Ask Agnes: Vol II

Again we find ourselves looking for some wonderful things to do on Cape Cod.  This time our 'Ask Agnes' feature explores Brewster and some of its hidden (or sometimes overlooked) gems.

Cape Cod Chatelains: 'Hey Agnes, the kids are driving me nuts, what can I do with them?'

Agnes: 'First and foremost is the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History.  This treasure located right on route 6A in Brewster contains a variety of fascinating and enriching exhibits and nature trails.  I especially like to check out the bees which have a hive sandwiched between two pieces of glass so that you can watch them at work.  When I get tired of being inside the miles of walking trails are a wonderful respite.  Travelling over the marsh, through the woods and all the way to the Bay they are an education in the local biology and geology with every step.  If the kids need to get out some wiggles the summer program and Mudflat Mania! are both great opportunities for the kids to have a great time and learn something to boot.'

CCC: 'Sounds great.  Is anything else close to there?'

A: 'I'm glad you asked.  Just on the east side of the marsh is Paines Creek Landing and Beach. This beach generally does not get as swamped with people as some of the other beaches around (but as always get there early).  In addition the 'creek' which is tidal, is a blast for riding with the tide on a tube.  The current can rip through there though, so keep an eye on young ones.  What is truly fascinating is that Paines Creek (its name North of 6A) is also Stony Brook (its name south of 6A) and, in the spring, herring swim against the current to Mill Pond to spawn.  You can enjoy this natural spectacle at the Stony Brook Grist Mill, which is a truly magical site, also...'

 

CCC: 'Wow, there is a lot to do in a small space!'

A: 'Hold on I wasn't finished.  Also you can go to Drummer Boy Park and enjoy the playground.  At different times the Brewster Historical Society holds events here (along with a lot of other groups) and you should be sure to go when the windmill and the blacksmith are open.'

CCC: 'Wonderful, as usual we are dually impressed with your knowledge of the area.  Thanks Agnes.'

A: 'I have a lot more to say about Brewster though!  It's such a great town!'

 

Well thank you again Agnes, we are lucky to have your decades of experiences here on Cape Cod.  Also see our previous blog about places to walk your dog as there are some references to Brewster locations in there too.  As always, please contact us with any questions about your real estate needs, we are happy to help.

38 Mayflower Road West Yarmouth, Cape Cod MA, JUST LISTED --- $279,000

Cute as a button! The essence of Cape Cod best describes this adorable cottage that is less than half mile to a warm Nantucket Sound beach. It offers wood floors, living room with fireplace, dining room, two first floor bedrooms, and two additional rooms upstairs that are currently used as bedrooms.  The yard with a wonderful outdoor shower offers a place to relax and enjoy friends while grilling your favorite summer foods. A very sweet cottage with all the charm the Cape has to offer.

 

Here are just a few photos to give you a taste but this home is an absolute gem! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have been tracking an interesting development with the 'Zestimate' function of Zillow.  You can find an article here by Kenneth Harney in the Washington Post and another here by Rachel Koning Beals of Market Watch.  To briefly summarize Zillow.com uses a feature involving a proprietary algorithm that pulls sales data and other factors (again we aren't sure what these factors are exactly) and produces an estimate on the price of the property.  From Zillow's own definition found on their website "The Zestimate® home value is Zillow's estimated market value for an individual home and is calculated for about 100 million homes nationwide. It is a starting point in determining a home's value and is not an official appraisal. The Zestimate is automatically computed daily based on millions of public and user-submitted data points."

Currently a class action lawsuit has been filed in Cook County, Illinois that claims the Zestimates® look too much like official appraisals and are misleading consumers.  In addition the suit points out that no consent is given by the homeowner for an estimate to be posted online.    

Our take?  In the absolute simplest terms real estate is a market like any other and the market determines the price (not Zillow, not your neighbor and not even your real estate agent).  Take this example, a house lists at $400,000, five buyers appear on the first day and each offer full price for the house.  The seller allows for the 5 buyers to present their final and best offer which turns out to be $420,000.  In this case the high demand allowed for a higher sale price.  If the house appraised at $400K it likely would still have sold for $420K because the MARKET demand was so high.  The alternative: a house lists for $400,000 and is appraised for the same.  However, in this hypothetical market there are lots of houses just like this one for sale.  The house is eventually sold after a very long time for $375,000 because the high supply of similar homes and low demand from buyers influenced the price for the home - the MARKET dictated the sale price.  

Do we think we know about writing a sophisticated algorithm that analyses millions of data points and synthesizes the result into an estimate of value?  Absolutely not.  Do we know if the new town zoning law restricting improvements to land adjacent to a salt marsh affects the price of your undeveloped land?  You bet.

Why don't you give us a call and see if three decades of experience and two generations of tradition can help you in the real estate market here on Cape Cod. For a professional home valuation done by local agents click here.

 

 

Ask Agnes...

We'd like to introduce a new feature in the blog - 'Ask Agnes'.  Agnes, the better half of the 'Ed and Agnes' foundation of Cape Cod Chatelains, was the first to enter real estate in 1992.  Ever since, she has been adding her professionalism and love for her clients to each of her deals.  We appreciate Agnes for her insight into the local area and her knowledge of the real estate market.  For this week's feature we ask Agnes about Orleans, one of the towns on the lower Cape.  In fact the Boston Globe just named Orleans one of the two best seaside towns in New England.  Check out that article here.

Cape Cod Chatelains - 'Hey Agnes, what are great outdoor activities in Orleans?'

Agnes - 'One of my favorite ocean beaches is Nauset.  As I let the pressure out of my tires to drive out on the beach (click here for permit info) I feel the pressure of the world escape from my soul.'

CCC - 'Really... the pressure of the world?'

A - 'In all seriousness Nauset beach is beautiful.  I love to drive out early and spend all day grilling, walking along the beach and dunes, and playing in the surf with the grandkids.  Watching surfers provides wonderful entertainment and the camaraderie that exists between Nauset beach-goers is something special.  Another one of my outdoor favorites is the Pleasant Bay Community Boating.  They provide a great opportunity for residents and visitors to experience Pleasant Bay from the water - and if there's one thing I love, its experiencing life from the water'

CCC - 'Then why do we always get yelled at to keep the boat from heeling?'

A - '   '

 

CCC - 'What are some great places to eat in Orleans?'

A - 'I love the knack, especially when I have family or friends with me.  The patio seating can be moved around a little to accommodate different sized groups and the food and shakes are phenomenal.  My personal favorite is the avocado burger that has some type of mysterious sauce that can't be explained except to say that it is delicious.  I also like that you can order online and pick up your food without having to wait in the line - which can be extensive - I guess the word is out on this great burger.  

'If I am out and about earlier in the day I like Hole in One, right on 6A for their homemade donuts and dynamite breakfast.  The bonus about Hole in One is that you can sneak in downstairs and take a box of pastries to go without needing to wait too long.  I like to enjoy a donut and coffee just down the street at the windmill. 

 

CCC - 'What is another one of your favorites here in Orleans?'

A - 'One of the best parts of summer is the Cape Cod Baseball League.  This gem of the Cape is where many great college baseball players come to spend the summer months playing on one of many local teams.  The Firebirds are the hometown team in Orleans and play in the 'East Division' of the league.  Their home field has wonderful grassy stadium seating and is a favorite with the little ones.'

 

Well thank you Agnes, we are lucky to have your decades of experiences here on Cape Cod.  As always, please contact us with any questions, we are happy to help.

 

Have you been tossing and turning at night wrestling with the decision to sell your home?  When is the right time to sell?  Am I going to regret not selling my home now?  Will the housing market slip back towards favoring buyers?  Deciding to sell your home can be a serious decision but don't be discouraged; keep these points in mind and you will be on the right track to making a good decision about whether to sell your home.

 

Equity

    Put simply, equity is how much of your home you actually own.  It is a funny thing to think about but mortgages, liens, home equity loans etc... all mean that something other than you (usually a bank) have an ownership interest in your home.  If you sell, all of these mortgages and liens need to be paid before you.  Getting a comparative market analysis from a real estate agent gives you an idea of the value of your home in the current market. Then you can calculate how much equity remains in your house for you to take away. 

 

Equity is not Net

    Unfortunately, your net profit from the sale of your home is not, simply put, net = sale price - mortgage.  Just to list a few of the often overlooked expenses for which sellers are responsible: Attorney's fees, broker's fees, title V septic inspections, and sales tax stamps all subtract from the overall proceeds of the sale.

 

 

 

Trends in the Market

    Everyone loves to predict the future so why should prospective sellers be any different?  Familiarizing yourself with the local market data as well as talking to a real estate agent about comparing your home to others in the area (comparative market analysis) will help you decide if now is a good time for you to sell.

 

 

Personal Needs

    One factor that should never be overlooked is simple reality.  When you (you have time) to sit down and rationally evaluate your current life situation, often the decision to sell or stay becomes more clear.  Are you expecting triplets and the one bedroom condominium suddenly seems like a closet?  Selling and upgrading is probably the right decision regardless of how much of the mortgage is paid off.  Are you tired of that old drab kitchen?  Perhaps new cabinets and fresh paint is all you need.

As always please contact us with any questions and put three decades of experience and two generations of tradition in your corner.

 

33 Aunt Janes Road, South Yarmouth has just come on the market.  This home is in a fabulous location: quiet, convenient, and year round. Enjoy a stroll down scenic Pleasant Street and nearby River Street and enjoy the views of Bass River from Windmill Beach.  The large lot abuts two streets making it very accessible from two locations. The spacious floor plan includes room for separate living quarters making it an ideal home for both vacation home seekers and permanent home seekers. Opportunity knocks!  Materialize your ideas and reap the benefits of living in one of the most desirable areas of Yarmouth.

Please don't miss the introductory open house Sunday 5/28 from 1-3pm.  See you there!

Here are just a few photos and a photo tour of the home.

 

 

23 Millers Road South Dennis 02660 | $309,000 

We are pleased to announce the sale of this impeccable home.  This is a quintessential Cape cottage with bright charm dripping from the walls and double the benefit with an adjacent lot being sold with the property. Meticulously maintained outside and in, this home features a two sided gas fireplace, central air conditioning, deck, full basement with interior access, beautiful landscaping, updated bathroom, recently painted interior and exterior. Turn-key ready with convenience to the beautiful Cape Cod Rail Trail, Route 6 & Patriot Square.

Here are a few snapshots but the home speaks for itself when you see it in person.  We think you will fall in love with this property as much as us.

  

 

 

 

9 Osborn Snow Drive ** Price Reduction ** $2,200,000

   This spectacular home has just seen a price reduction.  Get a small taste from the pictures below and give it a look by following the link.  Amaze at the quality and attention to detail in this wonderful home. Arrive from the 3 car garage, pass the walk-in wine cooler, enter the gourmet kitchen with beautiful views of Quivet Marsh. Top of the line stainless steel appliances, stove-top, refrigerator, and ovens. Granite countertops adorn the custom cabinets and spacious island for cooking or entertaining. Take a break in a sitting room with gas fireplace, warm wooden panelling and wide views of the private backyard & meticulously maintained fruit tree orchard. The living room and formal dining rooms sparkle. Give guests their privacy in the lower level 2 bedrooms suite. Invite clients to the private upstairs office spacious enough for a conference table. A first floor master with a luxurious bathroom make this home a must see.

   

 

 

Maximize the Sale Price of Your Home this Spring

    Potential sellers always ask us about the best ways to maximize the sale price of their home.  Even before we begin the conversation we frequently see defeat in their eyes because they expect us to name big big ticket items like kitchens, roofs, or bathrooms.  While these can indeed help to maximize return we think these three low-cost projects are an excellent use of homeowner resources.  

1. Landscaping

    We understand, trying to maintain a yard on Cape Cod is asking a lot. Pitch pine needles and salt spray are not conducive to green and lush grass, but who says you have to have perfect grass to have curb appeal?  Using local plants that thrive on the Cape is a great way to improve the health of the local ecosystem as well as make your home feel like it fits into the landscape.  Check out the link here for more information on local species.  Furthermore simple clean-up tasks like edging and mulching your flowers, cutting your grass, and removing downed trees and branches all improve the look and feel of your home.

2. Wash and Paint

    Now don't get too excited, we understand that painting trim and siding is an expensive job for a professional and time consuming for the owner-enthusiast.  However peeling paint can be an immediate turn off to potential buyers so here is our recommendation - wash the house and touch-up the paint.  Washing doesn't have to involve a professional company - a garden hose and sturdy brush will clean much of what needs to be taken care of.  Rain splatters dirt around the foundation and shaded areas provide excellent habitat for mildew, moss, or lichen.  Pay special attention to removing mildew in corners and on or around gutters.   

  Painting can seem onerous as well but the good news is that it really isn't that bad.  Keeping up with flakes and chips every spring adds years to the life of a paint job and makes your home look well-tended and loved (which adds a lot of value).  Open a paint can (that matches the color please) and spend a few minutes a day walking around and retouching. 

3. Do That 'Honey-Do'

    All homeowner's have a project in the yard that makes them say,  'I really do need to get this done'.  Weeding paths, planting flower boxes, fixing broken fence rails, repairing screens or cracked glass, etc... stop procrastinating and do it already.  Those little projects are on your list and they will be on a buyer's as well.  No one wants something preventing the sale of their home, so take care of that nagging thing today.  

 

 

  One example is 9 Osborn Snow Drive, East Dennis.  While we all wish we could have such a spectacular luxury home we can still learn a lot from its neat and tidy planted gardens and ornamental plants that are BELOW the windows.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Here is another wonderful home, 41 Deacon Court, Barnstable.  Notice the neatly kept crushed stone driveway, low plants and maintained paint.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Here is a beautiful example of a new listing coming soon to the market.  23 Millers Road South Dennis.  We choose it as our stellar example of a perfectly maintained Cape Ranch.  

 

 

 

 

Spring is a great time for the real estate market on Cape Cod.  As the Cape itself comes alive, homeowners take the opportunity to market their homes to potential buyers.  Don't miss a chance to see some of the wonderful open houses here on Cape Cod this weekend.  If you are in the market for an elegant home with sweeping views of Crowes Pasture in Dennis and Cape Cod Bay, take a look at our listing at 9 Osborn Snow Drive in Dennis (pictured at right). 

Have a great weekend