Real Estate Market Insights

Real Estate Market Insights
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Many people are wondering what will happen in the residential real estate market in the coming months. Though no one has that exact answer, in light of the many conflicting reports and opinions circulating, I wanted to provide you with the most current factual information and a look at how the market works.

The enclosed Market Activity by Month graph reveal trends over the past 12 months. You will see in most areas that the each month more homes came on the market than were sold. When this happens, the supply of homes exceeds the demand and there is a downward pressure on home sale prices.

The opposite trend occurred in 2000 through 2005. Homes sold faster than they were listed and the demand for a limited supply of homes drove sale prices upward. Buyers made higher offers in hopes of securing the home they wanted. In 2006, home inventory began to increase, and as more properties came on the market than were sold, home prices began to depreciate. This trend continued as the mortgage and banking industry took a hard hit in 2007 and we entered an economic recession in 2008.

The four bars on the graph give insights into the local market trends by month. The first column represents new listings on the market, the second column shows homes under contract, and the third column shows the total inventory of homes. The fourth column is the overpriced listings that expired and came off the market without a sale. When more properties come on market than properties being sold, inventory rises resulting in a depreciating market.

Please let me know if you would like to receive a graph detailing the latest real estate trends in your community.

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by our MLS partners. These entities neither guarantee nor are responsible for data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

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Valentine Day Special at Rituals Salon & Day Spa

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Real Estate Market Insights

	Real Estate Market Insights Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Many people are wondering what will happen in the residential real estate market in the coming months. Though no one has that exact answer, in light of the many conflicting reports and opinions circulating, I wanted to provide you with the most current factual information and a look at how the market works. The enclosed Market Activity by Month graph reveal trends over the past 12 months. You will see in most areas that the each month more homes came on the market than were sold. When this happens, the supply of homes exceeds the demand and there is a downward pressure on home sale prices. The opposite trend occurred in 2000 through 2005. Homes sold faster than they were listed and the demand for a limited supply of homes drove sale prices upward. Buyers made higher offers in hopes of securing the home they wanted. In 2006, home inventory began to increase, and as more properties came on the market than were sold, home prices began to depreciate. This trend continued as the mortgage and banking industry took a hard hit in 2007 and we entered an economic recession in 2008. The four bars on the graph give insights into the local market trends by month. The first column represents new listings on the market, the second column shows homes under contract, and the third column shows the total inventory of homes. The fourth column is the overpriced listings that expired and came off the market without a sale. When more properties come on market than properties being sold, inventory rises resulting in a depreciating market. Please let me know if you would like to receive a graph detailing the latest real estate trends in your community.
	Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
	This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by our MLS partners. These entities neither guarantee nor are responsible for data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

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Lana Kopsala

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Foster Appraisal & Consulting Co., Inc.

Company Name: Foster Appraisal & Consulting Co., Inc.

Street Address:
100 Erdman Way
Leominster, MA 01453

Company Website: www.thefostercompany.com

Company Phone: 978-534-1350

Company Fax: 978-534-1913

Primary Contact: Allan Foster,President

Company Email: adf@thefostercompany.com

Hours of operation:
Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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A Shade Better Windows & Walls

Company Name: A Shade Better Windows & Walls

Street Address:
Hall Street
Leominster, MA 01453

Company Website: ashadebetterwindows.com

Company Phone: 978-537-8693

Primary Contact: JoAnn Tunnessen,Owner

Company Email: jtunnessen@hotmail.com

Hours of operation:
Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

About:
Art and JoAnn Tunnessen started a retail business in 1988 as ArtWorks Home Decorating Center in Fitchburg.  Since then have provided wallpapering, painting, in-home decorating consultation, and window blinds sales and installation.  We closed the retail store in 2000 and reorganized as “A Shade Better Windows & Walls” in 2000.  We now provide the same services, in the clients home or in their business.  Our specialty is Hunter Douglas custom window blinds and shades.
What makes us different from others is we help you choose the products, and we install them.  You are not dealing with a big store who leaves out the personal in home and on site touch.
Also, when we do a painting or wallpapering job, we not only take pride in the work we do, but we leave a clean worksite behind.  You receive personal service from the owners.
We als provide free estimates in the local area.
JoAnn is a Leominster native who has lived in the same home for 50 years.  She and Art have been married for 37 years.  When you deal with us, you deal with someone who cares about the community and cares about you.

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Lauren O’Connell

ACTS Corporation
106 Carter Street
Leominster, Mass 01453
978-401-4480

Official ACTS Press Release 01-18-2010
The world of online music performers is a vast cavern filled to the brim with every genre and levelof talent desperately trying to escape into the mainstream. Recently a small fraction of these talented, hardworking individuals have stood out and climbed to the top. One of those few standouts is singer, songwriter Lauren O’Connell.

Lauren’s presence on video sharing site “YouTube” started with humble beginnings but has now grown to something much larger than anyone could have predicted. Her skill at combining intelligently crafted lyrics with pleasing and aggressive chord structures on acoustic guitar captures the listener with a voice in a way that is not only hypnotizing it is also destined to become timeless.

At the age of fifteen Lauren started her musical journey with limited musical skill, curiosity, and her fathers’ guitar. With a few lessons and a truckload of determination Lauren soon found out that hidden inside her was a first class musician just waiting to come out! Surrounding herself with musically inclined friends in her hometown of Rochester NY didn’t hurt either. Exposure too many types of music and talented musicians helped Lauren’s “Indie Folk” sound develop into a style that is modern yet endearing and always personal to both her and the listener.

Now at twenty one, Lauren O’Connell’s music has exploded onto the scene worldwide. Her well produced “Video Songs” have been viewed tens of thousands of times by fans worldwide. With the creative use of many instruments both traditional as well as even using household items, Lauren’s unique sound has spurred a huge wave of subscribers to her online video channel. Combine this with a voice that lets the listener know she is very serious and yet still holds a place for innocence in her heart and you have found Lauren O’Connell.

With over half a million total online video views and a brand new wonderfully produced 10 song CD call “The Shakes” Lauren’s music career is on the fast track to success. Poking a little fun, the song “Bystander” has the making of a hit on the level of groups like “The Bare Naked Ladies” with a twist. Her hauntingly beautiful “Tangled up kites” gives goose bumps to even the most seasoned music lover. The song “Chicken Wire” shines with true American Folk light, and “The Pilot” tell us a fictional story that we are tricked into thinking is true.
Thousand of online fans support and compliment her music each day worldwide.

Here is a sample of what they are saying:

“It’s incredible how much your music means to me. I don’t even find the right words to say how fantastic it is. They’re never enough”

“I just got The Shakes in the mail. I’m completely floored. Your mastered songs are unbelievably incredible! I can’t fully describe how haunting “I Don’t Mind” was on my first listen. The harmonica was a perfect addition to it. Top
notch album. Good job”

“Wow. I am blown away. The word “talent” gets thrown around so much these days, too much; but you are one amazingly talented woman. Beautiful just beautiful song. “If there is a more honest voice around, I haven’t heard it yet”

She displays a depth of feeling I don’t think I’ve seen in a person before. I can’t imagine being able to put into words the ideas she expresses so clearly. The world is watching to see what will be next from Lauren O’Connell and you can be sure it will come unexpected and will stay with you for a lifetime.

For more information and local appearances contact:
ACTS Promotions Manager Neisha Boulanger at promo@actsfashions.com or call 978-677-4313 Entertainment Marketing & Merchandising Specialists

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Lia Sophia Fliers

Now Hiring!!

Click HERE to see the flier

And click HERE to see the latest specials

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“Do I have to remove old wallpaper?”

“Do I have to remove old wallpaper?”

That’s the question we get asked most of the time in our business.  Many times people want to skip the two most important steps of renovating the walls in their home – removal of old wallpaper and wall prep before new wallpaper or painting.

Here are some reasons why and some hints to help you make this sometimes difficult job a little easier to do.

The reason you want to remove wallpaper is that it is not the permanent surface of the wall.  When you apply it to the wall, you are really putting it up there temporarily.  When you try to go over something temporary, you can run into a variety of problems.  The paper may seem to be on there tight (the most common comment we hear), but as soon as you apply something new, wet, and heavy over it, that might be enough reason for it to come loose, pull off the wall, and thereby ruining your new wallpaper job.  This can be a costly mistake.

There is nothing as frustrating as putting up new wallpaper, to find out you have large bubbles that won’t settle down, or seams that begin to open and will not stay secure.  I’ve even seen whole sheets of new wallpaper pull off the wall, with the culprit (the old paper) stuck the back of it.  Also, many of the more modern wallpapers have vinyl coatings, and neither wallpaper nor paint will stick to that surface for very long.

You would also never want to paint over old wallpaper for several reasons too.  The paint can also cause the “tight” wallcovering to become loose and bubble or begin to fall off the wall.  It can also cause seams to open up, and the surface you thought was going to look smooth, is now full of bumps and edges.

Also, paint becomes a more permanent surface on walls, so if you are successful in painting over wallpaper, then it is possible you could permanently seal the wallcovering to the wall, making it almost impossible to remove at a later time.  As houses settle and age, sometimes the old wallcoverings that are sealed on can develop wrinkles, cracks and tears, especially in the corners, and even these painted surfaces can do the same thing.

So let’s give you some tips that may help with how to remove wallpaper.

The tools you will need are:
Large and small broad knife or spackle knives
A garden sprayer and a spray bottle
Multiple drop cloths and towels
Ladder
Trash container and bags
Sponges, including scrubber sponges
Protective eye wear

The first tip is to buy a good liquid remover, that is concentrated, one you mix with water (directions are always on the bottle or package).  Our favorite is “Strip +”, but there are other good ones on the market.  We like Strip + because it doesn’t have a strong or offensive odor, and is environmentally friendly.  Mix it according to directions, using the garden sprayer as your container.  Hot water is best.

If you use a good assortment of drop cloths, you will catch most of the spraying you will be spreading on the walls from ending up on the floor.  Use towels or other cloth type drop cloths to absorb around the baseboards.

Start in one area, such as a corner, and work in an orderly fashion moving left to right or vice versa.  You will find with some of the solid vinyl wallpapers that the top layer of the wallpaper wills strip off in large sheets.  This may even be the case while the paper is dry.  First try dry stripping to see if this works.

The number one rule to stripping paper is – The wetter the better.  You will want to spray a section of wall, from floor to ceiling if possible, maybe about 1/3 or ½ the length of the wall, approximately 4-6 foot sections wide.  Spray side to side, starting at the top of the wall working your way down to the bottom.  Let it sit for a few minutes and spray again.
Wait a few more minutes and starting at one of the seams, see if you can begin to peel or scrape away the paper.  Keep spraying the section you are working on as it dries out and begin to work your way to your right or left, by spraying ahead.  It should begin to come off in strips, and you are hopefully on your way!

Occasionally, you will get very small pieces, and this can be frustrating.  Don’t give up and give the stripper time to work its way into the surface.  If you are lucky enough to have the vinyl surface come off in large pieces, dry or wet, then you will have a really easy time getting the paper backing off with a simple spray and scrape process.  We never recommend scoring the walls with blades or cutters or rotary scoring tools.  They can actually cause more damage to the walls and ruin the wall surface.

Once the wallpaper is off the wall, you should go over it one more time with the wallpaper remover solution.  Spray the wall lightly this time, and use the scrubber sponge to clean any glue residue off the walls.

If you are going to paint the walls, you should then do one final wash and rinse with clear water.  If there are any holes or cracks, wait for the walls to dry out completely for a day or two before you fill and sand with any spackle.   Always use a good wallpaper prep paint before applying new wallpaper, or a good primer sealer before your top coat of new paint to the walls.

Yes, it can be easy or tough to get the wallpaper off, but just think how good the new walls will look if you paint them or put up fresh wallpaper.   The new surface should last you many years if you take time to do this one job and do it the right way.

Please feel free to email us at jtunnessen@hotmail.com.  Also visit our website www.ashadebetterwindows.com to see our information about custom window shades and blinds.

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Dodo’s Phlowers Valentine’s Day Special

Dodo’s Phlowers is running a special for Valentine’s
day. Free box of Chocolates with Local Valentine’s Day Delivery if
Ordered by Feb 7th.

Please reply about this special in person, by phone or through the website.

Dodo’s Phlowers
137 Mill St.
Leominster,MA   01453

978-537-7007

1-800-800-6476

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Ramsey Rehab

Company Name: Ramsey Rehab

Street Address:
39 Cinema Boulevard
Leominster, MA 01453

Company Website: www.Ramseyrehab.com

Company Phone: 978-466-6677

Company Fax: 978-466-1133

Primary Contact: Kevin Flaherty,Vice President of Operations

Company Email: kevin@ramseyrehab.com

Hours of operation:
Monday through Thursday 7 am – 8 pm
Friday 7 am – 6 pm
Saturday 8 am – 1 pm
Sunday Closed

(click images for a larger view)

About:
Ramsey Rehab has been offering physical therapy services since 1997 and since 2000 in the City of Leominster.  Ramsey Rehab provides physical therapy services, wellness services and general education on health, exercise and wellness.  The Leominster office of Ramsey Rehab has a heated indoor therapy pool and a 16′ indoor rock climbing wall.  We offer golf rehab, orthotics or shoe inserts and many medical educational events throughout the year.  Check out our web site at:  www.ramseyrehab.com for more details and upcoming events.  Check out our facebook page as well!

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Ginny’s Helping Hands

Ginny’s Helping Hands

52 Mechanic St

Leominster MA 01453

978-537-1387

Attention!! For the next two weeks Ginny will be collecting shoes to ship to Haiti. The Following two weeks she will be collection summer children’s clothing. The following two weeks she will be collecting women’s clothing.

Ginny is making arrangements to purchase a 40-Foot Container to ship these items to Haiti and has been working with several individuals to locate a delivery location for this crate as well as plans to distribute the items. Monetary donations are also very welcomed in order to pay for the shipping. Please make checks payable to Ginny’s Helping Hands and be sure to indicate on the check that this is for Haiti as a separate fund has been created for this purpose.

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30 minute meal

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Mia Bella Spa

Company Name: Mia Bella Spa

Street Address:
12 Main Street
Leominster, MA 01453

Company Website: www.MiaBellaSpa.com

Company Phone: 978-534-1333

Company Fax: 978-537-6104

Primary Contact: Camie Dondero,

Company Email: Kim@MiaBellaSpa.com |  Camie@MiaBellaSpa.com

Hours of operation:
Open Monday-Saturday
Closed Sunday

*See Website for Hours*

(click images for larger view)

About:
A Place to Balance Your Being

Our professionally trained staff provides the highest level of service. As an Aveda Concept Salon, we offer an outstanding array of nail, skin and body treatments and the art of hair design and color – all enhanced with Aveda’s pure plant products which can be purchased in our retail area.

Mia Bella Spa integrates beauty, health and wellness into daily living, helping you look and feel better than ever before.

We are here to make your experience a pleasant one and to offer you the opportunity to balance your state of inner well being and outer beauty.

Experience the serenity of Mia Bella Spa… located at 12 Main Street in the heart of Leominster!

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DANCING WITH THE REALTORS®

http://www.dancingwiththerealtorsnorthcentral.com/

NCMAR Members to Present:

“DANCING WITH THE REALTORS® Season 3”

to Benefit Habitat for Humanity

The North Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® (NCMAR) has gone Hollywood. For the third year, NCMAR will be producing a fund raising event titled “Dancing With the REALTORS®” to benefit Habitat for Humanity, North Central Massachusetts on Saturday January 16^th at the Four Points by Sheraton in Leominster doors open at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $30.00. The event will duplicate the format of the popular television show “Dancing with the Stars” and feature REALTOR® and business partner members of NCMAR paired with professional dancers from area dance studios. All proceeds from the event will benefit the North Central Massachusetts Chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Cable Television personality, Barbara Foster, will be Master of Ceremonies and the event will include a live auction, including a judge’s seat for the evening, and many other fascinating items.

Over 20 NCMAR REALTORS® and Business Partners signed on to compete and have been taking dance lessons. They are having a wonderful time but admit it takes a lot of physical stamina to dance. “All dancers have committed their own time and money to dance to raise money for a wonderful cause, and I commend them for that,” stated NCMAR President, Judith Murphy.

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Little Red Schoolhouse

Company Name: Little Red Schoolhouse

Street Address:
20 Wells Court
Leominster, MA 01453

Company Phone: 978-534-1733

Primary Contact: Stephanie Hastings,Child Care Provider

Company Email: littleredschoolhouse2009@yahoo.com

Hours of operation:
Hours of Operation are 7:30-5:30
Monday-friday

About:
I have worked for 5 years as an infant/toddler and preschool teacher.  I am CPR and First Aid Certified. I offer a meal program through the USDA and do accept vouchers.  I was born and raised in Leominster and find it a wonderful place to open.

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NEADS Dinner Talk

NEADS Dinner Talk

Where: Lidio’s
When: Jan. 12   6:00 p.m.
Presentor/Host: Kathy Haskell/Leominster Curves
Register at 978-534-4600
Seating is limited
No Admission Fee

Dinner menu is discounted

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Leominster Youth Robotics Fundraiser

As some of you may know the Leominster Youth Robotics is a non-profit program located at the Gallagher building. The program itself is a great opportunity for hundreds of kids to learn and grow by working as a team and stretching their minds through robotics.

The program handles children from 2nd grade through Junior High, with beta programs for kindergarden and 1st grade at a few schools. The high school has its own program which we work closely with as well.

This month, the  LYR organization is having a fundraiser, Jan 20th at the Luxury Box and has found the lack of participation from Local Businesses pretty low. Of course the time of the year is tough too.

They are looking to make gift baskets comprised of things from local businesses to raffle off at the event to help raise more money. If you, or anyone you know is willing to donate something towards this it would be appreciated.

Remember, this is a non-profit group and any contribution is deductable.

The contact info is:

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