Lou Mayo's Real Estate Information and Property listings for Western Massachusetts (Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin Counties) Blog

Single Family For Sale - 43 Magnolia Ave., Holyoke, MA, 01040

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:19:30 -0700

43 Magnolia Ave., Holyoke, MA, 01040

$165,000

MLS#	71137663
List Date	9/15/2010
Type	Single-family
Style	Colonial
Bedrooms	4+
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1768
Lot Size	6300
Taxes	$2,100.00
Tax Year	2010

Good sized home in convenient area, close to the neighborhood park and major highways. This charming home boasts beautiful woodwork and replacement windows and has much to offer including a nice eat-in kitchen with moveable center island, formal dining room with a beautiful built in cabinet. This hard to find 4 bedroom home also has a walk up attic with 2 more finished rooms with heat.

Single Family For Sale - 40 1/2 Main Street, Monson, MA, 01057

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:15:34 -0700

40 1/2 Main Street, Monson, MA, 01057

$39,000

MLS#	71131430
List Date	9/2/2010
Type	Single-family
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1216
Lot Size	21780

Investors take note. House in need of repair. Could be nice private home on large lot with work.Bring flashlight/house sits at end of shared driveway, not visible from road. Please DO NOT walk property unless w/scheduled appointment. Easy to show.

Multi Family Home For Sale - 978-980 Grayson, Springfield, MA, 01119

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:09:18 -0700

978-980 Grayson, Springfield, MA, 01119

$154,900

MLS#	71130840
List Date	9/1/2010
Type	Multifamily
Style	Duplex
Units	2
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2
Bathrooms-Partial	2
Square Footage	2016
Lot Size	11051
Taxes	$2,975.70
Tax Year	2010

Well kept Duplex in a great location! Each unit has a large living room with dining area, first floor half bath, 2 generously sized bedrooms (master bedroom has 2 closets!) and a large bath. Unit 2 has a partially finished basement. Freshly painted throughout. Call to see it today.

Multi Family Home For Sale - 63-65 Darling, Springfield, MA, 01151

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 21:55:46 -0700

63-65 Darling, Springfield, MA, 01151

$129,900

MLS#	71128181
List Date	8/25/2010
Type	Multifamily
Style	Duplex
Units	2
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1728
Lot Size	8002
Taxes	$2,367.30
Tax Year	2010

Nicely cared for Duplex on a quiet street. Freshly painted throughout, each unit offers nice sized kitchens w/first floor laundry and 2 good sized bedrooms. Unit 1also has a finished room in the basement. Great price for this attractive Duplex. Call today to see for yourself.

Single Family Colonial For Sale - 55 Briarwood Ln, Ludlow, MA, 01056

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:15:51 -0700

55 Briarwood Ln, Ludlow, MA, 01056-1302

$275,000

MLS#	71104877
List Date	7/6/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Colonial
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1536
Lot Size	25993
Age	42
Parking	8 / Off-Street, Paved Driveway
Taxes	$3,137.00
Tax Year	2010

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Community Information

Description: Location! Location! Location! This beautiful and well kept home is located on top of a hill at the end of a cul de sac and has a wonderful view; you'll love this peaceful neighborhood. 4 br/1. 5ba & over 1,500sf of living space this home is perfect! The living room is spacious and leads to the sun room which includes a hot tub & deck access. The kitchen comes fully applianced & leads to the dining room, 2 car garage access from inside the home. 1 year old septic system!

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 0.59, Amenities: Highway Access, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public School, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Microwave, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Partially Finished, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Elec: 200 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Enclosed Porch, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Hot Tub/Spa, Exterior: Patio, Exterior: Wood Deck, Fireplaces: 2, Floor: Other (See Remarks), Floor: Vinyl, Floor: Wood, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Electric, Heating: Other (See Remarks), Heating: Radiant, Insulation: Unknown, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: French Doors, Interior: Sauna/Steam/Hot Tub, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 6, Oth, Road: Cul-De-Sac, Road: Paved, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: Private Sewerage, Sew/Wtr: Private Water, Sun, Zoning: Res

Single Family Ranch For Sale - 95 Higher Brook Dr, Ludlow, MA, 01056

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:13:48 -0700

95 Higher Brook Dr, Ludlow, MA, 01056

$419,900

MLS#	71110991
List Date	7/17/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Ranch
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3
Square Footage	2355
Lot Size	35284
Age	11
Parking	6 / Off-Street, Tandem
Taxes	$5,932.00
Tax Year	2010

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Description: Stunning custom built ranch in a fantastic neighborhood setting! Large open living room boasts cathedral ceilings and stone fireplace with wood-burning insert! The kitchen features tons of cabinet and counter space as well as a dine in area. The master spacious master bedrom at the far end of the home features an enormous master bath with walk in closet and jacuzzi tub! There's even a space ready to be finished in the attic!! Two seperate sheds and beautiful landscaping round out this gem!

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 0.81, Amenities: Bike Path, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Highway Access, Amenities: Laundromat, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Amenities: Swimming Pool, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Microwave, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Garage Access, Basement: Partially Finished, Basement: Walk Out, Beach: Lake/Pond, Beach: Public, Const: Brick, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Elec: 100 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Prog. Thermostat, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Storage Shed, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Floor: Wood, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Oil, Insulation: Full, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Walk-Up Attic, Lot Desc: Wooded, No. Of Rooms: 7, Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/

Single Family Contemp/Saltbox For Sale - 45 N Monson Road, Hampden, MA, 01036

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:11:36 -0700

45 N Monson Road, Hampden, MA, 01036

$279,000

MLS#	71110990
List Date	7/17/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Contemporary, Saltbox
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1824
Lot Size	142955
Age	26
Parking	10 / Off-Street, Tandem
Taxes	$4,685.00
Tax Year	2010

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Description: This lovely home features 3 floors of country living on a private wooded lot! Walk into the ground floor mudroom and then into the cozy family room! The sunroom has been set up for a hot tub/jaccuzi (apo) with natural stone coming in on one wall. The kitchen features newer stainless appliances, hardwood floors and island. Directly off this open kitchen are the living room and dining rooms. There is also a 1/2 bath and bedroom on the 2nd fl and 2 bedrooms and full bath on the 3rd!

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 3.28, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Basement: Finished, Basement: Full, Basement: Walk Out, Const: Shake, Const: Wood, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Window Ac, Elec: 100 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Balcony, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Storage Shed, Floor: Laminate, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Floor: Wood, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Electric, Heating: Oil, Hmo, Insulation: Unknown, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Walk-Up Attic, Lot Desc: Wooded, Mud, No. Of Rooms: 7, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: Private Sewerage, Sew/Wtr: Private Water, Sun, Zoning: Sf

Single Family Colonial For Sale - 274 Whitney Ave., Holyoke, MA, 01040

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:07:04 -0700

274 Whitney Ave., Holyoke, MA, 01040

$279,900

MLS#	71113937
List Date	7/23/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Colonial, Garrison
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3
Square Footage	1750
Lot Size	10096
Age	8
Parking	4 / Off-Street, Paved Driveway
Taxes	$3,757.00
Tax Year	2009

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Description: Beautiful move-in ready colonial with 3 bedrooms (den may be possible 4th bedroom) located in a convenient to everything area, close to 90 and 91 and ashley reservoir with great walk/bike trails. Some of the many features include recessed lighting in kitchen, hardwood floors in all rooms and hallways, ceramic tile in all 3 bathrooms and crown molding in formal living, formal dining rooms and den. Large deck off the den leads to a fabulous fully fenced yard w/patio. Full walk-out basement.

Interior Features

Air Conditioned: Central, Heating: Forced air, Fireplace: Gas, Flooring: Hardwood

Additional Features and Amenities

Other Features: Deck, Security system, Storage shed, Other: Acres: 0.23, Amenities: Bike Path, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Highway Access, Amenities: Medical Facility, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Private School, Amenities: Public School, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Amenities: University, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Dryer, Appliances: Microwave, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Appliances: Washer, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Interior Access, Basement: Walk Out, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Den, Elec: 200 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Prog. Thermostat, Exterior: Covered Patio/Deck, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Fenced Yard, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Patio, Exterior: Prof. Landscape, Exterior: Satellite Dish, Exterior: Screens, Exterior: Storage Shed, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Concrete, Floor: Hardwood, Fl

Single Family Cape For Sale - 164 Chapel Street, Chicopee,, MA, 01020

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:03:16 -0700

164 Chapel Street, Chicopee,, MA, 01020

$174,900

MLS#	71118283
List Date	8/3/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Cape
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1
Square Footage	1080
Lot Size	9148
Age	61
Parking	3 / Off-Street
Taxes	$2,050.00
Tax Year	2010

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Description: This is a home that has been well cared for and improved upon. All new windows (apo), updated kitchen with all new appliances remaining for buyers enjoyment, and new bath (apo), hardwood floors refinished, 3rd bedroom recently added on 2nd floor (new walls, carpet, closet, ceiling fan apo), freshly painted throughout, large yard for entertaining with new built-in firepit nothing to do but move in. Very nice cape on a great street.

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 0.21, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Basement: Full, Cooling: Wall Ac, Cooling: Window Ac, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Prog. Thermostat, Floor: Hardwood, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Foundation: Concrete Block, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Oil, Interior: Cable Available, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 6, Ply, Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: 0

SOLD Single Family For Sale - 140 Mountain Road, Holyoke, MA, 01040

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 09:40:50 -0700

140 Mountain Road, Holyoke, MA, 01040

SOLD
$245,000

MLS#	71092003
List Date	6/7/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Raised Ranch
Area	Rock Valley
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3
Square Footage	2132
Lot Size	43995
Age	23
Parking	6 / Off-Street
Taxes	$3,867.00
Tax Year	2009

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Description: Country living just five minutes from i91. Lovingly cared-for home with lots of living space in an outstanding neighborhood. Beautiful living room features large bay window. Master bedroom suite includes large private master bath with whirlpool tub and walk-in closet. Finished basement with family/rec room or in-law suite possibilities. Lovely deck off dining area overlooks spacious back yard.

Interior Features

Air Conditioned: Wall AC, Heating: Oil, Flooring: Mixed

Additional Features and Amenities

Other Features: Deck, Location, Other: Acres: 1.01, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Highway Access, Amenities: Laundromat, Amenities: Marina, Amenities: Medical Facility, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Shopping, Amenities: Stables, Amenities: Swimming Pool, Amenities: Tennis Court, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Dryer, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Appliances: Washer, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Finished, Basement: Full, Basement: Garage Access, Basement: Interior Access, Basement: Walk Out, Const: Brick, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Wall Ac, Elec: 100 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Gutters, Floor: Vinyl / Vtc, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Hot Water Baseboard, Heating: Oil, Insulation: Full, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 7, Road: Paved, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass

Single Family For Sale - 165 Lincoln Street, Holyoke, MA, 01040

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 09:36:45 -0700

165 Lincoln Street, Holyoke, MA, 01040

$275,000

MLS#	71060011
List Date	4/6/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Victorian
Area	Highlands
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 / 1
Square Footage	1836
Lot Size	11250
Age	110
Parking	4 / Off-Street, Paved Driveway, Tandem
Taxes	$3,190.00
Tax Year	2009

REQUEST MORE INFO		SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Fabulous turn of the century updated victorian & just minutes to northampton or springfield. Lovely large living room with lots of natural woodwork and a pellet stove insert in the fp formal dining room with storage playroom, den or home office on second floor hardwood floors and crown moldings in most rooms large and updated eat-in kitchen with lots of storage new 1/2 bath on first floor many improvements including windows, siding and roof no showings until open house 4/11/10 12-2

Interior Features

Levels: 2, Flooring: Mixed

Additional Features and Amenities

Other Features: Deck, Other: Acres: 0.26, Amenities: Bike Path, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Highway Access, Amenities: Marina, Amenities: Medical Facility, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Private School, Amenities: Public School, Amenities: Shopping, Amenities: Tennis Court, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Basement: Bulkhead, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Interior Access, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Den, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Storm Windows, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Enclosed Porch, Exterior: Fenced Yard, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Porch, Exterior: Wood Deck, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Tile, Floor: Vinyl, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Floor: Wood, Foundation: Brick, Heating: Oil, Heating: Steam, Insulation: Full, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Walk-Up Attic, Lot Desc: Fenced/Enclosed, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 7, Road: Paved, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Road: Sidewalk, Roof: As

Single Family For Sale - 29 Sedgelia St, Springfield, MA, 01104

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 09:20:49 -0700

29 Sedgelia St, Springfield, MA, 01104-1130

$135,900

MLS#	71071024
List Date	4/26/2010
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Ranch
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1092
Lot Size	10001
Age	44
Parking	3 / Off-Street
Taxes	$2,658.00
Tax Year	2009

REQUEST MORE INFO	SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Pretty one owner ranch that has been lovingly cared for. Living room with a wood burning fireplace and hardwood floors, large kitchen with eating area, family room w/new carpet (to be installed/apo) and wood burning stove, two good sized bedrooms with hardwood floors, a huge finished basement, large yard and central air. This is a wonderful home if you are just starting out or looking to downsize. Can close quickly. Home warranty provided by the sellers!

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 0.23, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Microwave, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Basement: Full, Basement: Interior Access, Basement: Partially Finished, Basement: Sump Pump, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Patio, Exterior: Porch, Fireplaces: 2, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Gas, Heating: Hot Water Baseboard, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Security System, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 4, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Sewer, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: R1

Draft-proof Your House - Seal Up and Save On Energy Bills

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:38:15 -0800

With the cold weather we are having in New England I thought this would be helpful.

Draft-proof Your House - Seal Up and Save On Energy Bills

No matter how baffling the energy situation is, homeowners are definitely seeing its results in skyrocketing energy bills. It makes homeowners scramble to button up their older houses against both blustery winters and humidity-laden summers. If you know where your home has leaks, you can seal it up to keep out humidity and cold.

Drafts Diagnostic: A Candle and a Hair Dryer

You can use a candle and hairdryer to determine where your home has drafts - it's not exactly high-tech, but it works. You need two people: one on the outside directing the air from the blow dryer through door jambs and at window frames. The other person follows on the inside with a candle. A candle that flickers or goes out indicates a draft opening that you should seal with weather stripping or caulk.

Caulk and Weather Stripping

Caulking around the frames is no big deal. Buy tubes of caulk in the same color as the trim, lay in a bead of caulk and smooth it with a finger.

Here are some tips for weather stripping window sashes and exterior doors:

Weather stripping: There are many weather stripping products. Thin spring metal weather strips work well because they're long-lasting and barely visible when installed. Cut them to length with tin snips and tack in place. After tacking, lift the outer edge of the strip with a screwdriver for a better seal.
Door sweeps: Screw door sweeps to the inside bottom of front and back doors to cover the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor.
Insulate: Insulate the attic access panel.
Drafts: Check newer windows and doors for drafts as well. If an oil or resin caulk was used, it may have pulled loose in as little as one year, depending on expansion and contraction caused by weather extremes.
Caulking: Caulk around foundation walls, pipe outlets, the clothes dryer vent and any other gaps on the outside of the house.
Draft blockers: Air infiltration from electric switch and plug outlets can also be significant, so it's smart to insert draft blockers. They're inexpensive and readily available at hardware stores and home centers.
Weatherstrip overhead doors of attached garages.

Other Ways to Reduce Energy Costs

Here are some more simple and low-cost recommendations to help cut energy costs.

Cold weather: During cold weather, set the thermostat at 68 degrees F and leave it alone during the day. Overnight, lower setting by 5-10 degrees. Make sure the thermostat isn't affected by drafts that will give an incorrect reading.
Hot weather: During hot weather, set the thermostat at 78 degrees F when you're home and lower it a bit a night.
Windows: Develop energy-saving window habits: In the winter, open curtains or shades of east, south and west-facing windows on sunny days to let the sun heat the house. Close them at night to preserve heat. Keep the draperies closed all day on north-facing windows. Do just the opposite in summer.
Unused rooms: Turn the heat down in rooms you don't use. And turn the air conditioning off in those rooms or close vents in the summer.
Energy surveys: Check with your utility company to see if they offer free home inspections and energy surveys.

Homeowner Survival Kit: Tools for Intermediate Home Repairs and Projects

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:35:01 -0800

Homeowner Survival Kit: Tools for Intermediate Home Repairs and Projects

If you find repairs easy, then you are ready to start your own improvement projects. The following kit will help you accomplish basic projects around the home.

Cordless drill/screwdriver: Ease of use is the main reason to go cordless. A higher voltage model has more power and longer life between charges. Keyless chucks are a necessity.

Square: Cutting materials square is the first step in making sure projects turn out right. This tool is a must.

Level: From hanging pictures to building a deck, a level is essential. Projects that are level and plumb look professional. Consider getting two levels: a two-footer and a torpedo.

Flat bar or pry bar: Starting a project often means tearing something out. This is where a flat bar will help. Use the claws on either end for removing nails.

Diagonal cutters: These cutters are not just for cutting wire but a many other materials such as small nails and dowels. Jaws and cutting blades should meet evenly.

Adjustable wrench: Flexibility makes this tool a must for turning nuts, bolts and plumbing fittings. While a set of sockets and wrenches is preferred, this wrench will get you by most of the time.

Drill bits: Get a kit that contains different bit sizes and varieties for drilling through different materials.

Jig saw: This saw is easy to use and can perform a wide variety of cutting jobs. Orbital varieties are also available.

Clamps (pair): A set of bar clamps is always useful for holding things together while they are glued or fastened.

Paint brush/roller kit: A good quality brush and roller are easier to clean and hold up longer than cheap varieties. You save in the long run. Consider an extension pole, too.

40 Ways Business Owners Can Use Twitter To Build Their Business

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:26:00 -0800

Via Mickey O'Brien (Certified Business Coach):

Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 by Mickey O'Brien in Business Tips

This week on Facebook I asked “Who should I follow on Twitter” and surprisingly only a few people responded, one in which is an amazing photographer that you may want to follow twitter.com/@steffoush By asking for who should I follow I was opening up opportunities for businesses to connect with me and my large network. I have many biz owners say “What can Twitter do for me?” so I’m laying it all out right here…

Building Trust & Rapport
1. Express your opinion and expertise
2. Share your interesting links/posts
3. Strengthen relationships with client, competitors and jv partners
4. Tweet often to keep your brand on top of your customer’s mind
5. Share quality content that addresses your clients needs, frustrations, fears & dreams
6. Promote friends and colleagues
7. Promote upcoming events

Market Yourself & Your Business
1. Talk about what your company believes in, and is committed to
2. Give special offers to customers who find you via social media
3. Talk about what you’re doing, who you are, and what you do
4. Direct people to your blog/website
5. Find & Give referrals
6. Have contests and give away prizes
7. Promote your latest blog posts, free reports and newsletters
8. Tweet when you see or do something cool or funny

Listen To What’s Being Said
1. See what others are saying about you (use TweetDeck.com)
2. Listen to what’s being said about your industry
3. Conduct Twitter polls to quiz consumer opinion
4. Learn about what’s working/not working & next for your competitors
5. Find your competitors clients (Read: Sun Tsu’s Art of War, i.e. do not neglect the use of intelligence.)
6. Identify Twitter trends or hot topics related to your industry
7. Ask people for their opinions. Listen to them and respond back.

Expand Your Network
1. Build relationships instead of selling
2. Use Twellow, We Follow to find clients & people with common interests
3. Meet POI’s (People Of Influence) and talk to them
4. Connect your Twitter account to your website, Facebook, LinkedIn and other medias you use.
5. Give and receive testimonials on Follow Friday and connect with new people
6. Use services like bit.ly to see how people are interacting with your content

Build Your Offline Network
1. Hold/Attend meetups/tweetups and meet your online network offline
2. Use TweetDeck to track when potential customers mention a competitor…and then reach out to them
3. Find new employees
4. Ask Twitter followers to leave testimonials on your site
5. Tweet about products and services on Twitter before offering to general public
6. Create special events around holidays for your Twitter followers

Meet People, Celebrate Life & Have Fun
1. Share content that you enjoy
2. Get inspired and motivated by others
3. Learn new things and talk about it
4. Build new friendships, not just professional relationships
5. Be part of a community (your industry or personal)
6. Find new ideas for your business or just for fun

Bonus: Tools I Like That Make It Fun & Easy

1. Use www.ping.fm to post to facebook, twitter, plaxo and more at one time
2. Use hootsuite.com to schedule posts so you don't always have to be online

3. Use Hashtages on Twitter to follow conversations (#mortgages to talk about mortgages)
4. Use the Re-Tweet feature if you see something
5. Use #followfriday on Friday's to recommend others to follow someone

What are your Twitter tips or advise?

Ps: You can connect with me on Twiter at twitter.com/mickeyobrien

Homeowner Survival Kit: Tools for Basic Home Repairs

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:53:59 -0800

Homeowner Survival Kit: Tools for Basic Home Repairs

This kit has the basic tools you will need to be able to make the most common home repairs.

Hammer: Since the Stone Age man has used this tool in one form or another and for good reason: it is indispensable. A 16-ounce, curved-claw hammer will handle most tasks. Get one with a drop-forged steel head.

Screwdriver: Get one with changeable tips. With so many different kinds of fasteners, a screwdriver that can adapt to all of them is a must.

Duct tape: Is this a tool or a material? Both. With a little imagination, duct tape can be used for a variety of temporary repairs.

Putty knife: Putty knives are not just for putty but also for scraping, light prying, mixing materials and many other tasks. Use stiffer ones for scraping and more flexible ones for applying putty, glazing and spackling.

Tape measure: Measuring is required in almost any project. A 12-foot tape measure is good for most home repairs and a 25-foot one is better for carpentry and plumbing.

Vise grips: Use this tool, sometimes called locking pliers, for grabbing all sorts of things very tightly. It comes in handy for loosening nuts that won't budge.

Utility knife: Utility knives are better than regular knives because their blades can be replaced when dull, and they are safer to use.

Hack saw: This saw is good for cutting metal or a variety of other materials including plastic. Select a variety of blades for a range of purposes.

Caulking gun: This tool is a must for dispensing caulk, glue and even tar for roof repairs.

Assorted fasteners: Repairs are all about putting things back together. A nice variety of nails, screws, etc. organized in a box with dividers will definitely come in handy.

For more information visit: Our Tips section

The Basics of Marketing Your Home

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 17:05:55 -0800

The Basics of Marketing Your Home

Your REALTOR^®'s marketing efforts and considerations will include advertising, showing the property, how long the house has been on the market and whether you're buying another home. Your home should be listed, whenever possible, through a Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Advertising and Promotion

Properties are commonly advertised through real estate agent Web sites, Internet home search/listing services, classified advertising and real estate guides. Promotion efforts through office and MLS tours are a good way of getting other buyer agents to view your home and to promote it to the buyers they are working with.

Even with all these advertising avenues, " For Sale" signs on front lawns are still remarkably effective. Many REALTORS^® promote their Web sites on the sign and use brochure boxes with the signs to market the property. When appropriate, and with your permission, your REALTOR^® may send a mailing about your property to neighbors. Sometimes one of them has a friend or relative who always wanted to live near them. You never know how far reaching the benefits of word-of-mouth advertising by friends, relatives and neighbors can be.

Showings and Open Houses

To prepare your home for viewing, make it as bright, clean, cheerful and serene as possible. Always look at your home from the buyer's point of view. Your REALTOR^® will probably find a tactful way to suggest that you be absent while the house is being shown to prospective buyers, because your presence will inhibit their actions and conversations. They won't feel free to open closets and cabinets, test out the plumbing and discuss their observations objectively as they walk through the house. It goes without saying that your children and pets should not be on the premises either.

If your REALTOR^® has scheduled an open house, you may want to notify the neighbors, and assure them that they'll be welcome. They'll jump at the chance to poke around in your house, and sometimes they can turn up a buyer among their friends.

Quick tips for showings and open houses:

Clean or replace dirty or worn carpets.
Open all curtains and blinds.
Replace any burned out light bulbs and turn on all lights.
Clear all clutter.
Clear all countertops.
Wash and put away any dirty dishes.
Set the dining room or kitchen table if you have particularly nice linen or china.
Simmer a few drops of vanilla on the stove.
Put on soft music.
Burn wood in the fireplace on cold days, otherwise, clean the fireplace.
Put fresh towels in the bathroom.
Take any laundry out of the washer and dryer.
Leave the house so your REALTOR^® is free to deal with prospective buyers in a professional manner.
Put pets in cages or take them to a neighbor.

How Long Has Your House Been on the Market?

Professional appraisers sum up their entire body of knowledge in three words: " Buyers make value." Your home is worth as much as a buyer will pay for it.

If your home has been on the market for months, it's a clear message that the property may not be worth what you're asking for it. This is particularly true if there haven't been many prospects coming to see it. What you do at that point depends on whether you really need to sell, and whether you're working with a time limit.

If you're not really motivated to move soon, you can always wait - years if necessary - and hope inflation will catch up with the price you want. The problem is that in that time, your home begins to feel shopworn. Buyers become suspicious of a house that's been for sale for a long time.

If you really do need to sell, with your REALTOR^® discuss a schedule for gradually dropping your price until you find a level that attracts buyers. There's no point in saying, " We simply can't sell our house." Anything will sell if the price is right.

If You're Buying Another Home

You may wonder what will happen when you're selling one home and buying another - how will all the details work out? This is a common situation and REALTORS^®, lawyers, and title and escrow companies have plenty of experience in arranging contracts and loans so that the two transactions dovetail smoothly.

And should you sell your home first then buy or buy first then sell? Ideally, it's best to find a home you like and make an offer subject to selling your current home. This generally works in a normal market. However, in a "hot" market most sellers will not accept a "subject to sale" offer. In this case you need to sell your home first and then buy a new home in the interim period between selling and vacating your house.

If you find that you need to buy the next house before you've received the proceeds from the present one, lending institutions can sometimes make you a short-term " bridge" loan to tide you over between the two transactions. Make sure you fully understand the exposure and emotional investment before proceeding with this type of loan.

Condex For Sale - 49 Bolton, South Hadley, MA, 01075

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:59:18 -0800

49 Bolton, South Hadley, MA, 01075

$199,900

MLS#	70877842
List Date	2/18/2009
Type	Condo-Garden
Style	Condex / Garden
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	1265
Lot Size	2995
Age	5
Parking	2 / Off-Street
Taxes	$2,605.00
Tax Year	2008

Description: This stunning newer condex features hardwood floors, cathedral ceiling in the family room as well as a gas fireplace set into a marble surround (with blower), one car oversized garage, fully fenced yard-private from the neighbor- with patio, fresh paint, tons of closet space and a gorgeous kitchen with ample counter space. The current owner has even updated some fixtures! Pets allowed - ask agent for details. Convenient location.

Interior Features	Air Conditioned: Central, Levels: 1, Heating: Natural gas, Flooring: Hardwood
Exterior Features	Roof: Asph/shingle, Construction: Frame, Water: City, Sewer: City, Other Exterior Features: Vinyl
Additional Features and Amenities	Other: # Units: 2, Acres: 0.06, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Laundromat, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Microwave, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Patio, Exterior: Porch, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Floor: Wood, Heating: Central Heat, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Gas, Hot Water: Natural Gas, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Security System, No. Of Rooms: 6, Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Sewer, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: Condo-Apt

Single Family Cape For Sale - 58 Green St., Chicopee, MA, 01020

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:56:43 -0800

58 Green St., Chicopee, MA, 01020

$125,000

MLS#	70909606
List Date	4/27/2009
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Bungalow
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	1
Square Footage	1250
Lot Size	13503
Age	74
Parking	4 / Off-Street
Taxes	$2,557.00
Tax Year	2009

Description: A little tlc will go a long way for this home that's located in a desired area. Some items already done for you include: newer windows, roof, siding, deck, doors, laminate wood floors, renovated bathroom, pellet stove, above ground pool, shed and oversized one car garage (apo). Interior needs some tlc and would be gorgeous once done! Sale is subject to 3rd party approval and it's priced to get you moving! Easy to show!!!

Interior Features	Levels: 2, Heating: Oil, Flooring: Mixed
Exterior Features	Roof: Asph/shingle, Construction: Frame, Water: City, Sewer: City, Other Exterior Features: Vinyl
Additional Features and Amenities	Other: Acres: 0.31, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Medical Facility, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Interior Access, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Elec: 100 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Prog. Thermostat, Exterior: Above Ground Pool, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Enclosed Porch, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Storage Shed, Floor: Laminate, Floor: Plywood, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Foundation: Concrete Block, Heating: Hot Water Baseboard, Heating: Oil, Insulation: Unknown, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 7, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Sewer, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: 0

SOLD SOLD SOLD Ranch For Sale - 80 Westport Dr, Chicopee, MA, 01020-3816

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:54:39 -0800

80 Westport Dr, Chicopee, MA, 01020-3816

$193,900

MLS#	70956086
List Date	8/3/2009
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Ranch
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 / 0
Square Footage	1412
Lot Size	10019
Age	54
Parking	3 / Off-Street
Taxes	$2,759.00
Tax Year	2009

Description: Come take advantage of the new tax credit of $6500 for current home owners or the extended tax credit of $8000 for first time home buyers- motivated seller!!! Wonderful large ranch on a quiet dead end street with much to offer. Hardwood floors, sunfilled family room with skylight, master bedroom with adjacent sitting room, neutral decor, freshly painted throughout, and more! Solar panels to reduce heating costs. Newer roof, siding and windows(apo). All you need to do is move in. Easy to see!!!

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: Acres: 0.23, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Range, Basement: Full, Basement: Partially Finished, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Window Ac, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Solar Features, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Fenced Yard, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Porch, Exterior: Satellite Dish, Floor: Tile, Floor: Vinyl, Floor: Wood, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Heating: Hot Water Baseboard, Heating: Oil, Heating: Other (See Remarks), Lot Desc: Paved Drive, No. Of Rooms: 6, Road: Dead End, Road: Paved, Road: Public, Road: Publicly Maint., Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: 0

Condo Garden - 200 Lambert Terrace, Chicopee

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:52:07 -0800

2 200 Lambert Terrace, Chicopee, MA, 01020

$144,900

MLS#	70990890
List Date	10/16/2009
Type	Condo-Garden
Style	Condo / Garden
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 / 0
Square Footage	1280
Age	21
Parking	2 / Assigned
Taxes	$1,927.00
Tax Year	2009

REQUEST MORE INFO	SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Large open floor plan (end unit) in quiet clearview heights. Lg fm & dr open into a lg kitchen, mb w/his & her closets & lg master bath w/double vanity sink. Plenty of storage thruout plus storage in the basement. You also have in unit laundry & 2 parking spots reserved at your front door! Gas heat & hot water & c/air/vac complete this wonderful garden end unit . Why rent when you can own. . .

Interior Features

Levels: 1

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: # Units: 86, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Laundromat, Amenities: Medical Facility, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Dryer, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Appliances: Washer, Const: Vinyl, Cooling: Central Air, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Deck, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Gas, Hot Water: Natural Gas, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Central Vacuum, Interior: Intercom, Interior: Security System, No. Of Rooms: 5, Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: 0

SOLD SOLD SOLD 609 665 Center Street, Ludlow, MA, 01056

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:49:31 -0800

609 665 Center Street, Ludlow, MA, 01056

SOLD
$199,900

MLS#	70993086
List Date	10/23/2009
Type	Condo-townhouse
Style	Condo / Townhouse
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 / 1
Square Footage	1635
Age	10
Parking	2
Taxes	$2,925.00
Tax Year	2009

Description: Wonderful newer condo in sought after complex! Gleaming harwood floors greet you at the door. Cozy gas fireplace to warm up those chilly autumn nights. Large dining area and balcony are great for entertaining. Master bedroom boasts two seperate (large) closets as well as ample closet space in the second bedroom. Finished den in the basement is cable ready. One car garage also has it's own water spigot! Low monthly condo fees, beautifully manicured lawns and close to shopping and ma pike!

Interior Features

Air Conditioned: Central, Levels: 2, Heating: Forced air, Flooring: Wood, Wall to Wall, C-Tile

Additional Features and Amenities

Other: # Units: 87, Amenities: Golf Course, Amenities: Laundromat, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public School, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Amenities: Tennis Court, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Den, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Exterior: Balcony, Exterior: Porch, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Tile, Floor: Vinyl, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Floor: Wood, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Gas, Hot Water: Electric, Hot Water: Tank, Interior: Cable Available, No. Of Rooms: 5, Roof: Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Sewer, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: Sf

Single Family Colonial - 350 Chapin Road, Hampden, MA, 01036

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:46:40 -0800

350 Chapin Road, Hampden, MA, 01036

$850,000

MLS#	70999654
List Date	11/9/2009
Type	Single Family
Style	Detached / Colonial
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	5 / 1
Square Footage	6058
Lot Size	132422
Age	9
Parking	2 / Off-Street, Paved Driveway
Taxes	$11,892.00
Tax Year	2009

REQUEST MORE INFO	SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Want a phenomenal value!? Over 6000 sq ft of luxury living in this warm inviting home! Custom colonial includes such features as 2 story great room, interior balcony, windows galore, ample closet space, custom encased sub-zero fridge and freezer, and freshly painted interior. Water feature, enormous deck and gazebo were made for entertaining! Bonus room over garage could make a great game room complete with full bathroom and gorgeous mahogany hardwood floors. All this plus 3 acres!

Interior Features

Air Conditioned: Central, Heating: Forced air, Fireplace: Yes, Flooring: Wood, Wall to Wall, C-Tile

Additional Features and Amenities

Other Features: Deck, Location, Office, Security system, Other: Acres: 3.04, Amenities: Park, Amenities: Public School, Amenities: Tennis Court, Amenities: Walk/Jog Trails, Appliances: Dishwasher, Appliances: Disposal, Appliances: Dryer, Appliances: Microwave, Appliances: Range, Appliances: Refrigerator, Appliances: Wall Oven, Appliances: Washer, Basement: Bulkhead, Basement: Concrete Floor, Basement: Full, Basement: Interior Access, Bed, Const: Stone, Const: Vinyl, Construction: Frame, Cooling: Central Air, Elec: 200 Amps, Elec: Circuit Breakers, Energy: Insulated Doors, Energy: Insulated Windows, Energy: Prog. Thermostat, Exterior: Composite Deck, Exterior: Deck, Exterior: Decor. Lighting, Exterior: Gazebo, Exterior: Gutters, Exterior: Porch, Exterior: Sprinkler System, Fireplaces: 1, Floor: Hardwood, Floor: Tile, Floor: Wall To Wall Carpet, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Grm, Heating: Forced Air, Heating: Oil, Hmo, Insulation: Full, Interior: Cable Available, Interior: Security System

Mixed Use Property For Sale 33-39 Commercial Street, Palmer, MA, 01069

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:44:03 -0800

33-39 Commercial Street, Palmer, MA, 01069

$79,900

MLS#	71006056
List Date	11/30/2009
Type	Mixed Use
Style	2 Family
Area	Three Rivers
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2
Square Footage	3144
Lot Size	11064
Age	110
Parking	6
Taxes	$1,595.00
Tax Year	2009

REQUEST MORE INFO	SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Bank Owned Property. Being Sold As Is/ Where Is. Proof Of Funds And Bank Addendum Required. Possible Short Sale. Large Home W/Many Possibilities. Newer Furnace - Beautiful Woodwork. Easy To Show- Bring Flashlight.

Interior Features	Levels: 3
Additional Features and Amenities	Other: # Units: 2, Acres: 0.25, Foundation: Fieldstone, Lot Desc: Paved Drive, Lot Desc: Shared Drive, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Sewer, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: 9999999999

2 Family For Sale 978-980 Grayson, Springfield, MA, 01119

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:39:33 -0800

978-980 Grayson, Springfield, MA, 01119

$164,900

MLS#	71015798
List Date	1/6/2010
Type	Two Family
Style	Duplex
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	4
Square Footage	2016
Lot Size	11051
Age	41
Parking	10

REQUEST MORE INFO	SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Description: Well Kept Duplex In A Great Location! Each Unit Has A Large Living Room With Dining Area, First Floor Half Bath, 2 Generously Sized Bedrooms (Master Bedroom Has 2 Closets!) And A Large Bath. Unit 2 Has A Partially Finished Basement. Freshly Painted Throughout. Call To See It Today.

Interior Features	Levels: 2
Additional Features and Amenities	Other: # Units: 2, Acres: 0.25, Amenities: Public Transportation, Amenities: Shopping, Basement: Bulkhead, Basement: Full, Basement: Partially Finished, Foundation: Poured Concrete, Goi: $17400, Lot Desc: Shared Drive, Noi: $17400, Sew/Wtr: City/Town Water, Zoning: R1