Plymouth MA, South Shore and Cape Cod Real Estate Blog

TIPS FOR FINDING GREAT TENANTS

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:26:13 -0500

Locating and keeping good tenants is crucial when you buy an investment property, so a little caution during the screening process can save you a lot of headaches later on.

Intuition plays a role in a landlord's decision‑making process but it is very important to follow up on your intuition by checking on the facts. Ask your local REALTOR® to have prospective tenants fill out an application that includes both employment and personal references as well as the name, address and phone numbers of previous landlords. The application should also include written permission for you to run a credit check, if the prospects have not already provided a current one.

In most areas it is difficult and expensive to evict someone who turns out to be less than a model tenant, so it is wise to conduct a thorough check of references and credit history. You should always work with a licensed REALTOR® who possesses a solid reputation for screening tenants as well as a familiarity of contracts for your protection.

Once you have found your new tenant, review all documentation and property requirements together before they take occupancy to ensure that you have no miscommunications down the road.

For a professional real estate consultation with a friendly approach based on honesty, integrity and positive results, please contact Samantha Nichols direct at 508-726-1870 or email at Sam@SamanthaNichols.com. ERA Belsito and Associates is conveniently located at 100 Court Street in Historic Downtown Plymouth, MA 02360.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

I provide services in the following South Shore and Cape Cod MA towns: Bourne, Carver, Cohasset, Duxbury, Freetown, Halifax, Hanson, Hingham, Hull, Kingston, Lakeville, Marion, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Raynham, Rochester, Rockland, Sandwich, Scituate, Taunton and Wareham.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall at Plymouth Memorial State Park June 3-8, 2009

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 07:47:05 -0500

June 3rd through 8th, 2009

Set on the Plymouth Memorial State Park, Water Street, the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall ia a tribute to those gave all for their country.

Opening Ceremonies were held Wednesday June 3rd at 4pm.

The wall is open to the public through Monday June 8th at 12noon.

Saturday June 6th

1pm : Parade to the Wall
7pm : Flag Retirement Ceremony
8pm : Candle Light Vigil

Two Walls now travel the country from March to November in honor of the Fallen.

Sunday June 7, 2009

5pm : Closing Ceremony

Sponsored by The American Legion Department of Massachusetts and the 91st Annual Massachusetts Deptartment Convention Commitee

Proudly supporting the men and women who serve our country and preserve our freedoms

____________________________________________________

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

A "James and the Giant Peach" production in Plymouth MA Saturday May 2nd

Fri, 01 May 2009 19:36:23 -0500

The Plymouth YMCA is hosting "James and the Giant Peach" a unique musical theatre performance on Saturday, May 2nd at 1:00 pm at the Plymouth North High School.

The show itself will be performed by the nationally acclaimed "Theatreworks USA" from NYC-- America's largest and most prolific professional not-for-profit theatre for young and family audiences.

The Plymouth YMCA is bringing this event to town as a fundraiser for its Annual Strong Kids Campaign. Funds raised from this performance will provide financial assistance for YMCA Camp Clark, childcare, and recreation programs for youth in our community.

Tickets will be sold at the door for $10.

We look forward to your attendance.

_____________________________

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

HOW DO REALTOR®S FIND BUYERS?

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 21:14:43 -0500

When a homeowner tries to sell "By Owner", they use a few basic techniques to get the word out. They place a "For Sale by Owner" sign from the local hardware store in the front yard, and run classified ads in the local newspaper, possibly list the property on Craig's List or other "For Sale By Owner" site.

When a seller lists their home with a professional real estate agent, however, a very sophisticated process begins in order to generate a successful sale.

REALTORS® have a backlog of prospective buyers who are looking for homes in their local market. Through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), the agent cooperates with other brokers in the area, who will make appointments to show your home to their prospective buyers.

Professional REALTORS® also combine direct mail, telephone calls, a variety of advertising media and specialized promotional techniques to reach the sales market. We use the Internet for broad exposure of our properties. In this way we create activity on our listings that help them to sell quickly for top dollar.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

WHEN SHOULD YOU LOWER YOUR ASKING PRICE?

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:55:55 -0600

Your house has been on the market for weeks. Despite numerous ads, open houses and showings there were no offers. Now you are considering a price reduction. You want to get as much as you can for your home, but more important, you want it to sell!

This is the time to have a frank discussion with your REALTOR®. While price may be a major factor, it may not be the only consideration. Are you making your house easy for agents to show? Have you completed the necessary maintenance and cleaning so that your property is as appealing as possible?

Review with your agent the current market conditions, the prices of other homes currently on the market and most recent sales in your neighborhood to accurately determine that a price reduction is in order and what your new pricing should be.

The marketplace may be telling you that buyers just won't pay what you are asking. If all indicators point to a price reduction, it is better to do it sooner rather than later. Remember, your goal is to SELL!

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

Loans to Small Business Owners

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 23:01:06 -0500

During an economic time that demands action, the Plymouth Office of Community Development and the Chamber of Commerce are combining efforts to assist existing small business owners and Plymouth residents interested in starting their own businesses, to stimulate the economy and create new jobs.

Offered through the Office of Community Development, the "Microenterprise Assistance Program" allows Plymouth residents to apply for various options in secured low interest loans up to $35,000. Requirements include completing a 7-week course offered by SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) entitled "Small Business Management" and developing a business plan. The federally funded loans are offered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development through a Community Development Block Grant.

"Small Business Management" is a comprehensive program offering assistance with building advertising, bookkeeping and marketing skills as well as a guide for business survival, start-up concerns, bank loans and e-commerce. One-on-one counseling is also available for participants to assist with business planning.

For more information on the "Small Business Management" course, please visit the SCORE website, under Business Training Workshops. Click here for the Office of Community Development and the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

PLYMOUTH MA - Open House - 3 Cardinal Drive

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 18:52:32 -0600

Samantha Nichols | ERA Belsito and Associates | sam@samanthanichols.com | 508-726-1870

3 Cardinal Drive, Plymouth, MA

OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28TH FROM 12-2PM

2BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $212,900

Year Built	1964
Sq Footage	736
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	4
Lot Size	15,246 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28TH FROM 12-2PM -

New, new, new! Renovated 2 bedroom ranch w/ pond views on a beautiful .35 acre lot steps to beach, swimming, boating and fishing. Cathedral master bedroom with walk-in closet, 1st floor laundry hookup in new granite kitchen, hardwood floors installed, finished walk out basement, landscaped, huge new deck for outside living. Rough A/C and security system. House is finished and won't last long at this reduced price!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Living room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances	Basement
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Finished basement

Pond views

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Contact info:

Samantha Nichols

ERA Belsito and Associates

sam@samanthanichols.com

508-726-1870

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 21, 2009, 4:38pm PST

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

Tips for CitiMortgage and Short Sales

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:35:17 -0600

Last week I started a short sale process with CitiMortgage and decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to share my experience as it goes. Hopefully in the end, the buyer gets the house, the seller can move on and we can all learn from my trials, tribulations and triumph.

The process originally started with my client, Mr. Seller back in August 2008. He contacted the CitiMortgage Hardship Assistance department in the hopes of restructuring his loan to save his house. Paperwork faxed to a Maryland office (CitiMortgage contact info) included his financials, Hardship Letter explaining his situation and Workable Solutions Application.

Mr. Seller received a letter three (3) weeks later from the Loss Mitigation Department stating he had been assigned to a Loss Mitigation Specialist and that person would be contacting him. The "expected review time for the process" was to be "15-30 days". Unfortunately Mr. Seller did not hear from Mr. Loan Specialist and any further attempts at contact by Mr. Seller resulted in unreturned calls.

Fast forward two (2) months...and we have an offer! After numerous price reductions, I have procured a buyer willing and able to move forward with the purchase of this home. Now it's back to the drawing board with CitiMortgage.

I spent Thursday and Friday last week calling Customer Service & Loan Mitigation, neither of which could give me a straight answer about the short sale process. Both departments requested the Letter of Authorization which had been faxed in with the original package in August...hmm. Customer Service said they would fax a new one to sign within 24-48 hrs (I never received it) and Loan Mitigation said it would be 7-10 days. *** A short cut for this is to have the seller call Loan Mitigation with you conferencing and CitiMortgage will give you a 24 hr access to the account.***

Personally, I wasn't satisfied with that solution so I pressed on. I reached a Customer Service Supervisor that said I could use my own Letter of Authorization with certain language ***I/we hereby release Citi Mortgage Inc. and affiliates, employees, officers, agents and directors from any claim(s) that might arise in connection with this authorization. This authorization will remain in effect until revoked in writing.*** Done.

The entire package was faxed to the Loan Mitigation Department, attn. Mr. Loan Mitigation Specialist with calls into him as well. No response for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. (and yes, I did leave messages every day all three (3) days.) Thursday morning Mr. Seller called Mr Loan Mitigation Specialist's supervisor (notice a pattern here?) and was able to get results! Mr. Loan Mitigation could not help us, hence his lack of response.

Mr Supervisor called me within 10 minutes, stated he understood Mr. Seller's concerns and how could he help. I was (finally) authorized to discuss the account. The file was fast-tracked to a supervisor in Short Sale Mitigation who in turn assigned it to someone in the department. Mr. Short Sale Mitigator contacted me within 3 hours, another very polite and helpful person.

The entire file along with the HUD worksheet was emailed to him but in the meantime, he put in the BPO and appraisal requests...WOW! ***CitiMortgage may require up to two( 2) appraisals and a BPO***.

A broker called me by 11AM today for the BPO. It was done by 1PM with a promise to have it at CitiMortgage by this afternoon. Now the push for the next phase begins.

What have I learned thus far in this transaction? Persistence pays off. Had I waited for the original faxed Letter of Authorization, I'd still be waiting over a week later with no progress. When in doubt, ask for a supervisor. And ask, ask, ask any and all questions about the process, when steps will be taken, who can you call/email and how often. I've done a few of these over the years (I like a challenge) and the best advice...just keep going, as difficult as it may seem. Stay tuned for more!

Specializing in residential, new construction, and commercial real estate in Plymouth, surrounding South Shore towns and Cape Cod & the Islands, Samantha consistently updates her knowledge to provide better service to you.

For a professional real estate consultation with a friendly approach based on honesty, integrity and positive results, please contact Samantha Nichols direct at 508-726-1870 or email at Sam@SamanthaNichols.com. ERA Belsito and Associates is conveniently located at 100 Court Street in Historic Downtown Plymouth, MA 02360.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

Plymouth MA Historical sites and the US Mint

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 10:55:29 -0600

The US Mint is now working with Governor Deval Patrick to select four (4) sites in Massachusetts to be featured on the reverse of the next in the series of America's Beautiful National Parks Quarter, to be released by the start of next year.

Beginning 2010, five (5) new quarter designs will be released every year including sites on the National Register of Historic Places, National Forests and the National Wildlife Refuges. The selections will be made based on the order of federal designation as national sites or federal parks. The National Monument to the Forefathers set atop Allerton Street and Plymouth Rock located on the Plymouth Waterfront are now being considered as two (2) of 100 sites from 14 Massachusetts counties.

The voting list may be found at www.mass.gov/governor/quarter. Votes may be cast until 5pm Thursday February 26^th. Voters may vote as often as they choose but may only vote for one site at a time. Call 800-227-6277 to vote for a site not included on the state's web site list.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

HOW TO USE A REALTOR'S EXPERTISE

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 21:16:43 -0600

When you are using the services of a professional REALTOR® to find a new home, good communication is crucial. A REALTOR® who knows your most significant criteria can work much more effectively to show you homes that will meet your needs.

Let the REALTOR® know the reasons that you are interested in a specific area. If there are no houses available in your price range, the agent may suggest alternate neighborhoods with the same amenities. Do you need 3 bedrooms, 4 or more? Is a home office important or do you have hobbies that you want to accommodate? Is there a particular style of house that you prefer over others? Looking for a formal living room or an extra-large kitchen? Do you want a fireplace? How about a whirlpool tub?

Real estate agents sometimes need to be mind readers when working with buyers. The more you can tell us about what you really need and where you are willing to compromise, the easier it will be to find the perfect house for you.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

New Oceanview Listing in Plymouth, MA

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 01:23:17 -0500

Samantha Nichols | ERA Belsito and Associates | 508-726-1870

55 Menotomy, Plymouth, MA

VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $569,900

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	2,112
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	4 Car garage
Lot Size	11,326 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Located on a dead end street, this Nantucket style Colonial home boasts beautiful ocean views and is steps from the white sandy beach. 3 levels of living including a fantastic master suite with a private balcony off the sitting room and views, views, views. The main living area offers a large, open floor plan with expansive views out to the deck and ocean beyond. Lower level includes 2 bedrooms, bath and laundry. A gorgeous property waiting to be seen.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Fireplace	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Office/Den
Dining room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Basement	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Oceanviews

Master Suite

Private Association bech

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Samantha Nichols

ERA Belsito and Associates

508-726-1870

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 9, 2009, 5:45pm PST

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

HOW RISKY ARE CONTINGENT CONTRACTS?

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 21:15:52 -0500

Buyers walk into your home and fall in love with it, but they will have to sell their home before they can buy yours. Their offer contains a contingency clause that makes their purchase dependent upon selling their present home. Should you accept their offer?

Your decision should be based on several factors. Are they trying to sell their home themselves (a risky proposition!)? How long has it been on the market? If the house doesn't sell, can the buyers take out a bridge loan or make other arrangements to complete the purchase? How important is timing for you? Will the buyers agree to let you continue marketing your home and accept a non‑contingent contract (and void theirs) if their house does not sell? There should be a release clause in your contract that allows you to accept a better offer should one come along.

Contingent contracts often work out well if you enlist the help of a professional.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

THINKING AHEAD

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 23:23:32 -0500

If you are selling a home, the buyers' offer may include a home inspection clause that allows them to hire an expert to ensure that the house is structurally sound and all the systems are working properly.

The time to get ready for the home inspection is before you sell your house! Owners usually know about most of the defects in their house, such as plumbing or electrical problems or leaks that occur when it rains. When you decide to put your home on the market, you should repair any defects immediately. Most purchase agreements require sellers to convey the property with all systems and appliances in working order. Buyers may be frightened away by an inspection report that contains a long list of needed repairs. Eliminating maintenance as a potential issue in the sale can help you ensure that the transaction goes as smoothly as possible. This is especially important when the market is competitive in your area.

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

ROMANCING THE HOME

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 22:28:59 -0500

In a competitive housing market, how do you prepare your home to elicit an "I LOVE it!" response from buyers who are touring many properties? How do you make them fall in love with your home?

The first step to promoting interest in your property is to create curb appeal. Start by cleaning up your yard and driveway. Plant seasonal flowers for color, rake leaves & branches and keep tools & toys where they belong.

The next step for an irresistible home involves the minimalist approach of "de-personalizing" so that buyers can respond to the essential features of the house without being distracted by evidence of your ownership. Personal memorabilia such as family photographs, awards and trophies, collectibles and pieces of much-loved but mismatched antique furniture should be placed in storage or tucked away.

Decorate your home for showing as if the buyers are esteemed guests. Place your best tablecloth and a fresh floral centerpiece on your dining room table. Adorn the beds with your most elegant linens and refresh bathrooms. Build a fire in the fireplace and play soft music.

Collaborate with a real estate agent you trust to get your home ready for its date with the new owner!

For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit Plymouth MA Real Estate.
To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Click here to view local Plymouth, South Shore & Cape Cod MA information.

PLYMOUTH MA 4 bedroom home for sale JUST LISTED

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:51:01 -0500

Samantha Nichols | ERA Belsito and Associates | 508-726-1870

265 Lunns Way, Plymouth, MA

PLYMOUTH MA - Handicap accessible 4-bedroom cape

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $299,900

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	1,556
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	27,007 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful 4 bedroom Cape with gleaming wood floors, gorgeous rustic eat in kitchen, possible 1st floor master with full bath, newer appliances to stay, handicap accessible with open floor plan and wide doorways, 2nd floor bedrooms front to back with 2nd full bath. Private fenced in backyard and the 2 car garage is finished with internet/phone and electric, perfect for the "car junkie" or "handyman". A must see!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Fireplace	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Living room	Office/Den	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Basement	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Handicap accessible

1st floor bedroom

Neighborhood day care

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Samantha Nichols

ERA Belsito and Associates

508-726-1870

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 9, 2009, 4:56pm PST

For a professional real estate consultation with a friendly approach based on honesty, integrity and positive results, please contact Samantha Nichols direct at 508-726-1870 or email at Sam@SamanthaNichols.com. ERA Belsito and Associates is conveniently located at 100 Court Street in Historic Downtown Plymouth, MA 02360. • For information regarding Massachusetts and the oceanfront community of Plymouth MA, visit www.SamanthaNichols.com. • To search the MLS for homes, condos, land, multi family & commercial properties and view full listing sheets with property addresses, sign up with no obligation at my MLS information access site.

Plymouth MA, South Shore and Cape Cod Real Estate Blog

TIPS FOR FINDING GREAT TENANTS

Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall at Plymouth Memorial State Park June 3-8, 2009

A "James and the Giant Peach" production in Plymouth MA Saturday May 2nd

HOW DO REALTOR®S FIND BUYERS?

WHEN SHOULD YOU LOWER YOUR ASKING PRICE?

Loans to Small Business Owners

PLYMOUTH MA - Open House - 3 Cardinal Drive

Tips for CitiMortgage and Short Sales

Plymouth MA Historical sites and the US Mint

HOW TO USE A REALTOR'S EXPERTISE

New Oceanview Listing in Plymouth, MA

HOW RISKY ARE CONTINGENT CONTRACTS?

THINKING AHEAD

ROMANCING THE HOME

PLYMOUTH MA 4 bedroom home for sale ** JUST LISTED **

PLYMOUTH MA 4 bedroom home for sale JUST LISTED