Summer 2009

Easy Strawberry Pie - Perfect for Summer

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:48:14 -0700

Here's a recipe for an easy & delicious summer pie - also makes a great addition to any closing gift!

1 baked nine-inch pie shell
2 pounds quality strawberries (Keep a few out to slice & use as garnish)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup whipping cream
3 tablespoons powdered or granulated sugar

Directions

Prick the pie crust with a fork to allow for steam to escape and prevent bubbles in the crust. Bake the crust for eight to twelve minutes or until it just starts to brown.
Wash and hull the strawberries. Do not allow the strawberries to sit in water or they make the pie runny. Mash enough strawberries to make about one cup of pulp.
Combine the sugar, cornstarch, crushed strawberries, and water in a saucepan. Stir well and cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil, stirring frequently. Cook for approximately two more minutes or until the sauce is thick and translucent.
Mix in the butter. Set it aside to cool.
While the mixture cools, fill the baked & cooled pie shell with strawberries. If the strawberries are small, use whole berries. If not, cut the strawberries into slices. Pour cooled glaze over the berries and chill the pie for 2 to 3 hours.
Whip cream until peaks form, adding the sugar and dash of vanilla when the cream begins to stiffen. After the pie is completely chilled, garnish the pie with whipped cream and remaining strawberries.

This recipe can be modified for fresh blueberries as well - Works with whatever fruit is in season!

What do I need to provide with my mortgage application?

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:01:26 -0700

Getting Ready to Buy? Wondering what you need to provide for your mortgage application? Here are some of the commonly requested items...

ı W2's for the past 2 years (Unless you don't receive W2 income)

ı Your most recent pay stub for the past 30 days. (Ex: If paid weekly - provide last 4 stubs)

ı Copy of recent mortgage statement, tax bill, and insurance bill on any real estate properties you currently own.

ı Copy of your drivers license.

ı Copies of your 2 months most recent bank statements (all pages required) for any bank accounts listed on your application. Examples are checking, savings, or Investment Accounts, Retirement Accounts

ı Copy of the Contract for the purchase of the new home (if you have it)

ı If you receive other income besides W2 income... (Required if applicable to show income from: rental property income, dividend income, partnerships, corporations, self employed 1099 income, etc)

ı If you own more then 25% of a Corporation or Partnership... Provide past 2 years of Complete Business Tax Returns.

ı If you receive pension or social security income... please provide a copy of the most recent award letter and 1099 forms for the past year or 2.

ı Divorce Decree... is often required, especially if you plan to use alimony or child support income to qualify for the loan. This is also needed if you pay out alimony or child support.

ı Gift Funds... Documentation is also required to prove funds are a gift - ask your mortgage resource.

First Time Home Buyer Benefits

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 19:22:21 -0700

Who is eligible for the tax credit?

First-time home-buyers (from what I understand this also includes buyers who haven't owned a home in the last 3 years would also qualify as "first-time" buyers)
Buyers must make less than $75,000 for singles or $150,000 for couples. (Higher-income buyers could receive a partial credit.)

Rules to remember

The purchase of the home must be made between Jan. 1, 2009 and Nov. 30, 2009.
The refund amount is $8000 or 10% of the home's value - whichever one is less.

For more details, please contact your mortgage representative.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Sailfest 2009 in New London!

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 09:34:50 -0700

If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend, why not check out Sailfest in New London? Sailfest began on Friday, the 10th and the hours are as follows:

Saturday - July 11, 2009 (10am to 11pm)
Sunday - July 12, 2009 (9am to 6pm)

Sailfest is a 3 day festival that includes amusement rides, food, fireworks and also free entertainment. The Taste of New London Food Court is set up at Custom House Pier where you can purchase beer and food from local restaurants. Stop by the Sailfest Beer Tent, also at Custom House Pier, and help the New London Firefighters raise money to help CT burn victims - a portion of the sale of every pint of "Smooth Bore Lager" will benefit burn victims.

On Sundayy, Project Oceanology's research boat the Enviro-Lab welcomes visitors to view and/or touch some of the life found in Long Island Sound. For more details, visit www.oceanology.org.

Don't miss the Fireworks, boat rides, and tour of the Tall Ship. For specific information please visit:

www.sailfest.org

Weekend of July 11th and 12th in Madison, CT

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:43:29 -0700

The Sunday evening concert series kicks off this Sunday the 12th with the music of "The Shoreline Connection" from 6 to 8 p.m. on the town green. Feel free to pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the sounds of the 50's and 60's! This performance is sponsored by the Madison Beach & Rec Department.

On Saturday, the North Madison Congregational Church sponsors an Antique Show on the Madison Green from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Baked goods and refreshments will also be available. Admission is $4 per person.

And remember the Farmer's Market is held every Friday on the Madison green beginning at 3:00.

July 2009 in Madison, CT

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:52:30 -0700

Now that the 4th of July festivities have ended, it's time to see what fun times await us in the upcoming weeks. If you're looking for something more than relaxing at the beach, here are a few events to keep in mind:

The first Annual Summer Breeze Ride for Autism to benefit SARAH and Jacob's Team will be held on Saturday, July 18th beginning at 7:00 a.m. The Madison Jaycees and the Southern CT Cycle Club proudly sponsor this fundraising event. A 100 mile, 62 mile, 50 mile and 22 mile bike race through our Connecticut scenic countryside. Event begins at The Polson School in Madison on Green Hill Rd. To sign up or for more information go to http://www.ctcycle.org A great way to help others & have fun!

Also on July 18th, is Family Day at the Allis-Bushnell House, located at 853 Boston Post Road in Madison. The event runs from 1 pm to 4 pm and will include children's crafts and games (prizes provided). Tours of the historic house will be led by junior tour guides. Cost is $5 per family and includes lemonade and dessert. Please call 203.245.4567 for more info or visit www.madisoncthistorical.org

The much anticipated Annual SIdewalk Sales begin in Downtown Madison on Thursday, July 23 - come see what great buys are waiting for you!!

July 24 to July 26th is the Annual summer book sale organized by the Friends of the Scranton Library. The sale is held at Academy Elementary School located at 4 School Street. For more information, please call 203-245-7365 or visit
http://www.scrantonlibrary.org
scrantonlibrary@madisonct.org

Time to move to Killingworth, CT

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:37:23 -0700

Great location in Killingworth, CT - where peace & quiet meet convenience to commuting, beaches & shopping. Convenient for travel to Hartford, New Haven and New London via trains or highways.
Expanded cape offers ideal blend of antique charm and modern features. 2 fireplaces are in the home - 1 in living room and 1 in family room. 3 bedrooms plus office/guest room. First floor offers living room, kitchen, dining room, family room, laundry, full bath and 2 bedrooms. Second floor offers master suite and office/guest room. Family room opens to screened porch with stone floor. Detached 2-3 car garage with unfinished loft above. Set on 3.7 acres. A must see property! Call 203.738.0207 or visit www.43chittenden.com

OFFERED AT $499,000

Anyone have a client seeking office/professional space??

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:16:18 -0800

THe choice is yours! Currently, this home within walking distance of Milford Hospital, Milford Center, and the train station, is a single family residence. MCDD zoning provides a variety of options for use of this property. First floor is very spacious - offers family room, living room (with fireplace), dining room and kitchen. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms. Laundry is located on the first floor. Full, unfinished basement provides plenty of storage room. Call for more details at 203.738.0207

Single Family Home with zoning that would allow professional office in Milford CT

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:13:12 -0800

Madison CT - Enjoy living a short walk to beaches or town!

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:07:47 -0800

Located in one of the most convenient, yet private locations in town. This 4 bedroom colonial is set on a private road with views of the Madison CC golf course, and within walking distance of Madison's village, restaurants and 2 beaches. The home has been completely updated - the kitchen is a chef's dream! Hardwood floors throughout, corner cabinets in dining room, and crown moulding add to the charm of the home. Call Betsy 203.738.0207 for more information.

Buyers & Sellers - negotiations?

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:56:18 -0800

Wondering if other agents are encountering wide discrepancies between asking prices and prices offered by buyers? I know there's plenty of inventory for buyers to choose from and it's difficult for sellers to not take a low offer personally. Is everyone experiencing a large variation between offer & asking?

Looking for a 4 BR Colonial overlooking golf course, located short walk to Madison, CT beaches & town center?

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:51:59 -0800

Just listed a 4 BR Colonial with 2.5 baths set on a private road overlooking the 3rd tee of the Madison CC golf course. This home has been completely remodeled throughout. Maple cabinets, granite counters, upscale appliances and a pantry make this kitchen a chef's dream. The kitchen opens to the family room which offers a floor to ceiling fireplace and built ins. Corner cupboards add charm to the dining room. In the summer months, relax on the patio with awning, or stroll down the street to watch the setting sun over LI Sound. Offered at $929,000. Call 203.738.0207 for more details or visit www.shorelineResidences.com

Madison, CT - Spacious & Pristine Colonial

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:12:57 -0800

This skillfully designed and constructed 1994 colonial home offers the privacy and peaceful location of historic Summer Hill Road. Just 4.5 miles from the wonderful village of Madison, this home is truly the reward you return to at the end of a day. Approaching the home as you travel along the southern portion of Summer Hill Road you pass antique homes and the gentle Hammonassett River. As you enter the private drive you pass majestic granite outcroppings and then arrive in front of the 3870 square foot home. With professional landscaping by Nature's Design and brick walkway leading to the double front door, you will be impressed by the serenity of the location with privacy from the road and private land trust to the rear of the property.

Offered at $799,000F

FEATURES INCLUDE:

* Bosch appliances, cherry cabinets, corian counters

* 3 Car Garage

* Office

* Screened porch

* Room for pool in yard

* 3 Fireplaces

* Finished basement with full bath; guest room plus add'l play or exercise room

Walk to the Guilford Green from this 4 bedroom ranch style home...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 07 May 2008 12:15:17 -0700

You'll find this 4 bedroom ranch on a cul de sac within walking distance to Guilford center. Convenience and ease of living blend perfectly in this home with central air, hardwood floors, 2 full bathrooms and a full basement. Relax on the 3 season porch and look out over the well-maintained yard, bordered by a stream. Other features include fireplace in living room, built in corner cabinet in dining room, master suite and a one car detached garage. Offered at $395,000. Call Betsy at 203.738.0207 or 203.641.3233 to tour this charming home.

2 Bedroom Branford Condo - Tremendous Value at $219,000

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 07 May 2008 12:10:07 -0700

Bright end unit located in a convenient location in Branford. The first floor offers kitchen and a large living and dining room area that makes entertaining easy. You'll enjoy relaxing on the deck off the living room in the summer or warming up by the LR fireplace in the winter. Laundry is located on first floor. The second floor provides 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath. A balcony off the master is an ideal place to read the paper and enjoy a cup of coffee. The lower level has 2 additional finished rooms - perfect for exercise, guests or home office. Call today to schedule a showing at 203.738.0207 or 203.641.3233.

Madison Shore - New homes to the market...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 21:22:11 -0700

Some interesting properties have come on the market over the past few weeks. Some wonderful homes within walking distance to the beach are ready for new owners.

10 Shorelands came on at $749K. This 2000 sq ft cape was built in 1950, is set on .63 acre, has terrific curb appeal and deeded beach rights. Drive one street over and check out 36 Overshores East. Step inside the fenced yard and you'll feel like you're on vacation. Perennial gardens border the yard and provide a wonderful sense of privacy. Enjoy the vintage charm of this 1936 cottage and the modern conveniences that we've come to expect. Priced at $839,000

If you're not afraid of a little work, 25 Island Avenue is the home for you. This 3555 sq ft home provides a spacious architectural design, a private location and deeded beach rights. Roll up your sleeves and watch your value grow - priced to sell at $850K.

94 East Wharf is a spacious cape just a short walk to the East Wharf Beach or the village of Madison. You'll appreciate how well maintained this home is, from the new heat and a/c system to the copper gutters. 3 bedrooms and just about .50 acre of land. Stop and see what $995,000 will get you.

Do you prefer direct waterfront? Then take a look at 29 Parker Lane. The contemporized beach home offers 2448 sq feet on a .16 size lot. Look out on Faulkner's Island from any of the 3 levels. Price is $2,195,000.

Happy September

New Restaurant in Guilford...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 20:24:40 -0700

The First and Last Tavern recently opened in Guilford. It's located in the building where the Rio Grande Restaurant formerly occupied. First and Last has other locations in Middletown, Hartford, Avon and one in Maine. We picked up our pizza to go and were pleased with our selection. Looking forward to dining in next time and happy to see a new place in town.

Antique home in Guilford across from Joshua's Cove

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:45:58 -0700

Updated information on the c. 1765 saltbox on the National Registry set across from Joshua's Cove of Long Island Sound. The location is ideal - between the historic Guilford Green and Branford's Stony Creek. The price of this 3600+/- sq foot colonial has been reduced to $649,900. Much original material is included in this home preserving its character. An addition was added to the home in the 1980's and would lend itself to a first floor master suite or a grand kitchen. The upstairs bath is completely updated, yet maintains the charm of the era. Come visit www.575leetesisland.com and see if this is the antique you've been searching for.

Madison Condo Market...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 20:30:51 -0700

Since we've passed June 15th now, I thought it would be a good time to take a moment to review the current offerings of condominiums in Madison. Right now, 25 condos are actively being marketed. For $264,900 one can purchase a free-standing, 5 room unit in close proximity to Hammonassett State Park. Two units are available at the "Mews" - one at $700,000 and the other at $748,500. This complex is conveniently located to town and East Wharf Beach. A total of 16 units are for sale in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range - a great variety for buyers to choose from. Strathmore Farms offers life on the Hammonassett River, and is where you can find an almost 3,000 sq foot unit for $869,000.

Help! Ideas for gifts for closings???

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 20:12:15 -0700

I've been racking my brain trying to come up with a fun, creative and memorable closing gift for my clients. Does anyone have any suggestions? Do you give the same gift to all clients regardless of the price of the transaction? I've given a variety of gifts from good champagne & flutes; gift certificates to restaurants, home improvement centers; and plants. The stress of deciding on the gift is almost more than getting through the contingency period! Advice would be greatly appreciated!

Riverfront in Madison...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 19:48:31 -0700

This ranch has so much to offer. It's set on an interior lot overlooking the East River. The main house has 3 bedrooms, large great room, and a sun room. The in-law suite is located off the kitchen - in there you'll find one bedroom, sitting area, small kitchen and private entrance. The composite decking requires minimal maintenance. Madison Center and I95 are all in close proximity. Offered at $649,000. Call 203.738.0205 or 203.245.6700 for more information. www.35greenhill.com is currently under construction, but should be completed by June 20th.

Farmer's Market in Madison...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 11:40:48 -0700

The Madison Farmers' Market opened yesterday and was well attended. The market will run every Friday from 3 to 6 now into October. Vendors were marketing a wide variety of local products: Jam, preserves, pies, plants, vegetables, fish, meat, bread and even soap. Something for everyone - stop by and check it out! It's a wonderful opportunity to purchase local or organic items and support your local farm.

Madison Farmers Market

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 11:37:09 -0700

The Madison Farmers' Market opened yesterday and was well attended. The market will run every Friday from 3 to 6 now into October. Vendors were marketing a wide variety of local products: Jam, preserves, pies, plants, vegetables, fish, meat and bread. Something for everyone - stop by and check it out!

Farmer's Market...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 07:50:42 -0700

The Farmers' Market opens today, Friday at 3:00 on the Madison Green. Take advantage of this opportunity to buy the produce and products of local vendors - nothing is better than fresh from the garden goodies. The market will be open every Friday during the summer. Let's make it a successful program that will continue for years!

Farmer's Market coming to Madison, CT...

Betsy Anderson (William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 07:36:45 -0700

This Friday will be the first Farmer's Market of the season in Madison. Get to the green at 3:00 when it opens! Time to enjoy the local goodies!