest sized living have found the prices, layouts, and location of these condo complexes ideal.

Plainville, being close to Southington, Farmington, Bristol, West Hartford, and so many other great locations, has become an affordable alternative to neighboring towns. Great schools, parks, a town center... Plainville has what people are looking for.

I recently sold 3 condos in one building, and am now in the process of selling two other units in a complex close to the town center. Condo owners, now is the time to sell. Condo buyers, now is the time to buy. It is a perfect mixture making a solid, healthy, correctly priced market.

For all your real estate needs in Plainville and surrounding towns, contact Michael Chenkus http://www.ctmike.com/