If you're looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city, then look no further than Sebago Lake in Maine. It’s an idyllic spot that is perfect for relaxing on your own or with friends and [...]

Maine is a truly wondrous part of the country. The landscape is inspiring. Recreational opportunities are abundant. The food is delicious. There is plenty to explore all throughout the state when you find the perfect home and establish roots in the Pine Tree State (aptly nicknamed as it has over 17 million acres of forests). Here are some of [...]

Portland, Maine is well known for its hip attitude and humble hardworking roots. The city has a lot to offer including art galleries, music venues, shopping, and excellent restaurants. Fresh seafood is delivered to area restaurants from the busy seaport. Local oysters are always on the menu. If you and your family are seafood lovers, you [...]

The sweet bells of retirement ring loud and clear when shopping for homes in Central Maine. There are wonderful towns both large and small to meet the various social, recreational and other creature comforts and needs of the most discerning individuals. Tranquil rural communities with scenic vistas and active downtown communities both share [...]

Moving takes a lot of physical and emotional energy. It can be stressful for the entire family. Winter can bring additional stress. It’s important to think ahead, make a plan and enjoy the [...]

Have you ever dreamed of heading out to a frozen lake to do a little ice fishing in the early morning, cooking your catch for lunch, and then enjoying a little afternoon walk on a pair of ash-frame snowshoes built by local craftspeople? It is one of many winter adventures waiting for you, your friends, and your family in the lovely state of [...]

Decorating our homes is a proud winter holiday tradition in New England. You and your family might enjoy elaborate decorating traditions or easy & simple holiday decorating traditions. Your home will be perfect when your holiday décor reflects what is important to you and your loved ones. We imagine your guests will be very happy if your [...]

Homeownership has become an integral part of the American Dream. For many, it is a milestone for success and can provide a sense of independence. Homeowners have the freedom in renovating and making upgrades to their homes as they choose (with respect to local and state regulations), will build equity over time, and can enjoy tax breaks and create new revenue streams with their property. Here are some of the most popular reasons to buy instead of rent. Buy a home, and live the dream. 

Independence 

Freedom to Upgrade: Homeowners enjoy many freedoms, including choices of what to upgrade or renovate in their homes. Just remember to check building regulations in your state and local municipality regarding major projects. The regulations will vary, but permits are usually required when making changes to load bearing walls, installing plumbing, or wiring. Smaller cosmetic changes (painting, new flooring) usually don’t require permits. 

The State of Maine requires building permits for all new construction, including remodeling and adding onto existing structures. Building permits are issued by the city where the property is located. It’s best to check before starting any project, as strict building regulations may require removing an upgrade that was performed without a required permit. Permit fees will vary: set fees for smaller projects like fences, to fees calculated by the cost of the building project. 

Pride of Home Ownership: The American Dream was historically a dream of equality, justice, and democracy for the nation. The dream has come to include financial success over the years. Homeownership is a measure of that success. Buying a home has become a very important act of independence and an essential milestone in the lives of American citizens. 

Secure Lodging: You won’t need to concern yourself with landlords and leases when you buy a home. You will have secured your lodging. Your monthly payment will be fixed when you choose a fixed-rate mortgage. Renters face increases in their monthly payments at the end of a lease and sometimes find themselves looking for new accommodations when a property changes hands. Secure lodging is important and becomes more important over time to older Americans living on fixed incomes. 

Financial Benefits 

Equity: You will be building equity when you buy a home, but not when you rent a home. You will own the home in 15-30 years after making regular mortgage payments. But you have the opportunity to build wealth long before you pay off the mortgage, by way of equity. Equity is the amount you own, versus the amount you owe on the mortgage loan, calculated using the current value of your home. Depending on the current market value of your home you might acquire a nice little profit long before the 30 year mark. 

Tax Deductions: The tax breaks available to homeowners can translate to thousands of dollars. Review the rules and regulations as outlined by the IRS to determine what homeowner expenses can and cannot be deducted from your personal tax return.

Revenue Streams: When you own your home you can create additional revenue streams in several ways. You could rent out a room, you could rent out storage space on your property, or start a bed & breakfast or home based business. You will need to check with local and state regulations for home based businesses. Many towns have zoning ordinances regarding the type and size of businesses that can be operated in a residential area. Remember to check with local and state offices regarding building permits. The State of Maine has itemized the requirements for opening a bed & breakfast in the state, but there will be local codes and permits to consider as well. The state provides clearly defined requirements for starting a business on its official Maine.gov website. 

Meservier & Associates has been serving Maine home buyers and sellers with a collection of resources, agents, and market data since 1988. We look forward to working with you. Contact us today!

Decorating your home to celebrate the seasons and holidays is important. It provides a sense of place and time to you and your guests. Thanksgiving décor reminds family members of the holiday parties of years past as they look forward to the upcoming celebration and approaching feast. Here are some Thanksgiving décor ideas for indoors & [...]

The team of real estate professionals at Meservier & Associates includes listing and buying specialists, licensed administrators, and technology experts. We have a high standard of service, expertise, and personal care for each and every client we serve. Selling your home is a very personal experience. We understand choosing a real estate agent to sell your home is an important decision. We welcome clients who do their homework. Discerning clients are happy clients. Here are some tips for choosing a real estate agent to sell your home. 

Shopping for a Seller’s Agent 

Referral: You have built relationships with neighbors and local community members after living in your home throughout the years. Reach out to the friends, colleagues, and neighbors you trust for a personal referral. According to Zillow, 22% of home sellers find their agents through referrals. A referral is a valuable tool and a great place to start your search for an agent. 

Open House: Do your homework and check up on the referral you were provided. Stop by a local open house to watch the real estate agent working the room. Watch and listen as the agent interacts with buyers. You will gain valuable insight into the seller's agent's standard of professional service. If you like what you see and hear, talk to the agent. This is a great time for introductions. 

Compare: When hiring a seller’s agent, take the time to meet with more than just one agent. Have a list of questions, and ask the same questions to all the agents you speak with. By speaking with three or more agents you will get a good sense of their marketing strategy, communication style, expertise, and rate of success. You can decide which agent will best serve your needs. Real estate agents are not all alike. 

Questions to Ask a Seller’s Agent 

What is Your Marketing Strategy? A qualified agent will have a clearly defined strategy to sell your home. This will include MLS listing service, photography, and home staging. We offer a free in-home listing presentation at Meservier & Associates. We will visit your home and provide you with our marketing strategy specific to your property. You will get a great sense of our professionalism and expertise when we sit down together. The presentation also includes a CMA (comparative market analysis) to determine the fair market value of your home by comparing it to recently sold homes, and homes currently for sale in the area. 

How Many Clients Do You Represent? A good agent will have multiple clients. It’s a good sign the agent is successful and professional. An overwhelming number of clients would suggest you might not receive the personal care and attention you deserve. We provide our clients with personal care and attention at Meservier & Associates. 

Are You Part of a Team? You will want to know who you will be communicating with. When agents are marketing several listings during the same time frame they will likely be working with a team of professionals. It’s important to establish who you will be working with, and communicating with, on a daily basis. 

What is Your Sale-to-List Ratio? This is very important. The sale-to-list ratio shows when homes sell for the asking price, below the asking price, or above the asking price. You need to do your homework and see how the individual agent’s sale-to-list ratio compares with the local market. When compared to the local market average you will get a clear picture of how that agent is performing (or underperforming) for the seller. 

Meservier & Associates has been serving Maine home sellers with a collection of resources, agents, and market data since 1988. We look forward to working with you. Contact us today!