Suzanne's Somerset Real Estate Blog

No More Excuse's

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 10:36:55 -0600

If you live or work in Fall River now is the time to change your life style!

The Fall River Fitness Challenge is on for the second year! Last years event was a huge success exceeding a goal of 2000lbs, participants lost a total of 3410lbs!

This is an excellent opportunity to make those goals happen. As a participant you will be eligible for free or reduced rates at the CD REC or YMCA Fitness Centers.

Learn how to make healthy choices with many free classes being offered on nutrition and overall well being.

Sign ups are until the end of January. For more information contact CD REC 508-679-0922, The Diabetes Association 508-672-5671 or Healthy City Fall River 508-324-2411.

For all your real estate needs please contact Suzanne Sands 508-496-1717!

You Can't Sell "ME"

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:12:31 -0500

Its seems the more I put myself out there they more people are finding me. Blogging has been good to me, I can't complain about the number of consumers who have told me they have read my blog.

But there is a downside to everything...sales calls! It seems the majority of these calls are from companies trying to sell me leads or referrals. But the call today was different and its too bad I missed the call because I could have had a lot of fun with this one!

The voice mail message was from a very friendly sounding man offering to write my blog for me! He could help me get my blog out there and one of the benefits was that he was local in Boston...close enough.Anyway, he was willing to write my blog posts for me for a very small price...I dont think sooo!

Now I have heard about ghost writers, but don't know of anyone who uses one. I deleted the message, but now its really bugging me! I can't remember the entire message but now I'm wondering who or how many bloggers he writes for..... ;)

I guess what bugs me the most about this is why would I want anyone else to write my blog for me? Besides the fact that I can write it myself for free. I know I could benefit from writing more consistently. But my writing is what makes this my blog, its me just being me.

Then I'm thinking what if my ghost writer were to bring me more business...would consumers notice that it wasn't me? Of course they would because you get a feeling from a writer who writes from the heart!

The bottom line for me its up to me to write, nobody else is going to say it like me, feel it like me or experience it like me.

Somerset Market Report September 2008

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:24:03 -0500

Currently there are 101 single family homes on the market in the Town of Somerset.

There were 12 single family homes sold during the month of September. With an average sales price of $250,725 and the average days on the market at 116.

Compared to last September with 11 homes sold during the month. However, the average sales price was up at $324,232 and the average days on the market at 121.

Where are we at year to date compared to 1 year ago...

Well last year at this time 125 single family homes sold with an average sales price of $286,539. Year to date, 78 single family homes with an average sales price of $258,370 have sold.

Keep in mind this information is for single family homes.

For those considering selling, as you can see sales prices are down approximately 10%. Inventory is higher than it was a year ago, and their are less units selling than in the previous year.

There are many things to consider when deciding to sell your home. Find out what you need to know when selling in this market. Contact me for a no obligation market analysis!

Take care,

Fire Prevention Week

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 10:25:53 -0500

You don't think it will ever happen to you....until it does.

I will never forget the day my sister was pulled from a burning building. This was almost 20 years ago but still feels like yesterday.

It was her very first apartment, she had only lived there a week. The place has been recently renovated, new paint, new carpet. I'm not sure how she woke in the middle of the night but I'm glad she did. Little did she know the place was burning all around her. the smoke was so thick she couldn't she or hear the smoke detector's sounding off!

When she walked to the front of the house she saw what was going on. The window she was trying to open was stuck from the recent paint. Then a fire fighter saw her hand and rescued her from the building. Minutes later the roof had collapsed right over the bed in which she had been sleeping!

4 years ago...

My husband and I had just gone to bed for the night. I was having a hard time falling asleep, I couldn't breath! I nudged my husband to wake him up when he turned on the light the house was filled with smoke! We were very lucky, my husbands quick thinking contained the electrical fire to an exterior wall until the fire department arrived.

Okay, so you know I'm serious about this. This week is Fire Prevention week. Now is a great time to make sure your smoke and carbon dectectors are working properly. If you haven't changed the battery's recently, get to it. Also, make sure your family knows how to get out in an emergency.

Better be safe than sorry. If you have questions about fire prevention the business office number here in Somerset is 508-646-2810.

Take care,

Fall River Celebrates America 2008

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:48:01 -0500

Its that time a year again!

Fall River Celebrates America 2008!

The festivities take place at Battleship Cove & Heritage State Park.

A great event for the whole family with something for everyone.There will be amusement rides, live entertainment, food court and so much more. Fireworks are scheduled for this Saturday August 9 at 9:30pm.

Plan ahead and save, purchase your tickets before the event for $3.00 for all three days! Children under 12 are free with an adult.

For complete information, including schedule of events, parking information & shuttle information visit the Fall River area Chamber of Commerce website here.

Take Care,

Thinking about buying or selling real estate in the Fall River area? Please visit my website or contact me for a free consultation.

Welcome Deb Jobin to the Rain!

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 10:22:34 -0500

I just finished up a great transaction with Deb Jobin from Harper, Ramos & Sheridan.

Working with Deb has been a pleasure, she is on top of her game. The transaction was a short sale and Deb was the Buyer's agent. Her client was advised that perhaps a short sale may not be right for him since he needed to close in less than 30 days!!!

But that didn't stop us from getting things done, the bank was more than willing to work work with us on this one. Since a prior deal had already fallen through most of the leg work was done, they were actually waiting for me to bring them an offer so we could close this thing out!

Deb is a true professional who gets things done, making sure her buyer was good to go every step of the way. Thank you, Deb!

So please take a moment to stop by and welcome her Active Rain Style!

I Have A Buyer For Your Home

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:52:50 -0500

Everyday I have the same routine for checking and calling on expired listings. I have tried everything under the sun but the most effective method for me is reaching out and touching someone.

Most days that means I spend the morning on the phone and on occasion I actually get in the car and knock on the door. I really enjoy some of the conversations I have with these people. No scripts just real people and real conversation.

I once had one of my listings expire, my seller was going to re-list with me in the spring. We thought it would be fun to see how many letters she received from other agents. Of course she saved them for me and we were not impressed with what we saw.

Many of the letters were generic (boring) then there were those that insulted the seller by stating that her Realtor didn't know how to sell her home. My seller was so insulted by these letters, I swore off letters in favor of a more personalized approach.

Anyway, as I finished up my expired calls today, one appointment, 2 answering machines and two who told me that they are listing with another agent who has "a buyer for their home" are you kidding me....and you fell for this! Okay, maybe they do...

But I wonder if I told every potential seller that I had a buyer for their home what happens when that buyer doesn't materialize right away? I'm sure there must be an excuse for this....but this can't be good for the relationship.

In my opinion, real estate is about building relationships. Trust is something that takes time to build and is established through honest and open communication. I will never tell you what you want to hear, my information is solid and is based on facts.

I may not get all of the listings, heck I don't even want all of the listings. I take my time and seek out quality listings with those sellers who are interested in whats really going on in the market. Once we have established that I can do my job and sell your home!

Take Care,

Ocean Grove has some new neighbors!

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:48:43 -0500

The other day while showing property in Swansea's Ocean Grove neighborhood, I had the opportunity to meet the new neighbors!

This new family has made quite a splash with the fans!

Ocean Grove is a neighborhood located on the Cole's River in Swansea, MA.

Formerly a summer community, many of the homes have been updated over the years to provide year round residence.

Ocean Grove offers the residents of Swansea the town beach and boat ramp. Residents can purchase their beach stickers for $10.00.

The neighborhood of Ocean Grove is located right of route 103, with easy access to route 195 making for a short commute to Providence. Currently homes for sale in Ocean Grove start at $129,500!

For more information contact: Suzanne Sands, Broker Associate, Century 21 Associates Realty 508-496-1717.

Take care,

It's My Turn....Super 8!

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 21:40:03 -0500

Here we go again, this time it's the Super 8 meme. I tried to put this off as long as possible but being tagged first by Kat DeLong, then by Simon Conway and then by Conneticut's Running Man Dan Cummings I knew I better get busy!

1. Who Is your favorite musical artist?

I guess this depends on my mood and what I'm doing...Madonna, Pink or Fergie really gets me in the zone when I'm working out. Fuel, Creed, Puddle of Mud for hanging out....and yes I like disco!

2. Who is your Favorite Artist?

Without a doubt it would have to be Melissa my sister-in-law! She is very creative and has an eye for detail in her photography, oil paintings, and water colors. She also painted the mural at the Somerset High School!

3. Who is your favorite blogger?

I have soo many favorites that I would never pick just one, if I'm subscibed to your blog you must be on my list! :)

4. If you could meet anyone (dead or alive) who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them?

Okay, so this one creeps me out a little...

5. What did you want to be when you grew up?

If I answer this question does it mean I'm grown up? I always dreamed of being a Figure Skater! The funny part is I have only been on ice skates a hand full of times. Maybe one day I will take lessons...

6. What is the most interesting piece of trivia you know?

3500 calories = 1 pound!

7. If you could live in any point of history, what would it be and why?

I like where I am right here, right now.

8. What is the most interesting job you have ever held?

Without a doubt, real estate! I love that everyday is different, no two transactions are ever the same and we meet interesting new people everyday.

TAG....YOUR IT!

Your Home Expired Now Your A FSBO!

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:27:37 -0500

What the heck is going on out there...It seems like every where I look there are FSBO's sprouting up all over the place like spring flowers!

What is really interesting to me is most of the FSBO's lately are listings that have recently expired.I know homeowners are frustrated with the market, why wouldn't they be...but do many of them really know what they are getting themselves into?

Don't misunderstand I'm not complaining.In fact, if you think you can sell your home without the help of a full time licensed professional then I'll be your biggest cheerleader! I just hope you understand its more than just sticking a sign in the lawn and placing an ad in the paper.

You see in the past FSBO's and I have had a great relationship. I have helped many through their transactions by answering questions or providing them with forms they didn't know they needed to have. Yes, I have worked for free!

Why would I do this, simply because I want to see you succeed! Real Estate is a complicated business, many do not realize this until they try to do it themselves. But what bothers me about today's FSBO's is most of them take on this challenge because their expectations are not realistic. Simply put, PRICE!

I know this is not the case with all FSBO's, but the ones that stand out are the ones that have recently expired and were over priced anyway. I will admit I have become pretty picky about which listings I will take, its nothing personal just business.

Most buyers are looking to negotiate a deal, I suspect this could make it difficult for some FSBO's to successfully sell in today's market. Considering Buyers will subtract the commission you are saving off your asking price...and thats just the beginning!

Best of Luck!

P.S. If you have questions please don't hesitate to contact me.

Maybe I'll Win The Lottery...

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 21:03:04 -0500

If I had a dollar for every time I heard someone say this...maybe I'll win the lottery and all my problems will be solved. Many of us have had this fantasy at one time or another but lets be realistic about this, shall we...

First of all, you can't win if you don't play. Second, if you can't pay your bills where are you going to get the money to play...Third, the chances of actually winning the lottery and being "set for life" are something like 1 and a gazillion... you know what I mean! As I am writing this I realized I missed the open auditions for "Deal or no Deal" ...!

For many people, its tough right now. I know we have talked about it, many have had a life changing situation that has made this a struggle to just simply get by. Many of you feel like there is no relief in sigh, many don't understand all of their options.

If you own real estate and struggling to pay your mortgage every month you have options. Many of you are concerned because property values are down, leaving you owing more than your house is worth. You don't have to face this struggle alone, find out what you can do before its to late.

Century 21 Associates Realty in Fall River is sponsoring a FREE Short Sales Seminar on Saturday May 3. This valuable information will answer the questions you may have about foreclosures, short sales & more. You can sign up for this event here or contact Century 21 at 508-677-3266.

Regardless of your situation, the best way to deal with it is to take action and do something about it. There will always be the option of playing the lottery but you may have to wait a long time for that ship to come in. Lets face it do you really have that time to spare..

Take care,

P.S. If you can't attend our seminar please feel free to contact me for a confidental consultation.

Fall River Short Sales Seminar

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:09:43 -0500

Free Public Information on Short Sales!

Century 21 Associates Realty, Inc. is sponsoring this free event on Short Sales. This is your chance to get all your questions on short sales and foreclosures answered!

This opportunity is open for anybody interested in learning more about short sales.

What is a Short Sale?
What is a Foreclosure?
What are the benefits of a Short Sale?
What can you do if you can't keep up with your mortgage payments?
What are your options?

Get your questions answered at this FREE Short Sales Seminar!

Saturday May 3, 2008 - 2:00 P.M.

Location to be announced (will be in the Fall River area)

Pre-register before Friday April 11, 2008 on-line at www.shortsalesinma.com

or contact Century 21 Associates Realty 508-677-3233 in person at 657 Pleasant St., Fall River.

Hope to see you there!

Take care,

Fall River Fitness Challenge~ Free Nutrition Classes!

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:11:45 -0500

Have you heard about the Fall River Fitness Challenge...

The city of Fall River is getting healthier everyday, with a goal to lose 2000 lbs by the end of May. There is no doubt residents and workers in Fall River will exceed this goal.

Wednesday nights The Diabetes Association is the place to be for a free class focusing on nutrition. Last nights class offered a trip to the Cantina Cafe for a cooking demonstration led by Henry Oliveria. The focus was on the benefits of whole grains.

Henry delivered an excellent presentation which allowed us to sample the different types of grains. In addition, we learned valuable information on how to save $$$ at the market. Eating healthy doesn't have to be expensive! We also learned how to make humus, its sooo easy!

The classes are on Wednesday nights from 6:30-8:00pm at The Diabetes Association located at 170 Pleasant St., Fall River. You can also view the events going on around the city of Fall River by checking out Healthy City's website.

Hope to see you all there!

Take care,

Truth or Dare...

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:46:04 -0500

Today as I review the daily hot sheet of new listings, I was reminded once again that some homeowners still view the real estate market as a game.

When I was a kid we used to play "truth or dare." The idea was if you chose truth you would have to reveal an honest answer to the question being asked. However there was always the option of choosing the dare and the dare always proved to be risky.

This one particular listing stood out from the rest, not in a good way. These home owners had interviewed several Realtors before listing their home. They wanted an honest opinion of what their home could sell for in today's market. I liked knowing that these homeowners were doing their homework.

Preparing the Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) was fairly easy to do for this property. Considering that the homes in this neighborhood were pretty much the same. So finding good "comps" wasn't difficult and selling price's all in the same range. In my opinion, all the Realtor's interviewing would come to the same conclusion on the selling price or so I thought.

During our interview there were many objections raised about the price, they wanted more. I completely understand this, the market data reflects what recent sales activity have been in your area. You said you wanted an honest opinion is that correct.....

Needless to say I didn't take the listing. They went with the dare and found an agent willing to price it much higher than other homes in the area. I'm hoping that taking the dare won't hurt their chance of reaching their goal to be out by summer. The spring selling season only comes once a year!

If you are considering selling your home a Realtor can prepare a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) so that you can accurately price your home to sell. For more information please visit my website.

Take care,

Getting Back into Balance

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 21:51:19 -0600

Its funny how you think you know the direction in which your life is going, then out of no where life changes fast!

Thank you to all who have sent me e-mails wondering where I have been. I apologize for not being around much to reciprocate, I promise to do better real soon.

Many of you know that my life revolves around a healthy lifestyle, I woudn't have this any other way! But something happened to change my life forever, this will be my new challenge for the rest of my life.

I'm not really sure when I started seeing the signs, around the holidays I started feeling really tired all the time. I convinced myself that it was just a busy time of year and it was normal to feel this way. In addition, I was thirsty all the time.

Since my energy level was down my workouts began to suffer, I no longer had the endurance to workout 6 days a week. I began walking more instead of using weights. I began to lose weight, I still did not worry to much, a few pounds would be okay.

Suddenly, I started giving into sugar cravings, I needed energy fast so I would seek out sugar to get it. Those who know me thought I had lost my mind! Since when is it okay to have snacks like this in the house....I would drink orange juice like it was going out of style.

A casual shopping trip revealed the problem, the pharmacy was offering free blood glucose testing. What that little strip revealed was a little disturbing....mine was over 400! I was advised to contact my doctor. Since the doctors office was closed, my sister-in-law who is a nurse told me to go straight to the hospital.

I don't do well with hospitals, I was reluctant but I did what I was told. Upon my arrival, my levels had gone up to almost 500! I was "DKA" as in Diabetic Ketoacidosis! What? I am not a diabetic? I guess I didn't really understand the seriousness in all of this, just give me what I need so I can go home.....But I was informed "your not going home anytime soon"!

The diagnosis, type I Diabetes! This is insane, it doesn't make any sense and nobody really knows why this happens. But I now must get used to the fact that I will now depend on insulin for the rest of my life. With every meal and at bedtime.

One thing I know for sure, is that I have much to learn about Diabetes. The staff at St. Anne's Hospital in Fall River is dedicated to educating the public and The Diabetes Association in Fall River has been a great resource of information.

I would love to hear from anyone who has a story to share or information that will be helpful.I am determined not to let Diabetes control my life, the challenge for me will be to control my Diabetes and get myself back into balance! :)

Take care,

Fall River Fitness Challenge

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 07:15:49 -0600

I am so excited about this event! For those who live and work in Fall River, now is your chance to get fit with The Fall River Fitness Challenge!

There has never been a better time to get in shape, with all the resources you need at a reduced rate or some are offered Free of charge!

Starting a new fitness program has never been easier, the fitness challenge is going on through May 5, 2008. There will also be prizes awarded for the biggest % of weight loss! How cool is that...:)

Some of the many benefits include:

Free use of the pool at the Boys and Girls Club

A 5 month gym membership for only $24!

Personal Training sessions for only $5.00 and so much more!

This is only a brief list of what the challenge has to offer for a complete list , Check out the Fall River Diabetes Association website for more details and a list of sponsors.

Best of luck to all!

Take care,

Why wait until New Years...

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:24:32 -0600

This morning as I logged in to Active Rain, I noticed a comment from Randy Prothero on on of my old posts...What Does Fitness have to do with Real Estate. His comment is what inspires me to write today.

Those of you who follow Randy's blog know that he made a huge accomplishment, he took control of his life and writes Getting back into Shape. His story is amazing and one that will inspire many.

As the New Year is approaching many will make a resolution to start a diet and exercise program. I'm sure this must be the best month for gym membership's across the country! But why wait until then....

When I started my new lifestyle, I learned there is no such thing as a diet. I wasn't really sure what this meant at the time, but until I started making Small Changes, did I realize if I wanted to stay in shape this would be a lifelong commitment.

No longer would I be starting my diet on Monday or making a New Years Resolution every year. It was something that I had to do today, tomorrow and the next day. If you mess up, then pick yourself back up right away, because if you wait it only makes the problem grow...you know what I mean!

I could go on and on about this subject, but I don't want to bore you too much. But why wait....make your next meal a healthy one and why not try a new exercise today!

I promise you will feel good when your done and then you can sit down on your Blogg butt and write about it and post it in Active Rain Fit Club. You will find many of the stories here will inspire you to keep you on track!

Take care,

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 21:08:35 -0600

At last, the first snow storm of the season!

I have been waiting for the first snow,Mattapoisett is absolutely beautiful when it snows! One of the many benefits of living in New England is we do get to enjoy all the seasons.

Anticipating the storm to hit later on this afternoon, hubby and I agreed to be home by 2pm so we could enjoy a snow day.

Well things don't always go as planned, the storm decided to show up around noon time and was accumulating quite fast! Getting home seemed to be a challenge for everyone.

Days like these, I love to stay home and cook.

What a perfect day for some New England Clam Chowder, I'm so glad I blogged about it this past summer the recipe was right where I left it. Of course, this was going to require a trip back out to the grocery store.

I took this shot along the way, to share the beauty of Mattapoisett in the winter. I love the snow, but now that the first storm is winding down and out of my system, I can't wait to have a beautiful beach day again!

Enjoy!

For all your real estate needs contact Suzanne Sands, RE/MAX ON DEMAND,508-496-1717 or visit suzannesands.com.

Christmas tree shopping in Fairhaven

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 09:42:36 -0600

Have you picked out your tree yet....

For the third year we chose Kenny's in Fairhaven as the place to go to get our Christmas tree, they have a huge selection and at very reasonable prices.

Each year seems to be better than the last. Santa was on hand to direct the traffic and boy was it busy on this cold Sunday afternoon. Most often I can spot our tree right away but this year "little one" found the perfect tree and as we were loading it up it the car we saw a few snowflakes to top it off!

After selecting our tree we went inside to see the beautiful winter wonderland on display, boy was "little one" excited! Not only do they decorate the place to get you into that Christmas spirit, but they offer up all the goodies too. Fresh hot cider, hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn to make selecting the tree a family event to remember.

Happy Holidays!

Kenny's Landscaping is located on route 6 in Fairhaven, MA

For all your real estate needs contact Suzanne Sands, RE/MAX ON DEMAND 508-496-1717

suzannesands.com

When it Rains....it Pours

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 09:15:11 -0600

The joys of home ownership or the anguish of a sinking ship.....

As Licensed real estate professionals we often times find ourselves in situations where we more than just an real estate agent, we are also here for guidance and support. People call on us for many different reasons, many times its not just as simple as buying or selling a house. But often the end result is the same someone needs to sell and someone wants to buy.

Everyone has a different reason for selling, it could be a positive situation or negative. In this market, those who need to sell often have some real life situations forcing them into the market. It could be the result of a divorce, death, financial or some health issue that has changed your life.

These changes have made it difficult for some in these situations to stay above water, the only thing left is to unload their real estate and hope to get a fresh start, they need us now more that ever. Many times the situations are sad, but none the less real and they need our support.

This market is perfect if you are looking to buy a home, interest rates are still very low and inventory high in most areas. Given all the different motivating factors for selling, as a buyer you may just find a great opportunity being at the right place at the right time.

This year, I have been given the opportunity to see many through to the other side and together we have worked towards finding the solution to the problem. Know that if you are facing some challenges you do have options. Many times people think that they are alone and not sure where to turn, contact a professional real estate agent to guide you through.

When it Rains....it pours, don't worry I will bring my umbrella :)

Take Care,

Holiday Balance & A Healthy Lifestyle

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:56:28 -0600

The holidays are coming and if your family is anything like mine that means everything revolves around food!

I love this time of year, we work hard so this time of year is the reward. Gatherings with friends and family celebrations all around, its easy to get caught up in the moment and loose track of what you have worked hard to maintain all year long.

How do you stay balanced.....

Staying focused on your goals will keep you on track. Don't skip your workouts, even when things get crazy busy this is your time it will keep your stress level down so you can focus on taking care of business. Remember to eat healthy foods, preparation is key you need energy to get you through the day.

You just started this new healthy lifestyle, how do you maintain it around the holidays.

Only you can control what you put in your body
You work out everyday to feel good about yourself
Plan ahead, bring your low fat dishes & share
Stay away from the buffet table
Keep focused on your goals

For me self control is what keeps me focused, it helps if you have a supportive family. My family understands and expects me to bring a veggie tray, turkey meatballs, and sugar free pudding pie! They are also trained they know if the party is at my house they need to bring their own butter! ( we laugh about it)

Its easy to be tempted and once in a while treat yourself, just know that others will try to convince you its okay to eat its the holidays. But be careful those calories add up and before you know it you have gained 10lbs and you will be working it off the rest of the winter.

Remember only you can accomplish your goals, and only you know whats best for you!

Nobody's Perfect...

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 07:02:43 -0500

Well its the day after Halloween, trick or treat is over and you have all that left over candy staring you right in the face. All those little snack size bars are so innocently small, you tell yourself one wont hurt....

Well if your like me you must get rid of the candy, I have a strong determination to succeed. But the fact is those little candy bars distract me. They keep staring at me, they are calling my name....

My husband was in charge of getting the candy for the trick or treaters, this plan normally works for me. You see if I pick out the candy surely I will pick out the ones I like. But my plan backfired as I forgot home much I like those 100 Grand!

One wont hurt, this I know then two, okay I had three little snack size bars! Okay I enjoyed them I admit it...I had the most amazing bouncing off the walls sugar rush you could ever imagine! Then I woke up this morning getting ready for my normal fitness routine and the guilt started to settle in....what did I do!

Now I must plan on burning those extra calories,I will work in some extra cardio into my routine this will burn off the extra calories. This I will do for me because I refuse to let that little candy bar control me! If you fall down get right back up, don't let a little set back hold you back from accomplishing your goals.

The bottom line, is we all make mistakes nobody is perfect!

Total Fitness Connection, Swansea MA

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 18:54:05 -0500

This one is just for the ladies....

Total Fitness Connection located at 544 Milford plaza * Swansea, Ma 02777

Now is your chance to get in shape for the holidays. Total Fitness Connection is running a special through the end of the year for any new members who sign up...

$25.00 a month
EFT no commitment
no termination fee

Total Fitness Connection offers full cardio, free weights and a full line up a classes taught by certified instructors.

Including:

Cardio Kickboxing
Muscle Conditioning
Pilates
Yoga
Salsa

In Addition, Total Fitness Connection is now offering tanning packages starting at $40.00 a month for unlimited!

Babysitting is also available, inquire within

Club Hours

Monday-Thursday 7:00 A.M.-8:00 P.M., Friday 7:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M., Saturday 7:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. & Sunday 7:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M.

For more information please contact Sue 508-675-0119

Now is a great time to work on your fitness!

For all of your real estate needs please contact:

Suzanne Sands

Broker RE/MAX On Demand

508-496-1717

Visit my website

Suzannesands.com

Red Sox Rally 2007

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 17:26:33 -0500

The Red Sox will be celebrating their win in the 2007 World Series!

The place to be is Fenway Park on Tuesday 10/30 starting at 12 noon

Make sure you get an early start to beat the traffic, as I'm sure many fans will be anticipating this event. I heard that Papelbon will be performing thoughout the rolling rally his version of the Irish Step Dance. Just in case you missed it you can watch it here. Hope you all enjoy this as much as I did.

Buying Your First Home

Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 22:07:26 -0500

If only I knew then what I know now....

I was only in my early twenties when I bought my first home. In fact, I wasn't planning on buying a home at that time, it just happened. I was looking for a home to rent when I walked into a open house, I thought perhaps the seller would consider renting it to me. What I didn't realize is the real estate agent who showed us the house was working for the seller!

I didn't understand certain things, like why it was important to have a home inspection,closing costs, mortgage contingencies or even what an earnest deposit meant! Most importantly, I never knew the real estate agent wasn't working for me.

Back then traditional real estate agents represented the seller. Buyers had to rely on the sellers agent to walk us through the home buying process. Which explains why I was so stressed out buying my first home. I had many questions that the sellers agent simply could not explain, leaving me to figure most of it out on my own.

Luckily, things have changed since then. Buyers are now being represented by Buyer Agents and they should be, the home buying process is very complicated. You should work with a real estate agent who is representing you throughout the purchase of your new home. The best part is it wont cost you anything as a buyer!

Buying your first home is rewarding and exciting! When your ready to make your move, I'll take your hand and walk you through every step of the way!

To receive daily updates through your e-mail, you can write to me at suzannesands@comcast.net or 508-496-1717.

Servicing Bristol & Plymouth County, Fall River, Somerset, Swansea, Westport, Dartmouth, Fairhaven & Mattapoisett