North Shore and Cape Ann Musings

Pay Attention to FEMA Flood Zone Changes

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:49:33 -0600

Fema is studying and updating it's flood maps. The good news is that the 20-30 year old paper maps will be replaced with digitalized and easier to seach versions. What could be bad news for property owners that the updated maps may change and property owners will find themselves in a new zone with a requirement to have flood insurance. Flood insurance can be very expensive and / or difficult to obtain. In Massachusetts the new maps are being implemented on a county by county process. It behooves the homeowner to find out as early as possible if their status is going to change. Acting before the new map is finalized will allow a homeoner to be grandfathered under National Flood Insurance Program, created in 1968. The Boston Globe published an informative article about the proces - READ it HERE

The New and Improved Home Buyer Tax Credit

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:54:49 -0600

Via Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Exclusive Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel):

The much-anticipated extension to the home buyer tax credit has finally been approved. The Senate's vote yesterday resulted in a 98-0 win and today it was passed in the house. The bill now moves to the President's desk for a final signature.

First-time home buyers have been eligible for tax credits of up to $8,000 since last January as part of this year's economic stimulus package. The newly backed program will expand the credit to include existing home owners.

Under the revised program, those who have owned a home for at least five years will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase their next home.  To qualify, buyers will have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30.

The maximum purchase price on a home will be $800,000 with vacation homes not eligible. Income limitations are $125,000 for single tax payers and $225,000 for joint filers.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) have been lobbying hard for the extension and expansion of the tax credit. NAR claims that so far, about 1.4 million first-time homebuyers have qualified for the program and they estimated that 350,000 of these buyers would not have otherwise purchased.

The tax credit is also set to be extended for another year for military personnel serving outside of the United States until June 30, 2011.

Senator Johnny Isakson, who heavily pushed for the extension, along with his own version that would have increased the credit to $15,000 stated, "This is probably the last extension."

But, is this really true? When April 2011 comes around and the housing market is still not in full recovery mode, will the politicians be able to let this go and actually come to an end, or could it possibly become a more permanent subsidy?

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Special Town Meeting Elects to Protect Special Farm

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:13:19 -0500

Maplecroft Farm in Ipswich

In a special Town Meeting the residents of Ipswich voted by a vast majority to protect the property known as Maplecroft Farm in perpetuity. The nearly 250 acre property is considered the crown jewel of the Ipswich Open Space Committee. Most residents of the area consider the move as a visionary investment in the town's future. Others feel that more active recreational usage should be part of the deal with the Raymond family. Some nay sayers see it as a sort of 'bailout' for the wealthy owner, Ted Raymond. Here is some info on Maplecroft Farm

Great Real Estate News Site

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:18:30 -0500

Powered by Congoo Search. My new service aggregates news articles on the real estate and mortgage industry as well as a 'Fed Watch' feature. The articles are far reaching and sophisticated. I think you will enjoy it. CHeck it out at: http://www.congoo.com/poolerrealestate. It is a great tool and content provider for any agent site

'This Old House' producer comments on our Listing

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:25:57 -0500

Famed renovation consultant, Bruce Irving recently came to visit our listing at 153 Argilla Rd in Ipswich MA. and declared it one of the best preserved, privately owned First Period homes in the country! He shares his appreciation for this special property and has declared it his 'Property of The Month' This house is not for eveyone - but it a treasure that will not stay on the market much longer!

Sharp Single Level Home in Hamilton

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:52:19 -0500

9 Pilgrim Rd

Hamilton, MA 01982

For Sale $399,000

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	1
Style:	Ranch
Square Footage:	1,644
Lot Size:	12750 sq feet

Subtle yet sophisticated this one level home offers an easy lifestyle. Newly renovated kitchen and bath. New windows 2005. Recent interior and exterior paint. Charming fireplaced living room....

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Kristal Pooler ABR CRB CRS GRI RECS
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Office:	978-882-4025
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Salt Water Farm! 20 Acres on the Essex River

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:57:53 -0500

64 Eastern Ave

Essex, MA 01929

For Sale $2,350,000

Blue Sky Farm

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	3

Blue Sky Farm is a North Shore landmark on nearly 20 acres of direct Essex River Frontage. Acres of split rail fenced paddocks. Chapter 91 approved dock. Boaters - open ocean is just moments away!Single level home ....

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Office:	978-882-4025
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Email:	kristal@kristalpooler.com
Website:	www.kristalpooler.com

The information on this listing was gathered from third party sources including the seller and public records. Kristal Pooler & Associates, Inc. disclaims any and all representations or warranties as to the accuracy of this information. All information should be verified by the buyer prior to signing a Contract to Purchase and Purchase and Sale Agreement. This information does not constitute any type of warranty; either expressed or implied, and is subject to errors, omissions and change without notice.

Beverly Centerville Contemporary - $599K

Fri, 29 May 2009 17:57:10 -0500

3 Whitman Place

Beverly, MA 01915

For Sale $599,000

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3 2 full 1 partial
Area:	Centerville
Style:	Contemporary
Square Footage:	2,594
Lot Size:	1.1 acres
Year Built:	1988

Soaring sun filled spaces and sylvan views define this custom contemporary post and beam home hidden in one of Centerville's best neighborhoods. At the end of a long stone wall lined drive, this exciting home is....

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Annisquam Village Gloucester $849,000

Fri, 29 May 2009 17:52:19 -0500

115 Leonard St

Gloucester, MA 01930

For Sale $849,000

Annisquam Village

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2
Style:	Colonial
Square Footage:	2,335
Lot Size:	16,133 sq feet
Year Built:	1800

The aesthetic allure of Annisquam is embodied in this gracious and inviting home. This antique home invariably elicits a universal resonance in all who visit. Linger awhile ....

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Manchester Pied-aTerre! offered for $412,000

Fri, 29 May 2009 17:19:25 -0500

10 Washington St

Manchester, MA 01944

For Sale $412,000

A Village Colonial

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2
Style:	Colonial
Square Footage:	1,480
Lot Size:	2750 sf
Year Built:	1830

This Village pied-a-terre is a true find! A legal 2 family, it has been converted to a single family home. Private "Beacon Hill" type back yard. Flexible floor plan with permitted 3rd floor expansion. Walk to train,schools....

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An Ipswich Cottage Close to Town!

Tue, 12 May 2009 18:31:45 -0500

12 Warren St

Ipswich, MA 01938

For Sale $359,000

Period Details With A Modern Sensibility

Bedrooms:	2 +
Bathrooms:	1
Style:	Cottage
Square Footage:	1,326
Lot Size:	6250 sf
Year Built:	1700

This captivating country cottage is a picket fenced oasis just steps from the North Green and the vibrant downtown. A former 1800's school house....

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Spectacular Hamilton Contemporary

Mon, 04 May 2009 15:48:03 -0500

64 Autumn Lane

Hamilton, MA 01982

For Sale $1,040,000

Sheer Sublime Space

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3 2 Full, 1Partial
Square Footage:	3,517
Lot Size:	6 acres
Year Built:	1992

Inspiration and creativity fuse in this thoughtfully designed home. The open floor plan’s elegant flow wastes ...

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Hamilton MA Equestrian Estate

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:49:37 -0500

5 Don Byrne Way

Hamilton, MA 01982

For Sale $1,599,000

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	4 3 full 1 half
Style:	Colonial
Square Footage:	3,585
Lot Size:	5.3 acres
Year Built:	1792

Prominently located in an enclave of larger estates in the midst of Myopia Hunt Country, this heart warming antique offers period details, great flow and comfortable living. Fireplaces in almost every room and beamed ceilings. Priceless shade trees. Overland views of stunning paddocks, lawn, and garden. 3 Stall barn and access to trails.

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Custom Built Colonial in Hamilton MA

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 06:30:25 -0500

1 Hunter Lane

Hamilton, MA 01982

For Sale $1,399,000

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	4 Full
Style:	Colonial
Square Footage:	6,330
Lot Size:	2.3 acres
Year Built:	1993

This stunning custom built colonial is generously proportioned and infused with European elegance and flair! A gracious country kitchen opens to a large dining area and porch. The double sided fireplace of Corinthian stone and hand carved granite is the dramatic centerpiece that compliments the soaring architecture of the light drenched living room...

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Website:	www.kristalpooler.com

The Dusk Shot

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:29:34 -0500

I want to shoot a house with all the interior lights on , from the outside at dusk. You know the shot. I have a Canon 30D. I am just a beginner. What do I need to do get an effective, dramatic result? Many Thanks!

The Man at The Wheel Statue Still Likely for US Quarter

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:14:16 -0500

"For 83 years, the Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial has towered over the city's main boulevard. Fishermen and their families consider it a holy place, and the bronze statue - which depicts a fisherman holding a boat's wheel out at sea - is a magnet for tourists and locals. Even Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes shed tears when he saw the memorial, and its inscription inspired by the 107th Psalm, "They that go down to the sea in ships": here is the rest from the latest Boston Globe Article

Newburyport - Fabulous In-Town Residence - REDUCED

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:25:20 -0500

65 Middle St

Newburyport, MA 01950

For Sale $799,000

Priced To Sell!

Bedrooms:	3 +
Bathrooms:	4 3 full 1 partial
Style:	Colonial
Square Footage:	3,131
Lot Size:	3910
Year Built:	1769

Renovated/restored in 2002, the William Nichols House, Circa 1760 is steps from downtown Newburyport and the River. A Chef’s kitchen opens to a separate breakfast nook which overlooks professionally designed gardens and a spacious fireplaced family room. A formal dining room and living room add additional areas to entertain or relax in. There are three separate bedroom suites (plus potential for a fourth bedroom) along with a generous home office and airy roof deck. Central AC. Architectural detailing.7 Fireplaces. This home offers a special charm based on classical elements, well proportioned rooms with great flow, and wonderful light.

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Kristal Pooler ABR CRB CRS GRI RECS
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Office:	978-882-4025
Fax:	978-882-4025
Email:	kristal@kristalpooler.com
Website:	www.kristalpooler.com

The information on this listing was gathered from third party sources including the seller and public records. Kristal Pooler & Associates, Inc. disclaims any and all representations or warrantees as to the accuracy of this information. All information should be verified by the buyer prior to signing a Contract to Purchase and Purchase and Sale Agreement. This information does not constitute any type of warranty; either expressed or implied, and is subject to errors, omissions and change without notice.

Facebook : An Overnight Senasation?

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:45:59 -0500

Very much like life itself, I thing that Facebook will soon dismiss the lame, opportunistic real estate agents that game the system in an attempt to 'be on top'. Be real , be present, think clearly - It is all you can do! Otherwise prepare to get a gold star star in Internet 101 and never make one commisioned sale. Do not spend your time being a 'star blogger' - get real , get smart. get busy/ Go belly to belly with your prospects. Stop trying to be a 'cyberstar weenie" MAKE YOUR CLIENTS THE STAR!

To The Shores of Tripoli

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:00:54 -0500

I think the Somailan Pirate attack on a US Merchant Ship in the Indian Ocean presents a watershed moment for the Obama administration. Here's is a chance for the US to respond with devasting force to rid the world of a widely recognized problem. Gloucester residents sympatico with problems at sea are particularly focused on this distant drama. President Obama - please act swiftly and forcibly to destroy the Somailian Pirates. The World will applaud you! The very core of our national identity is tied up with Thomas Jefferson's decision to not pay tribute to the Northern African pirates See: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,994562,00.html This is a perfect opportunity to be strong with minimal negativety.

Ipswich MA Horse Property - REDUCED!

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:55:41 -0500

15 lakemans Ln

Ipswich, MA 01938

For Sale $999,900

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Square Footage:	3,000
Lot Size:	2.7 acres
Year Built:	1988

A Fabulous Country Home for you and your horse(s)!This turn key equestrian complex is in great condition. Enjoy a 7 stall barn, sand riding ring and paddocks. Great access to trails. Heated pool. Set back from the quiet lane, is a charming 4+ bedroom expanded cape with a nicely appointed legal apartment. Lovely gardens and overland views. Just moments to The Appleton Farm reservation. An enviable and affordable lifestyle!

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Office:	978-882-4025
Fax:	978-882-4025
Email:	kristal@kristalpooler.com
Website:	www.kristalpooler.com

The Perfect Home For 'Man and Beast'

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:51:59 -0500

Attention Equestrians - I have just listed a home in Ipswich MA that allows the owner direct access from the expanded Cape to the 7 stall barn. What a luxury! - particularly on those stormy winter mornings! Close to trails this property is a must-see for the horse lover that is tired of paying exorbitant boarding fees on the North Shore. Check it out here

A Look Under The Bridge

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:18:42 -0500

After many months of traffic, I was curious to see what was going on beneath the surface of the A. Piatt Andrew Bridge project. A drive to the end of Wolf Hill Rd revealed this industrial view, evocative of the time America Built! I doubt that this wa a result of the 'stimulus package' - It was in the pipeline for a long time

Do You Remember Lennie's On The Turnpike?

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 09:12:58 -0500

The North Shore had a premier night club / music venue in the 50's , 60's and early 70's. Lennie's On The Turnpike( Rt 1 ) attracted a diverse array of the very best music performers of the time, even outdoing the Boston Clubs. The musicians simply loved Lennie and wanted to perform there. It was a bit before my time, but my husband, Ron, recalls seeing among others, Nina Simone, Keith Jarrett, Ahmed Jamal, BB King and Miles Davis at the club. Jay Leno got his start at Lennies as a warm up act. There is a good story about his early days at lennies in the Boston Globe: Read it Here

North East United States Will Experience Greater Sea Level Rise

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 06:14:37 -0500

As a cautionary note to current and future waterfront property owners here on Cape Ann; the latest scientific studies on climate change are predicting that the ocean will rise more dramatically and quickly in the North East US than pretty much anywhere in the world! The reasons are multifold and interconnected. The accelerated melting of the Antarctic and Greenland Ice Cap will slow the great ocean conveyer that we call the Gulf Stream (Yikes! did you see the movie "The Day After" ?). Another disconcerting aspect is this appears to be happening faster than anyone previously predicted. Here is an article from National Geographic: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/03/090315-new-york-sea-level.html

Feeling A Bit Trapped In Gloucester and Rockport?

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 13:33:46 -0500

As everyone in the above captive municipalities know, the A. Piatt Andrews Bridge is undergoing an extensive and lengthy maintenance that is anticipated to continue for several years. The Piatt and the Blynman Cut Bridge are the only ways into and out of the island of Cape Ann proper. The Blynman has long been a notorious traffic nightmare, particularly in the Summer when the bridge opens frequently for the heavy boat traffic. Now the A. Piatt Andrews Bridge is also a traffic pinch point. The Blynman needs frequent maintenance and repair and a complete failure of the drawbridge is not hard to imagine. Evacuating Cape Ann (imagine a radiation release scenario from Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant) would be difficult at the best of times, the current situation could prove dire. An interesting social cooperation event is occurring every morning. Drivers are reluctant to use completely empty travel lanes leading to the merge point. No one wants to look like a selfish yahoo to the people lined in dutiful single file in the left lane. This is causing massive backups on the feeder roads at the rotary. I think a sign is needed: PLEASE USE BOTH LANES. It would help and also allay a lot of guilt. Here is more on the bridge project.