Peter's Blog, Falmouth, MA

THINGS ARE HOPPING....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 10:07:09 -0500

THINGS ARE HOPPING......

Spring is almost here on Cape Cod, being surrounded by still chilled water it takes awhile for our temperature to warm up. I have put away the snow shovel, the Osprey's are returning to build their nests, I check a few of the nesting areas as I drive along the coast on my way to Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate. (www.peterhawley.com)

Not only do we have flowers appearing after a long winter, we also have many Buyers out and about every weekend, reviewing Open Houses. There is no question, there is high interest to get into the market, and there are some very attractive investments, but still many lack confidence that this is the right time to move forward. "We don't know what to do." is repeated over and over again.

The fact is that there has been some price stabilization, there are many properties that continue to be over priced, and the market is not going to roar back. It is all about perception and the motivation to actually buy something. 1. If you have a 5 year plus time line to use and stay in a property, it is time to BUY. 2. Interest rates are at historical lows making it time to BUY. 3. High inventory offers more choices more negotiating opportunity and it is time to BUY. 4. Combing new Tax Credits, which range from $8,000 for first time Home Buyers to 30% of the cost for a wood stove (total tax credit does have some limits) makes it time to BUY.

How to finally make the decision to move forward is difficult and my first suggestion is to crunch the numbers. What is your present debt level and when can you reduce or eliminate that debt? What is your credit score, and if it is low, what do you need to do to raise it so you can get the better interest rate offered? What is your cash reserve that will allow for a Down Payment, one year prepaid Home Insurance, Appraisal Fees, and Closing Costs? Have you sat down with a mortgage advisor and understand these costs? (www.conwayfinancial.com ) It is about the money, and if your first decision is to address the money, understand the money, work to accumulate the money, then you will be able to make many more choices, you will have the confidence to BUY.

The old Real Estate quote, "One must be READY, WILLING and ABLE to Buy", continues to ring true. Understand your money and you will be, READY, and ABLE, and when you investigate the present Buying opportunities, you will be WILLING to BUY.

I would love to meet with you, assist in crunching the numbers, review what you can afford that is available in the market, negotiate a successful outcome, so you can Hop right into your new home. Contact me at phawley@jackconway.com

Government Gifts.....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:56:44 -0500

Government Gifts......

It is a crisp March morning as I make my way to the office in Falmouth, MA, where I List and Sell Real Estate. (www.peterhawley.com). I had a discussion with one of my clients last evening regarding the need to have some windows replaced in a property that I am Selling, and I was pleased to be able to review some of the new Tax Credits, now available in 2009 and extended through 2010.

If you plan to make some home repairs, upgrade mechanical systems, or even buy a new car, let me direct you to 2 Internet sites that you might find interesting. First we have Alliance to Save Energy at www.ase.org Here you will find an easy to read outline of the new tax credits available from the US government. I also would direct you to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency, where you can select your state and find all the current incentives available from your State government. I would also have you check with your local utility company and see what incentives they are offering, there are many incentives to purchase Energy Star rated appliances, converting Heating Systems and Hot Water Heaters. Leave no stone unturned when considering an investment in your property.

For all homebuyers that might need to factor in the cost of upgrades when making an offer, this information will be helpful. Many of these incentives will have short lives, and like many things, timing is essential.

There are also a number of Mortgage packages that allows you to factor in the cost of repairs and construction if you need to have a new roof, new kitchen, upgrade systems, and I highly suggest that you investigate these opportunities while speaking with your Lender. Here in Conway Country, our Conway Financial Services representative can fully explain the programs available. Kathleen Hallam, a member of the Falmouth Office team, is available at khallam@conway-financial.com, and would love to review those programs that you might qualify for.

Selling and Listing Real Estate is more than just knowing about a property and which room is the kitchen, it involves Tax issues, Financing options and having the knowledge to offer the best service I can to my clients. I am available at phawley@jackconway.com and I would love to hear from you.

SPRING FORWARD....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 10:47:49 -0500

SPRING FORWARD .......

The Spring Market has arrived and here in Falmouth, MA where I Sell and List properties (www.peterhawley.com) activity is on the rise, Open Houses are very busy, and with the new $8,000 Tax Credit, Low Interest Rates, a great inventory to select from I have noticed that many potential customers are starting to realize that this is a good time to BUY!

We are all numb with the constant flow of housing articles printed each day, and most take a broad view of the country. Real estate is a local issue, and here on Cape Cod we have not experienced the plummeting values of property. This is not to say that we are unaffected by the housing market slump, of course we are, but we have not had the dramatic fall in values as many areas have.

Foreclosures continue to enter the market and these are great Buying Opportunities for many who now can get into the market, using the $8,000 Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers, finding excellent fixed rate mortgages and with a little elbow grease, Home Ownership is within reach.

The arrival of the Red Winged Black Bird that swoops through the marsh has always been my first clear indication that spring is here. The Sun setting later each day is wonderful and walking along the beach, in late afternoon is the best reminder of why I love Cape Cod. It is getting time to fine tune my bike so I can ride on the Rail Trails, which I am determined to do as often as possible this year, and hopefully I will see you walking or riding along the Edge of America with me.

I am available at phawley@jackconway.com, and if you want to explore the housing market or share with me your favorite walks and bike rides on the Cape, I would love to hear from you.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE ......

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:09:05 -0600

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.....

I was driving to my office in Falmouth, MA where I Sell and List Real Estate, (www.peterhawley.com) listening to the morning news, so I can feel fully informed or just frustrated with world events, ever the optimist, I believe news is news and how I choose to interpret it makes it either good or bad. I only like to thinks in terms of good.

What struck me was the discussion of cutting the deficit, spending more than one brings in, which is a good goal, but running a deficit adds to our debt, which is not a good thing.

It is debt and the cost to carry that debt that gets people in financial trouble and the elimination of debt should be the goal of all of us. Yes, when we carry a mortgage that is a debt. The monthly investment we make in our homes is most often required so that we can work toward complete ownership. The amount of that investment is calculated on our monthly earnings and must be at a level that one can make comfortably.

From time to time, we all deficit spend when confronted with an unexpected expense, that just must be addressed, like a home repair, an appliance replacement, work on our cars to keep them running. If we have not saved money and are not prepared for these contingencies, then we do what we have to do. Our goal must then be to eliminate this debt as quickly as possible, and to do so may require cutting back on other monthly spending. One needs to remember that debt has a cost in addition to the amount borrowed, and that costs mounts each month we carry it, possibly getting us further in debt and sometimes more than we ever expected.

The simple answer of course is to live below our means, which can be accomplished with some planning and discipline. Often I have a client visit with me, wanting to purchase a property, and my first question always addresses their present debt load. Although they may think they can comfortably handle their present debt payments, often this is the very issue that will keep them out of the market. These are the folks I call "works in progress", and my job is to work closely with them, preparing a strategy that will get them in a position to buy. I want my clients to buy, that is how I make money, but I also want them to be able to stay in their homes for a long period of time, so they will get a return on their investment in addition to daily use.

I am available at phawley@jackconway.com to discuss where you might be today, so we can work together and plan for tomorrow.

WHAT NOW......

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:45:38 -0600

Great News for First Time Home Buyers....

I am trying to digest all the news coming from Washington DC, and there seems to be many things going on, and still more to come. I do know that the First Time Home Buyer Program has had a significant change. The first being the Tax Credit has been increased from $7,500 to $8,000. It is a complete Credit, with no pay back, which the previous rules required. This program will be available for those who purchase through December 2009, so there is a small window of opportunity to take advantage of this FREE incentive.

Here in Falmouth, MA where I Sell and List Real Estate, (www.peterhawley.com), there has been an increase in the number of people looking for property. Now with this $8,000 Tax Credit available, Interest Rates for Mortgages in the low 5% range and possibly going lower, and a great inventory to select a house from, those who have the long view, meaning staying in a property for 5 plus years, this is the time to purchase.

It always seems Real Estate Agents say that, it is a "Great Time to BUY", but if you review the facts, it is a Great Time to Buy. With the increase activity of people house searching, the better opportunities are available for only short periods of time. Bank owned properties receive multiple offers and are moving. This is the segment of the market that offers real opportunity for those who have the long view. Buyers might be able to provide the TLC to those properties that have "good bones" and with some time and effort again can sparkle.

Will there be other buying incentives coming from Uncle Sam, we need to stay tuned to see what else might appear on the horizon. I am confident that any new incentives will be retroactive to the beginning of 2009, so one does not need to be fence sitting, one needs to identify the properties that best meet their needs and take action they may not be available next week.

Please contact me at phawley@jackconway.com or call my direct line at 508-444-4057, to set an appointment, so we may work together and find you an OPPORTUNITY to BUY!

NOW WHAT.....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 09:41:12 -0600

Now what......

Up early today, throwing together another Slow Cooker meal that will simmer during the day, while I am at my office in Falmouth MA, where I List and Sell Real Estate. (www.peterhawley.com). I would be thankful for 30 degree weather, and maybe the snow expected soon will head somewhere else. I am always optimistic.

I admit that January has been a mixed bag with many more inquiries by those who are considering selling than those actually buying, but everyone in my office has been showing property and had some busy weekends.

Shortly I will begin to hold seminars for those who might be mired in debt, and are being held back from buying a home due to some unwise past decisions. The long-term goal is to demonstrate that most are able to pay off their debts without any extra income, and then they can begin working toward the goal of home ownership. Once a spending plan is established we can target a date certain, when one might be in the position to own. While Mortgage Interest paid, continues to be a tax-deductible gift from the government, while there is a $7,500 tax incentive for First Time Home Buyers, and Interest Rates hover around 5%, clearing out debt is paramount for the future and that includes those not wanting to buy real estate.

Foreclosures continue to increase inventory, and for those in stable financial situations, there are many opportunities. Foreclosures may be more specifically addressed in future Congressional Economic Recovery legislation, and it is widely known that housing which makes up somewhere around 24% of the GDP, is central in keeping our economic engine running.

One cannot paint the housing market with a broad brush, and here on Cape Cod, although we have had a reduction in average prices and volume sold, we continue to be a stable marketplace, mostly due to our location on the Edge of America, the ease to commute to large cities like Boston and New York, but still maintain a small town life style.

It is my job as a Realtor® to provide service, clearly presenting options to my Sellers and Buyers, so they can meet their goals. If I can assist you in reaching your goals, contact me at phawley@jackconway.com.

WHY NOT BE OPTIMISTIC.....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:02:21 -0600

WHY NOT BE OPTIMISTIC......

The wind blows and the snow swirls across the beaches as I drive toward my office in Falmouth. MA where I List and Sell Real Estate. (www.peterhawley.com) I was listening to the morning news and quickly switched on some music, I just could not take it any more. The constant assault upon my ears of negative stories about every conceivable subject, made me think that I must be missing something that I just have not experienced.

93% of the population, have not lost their jobs.

Millions of people pay their mortgage, car payment and other bills on time every month.

There is money to lend, interest rates are reaching their lowest point in years, most sellers are making a profit when they Sell, and are making good financial decisions when they Buy.

Millions of people live within their budget, save money, and continue to invest in their future.

Small business's are thriving, when they offer value and excellent service to their customers.

The sun continues to rise each morning and set each evening, the tide ebbs and flows, and the ferry from Woods Hole makes it's run to Martha's Vineyard right on schedule.

Sure there are challenges, there are those who have not made wise financial decisions, there are those who are feeling economic pressure, there are those who must come to grips with their situation, but this has always been the way of the world.

One can choose to look at the glass as half empty or see that in fact the glass is half full, and I choose to begin each day with an optimistic view point and am prepared to assist those who wish to see the opportunity available each day and seize it. I agree with my partner Barbara L. Bauer (bbauer@jackconway.com), that Optimists have twice as many goods days as Pessimists.

If I can be of service to you, please contact me at phawley@jackconway.com

ANOTHER NEW YEAR......

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:17:37 -0600

ANOTHER NEW YEAR.....

The Holidays are past us, and as I trek to my office in Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate, ( www.peterhawley.com ) I realize that although I will be working with my new calendar, meeting new customers and clients there continues to be many challenges in the business of Real Estate.

Like many business people, I am always optimistic that with a good plan and hard work, combined with an eye on the budget and adapting to the reality of the day that success is always attainable.

During the next 5 months, I will be holding seminars for First Time Home Buyers, so that information regarding the Buying process is readily available. Updates regarding new Mortgage Programs and Tax Incentives and the importance of having good Credit Scores and protecting credit will be reviewed so my future customers will be able to develop their own plan, set their own goals that will allow them to move forward and be proud Home Owners.

Opportunity abounds every day in the world of Real Estate, and when a Buyer has their financial house in order, they will be able to take advantage of these opportunities. This does not happen by just hoping things will work out. Owning anything is about "the Money", it is about understanding risk, it is about commitment, and it is about the ability to PAY BACK any money borrowed. Millions of people are able to accomplish this now, and many millions will be able to reach their goal of Home Ownership in the future.

It is my job to assist those who might be at Point "A" and want to get to Point "B". Success for my customer directly reflects my success as a REALTOR®, and in this New Year, together we will have a good plan and work hard. Please contact me at phawley@jackconway.com for my seminar schedule.

WRAPPING IT UP.....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:16:31 -0600

Wrapping it Up....

This morning before I began to travel to my office in Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com), I dragged out the snow removal equipment, which consists of only my trusty shovel, I made sure the bird feeder was full as our first major snow storm of the season is creeping East and will soon arrive here at the Edge of America. By this evening it will be a winter wonderland and those who enjoy winter sports will be most joyful!

We come to end of a very good year, with a good increase in sales, with many of our clients settled into their new homes. Our Toys for Tots collections have been record setting once again, and we thank all those who have made donations. Our Jack Conway float for the 43^rd Falmouth Christmas Parade was well received by the thousands who lined the streets, and was chosen as the First Place Winner.

We are optimistic for the New Year, as Interest Rates continue to be low and expected to go lower. The incentives for First Time Home Buyers which includes a $7,500 Tax Credit, for those who have not owned a property in 3 years, combined with lower selling prices of many quality properties, will create many Buying opportunities. There will be those who will be selling at a lower price than they expected, but they will in turn be buying at a lower price on the other side of the transaction.

The Business of Real Estate goes through many cycles, and these times are challenging, but for those who are serious Sellers and Buyers, working closely with their Realtor®, being responsible with their credit and their savings, and having realistic expectations will still find that home ownership continues to be an excellent investment.

My partner Barbara L Bauer (bbauer@jackconway.com) joins me in "Wishing You Enough".

UNBELIEVABLE....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 09:14:49 -0600

Unbelievable....

This was not the first word that came to mind when I started my day scraping ice from my windshield as I prepared my trek to Falmouth, MA, where I List and Sell Real Estate, (www.peterhawley.com). It is however one of my favorite words that seem to best describe the Real Estate market which I am sure you will agree is "unbelievable".

Interest rates have fallen to 5.5%, 30 Year, Fixed rate, Zero Points, that is unbelievable.

Here at Jack Conway, Falmouth, our business so far for 2008 is up 110% that is unbelievable.

What is going on in the stock market, congressional hearings, and the wide range of opinions and solutions being put forth is unbelievable.

The few things I have learned in my 28 years of real estate dealing are this: Markets do go up and down, interest rates fluctuate, people always need shelter, people's lives change, our society is in constant motion, in America we have this great tradition of adapting, meeting challenges and figuring things out and making progress.

In the real estate business, providing consistent excellent service to every client every time, being the honest broker, dealing in facts, and working diligently to meet the goals of our clients, here at Jack Conway, is something you can believe in. I am available at phawley@jackconway.com , I look forward to helping you find that Cape Cod Dream Home.

Tis the Season........

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 12:42:09 -0600

Tis the Season.......

Things are very busy here at my office in Falmouth MA where I List and Sell Real Estate. ( www.peterhawley.com ). I know we are beginning the Holiday Season when I drag out the Toys for Tots collection boxes and signs, and begin to tell everyone that again Jack Conway Falmouth office is a Drop Off site for new and unwrapped toys. This year the request for assistance will increase, and therefore the need for more toys is a challenge. Please visit www.toysfortots.com to find a Drop Off location in your area and learn how you might support this program.

One of the great events conducted by Jack Conway the founder of our company is the annual Thanksgiving Breakfast held each year at the Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA. If you have not visited this wonderful place, mark your vacation calendar to do so. (www.plimothplantation.com ). This gathering typifies our company's core values, of caring for others, as we collect food to benefit MainSpring House, Home for the Homeless.

Preparation has begun for the 45^th Annual Falmouth Christmas Parade, the largest such event in southern New England. Visit ( www.falmouthchamber.com ) for a complete list of local events. The theme this year is Christmas Wishes and the Conway elves have been hard at work preparing our 60-foot float, which we proudly drag through the parade route. One of our annual Christmas wishes is no rain and mild temps the day of the parade. Regardless of the weather this is another great example of the community of Falmouth coming together, and is why many choose to live here.

It is the Season to share, to join with friends and family, to give, to reach out to those in need, and to enjoy where we live. Here in Falmouth, MA our Season is 12 months long. I may be reached at phawley@jackconway.com to assist you with your Real Estate needs.

Accepting What Is.......

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:56:09 -0600

Accepting What Is......

Early this morning I was greeted with the first snow squall that swept across Cape Cod, and as I headed to my office in Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate, (www.peterhawley.com), the fields and marshes were dusted with what appeared to be sugar. I am not sure if I am ready for this change in weather, I have heard that the snow making machines are cranking out the powder in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, so there is a good start to Ski season in the North Country.

Just as I am not sure I am ready to accept that winter has arrived, many in Real Estate have not accepted that the market has changed, and is going to continue to change, and I submit we will be better off if we accept what is and get on with the business at hand.

Since September 1 to November 19, 2008 according to the CCIAOR MLS, in Falmouth MA 77 Single Family homes have Sold. There were 411 Single Family homes on the market November 19^th. This means that over 18% of the inventory has been Sold, and although there are markets through out the country that have had little movement, Falmouth, MA continues to have a strong Real Estate market.

The other statistic I find interesting is the percentage difference between the last Listed price and the Sold price, and during the same period mentioned above, that percentage was 92.77%. That is a little over a 7% discount, which indicates that Buyers continue to see value, are buying, and looking at their long term goals in a positive way.

The message to Sellers is very clear, accept what is, those properties priced correctly are in fact selling, and you might review your market position at least every 30 Days. I am available at phawley@jackconway.com to assist you in meeting your goal of either Selling or Buying property.

WHAT NOW........

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 08:30:25 -0600

WHAT NOW................

Here in Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com) I have spent the past few days having that heart to heart talk with Seller's. Now that the election is over and we know what is, the looming question is what will be? As I tell my seller's, the future just isn't what it used to be.

What each Seller must now do is understand what the actual cost of their present property is each month. The mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, heat, electric, lawn service, general upkeep. This total figure is critical, remembering these are out of pocket recurring expenses.

Here is an example; if it is going to cost out of pocket $3,000 a month and it is projected that the house might be on the market another 4 months. That is $12,000. My suggestion is at a minimum to do the following. 1. Lower the price this amount. 2. Offer this amount as a Sellers concession, to be used to pay down a loan interest rate, pay the PIM, pay 2 years of taxes, or pay closing costs, for the BUYER.

Seller's must be Pro-Active in a big way to grab the attention of the Buyer, and as we see in some areas prices being modified downwards, what a property is being offered for today, does not mean that the market will support that price in the future.

Seller's need to make some serious decisions. I am available to discuss innovative marketing programs and may be reached at phawley@jackconway.com

Leaves are not the only things Falling in October...

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:18:09 -0500

Leaves are not the only things Falling in October....

It is a soggy day here in Falmouth, MA where I List and Sell Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com), and for the past few days I have watched the old Maple tree by my office window shed it brilliant coat of leaves, and by the end of this day, they will all be gone. Leaves are not the only things falling, house prices are falling, interest rates are falling and some say the whole economy is falling. The economy is readjusting to inflated prices, unsustainable investments, and a re-evaluation of true value compared to speculative value. In the long run this benefits everyone, although in the short term we all might feel a little discomfort.

Falling property prices have in fact had a positive impact on total sales which have increased due to the combination of low, fixed interest rates, the Federal Government's program that offers a $7,500 tax credit to those who have not owned a property in the last three years and the reality that real estate provides shelter and is not only an investment vehicle, the wise buyer is planning for their future and following the idea "Buy Low, Hopefully Sell High".

Many of my clients who I have in what I call my "works in progress" file, all seem to have a number of things in common. They had run up consumer debt, but are committed to eliminate it and free up more disposable income to be used for savings and building toward their financial future by being in a position to own property. They are starting to subscribe to the philosophy of under living, which is living within or below one's financial means. By doing so they will be able to have more choices, they will be able to own a property, a house, establish a home, which for many of us is the center of our lives.

There is opportunity before us each day, for some it is time to enjoy the harvest, with lowering prices and interest rates, for some it is time to collect the seeds for future planting. I would love to assist you and may be reached at phawley@jackconway.com

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words and Maybe a Lost Buyer...

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:48:05 -0500

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words and Maybe a Lost Buyer...

Attention all Sellers, please let me share with you how important it is to have any and all pictures of a property you are selling, be reviewed, BEFORE they are posted on any web site.

I had just arrived at my office in Falmouth MA, where I List and Sell Real Estate, (www.peterhawley.com), and met with a client that I have known for some time. I had emailed some properties that I thought she might be interested in, and her first response was "I do not want to look at any of these, did you notice the condition of the interior of every property?" Well maybe I did not review as close as I might have, so we sat down and reviewed each listing. The properties were of good value, in good locations, priced well, and not falling down, but what my client saw was interior pictures of cluttered rooms, unkempt closets, messy kitchen counters, toy strewn floors and more, which left her with the impression that the interior of these properties were a wreck. Valid point, now that I looked closer.

I appeal to all Sellers, that when pictures are being taken of your property that first you walk around and pick up the clutter, make the bed, put away the ironing board, hang up your clothes or at least close the closet doors, take the pots and pans off the stove as well as the cat. This also applies to the exterior, pull the weeds, rake a few leaves, and put away the lawn mower.

Remember you are attempting to Sell your property, you want to have potential Buyers who view your property online, be interested in seeing more, walking around your yard, walking through your living room. They just will not come to learn more if they think they might have to leave a trail of crumbs to find their way out.

If I can assist you in staging your property so that it has the BUY ME look, I may be reached at phawley@jackconway.com

Real Estate is a Better Investment...

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:08:54 -0500

You might ask why Real Estate is a better investment than most, and there is one resounding clear answer. You can use it everyday! You cannot do that with stock certificates.

Here in Falmouth, MA where I Sell and List Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com) I am asked by many Buyers, is this the right time to purchase a property? There are many factors to be considered when I answer that question. Is it a good time to buy and try to flip for a quick profit? No! Is it a good time to buy a property where I can raise my family, have a fixed cost other than my insurance, taxes, and energy? YES!

Home ownership is not just an investment of dollars; it is the investment in how we choose to live, how we choose to interact with our community, our friends, and our families. It is our space where we surround ourselves with what we feel is beautiful, where we are often most comfortable where many say we are more "ourselves".

You are investing dollars no question, but you are building equity, you are building for the future, and when you look at owning from the perspective of "cost of use", you have made the better investment.

Harvest Time on Cape Cod....

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 09:33:48 -0500

October is such a fascinating month to watch and savor the harvest of so many locally grown crops. As I drive toward the sea down the winding roads leading to my office in Falmouth, MA where I list and sell Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com), round every corner I come upon fields littered with bright orange pumpkins, and I look specifically for the flooded bogs that let me know cranberry harvesting is soon to begin.

Cranberry production is a very large crop, grown successfully here on the Cape, it was once uniquely a Cape crop although now the fruit is also grown in New Jersey and Wisconsin and even in Oregon The first sign that the harvest will soon begin is when a bog (an area of soft marshy ground, where water is pumped in and out to keep it very wet), is flooded during the September and October harvesting season. When I see this I know that within days, I will see strange looking machines driving through the bog, with what appears to be "egg-beaters" in the front, that dislodge the berries from the vines, and let the fruit float to the surface.

The sight of millions of red ripe cranberries floating on the water, against the deep blue sky is a sight to behold and cherish. The cranberries are corralled by a boom and moved towards a huge vacuum hose through which they are pumped to waiting trucks, herded by people in bright yellow waders, making sure every berry is captured.

There is a sense of order and purpose when watching the harvest, which is not always the case with the real estate market, as the chaos in the financial markets, congressional wrangling, and fears of total economic collapse seem to be the leading headline, one sometimes does not know what they should do with their present and future investments.

But like the fall harvest, those seeds that were planted in the spring, and nurtured through the growing season, produce more successes than failures. Good sound investment in real estate will also produce more success than failures, if it is nurtured. With the continued high inventory of property, and moderating prices, it is a good time to buy, and if you keep your property in good repair, you are attentive to the landscape; you also will harvest a profit when the time comes to sell.

Green is Good ----

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:18:00 -0500

Green is Good....

That is correct Green is good, it is the "buzz word" for everything from kitchen cleaning products to building material. The Green that I want to speak of is money. Good old green cash. Every minute it seems there is a news flash, another financial organization is about to go under, billions are written off, and world wide there is a scramble to shore up the financial markets, to bring some stability to what has been a hard to fathom sometimes, an apparent complete meltdown.

In Falmouth MA (www.peterhawley.com) where I list and sell real estate, I have been very busy this past week responding to questions from my clients and potential Buyers. What do I think will happen? I do not know what will happen other than this. Interest rates are still at all time lows, prices continue to moderate, people want to sell and they want to sell now. There is nothing wrong with that picture if you are a Buyer.

What has been wrong is that Buyers were not and in many cases are still not in a good position to purchase due to their debt load. Buyers must make a decision, when it comes to housing, what is most important, what is the priority, what is the financial goal.

Being as clear of debt as possible will determine if you can purchase a house, lenders will only be interested in those customers who have a proven record of financial responsibility, who have high credit scores, who have a reserve. They know what happens when they lend to just about anyone, everyone loses.

The good Green is CASH, and if you are wanting to purchase a home, then it is time to sit down, review those credit card bills, understand what you are buying and understand why you are buying so much. It is time to look at those cars in the driveway, and decide if you can afford the cost of ownership, or is there some other vehicle that will meet your needs at a lower cost. If you are in debt, and I do not care how much debt you have, you can make a plan, using only the money that comes in now, and be out of debt, and you can save, and invest in homeownership. I am here to guide you toward homeownership, and the security of a sound financial investment. For further information contact me at phawley@jackconway.com

VOTE YES - Moving to Cape Cod

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:56:57 -0500

VOTE YES - Moving to Cape Cod

Every 4 years we have the opportunity to make changes of those that represent us in government. We must filter through the hype, the ending barrage of messages; we evaluate the choices and then make our best choice.

Campaigns are not unlike Real Estate marketing, but it is not every couple of years, it is every day. And like a voter, we must filter through all the hype, and evaluate the choices, and then make our best choice.

In Falmouth, Ma, where I Sell and List Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com), I always suggest to my clients that collecting the facts about a property is job number one. If you are buying, the adverts about a property are of course enticing, but you must go beyond the hype, and collect and verify the facts, so you know everything about what you are thinking of buying. Buying a property is an emotional decision, it is how you feel when you see, touch, walk through a house, what you see when you come and go to the house, and these are powerful motivators when we look at a property. Having the facts with you when you make that visit will put you in a better position to ask questions, look at specific points of interest, and better evaluate your choices.

Knowing the facts also include your financing, understanding what is available, how a specific mortgage package will affect you today and tomorrow. There are lots of mixed messages out there about financing. This is one area that you do not want any surprises. Let me guide you home 2 Cape Cod, with the power of the Jack Conway Team, we deal in facts and you will be glad you voted YES!

The Seasons are Changing

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:43:53 -0500

The Seasons are Changing

There was a slight chill in the air as I began my commute to my Falmouth office where I List and Sell Real Estate. (www.peterhawley.com). As I follow the winding roads spotting a deer bounding across an open field, the sweet smell of freshly cut hay floated into my open car window. Further along right in the middle of the road, my first yellow school bus of the year, which reminded me that I have to adjust my travel time, so I will not wear out my brakes. I turned to follow the beach road and on this beautiful August day, not a cloud in the sky, the water a brilliant blue, seemingly floating on the horizon was the ferry from Woods Hole steaming towards Martha's Vineyard, I am sure full of those who are getting an early start on the Labor Day weekend.

It is not only the changing of the seasons that I feel, it is the changing of business, this past few months, and hopefully continuing through the remainder of the year. Sales are up, very much ahead of the past 2 years at this time. The other Agents in my office have full schedules, showing property and this marked increase of activity is most welcomed. Prices have moderated which have made housing purchases more attractive and more affordable for many. This is the time for renters and first time home buyers to be out seeing what is available and with the addition of the $7,500 tax credit for first time home buyers which was included in the recently signed, Housing and Economic Recovery Act, HR 3221 many people may soon realize their dream of home ownership.

If it is time for you to come back into the real estate market, or want to learn more about the many programs available to assist you in buying a property, you may contact me at phawley@jackconway.com

"America the Beautiful" author was born in Falmouth, MA

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:11:18 -0500

"America the Beautiful" author was born in Falmouth, MA

This year we celebrate the 149th Birthday of Katharine Lee Bates, born in a house on the Town Green in Falmouth on August 12,1859. Her father was the pastor of the Congregational Church right around the corner. The house is maintained by the Falmouth Historical Society ( www.falmouthhistoricalsociety.org ), and may soon be on the market. Miss Bates moved to Wellesley and graduated from Wellesley College in 1880. She was a professor at the college until 1925.

Katharine wrote the poem "America the Beautiful" after a trip to Colorado Springs, CO in the summer of 1913. She is quoted about her inspiration years later stating....

"One day some of the other teachers and I decided to go on a trip to 14,000-foot Pike's Peak. We hired a prairie wagon. Near the top we had to leave the wagon and go the rest of the way on mules. I was very tired. But when I saw the view, I felt great joy. All wonder of America seemed displayed there, with the sea-like expanse."

If you are looking for an antique home, a Bed & Breakfast, or maybe even a part of history, be sure to visit www.peterhawley.com . You just might find your new home in wonderful, Falmouth, MA.

Cape Cod, MA: Life on vacation

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:40:04 -0500

Cape Cod, MA: Life on Vacation

Cape Cod, a very unique 400 square mile peninsula, with 115 beaches, 41 golf courses, 50 miles of bike trails, with 15 communities, each offering a complete vacation and year round experience.

Two years ago, it was very difficult to find a home under $300,000, but that is not the case today, and this news is drawing more and more 2^nd home buyers, who can easily generate rental income if they wish.

Here in Falmouth, where I sell and list real estate, ( www.peterhawley.com), the beaches are dotted with people on vacation as well as locals, who enjoy the sea shore every day. Summer is not the only time when people spend time on the Cape. Due to the mild climate, after Labor Day new visitors appear. Mostly those who are "empty nesters", traveling retirees, and those who wish to absorb the changing of the seasons, as the green of the marsh grasses begin to turn golden brown and the Swamp Maple leaves turn to a brilliant red.

September and October offer some of the best sailing days, a perfect time to come to Falmouth and day trip to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. Tee times are easy to get, and the fishing is still fantastic, as some species begin their migration to warmer waters.

Biking or hiking allows you to view nature at very nice slow pace, and it is a wonderful time to bird watch, as the winter birds begin to arrive. So, come visit, and know that this all can be yours, every day, when you Buy property on Cape Cod. (phawley@jackconway.com)

People are Buying in Falmouth, MA

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:58:05 -0500

PEOPLE ARE BUYING IN FALMOUTH, MA

I know we have all read that the market is slow, but here in Falmouth, MA, things are more than just percolating along. Here are the quick stats as of today. On the market, Single Family homes - 448 available. Since June 1, 2008, Pending Sales - 66. SOLD since June 1, 2008 - 101.

Why is this you might ask? Simply there is value here in Falmouth, MA and many have recognized this fact. We have property as low as $125,000 to over $7 million. There are choices and we all like choices. There are competitive mortgage rates and many Sellers have come to the correct conclusion that the market dictates the price.

In my practice of Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com) we have been extremely busy, 2 properties sold in less than 7 days in July, and most all of our Listed properties have been selling below the average days on the Market (DOM), which stands at 166 days.

If you are seeking to live in a thriving community, that offers community values as well as real estate value, then let me show you what is available here in Falmouth, that perfect home might be Sold and I do not want you to miss it.

RELOCATING

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 07:44:46 -0500

RELOCATING

Years ago as a corporate manager I moved quite often and lived in many parts of the country. The first time, I thought it would be easy to travel to a new locations, pick up some real estate magazines, pick a few places to see, call a few Agents, see houses, and buy one. Actually the first and second time I moved, it worked out great. The third time, I was not so lucky. I call two Agents found in a real estate advertisement, was very specific in what I needed, when I needed to move in, and a list of things that I did not want. I traveled to this new community, interviewed the Agents who appeared to know the area, and off I went on a tour. Not once in 2 days did I see anything that was even close to what I had asked for, and I knew for a fact that the properties I sought were available, I just didn't know where. Long story short, I abruptly ended any communications with these two Agents, and sought out a firm that had relocation services.

The second trip to this new community made me a believer. I had been extensively interviewed by a RE firm, was placed with an Agent that listened, and who had a similar style as I have. The Agent met me at the airport, valued my time, showed me 6 homes all were within 90% of my criteria, I was back at the airport in 6 hours, and ready to make an offer. I never moved again without using a Real Estate firm that had a Relocation department.

In my practice of Real Estate (www.peterhawley.com) I am fortunate to be associated with the largest Real Estate Relocation organization, known as the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World that is geared to match clients with Agents, provides excellent communications and information about a new locale, and strives to make that long distant move a very smooth experience. So if you are moving across town or across the world, contact me at phawley@jackconway.com and let me get you moved.

Offer to Purchase (OTP)

Peter Hawley (Jack Conway & Co.) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:24:08 -0500

Offer to Purchase (OTP)

The Offer to Purchase (OTP) is the first step in the Buying process, and may be the most important set of documents to insure a smooth process to a successful transaction.

In my practice of Real Estate ( www.peterhawley.com) I have learned that if the OTP is complete, all disclosures addressed, all expectations are in writing, then there is a smooth transition to the Purchase and Sales (P&S) which is the final set of documents, that define the complete transaction. Failure to address all issues in writing at the time an OTP is presented or accepted, will unnecessarily complicate, delay, and create much stress as one moves to closing.

All facts regarding a property that is listed needs to be verified, starting with knowing who has the right to sell the property, dimensions of the structure and lot, septic systems, what utilities are available, what restrictions of use may be noted in the Deed, any outstanding betterments that will encumber a property, liens that may have to be addressed, zoning restriction, taxes, and present disclosures regarding the actual condition of the structure.

Once this information is verified, and there is an agreement of a Purchase Price, the next important information to be noted are the specific dates for performance, such as Home Inspections, Mortgage Contingencies, execution of a P&S, accounting of monies to be placed in Escrow, the date and place for closing.

The OTP is a legal and binding contract, if done correctly and completely all parties will be most thankful that I as a REALTOR did my job.