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Mortgage Rates Drop and the 15 year is below 4% as reported by Amy Hoak with MarketWatch:  “The average rate on the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell this week to its lowest level since mid-January, as the crisis in Japan caused investors to buy U.S. Treasury bonds, Freddie Mac’s chief economist said Thursday.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.76% for the week ending March 17, down from 4.88% last week and 4.96% a year ago.Fifteen-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 3.97%, down from 4.15% last week and 4.33% a year ago. This week, the mortgage rate hit its lowest level since December.Meanwhile, 5-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages averaged 3.57% this week, down from 3.73% last week and 4.09% a year ago.

And 1-year Treasury-indexed ARMs averaged 3.17%, down from 3.21% last week and 4.12% a year ago.

To obtain the rates, the fixed-rate mortgages required payment of an average 0.7 point, while the ARMs required an average 0.6 point. A point is 1% of the mortgage amount, charged as prepaid interest.“With the crisis in Japan, investors rushed to buy the security of U.S. Treasury bonds, which lowered its yields and other interest rates as well. This allowed fixed mortgage rates to drift lower this week,” said Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist at Freddie Mac, in a news release.”

There are lots of exciting possibilities for building a new home in Spruce Pond Estates this spring. If you need a home right away, there is a home nearing completion that offers it all at the very affordable price of $579,900.

From the moment you walk into the front entrance hall with its gleaming hardwood floors, wainscoting, custom staircase and soaring space you will know this is the home you have been searching for in southern NH. The formal rooms feature hardwoods, crown moldings and handsome architectural details. The grancious formal diningroom features a sweeping bay window and distinctive wainscoting. One of the best features is the office or study that is privately tucked away of the front hall. The wow moment comes as you experience the spacious custom kitchen that opens into the family room. The family room is a dramatic, light filled space with cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace. The master bedroom suite offer a private retreat with with sitting area, luxurious spa bath and one of the biggest dressin area / walk-in closet that you’ve ever seen. Three more spacious bedrooms. Three car attached garage. All offering a tremendous new home value in Windham NH.

In addition, there are several foundations in the ground that will allow you to get the construction process moving right now!

Lot 842 Jacob Road: Everything is ready to start constuction on the 3,000 Sq.Ft. Hopkins model featuring a two car attached garage. $514,900

Lot 899 Jacob Road: The Lt. Reid model offers 3,420 Sq.Ft. with a two car attached garage. Construction can begin quickly and you can be in your new home this summer before the start of school.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for why not stop by the furnished model this Sunday from 12-4 P.M. to discuss your needs. There are many plans available including styles with first floor master bedroom suites and homes featuring in-law suites.

I-93 exist 3 in Windham NH. Left on 111. Left on 28 to Northland Road

Many people think of Windham NH as an upscale community with large homes in attractive subdivisions. While that is a large part of the Windham landscape there are also many, well planned condominium communities located in town. The quality of life attractions that appeal to so many single family buyers also apply to condominium buyers considering living here. Of course the first advantage is the location with easy access to I-93. Boston is an easy drive within 40 minutes most of the time. Hopefully this post will give you an introduction to the many options for condominium living which include several active adult neighborhoods.

NEW CONDOMINIUM COMMUNITIES:

Lakeview Farms: This popular plus 55 neighborhood is located near Cobbett’s Pond and offers easy access to interstate 93. There are single family attached homes that start at $349,900 and feature open floor plans and two car attached garages. Duplex style units start at $249,900. This area is nearing completion. There were several duplex unit sales ranging from $259,900 to $272,500.

The Villages at Windham Meadows: Windham Meadows is located in West Windham and has easy access to 1-93, Lowell and Nashua. This area is comprised of several neighborhoods of 55+ and condominium homes. The Villages at Windham Meadows feature all single family detached units. Both ranch style and two story style homes are available. Prices start at $319,900 for a 1840 sq.ft. 2 bedroom home with an attached two car garage. In 2010 the sales prices ranged from $350,695 and $410,000. Thirteen homes sold last year. Be sure not to confuse this neighborhood with the long established Villages of Windham.

The Villages of Windham: The Villages of Windham is located off of Route 28. This scenic location features contemporary condominium homes set on rolling hills and among tranquil ponds. The home that are under construction offer three distinct models. There is a spacious ranch style unit. A dramatic two story unit with vaulted ceilings and a first floor master bedroom suite. The middle unit is a two story townhouse style. The end units feature two car garages. The new units start at $329,900. 

The Villages also offer really nice resale units with distinctive floorplans. Again, there are ranch style and first floor master designs.  The sales last year include one closed for $239,000 and another for $300,000.

RESALE CONDOMINIUM COMMUNITIES:

There are several condominium communites in Windham.

Hardwood Heights has approximately 80 townhouses which is located in the center of town and has good access to route 111 and interstate 93. Units sold in 2010 ranged from $170,000 to $200,000.

Wynridge is another established area with approximately 30 units which are also located near the center of town. The end units feature two car garages and a first floor master bedroom suite. 

Lamplighter Village

+55 COMMUNITIES

Hadleigh Woods:

Windham Meadows:

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL NEW CONDOMINIUM COMMUNITES IN WINDHAM NH

Few people in 2009 would have predicted that 2010 was going to be such a great year for real estate in Windham.  Overall, 183 single family homes sold in 2010, compared to just 136 in 2009. That is a 35% annual increase in the number of sales.  Condominium sales were up slightly with 37 sold in 2010, compared to 35 in 2009.

Interest rates hit record lows in 2010, in the range of 4.5% fixed, which certainly helped the market by making financing a home incredibly affordable. The $300,000 to $400,000 price range in Windham had a large number of sales. The Windham market was also helped by very strong demand between $400,000 and $700,000. This is the range where many relocation buyers are looking for homes. Windham has a large inventory of newer homes in attractive subdivisions in this price range and many community amenities such as a new high school that is appealing to this segment of the home-buyer market.  And Windham homes are generally much more affordable than competing upscale communities in northern Massachusetts.

In the upper range in Windham, over $700,000, there were 10 sales in 2010 as compared to just 6 in 2009. Nine of the sales in 2010 were in the $700,000 to $900,000 range and one was sold between $900,000 and a million.  The average sales price in Windham was $432,717 in 2010 vs. $426,114 in 2009.

So what were the trends as 2010 came to a close? One very positive sign for the market was that the large corporations are still moving employees and the transferee buyers were out looking for homes at the end of the year. The trend during the last ninety days in Windham, unlike the rest of the nation, which showed sharp year over year monthly declines, was flat. During the last quarter of 2010 in Windham, there were 38 single family sales compared to 42 in 2009. This is a small decline of about 10%. A good gauge of futures closed sales are pending homes sales.  In Windham, during the last 90 days of the year, they dropped to 28 in 2010, from the 44 recorded in 2009.

So what will the real estate market look like in 2011? Over my many years in the business, I’ve learned that it is difficult to predict the future of any market. There are just too many variables, both positive and negative, that can affect a market over the course of a year. Some years start slow and end strong and some start strong and end slow.  It does appear likely that 2011will be another good year for real estate in Windham.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in 2011, keep in mind that the market generally starts showing increased activity at the end of January. There are just 132 homes on the market currently with a very limited choice for buyers in certain market segments. Your home could be just what relocation or local buyer is looking for but can’t find because of the limited inventory in the winter months.  It can be a good strategy to place your home on the market early in the year before the spring inventory buildup.

The market information presented here is from MLS statistics and does not include private sales that are not handled by brokers. 

Much of this information was included in a article about the southern New Hampshire real estate market in the Eagle Tribune. Read Article Here

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Multiple Listing Service of the Granite State South Board of REALTORS, Inc. Neither the board or its M.L.S. guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the Board or its M.L.S. may not reflect all activity in the market. Sales of Windham Homes and Condominiums from 01-01-2010 to 12-31-2010

Prudential Dinsmore Assoicates, REALTORS in Windham, New Hampshire is pleased to announce that Densie Silva has joined the company as a sales professional. Denise has two years of real estate experience and was formerly with Prudential Verani Realty in Londonderry NH.

Denise is a real estate professional who is passionate about finding the right home for her customers and clients. Densie says that, “she is all about individual attention, quality service and customer satisfaction.” She is an excellent transaction manager. She spent many years as a paralegal for a Massachusetts law firm.

Denise in e-certified which means she knows how to use all of the tools of the internet with both buyers and sellers. If you are a seller she can use her online techniques and strategies to make sure that you home is found by Buyers searching on the web. If you are a buyer Denise knows how to effectively stay in touch with you and make sure that you are aware of the new home listings coming onto the market. 

If you are relocating to southern New Hampshire, rest assured that you will be in good hands. Denise has taken advanced training with Prudential Relocation in ”Destination Services” which focuses on the unique needs of the relocating buyer. She is prepared to help the you with the services and solutions to make a out of state move as smooth as possible.

As a seller, you will be happy to know that Densie has an independent business as a professional home stager, color consultant and interior decorator and has unique talents and training to help you prepare your home for the market.   

If you a looking to buy or sell a home in southern New Hampshire you can contact Denise by phone of e-mail: dsilvahomes4u@gmail.com

Denise lives in Windham with her family.

First floor master bedroom suites are becoming very popular with home buyers in southern New Hampshire. This trend is seen with both new homes and resales. Many people like the convenience of living on one level. Others like the idea of having the master bedroom as a private retreat with the other bedrooms located on the second floor.

In Spruce Pond Estates, in Windham New Hampshire, more buyers are inquiring about first floor master bedrooms. There is currently a very distinctive home nearing completion that features an open floor plan with a first floor master bedroom suite.  Brian Harvey of H & B Homes sees the first floor master suite as a trend that is growing in popularity.  H & B Homes has first floor master plans available in different sizes and price ranges. 

A newly listed home in our office is a custom home that is loaded with exterior curb appeal. It features a first floor master bedroom suite and an open floor plan with a great room and vaulted ceilings. It has the convenience of a two car attached garage. There is also a seperate office on the first floor. The home has a large footprint and also includes a bayfront formal dining room and livingroom on the main level. Three additional bedrooms are located upstairs. Priced at just $429,900. It is located in the desirable Jackman Ridge neighborhood in Windham NH.

If you are looking to make a first floor master bedroom suite part of your lifestyle change the Realtors at Prudential Dinsmore Associates can help you find the home in southern NH that best meets your needs.

Have you been to Spruce Pond Estates lately?  This is Windham New Hampshire’s most popular new home neighborhood where you’ll find a wide variety of homes to choose from. There are several homes that are up and could be ready for the holdidays. As always, Spruce Pond Estates has a model open every Sunday from 12:00 to 3:00

THE WILSON: 14 DUSTON ROAD (LOT 1232) This popular model is very spacious and offers 3,588 square feet of living space. You’ll enjoy greeting firends and family in the impressive two story foyer. Right of the foyer is a very large office or study. Formal living and ding rooms. There is a wonderful center island kitchen with big dining area that open directly into the family room wiht vaulted ceilings. The master bedroom suite is very spacious and features a spa bath and huge walk-in closet. Plus you’ll love the three car attached garage. This home could be ready for a quick close. Best of all it is priced at just $579,900. You won’t find a better value in Windham! Why not take a look this Sunday.

THE STARK: 42 NORTHLAND ROAD (LOT 1239) This distinctive home offers 3,269 square feet of living space and featues a wonderful great-room just steps from the kithcen. And inviting foyer opens to the formal living room. Gracious formal dining room with wainscoting. Big kitchen with breakfast room. Spacious master bedroom with spa bath. Four bedrooms total. Plus a two car garage. This home is set on a beautiful lot and can be ready for a quick closing. Priced at just $549,900.

Buckland Road located within Spruce Pond Estates and has been planned for more affordable homes.  Yes you can live in Windham without compromising with a resale that just doesn’t match your tastes and style. The homes on Buckland Road start at just $394,900.  

12 BUCKLAND ROAD (LOT 870) is up and could be ready for a quick close. This spacious colonial offers 2,222 square feet of living space and a walk up to the second floor that can be finished later into additional living space. This three bedroom 2.5 bath home offer s large familyroom, formal dining room and a huge country style kitchen with a large dining area. There is also a two car garage. There are several lots and many home styles to choose from on Buckland Road.

DIRECTIONS: FROM INTERSTATE 93 TAKE EXIT 3. RIGHT ON ROUTE 111. LEFT ON ROUTE 28. LEFT ON NORTH ROAD ABOUT 2 MILES NORTH. WATCH FOR SIGNS

Bob Peate a real estate agent with Prudential Dinsmore Associates, REALTORS in Windham NH was recently featured on WMUR in Manchester. The televised segment discussed current options for people nearing retirement age who are encountering a challenging environment for the 401K investments. As part of his retirement strategy, Bob decided to enter real estate, full time, two year ago. After completing many successful real estate transactions, he has found real estate to be a rewarding career.  “We’re thinking of downsizing our expectations of retirement,” he said. “Maybe it’s a good right-sizing that we’re going through.” You can see the full segment here: Bob Peate-WMUR clip

Windham, New Hampshire – Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services, a Prudential Financial, Inc. [NYSE: PRU] company, and Prudential Dinsmore Associates, REALTORS announced that Prudential Real Estate ranks “Highest Overall Satisfaction for Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” in J.D. Power and Associates’ 2010 Home Buyer/Seller Study^SM.

The study measures customer satisfaction of home sellers and buyers with major national real estate companies. Overall satisfaction is determined by examining four factors for the home-selling experience: agent (44%); marketing (30%); office (15%); and services (11%).

Among home sellers, Prudential Real Estate achieved scored highest on a 1,000-point scale and received particularly high ratings from customers in the marketing and agent factors. This is the second time in three years the Prudential Real Estate Network ranked highest in seller satisfaction. The Network also ranked highest in 2008.

 “This distinction underscores the satisfaction level and consistency of our network through challenging times in our industry,” said Jim Mallozzi, chairman and CEO, Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services. “Affiliate to affiliate, our sales professionals are the local-market experts who market and price homes right, while providing attentive service. The more you know us, the more you love us.”

Added Earl Lee, president, Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services: “The Prudential Real Estate Network already enjoys one of the highest average selling prices in the industry. And, this prestigious J.D. Power and Associates designation demonstrates that our sales professionals are representing their customers with distinction.”

The team at Prudential Dinsmore Associates, Realtors works hard to exceed the expectations of its clients – sellers and buyers alike, explained Brad Dinsmore, broker/owner, Prudential Dinsmore Associates, REALTORS. “In today’s market, our clients require all the expertise and service we can offer – and by leveraging Prudential’s brand strength, its broad product and service offerings and its effective Internet marketing programs, we provide sellers with the exposure they need for their homes.”

The study finds that despite the popularity of home selling and buying resources on the Internet, the real estate sales professional remains key to customer satisfaction with real estate companies. A large proportion of both home sellers and buyers rely on the Internet to facilitate the buying or selling process, with 79 percent of buyers saying that they used Internet tools to help them in the purchase process, and 82 percent of sellers reporting that they used a website listing to market their home. In addition, among home sellers, online methods are the most important aspect of marketing.

However, the sales professional carries the greatest importance among the factors that comprise overall satisfaction among both home sellers and buyers.

According to J.D. Power and Associates, although the Internet provides real estate consumers with the ability to perform some essential tasks – such as listing a home for sale or researching a neighborhood in which to purchase a home – it still does not replace the importance of a good sales professional. The knowledge and expertise provided by experienced sales professionals are important benefits of using a full-service real estate company.

Satisfaction averages 768 among those customers whose homes sold within five months or less, but declines considerably to an average of 702 among customers whose homes took seven months or longer to sell, the study showed.

Nearly one-half of respondents in the study (46%) reported using recommendations from family or friends to find their real estate sales professional. Approximately 32 percent used a sales professional they had used previously, 22 percent used the internet and 12 percent used a listing agent for property.

The study reports that home buyers were shown an average of 17 homes before they made a purchase. Home sellers reported that, on average, their home was shown 12 times, and about two open houses were conducted before a sale occurred.

The 2010 Home Buyer/Seller Study includes 3,096 evaluations from 2,817 respondents who bought or sold a home between March 2009 and April 2010.

Based in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, training and customer satisfaction. The company’s qualityand satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on cell phone ratings, car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance andmore, visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

Prudential Real Estate provides franchises with business strategies using Operation Reviews as well as numerous benefits, including access to Prudential Real Estate’s Online Seller Advantage^® program designed to provide real-time information to sellers with the touch of a keystroke. Prudential Real Estate is one of the largest real estate brokerage franchise networks in North America, with 1,700 franchise offices and approximately 60,000 sales professionals in the franchise network as of March 31, 2010.

Prudential Dinsmore Associates, REALTORS is located in Windham, New Hampshire and lists and sells real estate across southern New Hampshire

Have you been waiting for a waterfront home on Cobbett’s Pond this summer? There has been very little inventory of homes for sale on the lake.

Well, we have just listed a beautiful year round home on Cobbett’s. It has an end of the road setting with a large .47 acre lot with an unusual 148 feet of water frontage. 

Here are some of the details. The home is priced at $759,900

• Dramatic open concept interior with volume ceilings.
• Impressive open foyer with handsome open rail staircase.
• Living room with vaulted ceilings, hardwoods and floor to ceiling brick fireplace with gas log. Sliders open to the deck.You will enjoy dining with panoramic lake views. Highlights include cathedral ceiling, hardwoods and casement windows.
• Gorgeous kitchen with oak cabinetry, handsome ceramic tile floors, recessed and pendant lighting, rich granite counter tops, cathedral ceiling, gas stove, dishwasher, trash compactor and an abundance of counter and cabinet space!
• Enjoy the fireplace in the family room which features hardwoods and double sliders for panoramic lake views.
• Master bedroom suite features hardwood floors, two closets and private bath with soaking tub. Imagine working from home in the alcove off the master with breathtaking lake views.
• Two additional bedrooms and a full bath off the hallway complete the second floor.
• The yard offers a big level front and side lawn, plenty of parking and beautiful patios and deck offering just incredible lake views.
• Lakeside there is a dock for your boat included with the sale.
• Hard to find two attached car garage.

Call 603-898-9038 or e-mail prudinsmore@comcast.net for more information or a showing.