Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County's Blog

Excellent Sales Activity in West Hartford for February 2010!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:55:57 -0800

February is a short month which buyers used to purchase just over 2 homes per day in West Hartford! We had 58 homeowners accept contracts (not including sales with hubbard clauses) during this month of snow, winter vacation and two tax credits (up to $8,000 for new buyers and up to $6,500 for existing homeowners purchasing a new primary residence).

First, sales in February are up for single-family homes compared either to February, 2009 (58 compared to 37 one year ago) or to January, 2010 ( 34 in January versus 58 in February). The median days-on-market for the sales was 29 days and the median list price was $279,900. Note that the market continues to be soft for homes priced over $600,000. Check my earlier blog entry for 2009 sales details.

February 2010 deposits taken for West Hartford Single-Family Homes & Active Inventory:

Under Contract For Sale

Under $200,000 7 23

$200,000 to $250,000 12 23

$250,000 to $300,000 14 37

$300,000 to $350,000 8 27

$350,000 to $450,000 7 32

$450,000 to $600,000 8 25

$600,000 to $750,000 2 12

Over $750,000 0 26

Totals 58 205

For more detailed sales data which applies to your personal situation contact Brent on the web or call his cell at 860-614-8927.

Follow me at www.twitter.com/BrentinCT

Buyers' Market for West Hartford Condomimiums in 2010?

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:02:21 -0800

Prices have been relatively steady over the last few years in the West Hartford condominium market, with the number of days-on-market jumping up! Inventory currently for sale is approaching the total number of units sold across town last year. Unless demand picks up considerably in 2010, this could be a real buyers' market for condominiums in West Hartford!

The West Hartford condominium market had 94 closed sales in 2009 (Just a few less than the 103 units which closed in 2008). The median sales price also declined slightly-- to $217,500 in 2009 from $224,000 in 2008. For the successful sales in 2009, median days-on-market was 76---well above the 43 days-on-market in 2008.

The highest price paid in 2009 was $640,000 for unit 502 on Memorial Road (a 1,597 sf, 2 bedroom, 2 bath home in Blue Back Square). The median price of $217,500 purchased a 2 bedroom, 2 bath home in Barclay Court (779 Prospect Avenue, # C-10). The lowest-priced condominium was for only $5,000 at the Canterbury. This unit was on the second floor at 45 Highland Street, offering 1 bedroom and 1 bath in 611 square feet.

As Febuary 2010 comes to a close, there are 85 condominium homes available to purchase. The prices range from a low of $15,000 for a 1 bedroom, 1 bath unit (611 sf) at the Canterbury on Highland Street to $699,900 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath (1,319 sf) unit built in 2007 at 85 Memorial Road (Blue Back Square, 2nd floor). The median-priced property is at 60 Cassandra Boulevard: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths & 2,019 sf built in 2002 with a 2-car garage & offered at $311,000. The pricing is fairly optimistic with this inventory; median days-on-market is 121 (4 months on the market without a contract).

Currently, there are 25 condominiums under contract in town. The highest-priced is on Memorial Road in Blue Back Square, with an asking price of $699,900 (2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,613 sf, built in 2008). The median is 730 Farmington Avenue in Stonebridge Estates, priced at $279,900 (2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1,100 sf, built in 2007). The lowest-priced is 100 Oakwood Avenue in Twin Oaks, asking $88,000 (2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 891 sf, built in 1964).

For more information on the value of your condominium in this market, contact Brent today by cell (860-614-8927) or by email (brentbell@remax.net). You can find this blog directly by visiting www.MyCTRealEstateBlog.com.

If you want the approximate value of your home, and are not ready to be contacted by an agent, visit www.MyHartfordAreaRealtor.com . Fill out as much detail as possible about your house. Brent will respond by email only (unless you request a phone call) with an estimate of your home's current value within 24 hours of your request!

Home Buyer Tax Credit Misconceptions - Check out this versatility!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 22:02:51 -0800

Many people have not looked at the generous details of the repeat home buyer tax credit! (Please remember that this information is general advice; consult your tax professional or the IRS for the most definitive interpretations of this benefit!)

Myth 1: A repeat buyer must buy a more expensive home or "move up" to claim the $6,500 credit...

TRUTH: The repeat buyer must have owned and lived in their home for at least 5 consecutive years of the last 8 years prior to the purchase date of the new property. Repeat buyers may purchase any home to be their new primary residence---more expensive, less expensive or the same price!

Myth 2: Two unmarried buyers cannot claim the tax credit if they purchase a home together, especially if they qualify for different credits...

TRUTH: The buyers can blend their credit, as long as the total credit for one purchased property does not exceed $8,000 (assuming one buyer is eligible for the first-time buyer credit) and as long as the manner of blending is reasonable--- so an even split of $4,000 each or a split of $6,500 to one and $1,500 to the other could be allowable.

Myth 3: You must occupy the home by April 30, 2010 in order to qualify for the credit...

TRUTH: As long as you enter into a binding sales agreement by April 30, you will still be eligible for the credit as long as you complete the purchase by June 30, 2010.

Myth 4: You cannot have access to the credit until after you close on the home...

TRUTH: As long as you are CERTAIN you will purchase a property, you can adjust your tax withholding in advance to compensate for your reduced tax burden during the year (assuming you will file this credit with your 2010 taxes--you also have the option to file this credit as if you purchased the property on December 31, 2009 if this works better for your tax situation).

For a more complete discussion of this program, visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com.

Trend 2010: Young buyers moving to the city

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:33:23 -0800

Young buyers are attracted to the excitement and convenience of living in the city! There is a trend towards buying homes within walking distance of shopping, restaurants and the local pub. Living in the city usually means a shorter commute and a yard that requires less than 2 hours per week to maintain. This home at 149 Beacon Street in Hartford's West End combines a super-convenient location with many updates attractive to today's buyers: bathroom with whirlpool tub & newer kitchen! This is a great home for casual entertaining or private relaxation!

Tax Credit Works in Glastonbury for 2009, Units Sold Almost Catches 2008 Numbers!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:59:24 -0800

The Glastonbury market median sales prices dropped 16% from 2008 to 2009, moving from $388,000 to $325,000. The number of houses closing was stable, from 316 sales in 2008 to 313 sales in 2009 (based on Multiple Listing Service statistics as of January 26, 2009). For the successful sales in 2009, median days-on-market was just 42---well-priced & well-marketed homes continued to sell! The median list price of sold properties decreased almost 13%, from $399,900 in 2008 to $349,000 in 2009. The range in prices buyers paid to live in Glastonbury in 2009-- $101,500 to $1,200,000 (in 2008, this range was from $150,000 to $2.1M). The recession was buffered by the first-time buyer's tax credit, making it easier to sell more modestly-priced properties! This does not mean that your property is worth 16% less than last year...

As January 2010 comes to a close, there are 111 single-family homes available to purchase (compared to 133 in January 2009). The prices range from a low of $165,000 for a 4 bedroom, 2 bath (2,773 sf) home built in 1780 at 279 Quarry Road to $6.5M for a 5 bedroom, 5.3 bath (9,844 sf) home built in 1998 at 321 Clark Hill Road. The median-priced property is at 336 Country Club Road: 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths & 2,533 sf built in 2002 & offered at $459,000.

Currently, there are 32 houses under contract in town. The highest-priced is 96 Chatham Hill Road, with an asking price of $879,900 (5 bedrooms, 4.2 baths, 4,869 sf, built in 1999). The median is 21 Barrington Way, priced at $354,900 (4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2,534 sf, built in 1989). The lowest-priced is 1899 Chalker Hill, asking $144,900 (3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1,015 sf, built in 1932).

For more information on the value of your home in this market, contact Brent today by cell (860-614-8927) or by email (brentbell@remax.net). You can find this blog directly by visiting www.MyCTRealEstateBlog.com.

New Move-in Condition Offering less than 3/4 mile from Blue Back Square!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:45:40 -0800

Brent Bell, CRS | RE/MAX Premier, Realtors | 860-614-8927

101 White Avenue, West Hartford, CT

Beautiful colonial on quiet street near Blue Back Square! Updated kitchen with granite counter and stainless steel appliances! Move-in condition!

3BR/1+1BA Single Family House

offered at $260,000

Year Built	1941
Sq Footage	1,600
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	6,098 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Please join us at the OPEN HOUSE for this new listing on Sunday, January 30 between 1 and 3 pm. Delightful updated home combines modern conveniences with old-world charm! From the granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in the table-space kitchen to the updated baths and newer mechanicals, you will find this home move-in ready! Architectural details abound-- elegant fireplace in the formal living room, corner china cabinet in the formal dining room and extra details throughout (look for the niches added by the original builder).
The first floor has excellent circular flow for entertaining and many thermal windows to bring in the light while keeping the warmth in. There is a half bath off the kitchen. From the kitchen table-space with vaulted ceiling, atrium doors lead to a multi-level deck. That deck leads to a separate building which could serve as a media room or office. With a wall of storage, skylights and cathedral ceiling, this brignt space is ready for you when you want to retreat from the main house. On separate electric heat and wired for cable, this is versatile space is a large plus!
The second floor offers 3 bedrooms, an updated bath and large second floor hallway with generous linen closet. Check out the extensive master bedroom closet with built-ins! There is a whole-house attic fan to cool this home in the summer.
In the basement, you will find direct access to the garage with automatic door opener and keypad, updated mechanicals including gas boiler with attached hot water tank and electirical circuit breaker panels. Excellent storage space and the included washer & dryer can be found on this level.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central heat	- Fireplace	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Granite countertop
- Stainless steel appliances	- Basement	- Washer
- Dryer	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front view	Living room
Dining room	Kitchen
Kitchen Eating Space	Multi-level deck

Contact info:

Brent Bell, CRS

RE/MAX Premier, Realtors

860-614-8927

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 25, 2010, 6:20am PST

Smile with the staff of the Oregon Medical Center

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 12:16:45 -0800

If you aren't one of the 6 million people who have seen this youtube video, enjoy a smile as the staff promotes Breast Care Awareness. Share this with your friends & family; they will thank you! The Pink Glove Dance http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEdVfyt-mLw Thanks to the Hartwick.edu nurses blog for promoting this video!

West Hartford Market Statistics 2009 Year End & January 2010

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 09:40:41 -0800

The West Hartford market had a sluggish start and a very strong finish in 2009. There were 624 closed sales of houses recorded in the Multiple Listing Service for the year (down from 646 in 2008). One of the most encouraging numbers was the median Days on Market for these sales at 37 days. People in many other parts of the country would be amazed that half of the houses took contracts just over one month (or less) after their debut on the market!

For 2009, the median list price was $292,000 & the median sale price was $285,000. The range in sale prices for the year started at $72,500 and continued to $2,600,000; quite diverse housing stock in West Hartford!

With the usual caveats that averages result from the actual homes sold in a given year, the number of closed sales in 2009 is down 3.4% from the 2008 sales level. The median sales price is off 6.25% from 2008 to 2009.

Looking to the present, there are just 169 houses available to purchase as of today (an extremely low inventory for a town of over 60,000 residents). The prices range from a low of $107,500 for a 2-bedroom, 1-bath (1,050 sf) home at 688 Flatbush Avenue to a high of $2,295,000 for a 6-bedroom, 6.2 bath (7,012 sf) home at 51 Old Stone Crossing. The median-priced property is located at 42 Spring Lane (4-bedrooms, 1 1/2-baths & 2,076 sf), offered for $339,900.

Currently, there are 51 houses under contract in town. The highest-priced is Lot 7 at Cranbrook, with an asking price of $995,000 (4-bedrooms, 3.2-baths, 4,289 sf). The median is 1122 Trout Brook Drive, priced at $274,900 (4-bedrooms, 2 1/2-baths, 2,170 sf). The lowest-priced is 14 Saint James Street, priced at $159,900 (2-bedrooms, 1-bath, 965 sf).

For more information on the value of your home in this market, contact Brent today by cell (860-614-8927) or email (brentbell@remax.net). You can find this blog directly by visiting www.MyCTRealEstateBlog.com.

If you want the approximate value of your home, and are not ready to be contacted by an agent, visit www.WestHartfordHomeValues.com. Fill out as much detail as possible about your house. Brent will respond by email only (unless you request a phone call) with an estimate of your home's current value within 24 hours of your request!

Statistics based on MLS data obtained January 14, 2010.

Strong sales finish expected in West Hartford for 4th Quarter!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 09:27:56 -0700

The West Hartford market remained solid for the first nine months of 2009 (with less sales at the higher end of the spectrum). There were 456 closed sales of houses recorded in the Multiple Listing Service for the year through the end of September (down from 517 during the same timeframe in 2008). One of the most encouraging numbers was the median Days on Market for these sales at 35 days. This shows that well-priced properties are still selling quickly (and in multiple offers). The Days on Market is a week longer than in 2008 (27 days).

Given that there were only 130 closed sales in the final quarter of 2008 and we have already had 19 closed sales and have 117 homes under contract at this point, we should see a recovery in terms of the number of sales during this final quarter!!!

For 2009 sales, the median list price was $295,000 & the median sale price was $285,000. The range in sale prices for the year started at $106,600 and continued to $954,700; this range shows both great choice and affordability in town (it also shows that no one paid over $1M to live in West Hartford in the first nine months of the year; in contrast, the highest sale in 2008 was $2.441M).

The median sale in 2009 was 5 Miamis Road, selling in 41 days. The asking price was $289,000 and the buyer paid $285,000 for a 3-bedroom, 2 1/2 bath Ranch home with a 1-car garage.

Looking to the present, there are 229 houses available to purchase as of today (this inventory is down from a high this spring of over 300 homes and up only slightly from the low-200s in January). The prices range from a low of $84,900 for a 2-bedroom, 1-bath (908 sf) home at 89 Prospect Avenue to a high of $4,800,000 for a 9-bedroom, 6 1/2 bath (13,132 sf) home at 112 Stoner Drive. The median-priced property is located at 1079 Farmington Avenue (5-bedrooms, 2-baths & 1,724 sf), with an asking price of $359,900. Note that there are currently 4 homes in town priced below $150,000 and 13 priced over $1M.

Currently, there are 117 houses under contract in town. The highest-priced is 56 High Ridge, with an asking price of $1.1M (5-bedrooms, 5-baths, 6,774 sf). The median is 81 Brookmoor, priced at $269,900 (3-bedrooms, 1.1 baths, 1,400 sf). The lowest-priced is 109 Washington Circle, priced at $119,900 (3-bedrooms, 1-bath, 1,100 sf).

For more information on the value of your home in this market, contact Brent today by cell (860-614-8927) or email (brentbell@remax.net). Ask a real estate expert with 20 years of local experience. You can find this blog directly by visiting www.MyCTRealEstateBlog.com.

New Britain 3-Family near Walnut Hill Park

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 08:43:22 -0700

New offering at 179 Hart Street! $175,000. Many updates and wonderful location near park, shopping, elementary school and hospital! See a virtual tour and call Brent for a personal showing at 860-614-8927.

http://www.west-hartford-ct.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=6009713

New Britain 3-Family Market Offers Opportunities for Investors

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:42:30 -0700

Currently, there are 69 3-family homes on the market in New Britain, priced from $59,900 for 2,844 sf at 329 Broad Street to $299,900 for 3,960 sf at 106 Hayes Street. The median-priced property is 17 Day Street, offering 3,360 sf for $220,000.

There are 17 3-family homes under contract (MLS statistics on August 14). The asking prices range from $60,000 for 2,697 sf at 107 Pleasant Street to $295,000 for $,580 sf at 121 Farmington Avenue. The median-price property currently under contract is 12 Ward, with 3,048 sf and an asking price of $150,000.

With almost an 8-month supply of 3-family homes for sale in town, this is another buyers' market! If you own a 3-family with good cashflow, you may want to hold on until the market improves.

For the first half of 2008, there were 30 closed sales, with prices ranging from $42,000 to $286,000 (median price paid $200,000 & median days-on-market 66). For the same period of this year, there were only 17 closed sales reported. Prices paid in 2009 ranged from $43,000 to $180,000 (median price paid was $85,000 and median days-on market just 38).

For help in finding the best 3-family for your individual situation, contact Brent today!

If you want an approximate value of your 3-family home delivered to your email without any cost or obligation, visit www.MyHartfordAreaRealtor.com . Fill out as much detail as possible about your property. Brent will respond by email only (unless you request a phone call) with an estimate of the current value within 24 hours of your request!

Glastonbury is currently a Buyer's Market - Look for Opportunities!!!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 08:01:15 -0700

Comparing the Glastonbury market median sales prices for the first half of 2009 ($320,000) to the corresponding period for 2008 ($392,300), the 18+% decrease is significant. This does not mean that everyone in town has lost 20% of the value of their houses; there are many indications that buyers in Glastonbury this year are choosing to be conservative, buying more modestly-priced properties. There are also more modestly-priced homes for sale in town.

If we look at the median sales, by price paid, we see that $320,000 in 2009 bought 119 Spring Street, a restored antique colonial with 2,100 sf, 8 rooms, 3 bedrooms and 2.1 baths on a .35 acre lot with a 2-car garage. The median sale price of $392,300 in 2008 bought 310 Eastbury Hill Road, a 2,144 sf colonial with 8 rooms, 4 bedrooms, and 2.1 baths on a .93 acre lot with a 2-car garage.

The number of houses closing decreased by about 14%, from 148 sales in 2008 to 127 sales in 2009 (based on Multiple Listing Service statistics as of August 13, 2009). For the successful sales in 2009, median days-on-market was just 43---(there were more well-priced homes than last year, when median days-on-market was 49)! The range in prices buyers paid to live in Glastonbury in 2009-- $101,500 to $982,000 was a bit narrower than the first half of 2008 ($165,000 to $1,7300,000).

Mid-way through August, there are 176 single-family homes available to purchase (compared to 133 at the end of January). The prices range from a low of $110,000 for a 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch home at 1899 Chalker Hill to $5,999,000 for a 5 bedroom, 8.1 bath (12,872 sf) home at 392 Woodland Street. The median-priced property is located at 68 Falcon Lane: 6 bedrooms, 4.1 baths & 4,822 sf offered at $499,900.

Currently, there are 53 houses under contract in town. The highest-priced has an asking price of $1,195,000 and the lowest-priced is just $110,000. The median is 168 Kinne Road, priced at $338,876 (4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2,349 sf, with a 2-car garage on a .92 acre lot).

With over 6 months inventory available and a median asking price of available properties $150,000 higher than the median price of properties under deposit, homes in Glastonbury priced over $400,000 may find the market for the balance of 2009 very challenging --- however, a challenge for sellers may mean some great opportunities for buyers in this price range!

The new IKEA Catalog has arrived--download a free planner for your kitchen or office

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 06:03:36 -0700

Are you ready to update your home? Whether you need a few new accent pillows for the living room, a cabinet for your flatscreen, or an entirely new kitchen--- IKEA is worth a look...

As we look forward to the recession's end, the new catalog (prices good through June 30, 2010) features many items priced lower than last year. They also offer a few specially priced items each month.

We are lucky to have an IKEA in New Haven, just 40 minutes from the Hartford area (I-91 south to I-95 south to exit 46). This showroom is worth a visit (and is very family-friendly).

If you want to plan your office, bedroom or kitchen from the comfort of your own home/computer, take your room measurements and visit http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/rooms_ideas/splashplanners.html to download a free room planner! You can be your own interior designer...

New Price for 45 Brightwood Lane - Reduced $60,000 from sale price last year...

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:22:29 -0700

Brent Bell, CRS | RE/MAX Premier, Realtors | 860-614-8927

45 Brightwood Lane, West Hartford, CT

Amazing home for entertaining - both inside and out! Truly a home
for all seasons!

4BR/3.5BA Single Family House

offered at $365,000

Year Built	1951
Sq Footage	3,888
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	50,965 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Unique contemporary cape with very open floorplan plus a wall of eastern windows; excellent kitchen with island and separate breakfast area. You have to see this home to appreciate the wonderful opportunities for private, comfortable living and the potential for entertaining on any scale! Walk-out lower level includes spacious fireplaced family room leading to patio and park-like yard with a separate in-law apartment.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room
- Dining room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Attic
- Basement	- Washer	- Dryer
- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard
- Swimming pool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front view	Stay cool this summer
Wall of windows	Kitchen to Deck
Deck & back yard	Living room fireplace

Contact info:

Brent Bell, CRS

RE/MAX Premier, Realtors

860-614-8927

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Aug 7, 2009, 7:54am PDT

West Hartford Market Remains Robust for the first half of 2009

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 05:30:34 -0700

The West Hartford market was steady for the first half of 2009 (with less sales at the higher end of the spectrum). There were 254 closed sales of houses recorded in the Multiple Listing Service for the year through the end of June (down from 283 during the same timeframe in 2008). One of the most encouraging numbers was the median Days on Market for these sales at 34 days. This shows that well-priced properties are still selling quickly (and in multiple offers). The Days on Market is a week longer than in 2008 (27 days).

For 2009 sales, the median list price was $289,900 & the median sale price was $280,000. The range in sale prices for the year started at $111,000 and continued to $899,900; this range shows both great choice and affordability in town (it also shows that no one paid over $!M to live in West Hartford in the first half of the year; in contrast, the highest sale in 2008 was $2..441M).

The median sale in 2009 was 174 West Ridge Drive, selling in only 10 days. The asking price was $278,000 and the buyer paid $280,000 for a 3-bedroom, 2 1/2 bath Split-level home with a 2-car garage.

Looking to the present, there are 270 houses available to purchase as of today (this inventory is down from a high this spring of over 300 homes and up from the low-200s in January). The prices range from a low of $114,900 for a 2-bedroom, 1-bath (908 sf) home at 89 Prospect Avenue to a high of $5,900,000 for a 9-bedroom, 6 1/2 bath (13,132 sf) home at 112 Stoner Drive. The median-priced property is located at 19 Day Road (3-bedrooms, 2 1/2-baths & 1,423 sf), with an asking price of $340,000. Note that there are currently 5 homes in town priced below $150,000 and 11 priced over $1M.

Currently, there are 109 houses under contract in town. The highest-priced is 36 Norwood, with an asking price of $985,000 (5-bedrooms, 3.2-baths, 5,224 sf). The median is 70 Rockledge, priced at $299,900 (3-bedrooms, 1 bath, 1,650 sf). The lowest-priced is 12 Kingston, priced at $125,000 (2-bedrooms, 1-bath, 652 sf).

Home Buyer Seminar this Wednesday, August 5 @ Elmwood Community Center

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:09:17 -0700

You are invited to our Home Buyer's Seminar

Learn 9 Secrets to make your Home Purchase easier (including the $8,000 Tax Credit)

Where: Elmwood Community Center, 1106 New Britain Avenue, WH

When: August 5th, Wednesday, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Cost: FREE

For more information, contact your home ownership professionals below.

Limited seating, courtesy RSVP requested (882-0414). Attendees who pre-register will receive coupons to save $500 towards the purchase of their next property!

What You Will Learn: · What is the home buying process? Will I qualify for the first

time home buyer $8,000 tax credit? How much should I budget for closing costs? How do I

apply for a loan? How can I buy a home with little to no money down? Do I need a Home

Inspector? How does a Home Warranty protect me? What are the next steps to

Home Ownership? How does a Buyers Agent protect my interests? These topics and more will be discussed in detail. There will also be time to address your specific questions.

Douglas Firtel, Esq. Patricia Vautour

Closing Management, LLC Mortgage Master, Inc.

(860) 561-8800 (860) 231-0500

dfirtel@closingmanagement.com pvautour@mortgagemasterinc.com

Paul Colasanto Brent Bell, Certified Residential Specialist

Allied Home Inspections RE/MAX Premier, Realtors

(860) 525-2727 (860) 614-8927

pcolasanto@sbcglobal.net BrentBell@remax.net

www.OurNextCThome.com

Move quickly to take advantage of the $8,000 first-time buyers tax credit!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 07:03:10 -0700

NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY YOUR OWN HOME

Your window of opportunity to receive $8,000 is now just 5 1/2 months! Since it takes almost 2 months to close a home purchase due to the new appraisal guidelines, you have just over 3 months to locate a good home and agree on contract terms!

To qualify for the $8,000 First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit, you must complete your purchase (have the closing and take title to the property) by December 1, 2009! Even if you do not owe the federal government any tax, you can file and receive a check for $8,000 if you meet the requirements. As long as you own your home for at least 3 years, this $8,000 is a gift to you!!!

Other program details:

• The tax credit is for first-time homebuyers only. (A first-time homebuyer is someone who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase.)

• The tax credit is equal to 10% of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.

• The credit is available for homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. (For purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when the closing occurs and title to the property transfers to the homeowner.)

• Single taxpayers with incomes up to a maximum of $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to a maximum of $150,000 may qualify for the full tax credit.

• Buyers must live in the house for at least three years, or they will be obligated to pay back the credit.

• The tax credit can be claimed on your federal income tax return. Homebuyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount. For more information and to determine your eligibility, please talk to your tax advisor. Additional information about the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit is available at: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/home2.html

Improve your long-term financial health today. Contact me for more details on the advantages of this program. For more information on the home buying process, order free buyers reports delivered to you on-line.

Glastonbury Market Catches Up in May! Plenty of available inventory awaits...

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:27:30 -0700

The Glastonbury market is looking better in May 2009 compared to May 2008 (but still is far behind year-to-date numbers for 2008)! There were 46 deposits taken during the month of May. The activity varied by market segment, with more sales of homes priced under $450,000 (28 this year versus 16 for the same period last year). During May 2008 there were only 37 deposits taken for single-family homes.

Under $200,000 5

$200,000 to $250,000 0

$250,000 to $300,000 7

$300,000 to $350,000 6

$350,000 to $450,000 10

$450,000 to $550,000 7

$550,000 to $650,000 2

$650,000 to $750,000 7

Over $750,000 2

The number of houses which have closed for the first five months of the year is down significantly! Through the end of May 2009, there were 71 closings, with buyers paying between $101,000 and $950,000 to live in town. The median sale was 521 Tall Timbers Road. This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom Ranch is situated on a .57 acre lot and was marketed as having 2,066 sf including the finished lower level. The home entered the market at $339,900 and was reduced to $324,900 while on the market for 86 days and finally sold for $310,000.

In contrast, during the first five months of 2008, 145 houses closed in Glastonbury, with prices paid ranging from $165,000 to $2,100,000. The median sale was 351 Marlborough Road, a 4-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom Colonial offering 2,062 sf of living space situated on 1.62 acres. This property sold in 4 days for $405,000 (asking price was $399,900).

As of June 10, there are 170 single-family homes available to purchase in town (up from 133 at the end of January). The highest-priced is 392 Woodland, with an asking price of $5,999,000 (12,872 sf). The median is 439 Foote Road, priced at $539,000 (4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3,208 sf). The lowest-priced is 489 Chestnut Hill, asking $179,900 (780 sf).

Steady Sales in West Hartford for May 2009!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 08:05:01 -0700

Overall, West Hartford homes sales (measured by deposits taken) are on pace with one year ago (83 in May 2009 compared to 80 in May 2008)... If we look back to last month, we had 70 deposits taken in April 2009 (so activity is up, as expected, from April to May of this year).

Looking within price categories, sales were up versus last year with homes priced below $450,000 (75 last month compared to 62 one year ago. For properties priced above $450,000 the decrease was dramatic (8 last month compared to 18 one year ago). Check my earlier blog for April sales details.

Note that homes on the market are up to 299 as of June 9 (up from 274 one month ago). Your home needs to stand out in the market!

May 2009 deposits taken for West Hartford Single-Family Homes:

Under $200,000 11

$200,000 to $250,000 19

$250,000 to $300,000 13

$300,000 to $350,000 16

$350,000 to $450,000 16

$450,000 t0 $550,000 3

$550,000 to $650,000 2

$650,000 to $750,000 0

Over $750,000 3

For more detailed sales data which applies to your personal situation and your individual neighborhood contact Brent on the web or call his cell at 860-614-8927.

CRS Awareness Day in Orange, CT on June 3, 2009

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 30 May 2009 12:12:10 -0700

Connecticut Realtors: If you are interested in doing something a little different to earn CE hours, the CT CRS's are having a CRS Awareness Day in Orange on Wednesday, June 3. This is open to everyone, no need to be a CRS to attend. Details are at www.ct-crs.com, if you are interested. The cost is $40 for 3 hours of CE, lunch, a mini-marketing presentation and networking opportunities with realtors from around CT. We will begin at 8:30 and be done by 2 pm. The CE topic is short sales, which many of us are experiencing more and more in the great state of Connecticut!

Buyer tip: Invest the time to choose the right Home Inspector

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Sat, 30 May 2009 07:42:18 -0700

After choosing the right home & negotiating a sales contract successfully, most buyers next look at protecting & maintaining this important asset. The quality of your home inspector is key to learning how to care for you new home.

Home inspectors should fulfill three important functions:

1) to perform a general physical examination of the home (like going to your doctor for a physical) and create a report for you, including specific tips for you which will help you to maintain the home. Just like regular oil changes for your car, your home will need regular maintenance so that it functions well. Regular maintenance will help you prevent more costly repairs at a later date.

2) to answer questions you have about caring for your new home, including "How long can I expect this hot water heater to last?" or "How many layers of shingles are on my roof?" or "What is the current level of radon in my basement?" It is important that you attend the home inspection. There is no substitute for picking the inspector's brain while you are both looking at the house. This allows the inspector to provide specific answers which apply to your home (i.e. That 120 gallon electric water heater was manufactured in the 1940s and may never wear out, however it will really boost your electric bill so you may want to consider replacing it).

3) to help you determine if any of the major operating systems (electrical, plumbing, heating) or the structure of the home itself need major repairs, especially if those repairs could not have been determined by you and/or your real estate agent before you made your offer to purchase the property. Every so often, there are homes that require major renovation or repair before they are safe and sound. You want to know this before you take title to the property! The Property Condition Disclosure Report completed by the seller is no substitute for a good home inspection.

So how do you choose a home inspector?

In the State of Connecticut, home inspectors have only needed to be licensed and fufill minimal requirements (graduating from high school, taking a course on home inspection, passing a test, performing supervised inspections) since the year 2000.

It is a crime to perform a home inspection if you are not licensed. The question for you is "How qualified should my home inspector be?" As an agent who appreciates the value of having more education and experience than the average agent, I recommend home inspectors who are members of the American Society of Home Inspectors and have the right to use the ASHI designation.

In most cases, your real estate agent will give you a list of inspectors to choose from. Do yourself a favor and visit the ASHI website to learn more about home inspections and make a wise choice:

ASHI Home Inspector Directory

or paste this into your browser: http://www.ashi.org/find/

Could Connecticut become the 11th state to loan $8,000 at the closing table in 2009?

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Mon, 11 May 2009 06:18:26 -0700

Most real estate agents across the country have seen a positive impact from the new Federal Government program to grant an $8,000 tax credit to first-time buyers. This money does not have to be repaid if you own your home for at least three years. It is payable to the homeowner, even if they do not owe $8,000 in taxes (like a rebate check) and can be filed with either your 2008 or 2009 tax return. To be eligible, you must satisfy income requirements and close on your home on or before December 1, 2009.

This is by far the best economic stimulus program so far produced by the U.S. Government to help ease our current economic downturn (much more effective than handing money to the banks). Unfortunately, for an estimated 50% of eligible participants who do not have downpayment funds, this program does not go quite far enough. These potential buyers need access to the $8,000 in order to fund their downpayment and closing costs at closing-- they cannot wait for the tax refund.

So far, 10 states have stepped up with programs to address this need. We should congratulate Missouri for being the first to be responsive.

Colorado's "JumpStart" program began 14. Delaware, New Jersey, Tennessee, Idaho, Washington State, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Mexico have since approved similar programs.

Fiscally sound, these programs recognize both the impact to the state economy, in terms of direct tax revenue and indirect additiional sales tax on appliances will more than offset any costs to administer such a program. They can be funded through a modest interest charge on this one-year second mortgage.

Please urge our governor and legislature to respond to this need quickly, Maybe they can work on this together as a first step towards handling our state budget issues together! Help Connecticut to be the 11th state to help the first-time home buyers (and help our state's economy at the same time),

Open House 111 DeKoven Drive, #206 on Saturday, May 9 from 1 until 3 pm

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Fri, 08 May 2009 08:40:55 -0700

Brent Bell, CRS | RE/MAX Premier, Realtors | 860-614-8927

111 DeKoven Drive, Middletown, CT

Visit # 206 Saturday, May 9 from 1:00 until 3:00 OPEN HOUSE

2BR/2BA Condo

offered at $155,000

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	1,041
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$373 per month

DESCRIPTION

Updated kitchen & bathrooms plus fresh paint make this move-in ready! Visit the Open House on Saturday! Great southern views from the unit. Enjoy a convenient location--walk to the Connecticut River at Harbor Park, restaurants, shopping and Middlesex Hospital.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Living room	Office/Den	Dining room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Washer	Dryer

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Laundry on-site
Storage space(s)	Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)
Secured entry	Elevator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Harbor Park	Updated kitchen
Spacious living room	Updated bath
Master bedroom	Laundry in unit

Contact info:

Brent Bell, CRS

RE/MAX Premier, Realtors

860-614-8927

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 8, 2009, 5:14am PDT

West Hartford April Sales are UP!!!

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 06 May 2009 19:00:18 -0700

For everyone reading about the general doom & gloom in the housing markets (there is no denying that both Fairfield & Litchfield counties have been hit hard in the first quarter), here are some fresh & encouraging numbers in West Hartford:

First, sales in April are up for single-family homes compared either to April, 2008 (70 compared to 60 one year ago) or to March, 2009 ( 61 in March versus 70 in April). In almost all price categories, sales were up compared to last month's activity (the exceptions were in the under-$200,000 range and the $650,000 to $750,000 range). Check my earlier blog for March sales details.

April 2009 deposits taken for West Hartford Single-Family Homes:

Under $200,000 4

$200,000 to $250,000 19

$250,000 to $300,000 16

$300,000 to $350,000 8

$350,000 to $450,000 12

$450,000 t0 $550,000 4

$550,000 to $650,000 3

$650,000 to $750,000 2

Over $750,000 2

For more detailed sales data which applies to your personal situation contact Brent on the web or call his cell at 860-614-8927.

West Hartford: The Best Small City in Connecticut

Brent Bell, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, Hartford County (RE/MAX Premier, Realtors) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 05:57:06 -0700

According to CNN & Money Magazine, West Hartford is among the top 100 small cities in the United States (#76). West Hartford is the only city in Connecticut to be mentioned in the top 100 (there are just 3 cities selected in neighboring Massachusetts).

Our town scored well in terms of average house price being a bit more affordable than the average of the top 100 group, our residents being highly educated, crime relatively low, air quality better than average, commute time to work being shorter than average, more public libraries than average and better state spending on the arts.

This is not the first time West Hartford has been singled out. I am impressed when people from other states, as far away as California, have called me to say: "Brent, we are moving to Connecticut and we know we have to live in West Hartford." There are many great towns in Connecticut and a local real estate expert will help you choose which criteria are most important to your individual situation in choosing the best town for you and your family.

For the survey data, including information on all 100 small cities, visit http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2008/snapshots/PL0982660.html.

For more information about local neigborhoods within West Hartford, visit www.west-hartford-ct.com.