Top This - Needham Blog

Not due to cooking for Thanksgiving

2009-11-24T14:14:03Z

Not due to cooking for Thanksgiving

No recent blogs because I fell and broke my elbow and other bones in my right arm. My hand is ok but it is not easy to type. So I am using my left hand. This happened last Wednesday. I am grateful that my hand was not affected. i cannot drive for 2 to 3 months. That is toughest part as a realtor but I will fill the time I am sure. I am trying to be positive and so far so good. I did not know how bad pain good really be. I have been blessed because this is the worst thing that happened to me. I am thanking God for that.

Needham, MA real estate market continues to be strong.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (617) 435-3471

Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green

Pat.Baker@NEMoves.com

http://budurl.com/patbakerRE

Needham, MA Bargains Needham Carpet Work Room

2009-11-17T19:50:25Z

Needham, MA Bargains Needham Carpet Work Room

One of my clients just told me that she caught the Channel 5 Chronicle program on bargains last night.

In the third segment they had a piece of a local business in Needham, MA called the Needham

Carpet Work Room. He finishes off carpets that he gets from retailers who do not have the

equipment to finish the area rug. They look great.

His service includes :
Seam work
Reinstallation
Carpet Binding
Reweaving
Pad Replacement

These days it is terrific to find a bargain. These are area rugs at an affordable price. It is located

At 30 Charles Court (*not Charles Court East). Take Highland Avenue Needham East to Charles

I think it is actually Charles Street but I have listed the phone number below just in case.

Phone # 781) 453-9395

It sounds like a super spot to check and in Needham, MA too. My client and I are planning to go together

and then go for lunch.

Here is a link to the third segment on Chronicle from November 16^th.

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/video/21638076/

I can't keep a good thing to myself.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (617) 435-3471

Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green

Pat.Baker@NEMoves.com

http://budurl.com/patbakerRE

Boston Globe Update on Buyer Tax Credit Extension

2009-11-03T09:51:54Z

Boston Globe Update on Buyer Tax Credit Extension

http://www.boston.com/realestate/news/blogs/renow/2009/11/high_end_likely.html

Income limits may be increased. We are at the eleventh hour and they are still posturing and it the deadline is looming close.

The wealthy towns of Wellesley, Lincoln and Weston where there are many luxury homes have seen a considerable drop. The Weston price drop is 12% and sales drop doubling that number at 22.6%.

Highend real estate has been out of luck with a tax break. it should be across the board and it should have been for all as far as I am concerned.

The tax credit created so much activity but left the luxury market out. I was showing a listing of mine at $425,000 and the people coming to Open Houses could not qualify because the combined income was too high. This just doesn't seem at all fair to me.

I hope they consider all while extending the credit. Fair is fair.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (617) 435-3471

Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green

Pat.Baker@NEMoves.com

http://budurl.com/patbakerRE

Needham, MA Is A Super Town to Live In

2009-10-29T22:02:25Z

Needham, MA Is A super Town to Live in for many reasons, one of which is we have realistic taxes. Needham, MA has a great YMCA, an incredible Library, our own Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Needham Campus with ICU and Emergency Room. The Beth Israel has a new look.

What else does Needham, MA have? Well Needham, MA has close proximity to Route 128/95, which a major highway with direct accessibility to the Mass Pike, to Logan Airport, to 495, and 93. For the commuter there are 4 train stops in Needham and the MBTA bus that connects to Riverside MBTA. Needham is 10.5 miles from Back Bay, Boston, MA.

Needham, MA has a reputation for fine schools. We attract the best and brightest and I believe it is just a nice place to live. Our Town Meeting form of government works so well. Needham's Park and Recreation programs are year round and offer terrific programs.

Some actual quotes from Needham residents:

"I feel proud that Needham is one of the towns with a Hospice House."

"It is just the people's attitude to work hard - enjoy leisure time and take part in the many varied activities Needham has to offer."

"Sledding on the High School hill."

"Summer outdoor concerts."

"Annual Spelling Bee for adults."

"The country's newest college town "Olin College of Engineering"

"The service clubs do so much i.e. Rotary, Lions, Exchange, and Women's Club

"The incredible July 4 Celebration put on by the Exchange Club."

"Our superb local theatre group."

"Our Community Council does so much for people. i.e., The Food Pantry."

I have been here since 1965 and have enjoyed and been able to partake of what this town offers. We have raised our son here and now we take our grandkids to the events we have done over the years.

We look forward to celebrating our 300th year in 2011. Stay tuned for announcements for Needham 300.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492

Phone: (617) 435-3471

Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green

Pat.Baker@NEMoves.com

http://budurl.com/patbakerRE

This Seller Could Write A Book

2009-10-26T21:04:55Z

THIS SELLER COULD WRITE A BOOK

This seller could write a book because after waiting 17 months to sell their lovely home in Massachusetts which will close this week. They have had several offers and they have reduced their price as well. The good news was that she sold it on the her birthday. They will close on the property they have found one week later but it became a little nerve racking when the mortgage company starting make requests.

Truly this house was in perfect condition. The buyers are fortunate to be getting it. Request that seemed out of the ordinary came from the mortgage company so near the closing date. First the mortgage company wanted another pest inspection before they would give the buyer a commitment letter. They had already had all their inspections but the mortgage company wanted another pest inspection. So of course, they complied with that it was done right away. One more thing this is a second home for the buyers.

Sure enough they found some termites in a small area under deck. The next thing the mortgage company wanted was a builder to come and inspect to see if the termites had caused structural damage. Oh come on! There was only a little section on the deck where they were found.

Are these mortgage companies getting carried away? The seller is closing the end of the week, Thank God. They are moving to their permanent home.

I have so much compassion for sellers because it truly is not easy selling your home these days. I just put myself in their place. You think you are all set and the buyer puts an offer in and get cold feet. They walk away. Meanwhile someone wants to move to your new location. The seller had been transferred two years ago and the commute is nearly 2 hours so he is away from home most of the week. Everything is going along fine and then something comes up at the last minute. The sellers are taking all this well and looking forward to their move to their new home and they have been wonderful buyers. It has been a pleasure to work with them.

Contact Information:

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA-
Phone: (617 435-3471
Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green
Search Massachusetts Properties

Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed

Equal Opportunity Housing

2009 Design Trends

2009-10-26T18:19:54Z

I like what Sandi has done here. These are great suggestions. I like the alternative names for orange too. The beiges always work and it feels so good when you are in a room with these beiges.

In my other career long ago I loved do people's colors as far as makeup and clothing. It was so much fun but not in vogue now. When the person wore the wrong makeup or clothing they felt weak. I believe that these colors would appeal to everyone.

The colors inside a home make such a difference. Thank you Sandi for sharing this information.

Via Sandi Gerrard, CRSS (Feel at Home * redesign * staging * training):

Tinted Neutrals and Blackened Colors

It is the depth of the neutral that gives it life and longevity. Some good examples of current "beiges" from the Benjamin Moore series are:

Willow (CC-542)

Hillsborough (CC-330)

Stampede (CC-540)

Chocolate Fondue (CC-482)

And in the "grey" range we have:

Metropolis (CC-546)

Asphalt (CC-548)

This year it's all about Shine * Shimmer * Metallic finishes. The metallic finishes are warm gold tones. And wallpaper is back. If you are unsure or unconvinced, try it in a small room or under utilized area such as a powder room or dining room. Plaid is also making a comeback but the color combinations are much different.

Yellow and Purple are the #1 colors this year. For the best results when choosing purple, use:

Camelot (CC-4)

Muskoka Dusk (CC-6)

Orange is still HOT but we don't like to refer to it as such, instead using shades of Adobe Dust, Smoked Salmon and Tofino Sunset.

Matte paint finish on the the walls combined with a high gloss trim (Simply White OC 117) looks stunning.

"Field of Dreams" Realized in Needham, MA

2009-10-25T10:24:01Z

"Field of Dreams Realized in Needham, MA

The "Field of Dreams" has now been dedicated as of Saturday October 24, 2009 at DeFazio Park and this completes the dream. The individuals and companies have been recognized for the contributions to this effort to renovate the DeFazio and Memorial fields which is a wonderful thing.

Nearly every day I am taking advantage of the track by walking at Memorial Park. It is really great to have even for walking. The ball field is terrific too.

Article from Hometown Weekly regarding the dedication of the Fields of Dreams at DeFazio Park and Memorial Park - October 22, 2009. There is a link to the article below.

Defazio Park now has two multipurpose turf fields, two natural turf fields, one of which is engulfed by a new track, and two 90-foot baseball diamonds. The two natural turf fields, as well as one of the baseball fields, have been completed, but will not be used until the spring of 2010.

This project will make a big difference for the youth sports clubs. My son lives in Holliston and I attend a lot of the sports games there and they have a similar field and it is really great.

http://www.hometownweekly.net/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=88&twindow=Default&mad=No&sdetail=3484&wpage=1&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=1744&hn=hometownweekly&he=.net

http://www.needhamma.gov/index.aspx?nid=702

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492
Phone: (617) 435-3471
Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green
Pat.Baker@NEMoves.com

Condo Home for Sale Rosemary Ridge Needham Heights, Needham, MA 02494

2009-10-24T12:07:37Z

Condo Home for Sale Rosemary Ridge Needham Heights, Needham, MA 02494

Asking $325,000.

This Rosemary Ridge condo for sale in Needham, MA features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a balcony. Located in the front on the 2nd floor, it also features an elevator. Full compliment of amenities include an on-site concierge, swimming pool, hot tub, club/function room, library, and more.

This condo would be great for a couple starting out, and couple downsizing, mom and daughter or son, or anyone on their own who likes to have a guest room. It could also be great for someone who wants a home for the summer and who wants spend winters in Florida.

Condo Home for Sale Rosemary Ridge
Needham Heights, Needham, MA

See more photos and get additional information about this condo for sale in Rosemary Ridge Needham Heights, Needham, MA 02494

Area Schools:

Hillside Elementary School
Pollard Middle School
Needham High School

Community Information:

As you leave the parking lot, you can see the town Rosemary Pool. Just above that and up the hill, you'll find the Needham Public Library, Needham High School and Sudbury Farms Grocery Store. Dunkin' Donuts is just beyond that. If you turn left at that corner and walk about a 1/2 mile, you'll find banks, restaurants, Trader Joes, Starbucks and a little common park.

Needham shines when it comes to transportation with the commuter rail and the MBTA bus. There are 4 Needham exits off Route 128/95, and 10 minutes to the Mass Turnpike, quick trip to Logan Airport without traffic about 25 minutes.

Community Attractions:

Needham has also become a mecca for restaurants and just about everything type of culinary delight is represented here. I can name a few: Fuji Steak House, Petit Maison Robert, Fresca, Pomodora, Sweet Basil, Rice Barn(Asian and Thai), Masala Art (Indian), Acapulcos, Panera Bread, Not Your Average Joe's, Blue on Highland, Tu Y Yo Mexican, Sweet Tomatoes, and it goes on and from there.

Contact Information:

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA- Phone: (617 435-3471
Agent: Pat Baker, Realtor, ABR, Green
Available for showing by appointment only
Schedule a showing

Find out if you can afford this home.

Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed

Equal Opportunity Housing

Needham "300"

2009-10-14T08:57:49Z

The town of Needham will celebrate it 300th year in the 2011. I am serving on one of the committees that are planning activities and it is going to be a really fun year. The kick of will be at the end of 2010 and that is not so far away. We are all getting really excited about this momentous occasion. We have looked back at when was done in the 250th year celebration and that is fun to see too. I didn't come to town until after that celebration but from what I am told it was really great.

We have come so very far and have so much to celebrate. It would be wonderful if former residents will return for some of the fun things that will be happening. I won't leak a thing right now so you will just have to keep checking in as time approaches but I know it will be great fun for all ages.

If you once lived in Needham I would love to hear back from you of some of the things that you remember and enjoyed. We have a very rich heritage and some very famous people who came from Needham as well.

I personally live in an historical house built in 1870 and before that the land was owned by the Kingsbury family. I am a history buff and so doing the research on our house was fun.

Needham is a vibrant community now and basically always has been. We have much to celebrate and be proud of especially our school system.

We have the finest police department and fire department and we are very lucky to have each and every man and woman who serve us.

All who are involved in our town government are dilligent about the tasks of running this great town and we appreciate everyone as well.

It is the best place to live we think and close to major highways and 20 minutes to Boston and not much more to Logan Airport. It only takes a hour to get to the Sagamore Bridge and Cape Cod. We can be in New Hampshire in less than and hour. We are surrounded by wonderful culture and education and have much to be greatful for.

As time approaches and this great town is celebrated I will keep postng what is planned.

Pat Baker, Realtor Metro/West Boston/Needham, MA 617-435-3471 http://budurl.com/patbakerRE

Tree Service Extraordinaire MetroWest

2009-09-03T18:33:49Z

Back in June of 2009 I called for an estimate to trim or remove a very old and large tree on my property. A friend recommended this company to me. I kept the estimates and didn't know when I would be ready to have the tree work done.

Well 2 weeks later on a Sunday in the middle of the night the tree was hit and it was apparent we had to do something about this tree. In the winter we had limbs come down in snow storms that were like small trees. It was time. I called Royer Tree Service and they responded right away. I also called another tree company that will remain anonymous. The estimate from the the second tree company was more than twice the Royer Tree Service.

They were so very nice to us and to our neighbor. They had to use her driveway and they were very careful of her sprinkler system. They did an outstanding job and I highly recommend them without reservation.

I have put a link below to their website:

http://www.royertreeservice.com/

Pat Baker, Realtor, Green, ABR, CNS, CHMC Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage pat.baker@nemoves.com http://budurl.com/pbaker personal profile http://budurl.com/MyFeaturedListings
Cell: 617-435-3471 VM/FAX: 781-446-8697

Hiring A Buyer Agent SHOULD Be A "KNOW" Brainer

2009-08-29T15:43:14Z

It is so true these days with all that a buyer needs to be aware of and their buyer representative can keep them informed and on track with the process of purchasing a home from start to finish. As realtors and Accredited Buyers Representatives we are abreast of all that is involved in that home buying process and any new regulation. In our area there is a change coming as far as smoke detectors. There are so many things to consider and the buyer representation is vital for the buyer today.

Pat Baker, Realtor, Green, ABR, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham/BostonMetroWest area, MA 617-435-3471 http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

Via Gary Woltal - REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty):

Me, being one who has this natural penchant to see the world "backwards" from everyone else when it comes to the buyers of property out in the market place, I say

Hiring A Buyer Agent SHOULD Be A "KNOW" Brainer.

Many what I will call novice or at least uninformed buyers want to use multiple REALTORS, call off yard signs, walk into new construction homes and talk to the salesperson by themselves, search craigslist for that next home, drive all over on the weekends with no plan, get loan financing off the Internet, on and on.

BUT in my backwards way of looking at the world if you read many of the posts of Members here who ARE Realtors and Lenders, real estate is getting MORE complicated year by year. More paperwork, needing more resources, more of the right connections to get things done. More training, more learning about the regulation, "knowing" when that $8,000 buyer tax credit expires and who qualifies. With more complexity it is a "know" brainer to sign up with an exclusive buyer rep agreement where you have a "dedicated" professional working for you. Technically at no cost too, although the buyer agent commission is in the closing cost.

Be in the "know", and get a buyers agent!!!

It should be a KNOW Brainer.....

Needham, MA Rail to Trail Project

2009-08-05T21:22:11Z

I found this interesting and perhaps you will too. There may be a rail to trail conversation connecting Medfield to Needham by way of unused train tracks that go through the Needham town forest, Charles River Red Wing Bay through many miles of woods in Dover. This trail is away from residential areas but along conservation land.

This project is called The Bay Colony Rail Trail Project the website to follow: http://baycolonyrailtrail.org/

Also check out http://www.wickedlocal.com/medfield/news/x757554034/Group-working-to-convert-Bay-Colony-rail-line-into-trail

This is a Newton-Needham-Dover-Medfield Project which I think is a really great way to utilize this rail that is no longer in use along a beautiful nature walk, bike, or hike. I love the idea.

The property is adjacent to the proposed Bay Colony Rail Trail Red Wing Bay DCR boat launch facility on the Charles River, off Fisher St. in Needham.

This picture is the Central Avenue, Needham bridge.

Pat Baker, Realtor, Green, ABR, CNS, CHMS - Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham, MA and surrounding communities, luxury homes. www.patannbaker.com 617-435-3471

Needham Market Report July 2009

2009-07-22T12:53:24Z

It is nearly the end of July 2009 in Needham and we are enjoying some summer days at long last. The total Needham homes on market as of today is 104 which includes 6 that have accepted offers but will take back up offers.

The list prices range from $199,000 to $2,999,999 with the average list price being $1,085,435. The concentration of the listings being in the $500,000 and $1,999,999.

In the last 30 days there were 24 single family homes that had accepted offers while 44 were sold with the average being $772,824 with the average days on market of 78. For the same time period in 2008 there were 45 sold for an average of 57 days on the market and the average selling price of $762,044.

Between 1,030,000 and $1,300,000 there were 8 properties sold in the past 30 days while there were 12 between $510,000 and $599,450.

For me it has been for me and I expect next month to be the same way or more busy. Needham is a luxury market.

Pat Baker, Realtor, Green, ABR, CNS, CHMC Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 1 Chapel Street, Needham, MA 02492 pat.baker@nemoves.com http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips Cell: 617-435-3471 VM/FAX: 781-446-8697 Ask me about our HomeBase^sm online transaction management system! Ask me about luxury apartments too on the Newton/Needham, MA line

Needham Home Building Business Goes Green

2009-07-04T07:34:47Z

Heritage Modular, Central Avenue, Needham, MA has been awarded the Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce's Green Business of the Year for its efforts "to incorporate environmentally sustainable business practices into their daily operations.

http://www.heritagemodular.com/Areas_Served.htm

http://www.heritagemodular.com/Why_Modular.htm

The homes are prefabricated, ready -made parts custom built in Pennislyvania, through Excel Homes, to construct homes. These home are 70% built. Heritage brought what they have learned to Excel Homes and the applicaitons to help promote more energy-efficient homes.

In these days of economizing it only makes sense to be energy efficient. Over the years methods of being energy efficient have become perfected and effective to the consumer.

Heritage Modular gives their customers the option of having their home Energy Star-certified. So far they have put up buildings in Westwood, Wellesley, Natick and Lexington. The agerage Energy Star homeaverages a 30% savnigs in energy costs, or about $400 a year.

To quote Jason Lee of Westwood whose home was built by Heritage Modular he said "We were building, so we thought we might as well do it right the first time." "We didn't build a home to get an Energy Star rating. We built it more to save money in the long run."

Heritage Modular is also looking to put up LEED=certified homes. LEED is a private organization that goes even further than Energy Star certification.

Although they have not had orders in Needham to build an energy-efficient modular home they have built in nearby communities. I can this trend definitely coming to Needham.

see the complete article in the Needham Times page 1 and 19 July 2, 2009 Steven Ryan can be reached at sryan@cnc.com

http://www.wickedlocal.com/needham/news/business/x931214993/Needhams-Heritage-Modular-goes-green-with-modular-homes

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham/Boston, MA 617-435-3471

pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

Happy Fourth of July to Y'all

2009-07-02T14:21:27Z

This holiday brings the happiest of memories for me. I hope that this one is very special for all of you. I love this holiday and the reason for it. It is just fun and celebration. There is no shopping to do and the cooking is light and easy.

So from coast to coast in ActiveRain I wish you all the best Fourth of July ever. If it rainnig where you are I hope it stops before all the fun begins.

Our town is actively getting ready for a blast of fun for 2 days. We are extending our celebration to Sunday and having a cookout so we can go and visit here and there with friends and family.

It is a great time to celebrate all we have that is so dear and precious and most definitely our freedom. Let Freedom Ring and Go 4th and Celebrate. Fireworks in Needham on the 3rd. We can't hardly wait and we will be on the high school hill before everyone else most likely

It makes me think of that song "Celebrate Good Time, Come On."

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham/Boston, MA 617-435-3471

pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

Needham GO 4th and Celebrate Love it!

2009-07-02T14:12:35Z

there is no better place to celebrate the 4th of July than Needham. Now the weather must cooperate because we have paid our dues for the last 2 weeks of mostly rain. We are due for terrific weather on the 3rd for Fireworks and the 4th starting with the parade at 9:05 AM

I will always love the 4th here. Why go anywhere. It is a STAY-VACATION in Needham for the rockin' est celebration ever!

Here is the parade route and the activities below. When you see a person with an Exchange Club T-
Shirt on, please thank them for all their hard work and then give a donation to help defray the cost to put on this monumental celebration! The Enchange Club works tirelessly every 4th of July to make memorable for all us and they certainly do.

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham/Boston, MA 617-435-3471

pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

The Key To Our Recovery

2009-06-24T13:18:03Z

I love real state even when the market is not busy I still love it! I love marketing homes of all kinds. I love the previews broker caravan day. I enjoy the people who are attracted to this profession. I believe we are the glue to holding the economy together and we need more glue right now. The economy will recover and our industry will be the catalyst.

i got my real estate broker's license in the summr of 1979 and worked hard for 3 years then I had a long sabatical. I left when interest rates were 18.5% and it was super hard to get a mortgage. Money was tight then. We were no computers, no internet, no cellphones, no pagers, no VCR's, no fax, no GPS, no DVD's, no Iphone, no ipod, and no lock box key. I typed or wrote by hand a listing and kept in a 3 ring notebook. I sold lots of houses and then the interest rate when so high and my sales got reduced. It is hard believe that none of those things were around and yet we all lived pretty nicely. I love those technologies and I am always looking for the latest new techology. The world of technology facinates me.

I was really young then and by the way i am biologically still YOUNG. Some days I feel younger than I did then. I remember being tired back then. Then someone introduced me to some unbelievable stuff and I was like a whirlwin and no it was not drugs.

Aside from all that I hear one day we have bottomed out, then I hear we have not reached bottom then I hear from Warren Buffet that there is no sign of recovery. For one thing, I hope he is really wrong. I believe that our real estate industry will help bolster up our economy if only they would do a few things for everyone, like give all home buyers a tax credit of $15,000 whether they are first time buyers or not. Afterall we are the ones that are taking the hit for all these bailouts. That would stimulate the economy so much in so many sectors.

I just feel like the real estate industry is key to our recovery and the sooner we fix the housing industry the better. Our first priority is to fix our economy and everything else will be taken care of.

Pat Baker, Realtor, Green, ABR - Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham, MA 617-435-3471 www.patannbaker.com

PASSION FOR PIGEONS

2009-06-23T21:06:27Z

According to a state representative in Massachusetts pigeons are going to be very much needed soon because Massachusetts is striving to be the capital for Hollywood East. Soon we will have new studio in Plymouth and he feels that pigeons need to be protected. It seems that someone in the town of Westport is doing genetic testing on pigeons and I personally never knew this was going on. This foolishness is a good distraction from all the nutty other things that are going in and out of our country. We could have need of Pigeon Czar in Massachusetts. "God Save The Commonwealth"

Now I have no problem with pigeons but come on. I think there are plenty of pigeons and more than enough for the movies that will be made at Hollywood East. It is good for a laugh though.

So this representative feels he must take care of his constituents who have made investments in pigeons. There will be more and more demand for pigeons to be used in movies and not pigeons who are not from the Massachusetts area. He feels he needs to help his constituents and the pigeons are included.

Pat Baker, Realtor Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham, MA 617-435-3471 www.patannbaker.com

Needham Local Interview- Lawmakers want to sweetin' the deal....

2009-06-23T13:55:20Z

Here is a nice piece and Bill Dermody, President of the Massachusetts Association of Realtors and Manager of Needham's Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is being interviewed regarding the first time buyer tax credit and how we need to Sweetin' the deal for first time home buyers.

We need more than that and the lawmakers are working on just that. Real Estate is always local and this is a local interview along with homes in Needham that are on the market.

Need to expand and get more for all home buyers up to $15,000.

See IRS 5405.

Pat Baker, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage of Needham, MA

www.patannbaker.com 617-435-3471

Needham Close to Boston Ballet School

2009-06-16T09:58:32Z

This is truly wonderful for our children to be living in Needham and so close to the Boston Ballet School in Newtonville. My granddaughter is in her 3 rd year there and it is a treat. So close to Needham and right next to it is a wonderful shop called "Brussel Sprouts" and just next to that is a store where you can outfit a ballerina and it is all right there in one little block.

It is all just wonderful. We went to peek week yesterday and that was a treat. The children are amazing and some will be picked for the "Nutcraker."

A little aside here. If you have not seen "Game Plan" it is a treat too. One of the chidlren is throughout the movie because she is part of this wonderful organization and very talented. It is about a football player and his little girl who is supposed to be going to ballet school. See it if you have not. We have watched so many times especially knowing that she is in it.

The child can start at 2. This is a great opportunity for our childrenand in my case grandchildren.

http://bostonballet.org/school/default.html

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Needham/Boston, MA 617-435-3471

pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

4th of July Needham Style - FIREWORKS ARE BACK!

2009-06-10T16:29:04Z

GO 4TH AND CELEBRATE - THEME FOR THE 4TH OF JULY THIS YEAR

Friday July 3rd events include Fireworks when dark....

5:00- 8:45PM FOOD TENTS - Grilled Food, Soft drinks, Ice Cream, cotton candy, and more

5:00 - 7:00PM Maple Street Project - Hometown Folk & Blues Band

5:00 - 8:00PM Children's Entertainment - Balloon Sculpting, Pony Rides, Face Painting & More...

7:00- 9:00PM Concert: "Reminisants' Boston's Best Oldies Band"

DARK................. FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR

SATURDAY--JULY 4TH

8:30AM Registration-Children's parade decorated bikes and costumes - Greene's Field, Pickering St.

8:45AM Annual 5k Road race - YMCA / Exchange Club Trophy Start location Carter Memorial Church

9:00AM Town Common Salute and Flag Raising

9:05AM Grand Parade - Bands, floats, musical groups, antique cars, and much more

9:00-3:00PM Craft Fair and Flea Market

10-1:30 PM Food Tents - Grilled Food, Soft Drinks, Ice Cream, Cotton Candy and more

11:30-1 PM Music by The Centre Streeters - Country & Blue Grass Gazebo

12:30PM Children's races and contests, running events, sack races, egg toss -- Football field

2:00PM Open Swim Meet - Park & Rec Rosemary Pool

2:00PM Needham Little League All-Star Game Major's American vs Majors National at Memorial Park

All events are at Memorial Park except as noted.

Needham 4th of July - The Best Anywhere ever

2009-06-09T11:11:32Z

I just love the 4th of July. I love the cookout, the family, and no shopping. It is just great to kick off the summer this way for us in this great town of Needham. Best of all is the Needham Celebration that starts on Friday July 3rd with the best fireworks you could possibly ever see and enjoy on top of the the Needham High School hill. There are none to compare and since we didn't have them last year I am expecting them to be the best.

Thanks to The Exchange Club of Needham members who work tirelessly to make this two-day event happen every year. I am so grateful.

My first day to visit Needham was the 4th of July 1965. that was a day to remember and everyone since has been as well. Somehow the weather always cooperates too. Only 1 year when I was on a float did it rain and it was cold too.

There is so much to do and so much to see, great food, amazing parade, a town wide fun Needham event. I have only missed 2 in the last 44 years.

Here is a link for The Exchange Club with some photos.

http://www.needhamexchangeclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=188&club_id=647136&module_id=8566&pp=1

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 617-435-3471 pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips

Our Town Needham

2009-05-21T18:41:32Z

Welcome to my Needham, MA local blog.

For some of the time I will be sharing with you "green" issues. Other blogs will focus on town events and what makes Needham the unique community it is. It is a little like "Mayberry" in some ways. The tree-lined street beckon you as you walk or travel through town.

The lovely streets of Needham include but not exclusive are: Fair Oaks Park (by far the best street in Needham), Coulton Park, Harris Avenue, Great Plain Avenue, Woodlawn Street, May Street, Burr Drive, Coolidge Avenue, Eaton Road, Prince Street, Plymouth Road, Manning Street, Tower Avenue, Parker Road, Broadmeadow Road, Bird Street, Grosvenor, Hillcrest Road, Birds Hill Avenue, Thornton Road, Melrose Avenue, Brookline Avenue, Lindbergh Avenue, Lexington Street, Concord Road, Burnside Road, Webster Street, Green Street, Needhamdale Road, Parkvale Road, Smith Road, Bonwood Road, Mt. Vernon, Beaufort, Washington Avenue, and I could go on and on. I have not kept to one particular part of town but there are just so many great neighborhoods. That is one of the reasons people keep purchasing homes in this lovely community.

You know that saying "Life is Good" well it is in Needham. We are a community that comes together and a community that really cares about our residents. The town has so much to offer for all ages. I personally feel it is a great town to bring up a family, to retire to, or live in whatever stage in life you are. Lots of folks love the Pool & Racquet Club on Central Avenue, the Park & Recreation Department is superb. Needham YMCA has lot to offer at an affordable price.

Our civic organizations are pretty hard to beat. I mention specifically The Exchange Club because they put on the best Fourth of July Celebration anywhere in the whole United States for sure. The Rotary Club of Needham does some big outreaches in the community, for example, the Pancake Breakfast in October which is there largest fundraiser. This makes it possible to give 4 $8000 scholarships to worthy High School graduates in Needham.

Having lived in Needham, MA now since 1965 I know every street and everything about this great town. I am a resource and I am also a "green" resource.

I have included a link to a helpful booklet "A Family Guide to Going Green"

http://www.greenandsave.com/pdfs/Family_Guide_to_Going_Green_2009.php

Needham Market Report

2009-05-20T22:06:55Z

There are 61 single family homes on the market $1,000,000 and up to $3.499,000. The average List price is $1,500,331 for that portion of the Needham luxury market.

Essentially almost half the inventory is over a million dollars. The total properties on the market is 135 single family homes. Median price range for all inventory is $899,000 and average price is $1,037,828.

The strongest part of the market is from $500,000 to $899,000 as far as properties under agreement for the past month.

For the first quarter of 2009 home sold at 94% of asking price. The price change was 17.9% for Needham proper (02492) and slight change in Needham Heights(02494) of .64% and homes sold at 95.3% of asking price. the percentage of home sales 60% for (02494) Needham Heights and -22.58%. 24 single family homes sold in Needham Height (02494) average days on market 84, while 16 single family homes sold in Needham proper (02492) average days on market 89.

Historic low mortgage rates have created a favorable buying environment at this time. The forecast of the next quarter is for an increase in home sales.

I have read and heard from 2 economists who say that we are out of the recession. There is a slight upswing and it is slight but there is optimism that the housing market will be stronger towards the last quarter.

Recession Is Over According to Financial Experts
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/Economy/story?id=7564649&page=1

Is Recession's End in Sight?
http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=7564327

The home prices could stay flat or go up. With the Tax Credit available now and the low home prices it is clearly a good time to get into the housing market. Home prices will go up and the deadline for tax credit is November 30, 2009.

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage - 617-435-3471 www.patannbaker.com

Life is Good Festival Boston, MA

2009-05-12T20:41:52Z

This will be a fun event so mark your calendars for June 20th I AM including the link to the website here too. Steve Songs is really great. I have taken my grandchildren to hear him and was a hit he is. It is called a Good Walk For Kids and it certainly is a good cause. It si a Life is Good Festival and it is on the Boston Common. It will be great I am sure. https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:11086.1980318810/rid:b8e7d9849b1e60051a12cc9396851515

Mark your calendars! We're back on Boston Common for more great outdoor fun and fundraising at the Life is good Festival on Boston Common, Saturday, June 20th from 11 - 5pm.

We'll ring in the summer with an amazing music lineup including five-time Grammy and Lifetime Achievement Award winners The Blind Boys of Alabama, rising national star Brett Dennen, and family-favorite SteveSongs. And we'll keep rockin' all day with food and drink aplenty plus a colorful mix of good-time games and activities for all ages.

The day will also feature our first-ever high-energy fundraising walk, the Good Walk for Kids, sponsored by our friends at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. It's a scenic 3-mile route that can't be beat. Grab family and friends and walk from Boston Common to the beautiful new Rose Kennedy Greenway, take in the Harbor Walk's sweet ocean views, then return to the Common for Festival music and fun. It's a perfect, healthy outing, and it directly helps kids. Register for the Good Walk here. All funds raised at the Festival will be directed by the Life is good Kids Foundation to exceptional Boston-based nonprofit Project Joy, focused on healing and strengthening our poorest, most vulnerable preschoolers. For complete Festival info, including how to volunteer or walk, click here.

See you out on the field,

Jake and the Crew at Life is good

Life is good | 15 Hudson Park Dr. | Hudson, NH 03051 | www.lifeisgood.com

please add us to your address book or safe list.

Pat Baker, Realtor(R), GREEN(R), ABR(R) Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 617-435-3471 pat.baker@nemoves.com
http://budurl.com/GreenHomeTips