Justin Hayward's Blog

Marketing Historic Homes

Justin Hayward (Maine Realty, LLC) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:48:03 -0700

I am currently up against a roadblock with one of my listings. This particular home is a beautful former tavern ell in the historic village district of New Gloucester, Maine. The house is in good condition physically and was built in 1797 so it's safe to say it's seen a few owners. The price is much lower than any similar properties on the market but I just can't seem to generate any interest whatsoever. The original list date was back in Novemeber, at a price of $279,900. We had some interest at that point, but nothing that materialized into an offer. I really feel that the market for this home is with out of state buyers, but am not really sure what to do to market to them. I've had zero luck with print advertising and have used many online advertising venues with similar results. I'm actually strongly considering ebay, but for $150 I'm not really sure it's worth it. Does anyone have any experience marketing historic homes inexpensively or have any additional ideas I could try?

Northern Maine Waterfront Camp Rental

Justin Hayward (Maine Realty, LLC) — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:50:20 -0700

This peaceful waterfront cottage is located just steps from the shores of Drew's Lake in Linneus, ME. With accommodations for up to 6 people, you can bring the whole family or have a romantic getaway for two. Fall asleep to the peaceful sound of loons and gently lapping waves as you enjoy the best rest you've ever had! Drew's lake boasts excellent fishing, swimming,boating or kayaking and is just minutes from the New Brunswick (Canadian) border. Weeks are still available in September and the first 2 weeks of October. Weekly rentals are only $250, with a discount given if multiple weeks are desired. For detailed location information, click here: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&hs=Idq&q=115+chickadee++linneus+maine&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl For more info, please contact Justin Hayward of Maine Realty at 207-632-1621 or email me at: hayward_justin@hotmail.com.

First Blog... Why Group Showings?

Justin Hayward (Maine Realty, LLC) — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 20:53:36 -0700

After finally finding for one of my clients what looked to be a decent investment property I was poised to contact the listing agent to schedule a showing. In the "internal remarks" section of the listing it was stated that this property was to be shown only to groups of potential buyers at 2 specified times and dates. While I can certainly understand that there are many reasons for this (it was vacant,though), I still find that these group showings are uncomfortable for some buyers who don't like the pressure that that environment creates. Obviously by only scheduling 2 showings, this broker feels very strongly that this will be a fast moving piece of property. To me, group showings sometimes suggest that the broker is lazy and does not wish to deal with the hassle of having to set up showings to individual clients. Your thoughts?