Friday, February 19, 2010

The New Canaan News writes about this Blog

I was interviewed for an article in the New Canaan News which appeared yesterday about bloggers in New Canaan. Brittany Lyte did a very nice job. The article highlighed 4 bloggers and a fairly good part of the article was about me and this real estate blog. I would love to hear what you think so please let me know.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Tax credit for energy efficient home upgrades

You can claim 30 percent of what you spend on qualified improvements up to $1500 for 2009 and 2010 combined.  This 30% tax credit can be taken for adding energy saving improvements to your home such as certain heating and cooling systems, water heaters, energy efficient windows, doors, insulation and certain roofs.  Installation is not covered. Look for the manufacturer's certification that the product qualifies as energy efficient under the terms of the new law. An energy star designation is all you need. You would have to spend $5,000 over a two year period to claim the full $1500.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/14/business/yourtaxes/14energy.html?scp=1&sq=dont%20overlook%20the%20rewards%20for%20thinking%20green&st=cse

Sunday, February 14, 2010

New Canaan, How are we doing so far this year?


The answer is good. Buyers are coming out and looking, some homes are going pending and compared to last year, we are light years ahead in sales. During the first 6 weeks of 2009 compared to the same time frame this year, there were actually no sales at all in New Canaan. So far to date, we have had 16 closings with the average sales price of $1,660,000. These sales took an average of 271 days on the market and sold at 91.92% of asking price. Not too bad.

The following is the list of homes that sold

6 Leslie Lane $585,000
74 Thayer Drive $735,000
82 Woodland Rd $850,000
165 Orchard Dr $890,000
103 South Ave $900,000
35 Benedict Hill $1,020,000
135 Lone Tree Farm $1,298,000
216 Carter St $1,800,000
380 Michigan Rd $1,875,000
87 Bald Hill Rd $2,295,000
12 Wascussee Ct $2,300,000
70 Thrush Lane $2,500,000
57 Welles Lane $2,600,000
219 Michigan Rd $2,676,750

In addition, there were also 5 condominium sales in New Canaan.

There are 208 homes currently on the market but there is another 20 homes that are pending or in contract ranging from $499,000 to $3,875,000 with a median listing price of $1,495,000.

I see some pressure from buyers who wish to purchase in the next few months as fears of mortgage interest rates rising cause buyers to act now. So for now, I see a markedly stronger sales market with lower inventory. If you are a seller thinking of selling your home this year, sooner is better than later as you will have less competition now, however, that will change as we get further into the spring and more sellers put their homes on the housing market.

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Just on The Market For Rent. One Floor Living with Gourmet Kitchen Complete with Pizza Oven




This one floor home is easy to live in. It has no steps and you can walk out to the tennis court right in the flat back yard. It is available immediately for $6500 per month. But the best part for me is the pizza oven right in the kitchen. If you look in the photo there is even a wood fire burning. It is the same oven as in Sole Restaurant in New Canaan and is built in Italy by the Mugliani Oven Company. I also have this oven at my house but I have it outside on the patio. You can make the best pizzas, chicken and baked dishes in it. It is a lovely and leisurely way to cook when you have a little time.

Friday, February 12, 2010

New Canaan in the Snow






I just came across these pictures taken by Alan Goldfinger for me several years ago and I think that New Canaan looks lovely in the snow.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Can the Ipad save Real Estate Newspaper Advertising


Interesting thoughts for Real Estate Agents. Should I get an Ipad now or wait for everyone else before I realize it is a good idea. Click on title.

Monday, February 8, 2010

For anyone interested in a beautiful Florida townhouse




This beautiful townhouse is located in Plantation Florida in Fort Lauderdale. It is priced at $219,900 and has stunning waterviews, low taxes, 2 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. I have set up at website at www.waterfrontplantationtownhouse.com. Click on the title above to view the website.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Just Listed. Waterfront Lake TownHouse in Fort Lauderdale


VIEW FROM THE PATIO TAKEN ON 1/29/2010


My inlaw's condo is now for sale in Plantation,Florida. It has stunning waterviews and it's location is suburb. Located in The Waterford Court Condos at Jacaranda, this 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath condo is immaculate and move in. Best of all it is priced at $219.900 and it also available to investors who be allowed to rent it.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Open House in New Canaan this Sunday 1/24/2010 1-3pm. New Construction Geo Thermal Green House


Stop by and see this leading edge new construction. Save 60% on utility costs with this cutting edge but practical home.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

New York Times Article Sunday Jan 17, 2010. In The Region "Sales Pick Up"



This article appearing in the New York Times Real Estate Section is a wrap up of 2009. I was interviewed for this article by Lisa Provost, the writer, and I am quoted.