The Shoreline Blogger - Sandra Cummings

A few ways to ensure the American Dream doesn't turn into a Nightmare.

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:37:22 -0500

This post is by a very close friend of mine and knowledgeable mortgage guy and provides valuable tips on how to make the mortgage process smoother.

Via Jason Sardi, Mortgage Banker (FHA-VA-USDA-Conventional-Pennsylvania Loans):

Whether you are buying a home or refinancing the one you already own, there are steps you can take to avoid unnecessary problems as the transaction gets to closing. While it is important your chosen loan officer (read->Me;) helps to educate you on these, doing your due diligence before hand is rarely a bad idea. Here's some food for thought:

If you are required to bring money to the table, make sure you have enough money in your account to do so. Also, lenders & banks often require that funds to close a loan are seasoned and sourced. This simply means that they want to know where it is coming from and how long it has been available. Generally speaking, they want to make sure that it has been available at least 60 days. As far as the source of the money, your bank account is acceptable. Your mattress is not.

Don't be moving large amounts of money around.  Any irregular deposits being made that don't jive with your regular banking habits may put up a red flag. That red flag would then have to be explained.

While you may want to buy furniture, that gorgeous new car, or the newest vacuum cleaner from Dyson, avoid any large purchases prior to your loan being closed. If we have to re-verify your credit and another debt shows up that didn't at the time of the initial approval, it could kill the deal and your dream.

If your loan approval requires you to pay off bills or back debt, DO NOT PAY THEM YOURSELF, CONTINUE TO MAKE ROUTINE PAYMENTS UNTIL YOUR LOAN CLOSES.   Just gather the most current monthly statements or most recent statement on a bad debt and get them to your loan officer.   That way the Title Company and Lender can make sure the debt is paid off in full.

If there is any change in your employment, notify your lender immediately! While you may dislike your wise-ass boss or the people you work with, do not quit your job. You can quit after the loan closes. Then again, you'll need some source of income to pay your mortgage so don't quit your job (after the loan closes) until you have another lined up.

Don't apply for any type of additional credit until your loan closes.

Do not open or close any accounts you currently have on your credit. Of note, closing an account that you have paid on time is not generally regarded as being too healthy for your credit score.

Continue to make ALL of your payments as agreed, especially your mortgage even when you are refinancing your loan.  If your loan officer ever tells you not to make your mortgage payment, disobey that incompetent entity and find a new loan officer. The only exception to this is if your loan is clear to close and your signing the papers the next day. If you make any extra payments to your mortgage before closing, they will be applied to your pay-off or refunded to you from your former mortgage company.

If your loan officer asks for documentation, they probably need it. While you can question why they need it all day long, it is counter-productive to the common goal... your loan closing.

This last piece of advice is one for anybody wanting to get pre-approved to buy a home. Your loan officer will take a full application and run your credit and probably issue you a pre-approval for such and such amount of money to buy a home. Do everyone involved a favor, supply all supporting documentation (pay-stubs, W-2's, bank statements, etc) as soon as possible. That's a real pre-approval, my friends. Sorry, I just had a John McCain moment:) I see quite often that folks mistake what they actually make in income or have in the bank account. If you supply them with everything, the full story is there. When you supply the full story, it makes the lending decision easier to fund your book.

Make homeownership a wonderful dream, nightmares are better left to film and certain parts of the imagination.

Jason Sardi

Mortgage Consultant

Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc

Toll Free @ 1-866-262-8720 ext. 229

jsardi@ihmci.com (and think twice before you spam me, I can be deadly with words;)

Wordless Wednesday - Almost time to start cutting that lawn again

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:54:15 -0500

___________________________________________________________________________________________

If you are thinking about putting your home on the market, now is the time! Contact The Cummings Team! Let me show you what we can do to market your home. We cover New Haven Counties and the Shoreline Communites, including North Haven, Madison, Guilford, Branford, North Branford,Hamden, Northford and Wallingford. Give us a call today.

Sandra L Cummings
Realtor®

William Raveis Real Estate - Real Estate for Real People
21 Whitfield Street
Guilford, CT 06437
phone - 203-672-2456
cell - 203-676-5948
Sandra@CummingsTeam.com
North Haven Real Estate

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For Sale - 20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:49:17 -0600

Best Buy In Branford

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405 View Map

Sitting at the end of a cul-de-sac abutting the woods is this charming 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath cape awaiting it's new owners.

Living room and dining room with newly refinished hardwood floors and crown molding.

Family room with bay window, fireplace and sliders leading to the screened in porch. First floor office overlooking the wooded back yard.

Master bedroom with skylights and private bath.

First floor laundry, large 2 car garage and under ground irrigation system are also feature in this outstanding home.

Details

Asking Price:

$419,900.00

MLS:

M9114714

Sq. Feet:

2246

Lot Size:

120x120

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

2.5

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

2 car

Year Built:

1988

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Sandra Cummings
Realtor

Dir 203-676-5948
Email

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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Wordless Wednesdays - Come Fly With Me

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:54:59 -0600

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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80 Glen Haven Road, New Haven, CT 06516Open HouseSunday, February 7, 2009**1-3 pm

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:12:52 -0600

Open House - February 7, 2009 12-3 pm

80 Glen Haven Road, New Haven , CT 06516 View Map

Open House

Sunday February 7, 2009

12 to 3 pm

Quaint 3 bedroom, 1 bath Cape located near the North Haven Town Line. Living with Bay Window. First Floor Master Bedroom with Ceiling Fan. Cozy Kitchen with Laminate Flooring. Large deck over looking landscaped yard. Fantastic views. Perfect starter home or for someone looking to down size.

Details

Asking Price:

$185,300.00

MLS:

M9113383

Sq. Feet:

1149

Lot Size:

0.20

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

None

Year Built:

1952

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Sandra Cummings
Realtor

Dir 203-676-5948
Email

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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Florida Get Away and Meeting Friends

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:35:50 -0600

What I love most about Active Rain is the friends I have made here, and this past week Dan and I had the pleasure of finally meeting some members we have gotten close to since joining. We usually don't get down to Florida very often but when Dan had a chance to run the ING marathon in Miami, we jumped at the opportunity to escape the cold and snow of Connecticut to relax in the Florida sunshine.

The trip down to Orlando was a bit stressful and we weren't even sure if our luggage would be there when we arrived. But my spirits where soon lifted, for as soon as we reached the baggage claim area, there stood Marc Grossman. He came all the way out to the airport to meet us. Marc help us get our stuff and navigate our way through the airport to pick up our car. I think I would have gotten lost without him. He is such a doll! Marc will always have a special place in my heart for driving all the way there to meet with us. And I regret I was so flustered from our flight I didn't even get a picture of us together.

A few days later we made plans to meet Susie Roscoe for breakfast in Orlando, where she promise not to have syrup dripping off her chin and chew with her mouth open. Susie has not been as active on the rain lately, just pops on now and then to check in on her friends. However she has been raising havoc over on facebook. She has a wicked sense of humor and the two of us had tons of fun ganging up on Dan. She had us in stitches with her many stories, and now has me terrified of swimming in any lake in Florida. The time flew by and before I realized it we had to go. I'm hoping one day soon, Susie will pack up the car for a quick road trip to Connecticut.

Our next stop was to meet My Inna and her wonderful hubby Jon. What can I say about My Inna. Especially, since the first thing out of her mouth is I don't look anything like my picture. ugh. She did redeem herself (I think) by saying the picture makes me look 25 lbs heavier. Then she tries to get me to eat oysters! Oysters! I don't care if they are an aphrodisiac I'm not eating them. The only thing that saved me from this fate worse than death was the fact that they didn't have them on the menu. We just had so much fun with Inna and Jon, I was sorry to see the evening end.

Last, but in the no way least, we got to meet with Neal "The Real Deal" Bloom over lunch on our way to Miami. And as Neal said in his post "Neal and I are sort of close but have never meet before". (I'm not going to let Neal live that line down). We almost weren't able to get together, because deep down I think he was afraid to meet me. <<kidding, kidding>> No, really, Neal was incredibly busy, but was able to rearrange his schedule and meet us. Neal is just like he is on here. He is funny and nice. Knows his stuff. A very impressive guy. Another than Neal trying to talk me into doing the week in review we had a great time.

Everyone we met in Florida had to go out of their way to met us. Rearrange schedules, drive long distances, and we are grateful that our friends would go to such lenghts to see us.

Active Rain is truly an unique community where it's members care about one another, and will go out of their way to reach out and help each other. So if you every have the opportunity to meet another member of the active rain community, go for it, you won't be disappointed. I will end the adventure here and let Dan continue with our experiences in Miami on his post.

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Wordless Wednesday - Waiting for Summer

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 19:30:24 -0600

ugh...Stop tagging me with memes

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 07:49:31 -0600

I had barely wiped the sleep from my eyes, when my husband, Dan told me I had been hit with a meme. The first thought that ran thought my head was who had I ticked off now. Come to find out it was Jason Sardi. My second thought was oh please, please don't let it be that crazy book meme that is running around, for out of all the memes, this one I just don't get! So of course it was the book meme.

I haven't written anything in almost a month. Just haven't been in the mood, maybe it is the change of seasons, maybe it is writer's block. Maybe it is because I still owe Thesa a meme. Who knows? So I figured before I start my day I would just get this over with. And yes, Thesa I know I still have to do the other meme.

Now first things, first. The rules of this meme, which I don't get, are:

1. Grab the nearest book.

2. Open the book to page 56.

3. Find the fifth sentence.

4. Post the text of the next two to five sentences.

5. Don't dig for your favorite book, the cool book or the intellectual one. Pick the Closest.

6. Tag five people to do the same.

For some reason you can not use the Bible, I have no idea why, but I didn't make the rules. I just play along.

You would think that grabbing the nearest book would be easy, but for me it is not. My desk is right next to my bookshelf and I have about 300 hundred books within arm's reach. I could do the current book I'm reading, which is Stephen Kings latest book of short stories "Just After Sunset", but alas I left that book in my bedroom.

Or I could grab the collection of Calvin and Hobbes and make this easy on myself, but I guess that would be cheating.

So I closed my eyes, reached out, and the first book I grabbed was "The Prophet" by Kahlil Gibran. My mother gave me this book a long time ago, and I haven't read it in years. Maybe it is time for me to read it again.

Page 56:

"No man can reveal to you aught but that which already lies half asleep in the dawning of your knowledge.

The teacher who walks in the shadow of the temple, among his followers, gives not of his wisdom but rather of his faith and his lovingness.

If he is indeed wise he does not bid you enter the house of his wisdom, but rather leads you to the threshold of your own mind.

The astronomer may speak to you of his understanding of space, but he cannot give you his understanding.

The musician may sing to you of the rhythm which is in all space, but he cannot give you the ear which arrests the rhythm nor the voice that echoes it.

And he who is versed in the science of numbers can tell of the regions of weight and measure, but he cannot conduct you thither.

For the vision of one man lends not its wings to another man."

Yeah, I need to read this book again.

All that is remains is for me to tag the next 5 members, so here goes:

My Jen - because I tag her for everything, and yes I know Jason has already tagged you, but whatever.

Thesa - This is to get you back for tagging me last time.

Kristin Moran - because I don't know if you have ever been memed before and figure it's time to spread the pain.

Neal - Because I read your comment on Missy's post, so I'm getting you back.

And last but not least Dan, because you haven't posted in two weeks and you thought it was funny I got tagged.

How not to solict business

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:58:12 -0500

I get alot of junk mail. Usually my spam filter catches it, but today one got through so I opened it. Here is some of what it said.

“Hello

I was using Google to look for a real estate agent in my neighborhood and I found your website someplace around page 10. Normally I wouldn't go so deep in the results to find a site, and I doubt anyone else does either. In fact there are 5,654,520 yearly searches by Phoenix, AZ residents using the keyword "Realtor" and 471,210 monthly searches by Phoenix, AZ residents for "Realtor”

I was shocked! Turns out I’m on page 10 in google in Phoenix, AZ. Lucky me, since I have never been to Phoenix, and have never posted about it. I don’t know anything about Phoenix except it’s hot there.

Of course next came the sales pitch, spelling mistakes and all. They are as bad as me!

“ Our company will deliver 50, 100, 750, or however many local visitors you want to your website each month, guaranteed. If I don't deliever the promised number of visitors, I'll refund your money. Each visitor is someone in the Phoenix area who is currently looking for a local dentist, why shouldn't they be finding you? “

hmm, maybe I should think of branching out?

If you’re going to send me spam, at least do your homework, or fix your form letter before you hit that send button.

New Tax Credit For "First Time Home Buyers"

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 17:19:58 -0500

We been hearing a lot about the new tax credit for First Time Home Buyers and George Souto of McCue Mortgage wrote a great piece explaining the ins and outs of the bill. I found the information extremely informative and helpful and I hope you do too.

Via George Souto:

Many of you by now have heard of the recent Housing Bill (H.R. 3221) that was signed by President Bush on July 30th, and goes into effect on October 1st, which made a $7,500 Tax Credit available to "First Time Home Buyer" who purchase a home between April 8, 2008 to July 1, 2009. A first-time homebuyer is defined as an individual who has not had an ownership interest in a principal residence in the previous three years. There is an income limit for individuals with adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000, and $150,000 on a joint return. Individuals with incomes greater than the $75,000 or $150,000, can still receive a partial Tax Credit if their individual income is below $95,000 and below $170,000 a joint return. This Tax Credit is also only available for a principle residence and is not available for investment properties, and the property must be located within the United States. Properties outside the United States are not eligible.

The Tax Credit works like this, if the "First Time Home Buyer" was going to receive a $1,000 refund when they file their Federal Tax Return in 2009, they will now be eligible for an additional $7,500 if they choose to receive it (it is not mandatory to receive the new tax credit, the First Time Home Buyer can decline to receive it). This means that their tax return will be $8,500 instead of $1,000. Likewise if they were going to have to pay $1,000, they would now receive $6,500.

This new Tax Credit is not a $7,500 gift, because it must be paid back within 15 years, however, it is interest free. The statute specifies that the repayment amount will be 6.67% of the credit amount each year. Thus, a buyer who qualifies for the full $7500 credit will repay a minimum of $502.50 each year starting with their 2010 tax return (which will be filed in 2011). If the purchaser sells the house before he/she has totally paid back the Tax Credit, the remainder will be due at the Closing and reduced from the proceeds of the sale. For example, if an individual still owes $3,000, and makes $30,000 on the sale of the house, the $30,000 profit will be reduced to $27,000 and $3,000 will be sent to the IRS.

There is an exception. "First Time Home Buyers" who meet the income requirements for this new Tax Credit, but who have a mortgage that is funded by "Tax Free Bonds", like the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA), here in Connecticut, DO NOT qualify for the new Tax Credit. So a "First Time Home Buyer" needs to take this into consideration. What is more of a benefit to them, the low interest rate that CHFA offers, or the opportunity to receive a Tax Credit of $7,500.

Some of the initial advantages that I see that a "First Time Home Buyer" can gain from this new Tax Credit are:

Mom and Dad might want to help with the purchase of the house, but don't want to outright give them the money. They now could quickly give Mom and Dad back up to $7,500 when they receive their tax return.

Downpayment tends to be a big problem for "First Time Home Buyers", and most do not like taking money from their 401K's to come up with the money. Well now they could borrow the money from their 401K, knowing that they could quickly pay up to $7,500 within a few months.

Houses sometimes need things done that a "First Time Home Buyer" might not have the money to do. Once again within a few months they will have up to $7,500 available to do some of those things.

I see this new Tax Credit as one of the few positives that have come out of the new Housing Bill, and one that I will be talking about with the Buyers, and Realtors that I work with here in Middlesex County. The other major positive that I feel the new Housing Bill has done, is the elimination of the DPA's such as Nehemiah and AmeriDream. But that is a topic for another day. By the way this does not eliminate the DPA programs such as the one provided by CHFA here in Connecticut.

I hope that this helps to shed some light on this new provision to those who have taken the time to read this blog. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions on this program that I have not addressed, or if you should need clarification on anything I stated.

Spam Email - I'm on A Roll Here!

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 10:46:38 -0500

Usually these type of emails get picked up by my spam filter but somehow this one managed to slip through -

Re: Sandra-I have a Referral-CALL ME

Robert (Your Friendly Realtor) [MoneyTree@xmr3.com]

Dear Sandra,

I was referred to you as an active real estate agent working with buyers and sellers.

We have a few buyer applications in Guilford, CT 6437 that have been pre approved for a loan. These applicants are looking to buy a house within the next 0-180 days and have been verified. They need a real estate agent to find them a property!

Can you call me at (818) 444-7295 Ext. 8028 to give you more information about these applications?

Thank you,

Robert Beck

Sales Manager, Money Tree

6433 Topanga Canyon Blvd. #602 - Canoga Park, CA 91303

(818) 444-7295 Ext. 8028

Your Phone Number: 203.453-0391

This email has been sent to you on Behalf of Money Tree Funding

What I love about this one is Robert identifies himself as “ Your Friendly Realtor” in his address but in his signature line he signs as a sales manager. You’re a Realtor, Robert, highly doubt it. He was referred to me? Nice try, don’t think so. I have heard Money Tree Funding. They sell leads. Kinda, sorta if your lucky.

Oh, google is a wonderful thing. You can read all sorts of interesting things about Money Tree Funding on Google and Mr. Beck is mentioned by name. Oh my. Not interested, but thanks for trying.

I wonder how many Realtors fall for this and think it is a real referral and make the call.

I don’t buy leads, but for any one else who is thinking about it, a word to the wise. Do your homework. There are too many scammers out there just waiting to take your hard earned money.

I really like how he included my number at the bottom of the email. I guess it’s in case I forget my phone number.

A gaggle of geese

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:26:16 -0500

While driving down the street today, I came upon this amazing sight. I just had to turn my car around and take a few pictures. Have the Canadian Geese come back to Connecticut early. Does this mean we will be having a bad winter?

No, nothing like that at all. But the truth behind this picture is even more puzzling.

For some odd reason this homeowner has about 50 large plastic geese lined up in rows all along his driveway. They weren’t there a couple of days ago; think I would have noticed them. Are they “watch” geese? Did they have a huge sale of geese at the local discount store? I know I didn’t get the flyer.

Even the neighborhood kids had no clue as to why they were there. They kept peppering me with questions as I was trying to take some pictures.

I’m thinking about using this in my next marketing campaign. I believe it would be extremely unique. “Thinking of selling your home – Make sure all your ducks are in a row – Call Sandra!

Now does anyone know where I can get my hands on about 50 large plastic ducks cheap?

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405Open HouseAug 24**1-3 pm

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:50:54 -0500

Open House - Sunday Aug 24 From 1-3 pm

Location: Branford, CT

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford - List Price $489,900

Charming 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath cape at the end of cul-de-sac. Living room and dining room with hardwood floors and crown molding. Family room with fireplace and opens to the sun room. Home also features first floor laundry and office. Master bedroom has skylights and private bath.

Directions - Leets Island Road to Flat Rock Road - Right at stop sign to 20 Tanglewood on the Right

Information

Contact Information

Sandra Cummings

203-672-2456

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $489,900

Property Location

20 Tanglewood Drive
Branford, CT 06473
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Year Built: 1988

Lot Size: 120x120

Garage Size: 2

School District: Branford

Square Footage: 2246

Agent Name: Dan & Sandra Cummings

Broker: William Raveis

MLS #: M9109184

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (9 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1850669

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

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FOR SALE 969 West Lake Avenue, Guilford, CT 06437

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:19:32 -0500

969 West Lake Avenue, Guilford, CT $359,900!

Location: Guilford, CT

Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath Colonial. Flexible floor plan. Large living room with soaring ceilings. 2nd floor family room over looks living room below. 3rd floor master bedroom with it's own private bath. Cozy kitchen. Relax on the enclosed front porch and watch the world go by. All set on over 4 acres. Don't miss out.

Information

Contact Information

Sandra Cummings

203-672-2456

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $359,900.00

Property Location

969 West Lake Avenue
Guilford, CT 06437
View Map

Links

My Site

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Year Built: 1900

School District: Guilford

Square Footage: 1930

Agent Name: Sandra Cummings

Broker: William Raveis

MLS #: M9112080

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Exterior Amenities

Secluded setting

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (10 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1796170

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Getting Away From it All - The Big 30!

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:40:24 -0500

This year Dan and I will be celebrating our 30th anniversary on August 11. Every big anniversary we plan a trip. Usually, Dan takes care of planning these little excursions, but this weekend he informed me this time it is my turn.

Gee, honey, thanks, you could have told me this 6 months ago, when I would have had more time. Guys, I'm looking for some ideas here. I have only like 2 weeks to plan this trip. HELP!

Dan planned a cruise for the whole family for our 25th, so I'm under a lot of pressure here, and of course we have let our passports expire, so the South of France is out. Damn!

Through, I'm hoping for something a little better than last year, which was a "bean supper" at the local firehouse up in Maine. Thank you, Cousin George. I owe you one. Not that I don't love going to Maine, but after last weekend's adventure with the killer mouse and the 2x4, I think I'll pass.

So, everyone, I really need your help, let me here those creative vacations.......

Branford, Connecticut 06405

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:12:56 -0500

BRANFORD - "In 1638 the New Haven Colony traded "eleven coats of trucking cloth and one coat of English cloth made in the English fashion" to the Mattabesec Indians for land known as Totokett (Tidal River). The first permanent settlement was established in 1644 when people from Wethersfield came to Totokett, later rename Branford after the town of Brentford in Middlesex County, England. The Sound provided many of the settlers with a livelihood of shipbuilding and coastwise trade. Industry began in 1655 when the first iron furnace in Connecticut was set up and operated at Lake Saltonstall. Yale College was founded in 1701 when ten ministers met and made a contribution of books. In 1852 upon completion of the railroad, industrialization flourished. Two leading manufacturing firms were founded during this era: the Malleable Iron Fittings Company in 1854, and the Branford Lock Works in 1862. The twentieth century has brought some changes to Branford, but much of its historical heritage remains in the form of old buildings and well-preserved villages."

When it comes to The Connecticut Shoreline there are seven towns in New Haven County with frontage on the Sound but only three are classified as "The Shoreline" - Branford, Guilford & Madison. Branford being the closest to the City of New Haven is also the most populated and diverse of the three towns. Housing stock consists of everything from Trailer Parks to Condos to Waterfront Mansions.

Several small sections of town offer their own unique character. In the Pine Orchard sections you find the exclusive Yacht & Country Club where there is usually a waiting list to join and membership is by invitation only.

Stony Creek has nice views and guided tours of the Thimble Islands that normally run from May - October. You can hop aboard with Captain Bob or Captain Mike and enjoy a 45 minute narrated tour for about the cost of a movie.

June is time for the Branford Festival that monopolizes the downtown area with activities.

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Welcome to Guilford Connecticut 06437

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 09:33:52 -0500

GUILFORD - "This town, the seventh oldest, was founded in 1639 by an oppressed but optimistic band of English Puritans. Henry Whitfield, a minister in Ockley, near London, was the moving spirit behind their emigrations. About forty of his friends and sympathizers formed a joint stock company to sail across the Atlantic. They were mostly young and energetic men, farmers, well-educated, and all of them persons of high standing in their community. In a deed of sale dated September 29, 1639, the Whitfield Company purchased the lands between Stony Creek and East River from the Squaw Shaumpishuh, Sachem of the local Menunkatuck Indian tribe. Whitfield's stone house at first served as a fortress and meeting place. Guilford Green was inspired by the typical 17^thcentury English common. In the fall of 1641 the settlers purchased from the Indians land beyond East River that included most of what became East Guilford."

"East Guilford, now Madison, was set off as a distinct church society in 1703, North Guilford in 1720, and North Bristol (North Madison) in 1753. Two good harbors and two tidal rivers assured success to Guilford in Connecticut ~ New York coastwise shipping and the West India trade during the 18^thcentury. In the American Revolution, British troops landed several times and burned two houses. The famous Sachem's Head Hotel ( 1797-1897 ) made this town the center of society for many years. John Beattie's granite quarries at Leete's Island employed as many as three hundred workmen and supplied stone for the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. Famous sons of Guilford include William Leete, an early Governor of Connecticut; Fitz-Greene Halleck, one of the noted Knickerbocker Poets; and Abraham Baldwin, a signer of the United States Constitution and Senator from Georgia."

Now that you have read what the historians say I will try to explain the town more my way. It's a beautiful blend of the old and the new with The Whitfield House still standing today. Constructed of stone in 1639 it has been through restoration and looking just fine. The home is oldest in Connecticut & the oldest stone house if all of New England, surviving time it has been a museum since 1899.

Henry Whitfield himself led quite a life, went back to England after 11 years also ditching his wife.

Just beyond the Whitfield house heading down to the shore amongst historic homes you see a strange sight. The Spaceship that "landed" back in the '80s one night.

Continuing south and looking out at sea sits Faulkner's Island with the second oldest Lighthouse built in 1802.

Heading north towards the center is a favorite place, steps from my office its like an escape, the Guilford Green. If you read the article about the picturesque Green it mentions a gadfly old guy always lurking around like some kind of a spy. Keeping odd hours myself I was acutely aware that Richard Greene was always out there. Sad to say its no longer that way, Mr. Greene passed away. Reflecting back over hundreds of years it is easy to miss one man modern day fears. Richard Greene was quite passionate when he felt he was right, always sharing his thoughts and putting up a good fight.

________________________________________________________________________________________

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SOLD - 123 QUINNIPIAC AVENUE - NORTH HAVEN, CT 06473

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:14:33 -0500

Sandra Cummings | William Raveis Real Estate | 203-672-2456

123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT

SOLD FOR $197,500.00 - UNDER CONTRACT IN 42 DAYS

2BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $204,800

Year Built	1954
Sq Footage	956
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3
Lot Size	0.43 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

SOLD - $197,500.00

If you were hoping to snatch up this cute little starter home in North Haven, it is now too late. This charming 2 bedroom room 1 bath ranch on a fenced in lot went quick. With it's large living room; hardwood floors; eat-in kitchen and enclosed porch with sliders leading to the deck this home was an exceptional value. Don't let the next one pass you by. Give the CummingsTeam a call today.

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sandra Cummings

William Raveis Real Estate

203-672-2456

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 7, 2008, 3:06pm PDT

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SOLD - 33 Fairlawn Drive, North Haven, Connecticut 06473

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:03:25 -0500

SOLD- 33 Fairlawn Drive, Connecticut 06473

LIST PRICE $274,900 - SOLD BY THE CUMMINGS TEAM FOR $270,000.00

This wonderful move in condition 3 bedroom, 1 bath Split, featuring a a large living room with bay window, huge sun room overlooking the private back yard, and a lower level family room. Tiled kitchen and dining area with bay window, hardwood floors in bedrooms set in Cul-de-sac neighborhood are just some of the highlights of this exceptional home.

This home went on deposit in only 19 days! Looking to sell your home? Contact the Cummings Team Today. And see what we can do for you.

Information

Contact Information

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $274,900.00

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Year Built: 1960

Lot Size: 0.28 acre

Garage Size: 2 car

School District: North Haven Public

Square Footage: 1360

Agent Name: Sandra Cummings

Broker: William Raveis R.E.

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Tool Shed

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (5 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1562941

For Doozie on Father’ Day!

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:21:24 -0500

Dad….

On this father’s day, I wanted to thank you for some of things you have done for me over the years .

Thanks for understanding my need to bring home ever stray animal I found, and even letting me keep a few. I knew I had finally turned you into an animal lover when I found out you started microwaving the cat’s food.

Thank you for all the help on my homework and years later helping me with my kid’s homework.

Thank you for giving me the freedom to discuss anything with you. As a child, I remember our long conversations about everything under the sun, the environment, war, politics and religion, we didn’t always agree, and I still remember our conversation regarding nuclear power.

Thanks for playing jump-rope and hopscotch with me.

Thank you for all those family vacations to museums and national parks. While other kids were hanging out at home, we were learning American History. I did not appreciate it then, but I so appreciate now!

Thanks for taking the heat from mom when I brought her the grave wreath as a gift. Do you think she will ever forgive us? I owe you one.

Thanks for only taking me golfing once.

But most of all thank you for being you for without you I would not be the person I am today.

I know I was not the easiest of children growing up, and we won’t even go into those teenage rebellion years, but through it all I always knew you were there standing behind me ready to catch me if I fell, and I love you for it.

The miles separate us now and it saddens me, for I can’t see you as much as I would like. A phone call, a quick laugh or two before you say your famous words “ Let me get your mother”. Just wanted you to know on this father’s day you are always in my heart. I love you and miss you.

Your loving daughter,

Sandra

Super 8 Meme – Here we go again

Wed, 28 May 2008 08:43:08 -0500

I can not describe to you the overwhelming joy, I felt when I opened up my email this morning and saw that Jason Sardi had tagged me for yet another meme. ( Mr. Sardi, you know what they say about paybacks). Evidentially, Jason was tagged by Jeff Belonger, who in turn was tagged by Jeff Dowler, who was tagged by Mary McKnight, who started this whole thing.

For anyone new to blogging, a meme is a chain letter, where you reveal things readers don’t know about you and then tag others to share the agony. At least this meme does not seem to be as painful as usual, for you only need to answer eight simple (ha-ha) questions and then tag eight more victims members.

Who is your favorite musical artist? There are many musicians I love, and my musicals tastes are changing all the time. But if I had to pick just one, it would have to be Fleetwood Mac with Stevie Nicks. I just love her voice, and have been to their concerts numerous times. One concert was on our anniversary, and some how Dan arranged to have the band dedicate a song to us. I will never forget that night as long as I live.

Who is you favorite artist? Easy question…I love art. Love art museums, through Dan and the boys feel it is torture to have to go to one. My favorite artist is Claude Monet. His use of color and light takes my breath away.

Who is your favorite blogger? Now the questions are getting harder…There are many I love to read, and I don’t have just one, but my top 3 are as follows. Andrew Lenza, because he is just the best darn writer I have ever read. Jennifer Bukaty for she puts so much of herself into her writings and Jason Sardi because most of the time I don’t know what the hell he is talking about.

If you could meet anyone (alive or dead), who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them? I have no clue. I have never given this any thought what so ever. So my answer, off the top of my head would be Steven King, for I love reading his novels and he is my favorite author and I would love to know if he is as strange as he writes.

What did you want to be when you grew up? For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be an artist and live in New York City. Once I figured out most artist straved, I changed it to a children's book illustrator, as you can tell that didn't work out either.

What is the most interesting piece of trivia you know? For some unknown reason, I retain completely useless information and my children will ask me why I know this and how I came to know that certain gem of knowlege. Now this is not interesting, but it is completely useless. The most sung song in the world is "Happy Birthday".

If you could live in any point in history what would it be and why? 50 years in the future...I would like to see how we turn out.

What is the most interesting job you have ever held? Export Agent for an International Marketing Company. I handled the export documentation for different product lines, sometime had to prepare documents in French and Spanish, which is funny since I can barely write in English. Dealt with clients from all over the world and had dealings with the Department of Commerce and the State Department. It was an interest job with something new happening ever day, like that time I....never mind. That would be a whole other post.

Time to pick the next Eight…..So here goes…..

Running Man Turns 50! *** Happy Birthday!

Wed, 07 May 2008 08:30:50 -0500

Happy 50th Birthday Running Man!

I tried to find some famous people who where born the same day as you, but alas other than you that day was boring.

I can tell you that 50 years ago gas was selling at 0.25 a gallon and a new home was selling for $12,750. The average wage was $4,600.00.

Elvis Presley was singing Jailhouse Rock and Jerry Lee Lewis was knocking them out with Great Balls Of Fire. The Hula Hoop became a national craze and a cool car to own was an Edsel.

Dan, I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Love, Sandra

Sandra Cummings | Realtor
Dir 203-676-5948 | Email

Open House 123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT April 27, 1-3 PM

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:18:40 -0500

Open House - April 27 1-3 pm

123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT 06473 View Map

Come join us this Sunday, April 27 from 1-3 pm.

Cute 2 bedroom, 1 bath ranch on fenced in lot. Large living room. Hardwood floors. Enclosed porch with sliders leading to deck. New roof and gutters in 2007. New furnace in 2000. Recently painted. Closed to shopping, highways and hiking at Peter's Rock. A fantastic value!

Directions: Middletown Avenue to Quinnipiac Avenue.

Or call Sandra at 203-672-2456 to arrange for your private showing.

Details

Asking Price:

$204,800.00

MLS:

M9109570

Sq. Feet:

956

Lot Size:

0.43

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

# of Floors:

Year Built:

1954

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Sandra Cummings
Realtor

Dir 203-676-5948
Email

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Spring is here!...If you are thinking about putting your home on the market, now is the time! Contact The Cummings Team! Let me show you what we can do to market your home. We cover New Haven Counties and the Shoreline Communites, including North Haven, Madison, Guilford, Branford, North Branford,Hamden, Northford and Wallingford. Give us a call today.

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HOME FOR SALE 123 Quinnipiac Avenue North Haven, Connecticut 06473

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:04:34 -0500

Sandra Cummings | William Raveis Real Estate | 203-672-2456

123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT

Cute Starter Home and Exceptional Value!

2 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $204,800

Year Built	1954
Sq Footage	956
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3
Lot Size	0.43 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Cute starter home in North Haven. Charming 2 bedroom room 1 bath ranch with fenced in lot. Large living room. Hardwood floors. Eat-in Kitchen. Enclosed porch with slders leading to deck. New roof and gutters in 2007. New furnace in 2000. Recently painted.

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sandra Cummings

William Raveis Real Estate

203-672-2456

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Apr 2, 2008, 6:51am PDT

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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Home for Sale North Haven Connecticut 06473* $274900 - SOLD

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:55:02 -0500

New Listing - Home for Sale North Haven, Connecticut 06473

Wonderful 3 bedroom, 1 bath Split, Large Living room with bay window, Huge Sun Room overlooking private back yard, Lower level family room. Tiled kitchen and dining area with bay window. Hardwood floors in bedrooms. Cul-de-sac neighborhood.

Information

Contact Information

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Asking Price: $274,900.00

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Year Built: 1960

Lot Size: 0.28 acre

Garage Size: 2 car

School District: North Haven Public

Square Footage: 1360

Agent Name: Sandra Cummings

Broker: William Raveis R.E.

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Tool Shed

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (5 Photos)

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 1562941

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Spring is just around the corner...If you are thinking about putting your home on the market, now is the time! Contact The Cummings Team! Let me show you what we can do to market your home. We cover New Haven Counties and the Shoreline Communites, including North Haven, Madison, Guilford, Branford, North Branford,Hamden, Northford and Wallingford. Give us a call today.

Subscribe in a reader

Subscribe to The Shoreline Blogger - Sandra Cummings by Email

The Shoreline Blogger - Sandra Cummings

A few ways to ensure the American Dream doesn't turn into a Nightmare.

Wordless Wednesday - Almost time to start cutting that lawn again

For Sale - 20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405

Best Buy In Branford

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405 View Map

Details

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Wordless Wednesdays - Come Fly With Me

80 Glen Haven Road, New Haven, CT 06516**Open House**Sunday, February 7, 2009**1-3 pm

Open House - February 7, 2009 12-3 pm

80 Glen Haven Road, New Haven , CT 06516 View Map

Details

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Florida Get Away and Meeting Friends

Wordless Wednesday - Waiting for Summer

ugh...Stop tagging me with memes

How not to solict business

New Tax Credit For "First Time Home Buyers"

Spam Email - I'm on A Roll Here!

A gaggle of geese

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405**Open House**Aug 24**1-3 pm

FOR SALE 969 West Lake Avenue, Guilford, CT 06437

Getting Away From it All - The Big 30!

Branford, Connecticut 06405

Welcome to Guilford Connecticut 06437

SOLD - 123 QUINNIPIAC AVENUE - NORTH HAVEN, CT 06473

SOLD - 33 Fairlawn Drive, North Haven, Connecticut 06473

For Doozie on Father’ Day!

Super 8 Meme – Here we go again

Running Man Turns 50! *** Happy Birthday!

Happy 50th Birthday Running Man!

Open House ** 123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT ** April 27, 1-3 PM

Open House - April 27 1-3 pm

123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT 06473 View Map

Details

Property Amenities

Contact Info

HOME FOR SALE **123 Quinnipiac Avenue **North Haven, Connecticut 06473

*Home for Sale* North Haven Connecticut 06473* $274900 - SOLD

80 Glen Haven Road, New Haven, CT 06516Open HouseSunday, February 7, 2009**1-3 pm

20 Tanglewood Drive, Branford, CT 06405Open HouseAug 24**1-3 pm

Open House 123 Quinnipiac Avenue, North Haven, CT April 27, 1-3 PM

HOME FOR SALE 123 Quinnipiac Avenue North Haven, Connecticut 06473

Home for Sale North Haven Connecticut 06473* $274900 - SOLD