Maine Real Estate - Meservier & Associates

FREE HOME BUYING CLASS OFFERS EDUCATION & HOME TOUR - Auburn Maine Real Estate

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:29:04 -0500

Contact Person Julia Hixon

Company Name Meservier & Associates, Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine

Telephone Number 207-784-2525

Fax Number 207-689-9801

Email Address Julia@meservier.com

Web site address www.meservier.com

HOME BUYING CLASS OFFERS EDUCATION & HOME TOUR

Auburn, Maine, June 22, 2009 — Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine is launching Home Buyer University (HBU), and offering its first free HBU workshop for home buyers to learn the ins and outs of buying real estate on Saturday, July 25 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. at their offices located at 34 Center Street in Auburn.

HBU is designed to educate today’s buyers on relevant issues in the home-buying process. Topics include understanding today’s buying process, information on the $8,000 tax credit available to first-time home buyers, mortgage options, the value of inspections before you buy, and understanding the legal aspects of home buying. Licensed, experienced professionals in the respective fields will present the topics and a free lunch will be provided. Following classroom time, attendees will be given the opportunity to participate in a tour of local homes to apply what they’ve learned. Anyone interested in purchasing real estate including first time home buyers and renters who want to explore what the home ownership process entails will benefit from this event. Seating is limited. For more information, to request a flyer, or to register, please call Meservier & Associates, Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine, at 784-2525.

HBU is an initiative to educate today’s consumers in purchasing real estate by providing accurate information and practical application of that information through viewing local properties for sale. Meservier & Associates is a local established real estate team lead by Sue Meservier, a top producing agent and licensed team with a combined total of over 40 years of real estate experience.

For more information, please contact Meservier & Associates, Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine, 34 Center Street, Auburn, Maine, 784-2525.

Visit http://www.meservier.com for a printable flyer.

They've Moved! New Domain Name, Same Website

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 16:52:01 -0500

Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine, is pleased to announce the release of their new web domain and a blog facelift. The old name of MaineMLS.info is now www.MaineRealEstateExperts.com and the blog has a new warmer look with the same great content of Maine real estate information you would come to expect from Maine Real Estate professionals; the Maine Real Estate Experts.

On the home page of the site, you'll be able to:

Search all Maine properties for sale from the Maine MLS system
Find the value of your Maine home
Get preapproved for a home loan
Sign up for the latest, up to the minute Maine market trends report
Get a preliminary credit score
Read the latest news on the blog for Maine housing, sales stats, mortgage issues, etc.
Get school and neighborhood reports
Get in touch with a Professional in the Maine real estate industry

The REALTORS of Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine offer exclusive seller and buyer representation, the most innovative online marketing system and over 40 years of collective professional service. They want to be your REALTORS for life! You'll like what you see.

Interested in vacationing on the Maine waterfront? Visit MaineWaterfrontRental.com to view availability on the website calendar. Hurry before the prime summer weeks are taken!

New Website For Maine Real Estate Buyers

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 22:02:25 -0500

Well it's done and we rolled it out today! It's a new buyer's guide to inform Maine home buyers. We had this wonderful idea of helping Maine real estate buyers feel more comfortable and knowledgeable about the home buying process through the use of a user friendly website at http://www.HowToBuyAHomeInMaine.com

Here you won't be in the least bit intimidated by the Maine real estate home buying process with great content like an easy to understand flow chart, link bookmarks and a glossary with definitions of real estate terms. We discuss key points needed to make informed decisions on your journey into home ownership. Whether you're a first time home owner or an investor, you'll see great value in these free tools, documents and information. We are here for you and want to be your REALTORS for life!

So if you are currently renting, moving to Maine or investing in Maine property, visit http://www.HowToBuyAHomeInMaine.com and you'll soon see why the professional REALTORS at Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine are your trusted resource to home ownership.

This Maine real estate web site is brought to you by Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine - 34 Center Street Auburn, Maine 04210 - Office# 207-784-2525 - 43 years of combined service!www.meservier.com - www.mainemls.info - www.mainerealestateexperts.com - www.MaineWaterfrontRental.com

Go To MaineMLS.info for up to date Blog entries!

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:13:30 -0500

Visit one of our other sites to view over 25,000 Maine Real Estate properties for sale. Maine MLS home listings can be found at:

Meservier.com

MaineRealEstateExperts.com

MaineMLS.info

Find out how the Maine Real Estate market is doing in your Maine neighborhood. Get monthly up to date statistical data on the Maine housing market by visiting MaineMarketSnapshot.com

What's the market doing in your Maine Neighborhood?

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:16:02 -0600

Are you a Maine real estate homeowner? You probably have lots of questions regarding the value of your home, especially in todays market. Maybe your questions sound something like this:

How do actual selling prices compare to listing prices in my Maine area?
How are Maine homes within a 5 mile radius selling?
Unsold Maine homes in my neighborhood?
Where can I get answers to pressing questions I may have abour real estate?

Just fill out this simple form and you'll get up to the minute information right into your email. You'll get a new report about every three weeks automatically. That way you'll always stay on top of how the Maine real estate market is doing in your Maine nieghborhood.

Visit http://www.MaineMarketSnapshot.com to get more information. This free service to all Maine consumers is brought to you by Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine. Find us online at www.Meservier.com or at www.MaineRealEstateExperts.com

Maine Real Estate MLS Website Features New BLOG! "Maine Real Estate Info"

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 17:23:07 -0500

On Tuesday, www.MaineMLS.info rolled out its new feature...a blog. Now consumers searching for real estate in Maine need not look to far for Maine information.

The site features the ability to search for more than 25,000 Maine properties, request a free market analysis, apply for a loan, view virtual tours on the featured listings page and view an interactive map of more featured properties with Trulia.

Now, with the rollout of the information blog located at www.MaineMLS.info/wordpress , buyers and sellers of Maine real estate can get full access to newsletters, tips, mortgage and loan information, Market reports, Maine Green news and agent listings, etc.

MaineMLS.info is the product of Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine. They are one of Maine's fastest growing real estate teams, dedicated to customer service and commited to excellence.

They are located at 34 Center street Auburn, Maine 04210. Call them at (207)784-2525 or email at mike@meservier.com

They are "Today's Real Estate Professionals, Opening New Doors"

Maine Real Estate Press Release - Sales And Median Prices Are Up

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 15:03:51 -0500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALES AND MEDIAN PRICES OF MAINE REAL ESTATE BOTH UP OVER FOUR PERCENT IN JULY

SOUTH PORTLAND (August 28, 2007) - Unit sales and median sales prices of Maine's single-family homes rose over four percent in July. According to the Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc., Realtors reported selling 4.26 percent more homes this July when compared to July 2006. Not only did sales increase: the median sales prices for the homes sold increased 4.74 percent.

A total of 1,247 homes changed hands during July 2007, up from last July's sales of 1,196 homes. The median sales price reached $199,000 -- a 4.74 percent increase from July 2006's price of $190,000. The median sales price indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half sold for less.

Nationally, sales of existing, single-family homes dropped 9.3 percent from July 2006. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median sales price dipped a slight 1 percent during the 12- month period.

The Northeastern United States witnessed 2.9 percent fewer sales this July. However, the regional median existing sales price jumped 5.9 percent to $290,900.

Buyers are beginning to perceive the value in available listings, according to Kevin Robert of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Saco. "Some buyers have lost out on properties because they waited too long, in anticipation of a lower price, before making an offer to the seller," he said. "Buyers are realizing that they must pay more so as not to lose out on an available offering."

John Bragg, co-owner of deRochemont Realtors, LLC in Rockland, addressed the current mortgage market. "While the national headlines carry stories about sub-prime lending and large mortgage companies, mortgage rates and availability of mortgages remains good, particularly with local banks."

How will Maine real estate fare during the next 12 months? Sheryl Gregory, Broker of Homestead Realty in Winthrop said, "This is the correction period and I expect the fears will subside and we will return to business as usual."

Source: Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. Note: MREIS, a subsidiary of the Maine Association of REALTORS, is a statewide Multiple Listing Service with over 5,800 licensees inputting active and sold property listing data. Statistics reflect properties reported as sold in the System within the time periods indicated.

Maine - More From Business Booster Collection

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:49:48 -0500

My "in-house" mortgage consultant sends me these articles several times a month. Of course, I couldn't even begin to explain this, even after reading as it is not my area of expertise. Everday, there is news about the real estate market and the mortgage industry keeping consumers on the edge of their seats. It is prudent that we remain well informed.

An Inverted Yield Curve:
What It Means to Mortgage Rates & Programs

The U.S. economy, interest rates, and the housing market are frequent topics on the nightly news. Viewers are told about leading economic indicators, how the stock market has performed, and whether the Federal Reserve is planning on changing interest rates. What isn't explained is how these items are interrelated and how they may impact which home loan is best for you.

The Federal Reserve attempts to keep the U.S. economy healthy through its use of monetary policy. As fears of inflation increase, the Fed will raise certain short-term interest rates such as the federal funds rate, which is the interest rate banks pay each other for overnight loans. Such an increase causes a ripple effect, with banks raising their prime lending rate. This, in turn, causes an increase in Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) rates and the indices they're tied to, such as the 12-Month Treasury Average (MTA), the 11th District Cost of Funds Index (COFI), and the 1-Month London Inter Bank Offering Rates (LIBOR).

Under normal circumstances, long-term interest rates would also increase even though they are determined by market trading of bonds and mortgage-backed securities rather than monetary policy. However, in certain instances, the market responds in an unexpected manner.

Long-term interest rates are driven by a desire to place money in a steady vehicle that will provide a decent rate of return. When the stock market is underperforming, many corporate and individual investors will sell stocks, and invest their money in bonds. Typically, the longer the holding period of a bond, the higher the yield it will offer. This makes sense because the longer an investor's money is tied up in that investment, the more they should receive for it. However, when there is an increased demand for bonds, the law of supply and demand comes into play. As the demand for bonds increases, the need to attract investors decreases, so the yield offered on those bonds declines.

When the Federal Reserve pursues an aggressive policy and raises short-term interest rates repeatedly over an extended period, and the bond and mortgage-backed securities markets are booming so their yields are lower, an unusual situation arises. Short-term interest rates are high while long-term interest rates remain lower. This leads to a shift in the usual yield-versus-term paradigm, known as an inverted yield curve.

So what does this mean to a consumer who is trying to determine what type of mortgage would be best under these economic conditions? It means that the cost of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage is not significantly lower than that of a 15- or 30-year fixed mortgage. Rather than taking out (or keeping) an ARM, which is variable and will increase if short-term interest rates keep rising, it may be better to pursue a 15-year or 30-year fixed rate mortgage.

Because economic conditions are constantly changing, it's important to consult with a mortgage professional who is knowledgeable about the markets and how they impact the different loan programs available. This will ensure that homeowners obtain the best mortgage available despite market fluctuations.

If you would like to discuss this topic further, please give me a call!
We can explore how to assist our clients in this unusual rate environment.

John Dugan
Mortgage Consultant
Approved Home Mortgage

Maine's New Buyer Stats Field - Great Data For Agent Marketing

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 10:20:03 -0500

These stats came in today's email by the Maine Association of Realtors. MREIS is "Mine Real Estate Information Services"

NOTABLE STATISTICS: Recently MREIS looked at the data for the first 685 sales reported with the new data field - Buyers Previous Zip Code. Statistics show that of those, 75% of all properties were purchased by those in Maine, with 25% from out-of-state. While single-family residential and condo property types each had 75% of purchasers from Maine, multi-family had over 90% and mobile home had 86% of purchasers from Maine. However, nearly 40% of land purchasers were from out-of-state. Nearly 49% of all out-of-state purchasers were from two states - MA (32.6%) and NH (16.3%). REMINDER - that data field is a mandatory field in MREIS. You cannot use 00000. For Canadian or International purchasers use INTL in that alpha-numeric field.

If you think about, this is a great tool for your marketing campaign. Where you advertise may directly affect how long your listings are on the market, and therefore putting more money back in your pocket. Does your information service offer this field?

Maine State Housing - Great News For Veterans

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 09:30:45 -0500

This just In... the Maine State Housing Authority indicates, "A federal law was passed which enables housing finance agencies to waive the first-time homebuyer requirement for veterans who: a) served in active military, naval or air service; and b) have been honorably discharged, and c) have never received a mortgage financed in any state with Mortgage Revenue Bonds (which MSHA uses to finance loans)." MSHA has announced their expansion of the exception to include active duty military personnel who have owned a home within the last three years. Effective immediately, veterans and active duty military (including their spouses) who are non-first time homebuyers, but meet the above requirements and all other MSHA eligibility requirements will qualify for MSHA financing. The waiver applies to all MSHA programs. MSHA is unable to determine the number of bonds that will be issued in 2007 or how long eligible funds will be available. Therefore, the funds for eligible veterans/active duty military are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to our Vets. I wish our government would do more to help improve those programs already in place, mainly, health care.

Bravo!

Western Maine's Fractionation Woes - A Step Backwards For A GREENER Maine

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 11:42:56 -0500

Is it coincidence his enthusiasm for fractionation, the science of turning forest products into biofuel, evaporated when state lawmakers refused to foot the bill? Attempts by Sen. Bruce Bryant, D-Dixfield, to first secure a $50 million bond, and then $350,000 in annual biorefinery funding, were stymied this past session, told the SunJournal of Lewiston Maine. Read it here at http://www.sunjournal.com/index.php?t=12&blogid=60436&bloggerid=7

On July 11th, MaineBiz asked readers of The Daily, a Mainebiz.biz ezine, if the Fractionation Development Center's troubles are symptomatic of challenges in Maine of adopting alternative energy sources. The answer was a resounding yes.

70.9%of respondents said the FDC's troubles are symptomatic of greater challenges

29.1%of respondents said the FDC's troubles were not symptomatic of greater challenges

A sampling of reader comments:
"The FDC was a house of cards and their exit from the stage came far later than it should have."

"If a 45-million-dollar venture hinged on one man (and he wasn't the guy with the 45 Million) then it wasn't very viable in the first place."

"There is a big scramble in the business world to create biofuel sources and markets due to current tax credits and other incentives. It is taking on a dot-com like boom and bust outlook."

"Maine: The way life should be, back in 1700. We want cheap energy, but no dams, no power plants, no windmills, no nuclear energy, no LNG sites. Just send us your cheap power from another state."

"I attended an event where the FDC were presenters. Organizationally they were among the least convincing groups, bordering on amateur. I think the concept is probably valid but not with that group/organization as lead. I think the FDC's trouble is symptomatic of FDC's trouble."

"FDC's troubles may be symptomatic of the challenges in ME of adopting alternative energy sources. However, the 'real' problem is the lack of leadership in our state legislature."

"Innovative technologies can require enormous investment before any payback is realized. I would guess that Maine has a very shallow pool of investors comfortable with basing their future returns on this state's infrastructure."

"I think FDC's troubles are reflective of the lack of a clear and effective energy policy at the federal level. FDC's biofuels really means ethanol from wood, just as we are now subsidizing ethanol from corn. Frankly, both approaches are short sighted and inefficient. However, when Oilmen run the country, do we really expect them to promote rational policies, which might endanger the record profits of the fossil-fuel corporations?"

"It boggles my mind how rural Maine seems to shun development. With the prospects of wind-power and biomass production, which can lead to an energy independent state, Maine has a golden opportunity here. Wake up people, time is of the essence!"

"The problems with the Fractionation Center is specifically related to that particular technology and how ‘near to mark' it is. Private investors are not ready for the magnitude of investment envisioned. Each energy technology needs to be considered separately and this should not be a sign regarding other possibilities being explored and even commercialized in Maine."

"It is more symptomatic of people looking for a silver bullet rather than looking for less challenging but more doable projects. Just think if we invested $45 million in subsidizing solar, wind or even sugar beets (now that's an old one but refining it would be easier and you have proven technology and thousands of acres of farmland that could be developed)."

"Lack of consistent policy and follow-through appear to characterize all state technology initiatives."

Will your views of the Maine green scene change the way you think and act in your community. at home or at work? What will our planet be like for our children's children?

Maine's Mortgage Fees Are Better Than Most In The Region

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 11:19:17 -0500

More interesting news...Maine is one of the region's least expensive states in which to close a mortgage transaction, according to an annual closing cost survey by Bankrate.com. Here's a list of the average cost of closing a mortgage transaction in New England's six states, as well as their national ranking. New York is the most expensive state in which to close a mortgage transaction, with an average closing cost of $3,830.

	Closing costs	National rank
Connecticut	$2,858	11
Massachusetts	$2,849	12
Rhode Island	$2,768	18
New Hampshire	$2,724	21
Maine	$2,671	29
Vermont	$2,666	30

Source: Bankrate Inc.

Maine Real Estate - Subprime Lending In-Depth - What Are The Risks And Advantages?

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 15:49:58 -0500

This brochure provided by the Center For Responsible Lending and The National Association Of REALTORS, gives you the tool needed to be informed. In many housing markets, first time home owners are having difficulty affording their home and traditional mortgages may not be the best option for everyone. Many home-buyers are using Specialty Mortgages to "stretch" out their income so they can qualify for a larger loan.

In this brochure you'll discover:

The common types of Specialty Mortgages: The 40 Year Loan - Interest Only Mortgages - Negative Amortization Mortgages and Payment Option ARM Mortgages.
What are the major risks of specialty mortgages?
Who is best suited for a specialty mortgage?
Helpful steps to take before financing a home
Seven questions to consider before considering a specialty mortgage

Other helpful websites to visit for basic finance are:

For Home Finance:

Call us at 207-784-2525 for your free copy or email me at mike@meservier.com

Go to meservier.com for Maine Real Estate information or visit MaineMLS.info to search for over 25,000 Maine properties for sale.

Maine Real Estate - Shopping For A Mortgage? - How To Avoid Predatory Lending

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 15:15:35 -0500

According to this NAR brochure, Do you homework first! The National Association of REALTORS has provided this wonderful resource on "How to Avoid Predatory Lending" and use it to help prospective homeowners avoid unfair lending practices.

Useful topics include:

Beware of predatory loans
What are some of the problems connected with predatory lending?
Shop for the lowest-cost loan
If the loan is an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM), ask these 10 questions
Other solutions REALTORS and home buyers can use to avoid predatory lenders
Possible warning signs of a predatory loan

This brochure is available to you by calling Michael Meservier at 207-784-2525 or by email at mike@meservier.com.

visit Meservier & Associates to see information for buyers and sellers alike. Search over 25,000 Maine properties at http://www.mainemls.info/.

Outstanding Information Available For Maine - How To Avoid Foreclosure And Keep Your Home

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 14:54:37 -0500

The brochure, "How to Avoid Foreclosure and Keep Your Home," provides outstanding information for existing homeowners who may not be able to afford their current mortgage, including phone numbers, counseling services and just plain good advice. This brochure is available by contacting us through our website, Meservier & Associates, email mike@meservier.com or by calling 207-784-2525. We understand Maine's Real Estate market and how some homeowners may be having difficulty paying their mortgage.

Some of the areas covered in the brochure are:

You're not alone if you're having trouble paying your mortgage
Mortgages with "Payment Shock"
How Realtors can help
Talk with your lender
What if the value if your property is less than what you owe?

And finally, Quick references for Consumers. This is a valuable resource is brought to you by the National Association of Realtors and is yours for the asking.

Go to meservier.com to search for over 25,000 Maine properties or visit MaineMLS.info.

Yes In-DEED... Use your IRA to invest in Real Estate!

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 15:56:13 -0500

First start off with a self-directed IRA. You may be able to take funds from other accounts such as 401(k)s or SEP IRA's, etc., to initiate your new self-directed plan. Yes, the IRS allows us to invest in traditional or alternative investments that are not publicly traded. News has it that the real estate market may have hit bottom. You can read it here at Realty Times. Buy low and sell high has been the investors motto and what better time to buy real estate, than now. Interest rates have also started to rise, yet another indication of perfect timing to buy. The hard part is determining what is low and what is high and with all the on-line and print news reflecting the current Real Estate conditions, I don't think anyone willing to venture onto this investment strategy would be misinformed.

The catch to using your self-directed IRA to invest in real estate is that it cannot be your primary residence. It must be for investment purposes only. If you owned a rental property somewhere you'd like to vacation to, let's say a condo in Maine, you would not be able to use that condo in Maine for even one day of the year.

There are multiple benefits to investing in this type of IRA. You should seek the assistance from one of several custodial companies, such as Guidant Financial, if you're not comfortable making this venture on your own. Visit http://www.iraaa.org/ for more information on using your IRA to invest in real estate.

While you're mulling this over, think of investing in Maine! Visit us at meservier.com to search for over 25,000 Maine properties.

Maine's Healthcare Is Within The Nations Top 10 !!

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 14:01:00 -0500

Visit the Dailey; MaineBiz for your inbox. It's a headliner for MaineBiz.biz and the newsprint; Maine's Business News Source. Great content for the curious Maine'ah. Sign up for it in your email.

In this issue, they report where Maine ranks in the nations best in regards to Healthcare. Read on;

Study: Maine's healthcare 5th best in nation
Maine's healthcare system is among the best in the country, according to a new report by the Commonwealth Fund, a private foundation in New York City.

In a study developed to complement the foundation's 2006 "National Scorecard on U.S. Health System Performance," the "State Scorecard" placed Maine fifth among the 50 states for healthcare access, quality and equity. The state placed in the median range in the remaining two major categories -- avoidable hospital use, and cost and degree to which state residents enjoy long, healthy lives. Maine ranks second in the country for quality of care and healthcare access across socioeconomic classes.

The Commonwealth Fund measured all 50 states according to 32 performance indicators. Hawaii, Iowa, New Hampshire and Vermont rounded out the top five, while Oklahoma was ranked at the bottom of the list.

The good: Lewiston -- some would say the state's most optimistic city -- put another feather in its cap this week when the National Civic League named it an All-American City. The title, given to 10 cities across the United States, honors cities that demonstrate problem-solving skills and civic pride.

The Business Boosters Collection

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 12:59:50 -0500

I subscribe to this newsletter that provides great inspiration as well as tips. This insight fuels imagination and motivates me to keep plugging on. When you need the daily inspiration to keep your business and lifestyle moving, whether it be music orprint materials, seek the numerous resources available on-line or find a bookstore. You will be healthier, wealthier and wiser.

Read on for today's Business Booster:

The Art of Happiness
Making Each Day Your Best

In The Art of Happiness*, the Dalai Lama shares this powerful insight into life:

"I believe that the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness. That is clear. [Regardless of religion], we are all seeking something better in life. So I think the very motion of our life is toward happiness."

But how are we to achieve this happiness that we all seek? What common factor can we rely upon, regardless of our health, wealth, appearance, family, etc? The Dalai Lama goes on to discuss how the mind can be trained for happiness, despite a lack of material wealth and success. It's that whole idea of "wanting what you have versus having what you want."

Stephen Covey refers to this as "responsibility," or the ability to choose your response. Tony Robbins calls it "re-framing your perspective". James Allen simply calls it "self-control." Whatever name it goes by, the principle is the same: We all have the power to think positive thoughts, and to react positively to every "negative" thing that happens in our lives.

Why, then, is it so hard to do?

Because like anything of any worth, it takes effort. It takes practice. It takes time. And like most skills, the sooner you begin, the sooner it gets easy. But no matter how old we are, we can all start practicing positive thinking today, and begin being happier immediately.

It's very easy to get out of practice, however, so it's best to surround yourself with triggers for happiness. Music is one of the best triggers. Just think how happy we get when we hear Little Orphan Annie singing, "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow," or Bobby McFerrin crooning, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." We can also remind ourselves with little incantations such as "look on the bright side" when things aren't going as planned.

I hope this tip brightens up your day!

Stay tuned for more Business Boosters coming your way!

Anybody Seen Kermit In Maine?

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 22:08:05 -0500

More GREEN news!

Daily Real Estate News | June 12, 2007

Sustainability in Practice: Top 25 Greenest U.S. Cities
As Kermit the frog says, "It's not easy being green."

Country Home magazine, with help from Sperling's Best Places, examined all 379 major metropolitan areas in the country, ranking them according to how green they were.

Qualifications for top ranking included air and watershed quality, miles of mass transit, power usage, farmers' markets, organic producers, and the number of green-certified buildings.

Editor-in-Chief Carol Sheehan says, "We wanted to find out who in America is actually taking action, where they are, and what they are doing."

Here are the magazine's picks for the 25 greenest cities in America:

1. Burlington-South Burlington, Vt.
2. Ithaca, N.Y.
3. Corvallis, Ore.
4. Springfield, Mass.
5. Wenatchee, Wash.
6. Charlottesville, Va.
7. Boulder, Colo.
8. Madison, Wis.
9. Binghamton, N.Y.
10. Champaign-Urbana, Ill.
11. Ann Arbor, Mich.
12. San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, Calif.
13. La Crosse, Wis.
14. Pittsfield, Mass.
15. Eau Claire, Wis.
16. Durham, N.C.
17. Norwich-New London, Conn.
18. Eugene-Springfield, Ore.
19. San Francisco-San Mateo-Redwood City, Calif.
20. Chico, Calif.
21. Harrisburg-Carlisle, Pa.
22. Barnstable Town, Mass.
23. Utica-Rome, N.Y.
24. Missoula, Mont.
25. Asheville, N.C.

Source: Country Home (April 2007)

Southern Maine Is Hit Hardest With Housing Costs

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 21:53:20 -0500

Study: Housing costs too high
A Harvard University housing study recently reported that, for many Americans, housing costs are eating up too much of their annual income.

The university's Joint Center for Housing Studies said in its 2007 State of the Nation's Housing report that housing affordability "remains a pervasive problem," and that more than 30 million Americans spend 30% or more of their annual income on rent or mortgage payments.

The report noted that southern Maine was the state's most difficult housing market, and that the hourly wage required to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment was between $14.50 and $21.74. For the rest of the state, a renter would have to earn between $7.25 and $14.49 an hour to afford the same apartment. That compares to the state's current minimum wage of $6.75 an hour.

A new Harvard University study says high housing prices are eating up too much of homeowners' salaries. Here's a list of the highest median sales prices (MSP) of single-family homes sold in Maine counties during February and April of this year, as well the change from the MSP during the same period in 2006.

County	MSP 2006	MSP 2007	% Change
Cumberland	$240,000	$244,250	1.77%
Knox	$236,000	$226,250	-4.13%
York	$230,000	$223,750	-2.72%
Lincoln	$206,000	$220,000	6.8%
Sagadahoc	$194,000	$213,750	10.18%

Source: Maine Association of Realtors and Mainebiz.biz

Lewiston Maine - The New All-American City

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 21:50:07 -0500

Lewiston, hurrah!
The National Civic League last week named Lewiston an All-America City.

The title, given to 10 cities across the U.S., is for cities that demonstrate problem-solving skills and civic pride. Lewiston submitted an application for the honor in April, highlighting the Lots to Gardens community garden project, the city council's youth advisory council and its efforts to increase low-income residents' use of the Earned Income Tax Credit program, according to a press release. Lewiston was a finalist for the award last year.

City officials began marketing the title yesterday, hanging a sign on Alfred Plourde Parkway, according to the Lewiston Sun Journal. "It doesn't mean we don't have any problems," City Councilor Norm Rousseau told the paper. "It means we come together to solve the problems we have. This group and these judges, from across the country, recognized that."

source: The Daily - MaineBiz for your inbox

Latest News for the Real Estate Industry

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 14:00:48 -0500

Whenever I read something positive and worthwhile, there is an instant urge to tell someone about it. Of course ActiveRain is the first place I think about going to. Then it's the rest of my team and then the office...yeah, in that order. And today's news-worthy tidbit is no exception. Amidst the long faces in the office of those Realtors who may never of had to work in this type of market, this brings hope. And then there are the seasoned Realtors, who are true veterans and have been through it all, say, what housing bubble?...slow market?...what are you talking about?...ohh that news, well INBD (It's no big deal). Either way it's GOOD news.

Housing Bounces Back: Here are the Signs
Several factors suggest that housing is looking better, after a year when a slump has had a hold on not only housing but also economic growth in general.

Here are some of the signs that things are starting to look up:

Sales of new homes soared 16.2 percent in April, the largest monthly gain in 14 years, reaching an annual rate of 981,000.

Total single-family sales - both new and existing - during the first four months of the year have averaged 5.5 million, about the same pace as in the final four months of last year.

Through May 25, the four-week average of applications for new mortgages was at its highest level since early 2006, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association.

To put the decline into perspective, nationwide home prices are up 29.2 percent over the past three years and 64.3 percent over the past five years. That should be enough to comfort consumers who might be worried about the value of their homes, say Business Week Magazine analysts,.

Source: Business Week, James C. Cooper (06/11/07)

Maybe the "Nay-Sayers" will have some fodder at the water cooler. Inventory is way up and everyone's looking for price reductions. What is your office like during this market?

I have to say our team has a very positive outlook and attitude. It is a pleasure to work with them on a daily basis. Keep on smilin'! :)

Turner Maine Real Estate - 10 Acres Land Close To Auburn Maine - WITHDRAWN - NO LONGER FOR SALE

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 10:38:13 -0500

Meservier & Associates | Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine | tammy@meservier.com | 207-784-2525

Turner, ME

10-acre Buildable Lot

10 acres Vacant Land

offered at $50,000

Lot Size

10 acres

DESCRIPTION

Located just over the Auburn/Turner line, lot is mostly wet and is located in Shoreland zone. Seller will provide a soils test and a 3 bedroom septic design to buyer prior to closing.

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL LINKS

Map of property

Mortgage calculator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Meservier & Associates

Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine

tammy@meservier.com

207-784-2525

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 6, 2007, 12:13pm PDT

Auburn Maine Real Estate - 1.19 Acres - WITHDRAWN - NO LONGER FOR SALE :(

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 10:35:45 -0500

Meservier & Associates | Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine | tammy@meservier.com | 207-784-2525

Auburn, ME

Fix-and-Flip Candidate

3 Bdrm Single Family House

Reduced from $139,900 to $125,000

Year Built	1920
Sq Footage	1,438
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	1.19 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Fix-and-Flip Candidate! Older 3BR Cape in great location needs cosmetic work and offers tons of potential! 2-car, detached garage; nice 1.19-acre lot is level & shady.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Living room	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Basement	Laundry area - inside
Yard

ADDITIONAL LINKS

Map of property

Mortgage calculator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Meservier & Associates

Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine

tammy@meservier.com

207-784-2525

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 6, 2007, 10:54am PDT

Auburn Maine Real Estate - Farmhouse on 18+ Acres - WITHDRAWN - NO LONGER FOR SALE

Michael Meservier (Meservier & Associates of Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 10:32:49 -0500

Meservier & Associates | Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine | tammy@meservier.com | 207-784-2525

Auburn, ME

Farmhouse on 18+ acres with Development Potential

4 Bdrm Single Family House

Year Built	1900
Sq Footage	1,599
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	18.13 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Rare Auburn 18+ acre farmhouse with development potential located just minutes from in-town Auburn. First time on market in 50 years. Oversized barn with storage below, separate detached 1-car garage and lots of updates already done to farmhouse.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Hardwood floor	Living room
Dining room	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Attic	Basement	Laundry area - inside
Yard

ADDITIONAL LINKS

Map of property

Mortgage calculator

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Meservier & Associates

Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine

tammy@meservier.com

207-784-2525

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 6, 2007, 9:39am PDT