If you're thinking of buying your first home, forever home or are ready to sell your current home? Don't go it alone! Melanson Real Estate is one of the oldest and most respected firms in town. Our experts know the Lakes Region and will assist you every step of the way, from showing to closing. We provide the care and personal service you deserve from day one to minimize surprises and make your buying and selling experience as stress free as possible. Call or stop-in today to speak with one of our experts! 

Buyers and sellers are on separate sides of the fence when it comes to home sales. What one is trying to achieve is often diametrically opposed to what the other wants to see happen—the first usually wants to steal the property while the other wants top dollar. And yet, they share the same ultimate goal. They want a sale.

Both sides can benefit significantly from hiring a real estate agent to assist them, but their reasons can be different. 

1.  It's All About the Money... 

Consider this if you're contemplating going "FSBO"—for sale by owner—when listing your home. Of course, you want to get as much for their home as possible, and you might think that means not parting with extra commissions. But a 2017 study indicated that FSBOs fetched about 30% less for their owners than agent-listed properties. 

And you're probably going to have to pay a commission anyway if your buyer is represented by an agent. The buyer's agent's commission is typically factored into the deal—although you'll still save on the commission you would otherwise have paid your own agent.  

And why not use an agent if you're the buyer? After all, the seller is paying the commission, not you. Of course, there's always a slim possibility that the seller will refuse to do so, but you can probably move on and look at other properties if it appears that this will be the case, although it can depend on whether you're shopping in a buyers' or sellers' market and who has the upper hand. 

2. ...And Attention to Detail 

You might be far out of your element when it comes to reviewing and understanding the multiple documents involved in a real estate deal, and you should have a thorough understanding of what you're getting into regardless of whether you're buying or selling. Purchase agreements alone can top 10 pages in 2019, not to mention federal, state, and local document requirements. 

Luckily, your agent will be far more familiar with all this paperwork than you are. Consider this if you're still thinking about saving money: Some mistakes or omissions in these documents can cost you as much as that commission you were trying to avoid paying—or even far more. 

Here's an example: Maybe a buyer makes an offer on a home, but it's contingent on getting a mortgage. There's no possibility that the buyer could purchase the property without first securing financing—but there's no such contingency or escape hatch built into the purchase agreement to let the buyer out of the deal if financing fails. The buyer is obligated to go through with the sale or be sued if it turns out that a mortgage isn't happening. 

Consider hiring a broker for a smaller one-time fee to simply review your contracts before signing if you're still dead set against hiring an agent to take care of all this. 

3. Privacy, Confidentiality and Fiduciary Duty 

Your real estate agent has your back whether you're a buyer or a seller. Agents have what's known as a "fiduciary" responsibility to their clients. They legally obligated to put their clients' best interests first. 

This duty imparts a very high standard for confidentiality. As a buyer, do you really, really want to turn over your most intimate financial details to a FSBO seller who's under no legal obligation to keep the information confidential? The same goes for turning any and all information over to the seller's agent, who has no fiduciary responsibility to you but only to the seller. Your own agent would know whether any information the other agent is requesting from you is reasonable. 

You do have recourse if you're the buyer and the seller's agent has lied to you, misled you, or disclosed confidential information. You can report it to the agent's professional association, such as the National Association of Realtors. But again, this assumes that the seller has an agent. You'll have far fewer options if the property is FSBO. 

4. Agents Know What to Look For 

Buyers usually have a pretty firm idea in mind of what they want in a property, from number of bedrooms to an attached garage to any number of other must-have and must-not-have factors. You'll probably feel pretty comfortable looking at homes with that list tucked firmly in the back of your mind.

But your agent will be alert for issues that might not cross your mind, such as furnace issues, leaks, roofing problems, and mold and insect issues. An agent will recognize the telltale signs of these problems and know how best to approach them. Again, this experience and knowledge can end up saving you thousands down the road. 

You know exactly how much you want for your home if you're the seller, but is the price you've arrived at reasonable? You might only know for sure if you're able to identify comparable sales that confirm that you're in the right range—or not. Agents can do comparative market analyses in their sleep. 

An agent can hand over researched, current, and reputable data regarding a neighborhood's demographics, crime rates, schools, and other important factors. That's a lot of time-consuming research to do on your own, particularly if you don't know where to start. 

5. Agents Have Superior Negotiating Skills 

You might not be a negotiation shark if you don't happen to be an attorney, mediator, union rep...or a real estate agent. Remember that fiduciary responsibility your agent has to you. It's your agent's job to get you the best possible price for your home, or to see to it that you get the best possible deal on the property you want to buy. 

Agents are trained to negotiate well, if only from experience. They know what normally works and what does not. Most have tried-and-true techniques all their own. And, most importantly, they have no emotional stake in the outcome that can cloud their thinking. 

You, on the other hand, might be willing to come up with $10,000 more to purchase that to-die-for home, never realizing that it's really not necessary because you possess certain bargaining chips. It's just more money saved if you have an agent who prevents you from taking an unnecessary financial plunge. 

The Bottom Line 

Henry Ford once said that it proves that you're smarter than they are when you hire people who are smarter than you. The trick is to recognize when you need help and to find the right person.

BY ELIZABETH WEINTRAUB (Click to read more about the author)

 

Sunday, March 8th

Love it or hate it, our annual ritual of early March – daylight saving time – is coming this weekend.

At 2 a.m. Sunday, the few analog clocks still around must "spring forward" an hour, turning 1:59:59 a.m. into 3 a.m. 

Since most of our computers, smartphones and DVRs do it automatically, it's not as much of a chore as it used to be. Unless you have smart appliances, microwaves and ovens are on the short list of household items that would need a manual adjustment.

Here are some questions answered about daylight saving time.

Do we gain or lose an hour? 

We all lose an hour of sleep on Sunday when going to DST, as the day is only 23 hours long. Starting Sunday, that one hour of daylight is basically shifted from morning to evening as daylight saving time begins. 

We don't go back to standard time until Sunday, Nov. 1.

Who's in charge of time?

Surprisingly, the Department of Transportation is in charge of daylight saving time and all time zones in the U.S. "The oversight of time zones was assigned to DOT because time standards are important for many modes of transportation," according to the department's website.

Why do we observe daylight saving time?

The DOT says daylight saving is observed because it saves energy, saves lives by preventing traffic accidents and reduces crime. 

The agency also says people tend to spend more time outside during daylight saving time, meaning they run household appliances and lights less during those eight months. Also, the DOT says, it prevents traffic incidents because people are driving around more during the light hours. It also is a crime deterrent, DOT says, because people are out during the daylight and not at night, "when more crime occurs."

What are the downsides to DST?

Not everyone agrees it offers energy-saving benefits, however. Some studies report the time switch saves energy on lighting but is surpassed by increases in heating and air conditioning. It can also mess with our sleep patterns, at least temporarily.

Other health consequences, according to studies and research, include increased headaches, heart attacks and depression.   

Which states and territories don't observe daylight saving time?

Arizona (with the exception of the Navajo Nation), Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands don't spring forward or fall back. 

Are there states that would like to dump daylight saving time? 

Yes. In Florida, the Sunshine Protection Act has passed the state Legislature but still needs to be approved by Congress. Other states where bills have been passed include Washington, California and Oregon. 

There's much to do this weekend! Whether it's a home show, sportsman show, chili fundraiser or celtic music, there's something for you! Enjoy and have a great weekend!

 

Friday, March 6 - 8

53rd Annual New Hampshire State Home Show

THE LONGEST RUNNING SHOW NORTH OF BOSTON

When:   Friday, 1 PM -  8 PM
             Saturday, 10 AM - 6 PM
             Sunday, 10 AM - 4 PM

Where: Doubletree Hotel, Downtown Manchester, 700 Elm Street, Manchester, New Hampshire

WITH OVER 300 VENDORS and Exhibitors covering all aspects of the home building/remodeling industry plus items in the New England Made concourse.

Other highlights of the Show include the Junior Lego Build Competition, seminars and demonstrations.

Produced by the professionals at the New Hampshire Home Builders Association this is the one show of the year to attend and interact with builders, remodelers, decorators, landscapers, and all types of home solutions providers. The latest in home-related products and services will be showcased – everything from mortgages to landscaping, hot tubs to custom home builders, and custom closets to fabulous kitchens and baths.

$6.00 discount parking is available in the Doubletree by Hilton Downtown Manchester parking garage. Validation machine is located inside the Expo Center, or at the check-in booth located in the Armory Concourse. 

Admission Fees:

Weekend Pass: $15.00

Adults: $10.00

Seniors 62 and over: $7.00

Children 12 and under: FREE

MILITARY DISCOUNT
With Military I.D.: $6.00

DISCOUNT: $3.00 discount with
donation of non-perishable food
items or toiletries.

Click on the Home Show logo above for more information!

 

NH Outdoor Expo

Hosted by Lake Life Brand

When: Friday, 1 PM - 8 PM

           Saturday, 10 AM - 7 PM

           Sunday,   10 AM - 5 PM

Where: The Hampshire Dome, 34 Emerson Road, Milford, New Hampshire

Free parking!

Adults: $12

Children 12 & under: FREE!

Click on the Outdoor Expo logo above for more information!

 

Saturday, March 7

Chili & Beer Tasting Fundraiser

Hosted by Castle in the Clouds

Where: Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd, Moultonborough, New Hampshire 

When: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Castle in the Clouds hosts its third annual Chili and Beer Tasting fundraiser inside the Carriage House. Guests can enjoy sampling chili and beer from nine local Lakes Region restaurants and breweries, plus spirits from Tamworth Distilling! Enjoy two hours of tasting, mingling and music on the first floor of the Carriage House. Relax by the large hearth fireplace or on the lake-view terrace to let that delicious chili and beer settle. 

Admission for the Chili & Beer Tasting is $25 and includes a Castle in the Clouds tasting glass. The Fair Market Value of each ticket is $5, resulting in $20 of this cost being a tax-deductible donation which will be reflected on your ticket receipt.Tickets are limited and must be purchased by March 6, so be sure to reserve yours soon! All sales are final. Please be sure to have a valid photo ID on you during the event.

This event will be held rain or shine and will only be cancelled in the event of extreme weather. If cancelled, your ticket purchase(s) will be refunded.

Click on the image above for more information!

 

High Time-Celtic Trio

Presented by Wolfeboro Friends of Music

When: 7:30 PM — 9:30 PM

Where: Anderson Hall, Brewster Academy, 205 S. Main Street, Wolfeboro

St. Patrick’s Day begins a week early in Wolfeboro with this spectacular young Celtic trio from Connemara. High Time features combinations of harp, guitar, flute, whistle, bodhran and voice to create a rich and exciting sound. Each of the three lifelong friends performs multiple instruments: Ciarán Bolger on guitar and vocals, Connall Flaherty on flute, whistles and vocals, and Séamus Flaherty on Celtic harp, whistle, bódhran drum, and vocals, plus Irish dance. Their music exemplifies the best of today’s Celtic music scene, crafting energetic modern arrangements of traditional folk melodies.

Click on the image above for more information!

 

Sunday, March 8

Don't forget, daylight saving time begins!  

 

Here's an interesting article from PulteGroup to aid you in sprucing up your home!

February 19, 2020 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

ATLANTA--Ditch the winter blues and white hues for vibrant and illuminating new trends that will be sure to add a breath of fresh air into your home! From bold color statements to unexpected adornments and wall art, 2020 marks the year of taking risks in design. The interior design team at PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM) is sharing its top trends to look for in 2020.

“Look for daring color statements and unexpected uses of natural elements to accessorize and help transform home designs”

“This year is all about reflecting your individuality through design,” said PulteGroup National Vice President of Interior Design Angela Nuessle. “The key to making these trends your own is to follow your personal style and listen to what speaks to you, while subtly implementing the latest trends to bring out the true personality of the home.”

Joining the shift towards more adventurous trends in interiors are bold colors making a big splash in homes this year. Think bright, vivid and optimistic colors to rejuvenate the home just in time for spring.

“Look for daring color statements and unexpected uses of natural elements to accessorize and help transform home designs,” said Nuessle.

The interior design team shares the top trends and colors for 2020.

2020 Home Design Trends:

1. Curvilinear Forms

Curves are in this year! Arched lines with smooth transitions provide a softer look in the home. From couches and chairs to tables and ottomans, curves add a retro vibe that spans from mid-century to high-glam.

2. Natural Texture

This universal trend highlights elements in their raw form. From household accessories to furnishings and textiles to home decor, natural texture will add visual significance, intensity and depth to interiors.

3. Unique Adornments

Expect the unexpected with adornments adding pizazz this year! From leather accents and belts added to chairs and beds, to gilded hardware on cabinets and furniture, look for touches of ornamentation to create truly unique spaces.

4. Dare to be Different 

Think off the wall when it comes to wall art. This year will move beyond traditional design to focus on wall applications that incorporate mixed-media and abstract elements with natural materials, including yarn, wood, woven fibers and stone. The key is to achieve texture, depth and intensity with unique pieces that will make a lasting impression.

5. Walk on the Wild Side

Large graphic florals and botanicals will continue to bloom across designs this year. Embracing the wild side comes with color palettes reminiscent of camouflage and a pronounced focus on alluring moments in nature coming into play with design.

6. Bold Color Statements 

This year, bold color statements will go beyond simple accent walls. More distinct elements such as upholstery, case pieces and large statement art will embrace this impressive trend. The key to embracing this trend is to strike a balance between incorporating bold color statement pieces with subtle, layered neutrals.

Top Color Trends:

Layering neutrals with pops of saturated colors will continue to be influential in interiors this year. Here are the top color trends to look for in 2020:

1. Cobalt Blue – Blue remains a staple in design but look for 2020 to go deeper into cobalt hues. Both timeless and calming cobalt provides a sense of familiarity into the home while still adding an exciting a pop of color.

2. Chartreuse – Think brighter this year as chartreuse and other variations of green tones take over interiors. This trend will challenge homeowners to explore their wild side with bold chartreuse statements to incorporated in the home.

3. Violet – Known to symbolize royalty, this purple hue provides a luxurious yet subtle accent color. Violet can work to help fade away the winter blues and vitalize interiors with the change of season.

4. Rust-Tone Shades – Look for rich terracotta shades and primitive earthy tones to create a warm, calming environment with a profound quality inside the home.

 

PulteGroup’s in-house team of interior designers exclusively design and furnish model homes across all brands nationwide. Inspired by the lives of homebuyers and influenced by the latest trends, the team will design and decorate upwards of 500 model homes in 2020, making them the largest builder-embedded interior design firm in the country.

About PulteGroup, Inc.

PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of America’s largest homebuilding companies with operations in approximately 50 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta Homes and John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide homebuyers with innovative solutions and consumer inspired homes and communities to make lives better.

Contacts

For Media Inquiries 
Mackenzie Eldridge 
office: 404-978-6615 

What's a better time to celebrate Wolfeboro's Winter Carnival than on Leap Year Weekend! Yes, for those of you wondering exactly what a leap year means... well, here goes!  A leap year is a calendar year that contains an additional day added to keep the calendar year synchronized with the astronomical year or seasonal year.  February 29 is a date that usually occurs every four years, and is called leap day. So, Happy Leap Day everyone!!!  Following are the fun things happening this weekend for you and your family.  

Wolfeboro Winter Carnival Schedule of Events

Sponsored by the American Legion, The Friends of Abenaki and Wolfeboro Parks and Recreation!

Thursday, February 27th

American Legion Skating Party

The American Legion will be on hand to hand out free Hot cocoa and Hot Dogs. Skating for this event is FREE, but Ice Skate Rentals are $5.00 if needed. Bring the entire family and skate to some good music with great people!

When: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: Pop Whalen Ice & Arts Center, 390 Pine Hill Rd, Wolfeboro

Telephone: 603-569-5639

 

Friday, February 28th

Little Air/Big Air Competition

  

When: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Where: Abenaki Ski Area, 390 Pine Hill Rd, Wolfeboro

5:00-8:00 PM  –  Bonfire  Abenaki Ski Area

8:00 PM – Snowsnake Torchlight Parade  Abenaki Ski Area

 

Telephone: 603-569-5639

Saturday, February 29, 2020

 

Join Friends of Abenaki for their Annual Pancake Breakfast. They'll have pancakes, maple syrup, bacon, eggs, juice, and coffee. There is no cost for this event, but donations are accepted and appreciated. All of the money raised will go to Friends of Abenaki and put back into the Ski Area!!

When: 7:00 – 10:00 AM  

Where: Abenaki Ski Area

 

Winter Carnival Festivities in the Great Hall at Wolfeboro Town Offices, 84 S Main St, Wolfeboro include the Mad Science show and BINGO!

Family BINGO immediately following the Mad Science Show. There will be prizes available to win. This event is FREE. 12:15 PM – 1 PM 

 

ENJOY!!!

 

 

Doesn't it always seem like we're envisioning new ways to enhance the beauty of our surroundings... particularly in our homes?  When it comes to lighting, there are cost effective and energy-saving ways to do just that!  Here are some simple and worthwhile ideas!

Improve a Home's Lighting Without an Electrician

Lighting can set the right mood in a home and make it feel more welcoming, and achieving that doesn’t always require an electrician. Curbed.com asked three designers to provide their best tips for improving the lighting in a home. Here are a few of their suggestions.

Match the lightbulbs. Change the mismatched types of lightbulbs, particularly old compact fluorescent bulbs, Jenny Guggenheim, owner of Guggenheim Architecture and Design Studio in Portland, Ore., told Curbed. Replace them with one type of LED bulb. “In old homes, there are sometimes three or four different types of lightbulbs—each with its own color temperature,” says Guggenheim. “This easy fix can go a long way towards elevating your lighting.” Try using 2,500K to 2,700K warmth LED bulbs. “That range mimics daylight, but a little on the warmer side,” Guggenheim told Curbed.

Layer the light. By layering the light in your space, you can create a more welcoming atmosphere. Have at least two layers of light, designers say. The first layer will likely be an overhead, brighter light. For the second layer, use a light on a table or a floor lamp. Make sure to offset the brighter light with a layer of more diffused lighting. “You’ll immediately recognize how expansive the light is—it’s softer, warmer, and more flattering,” she says. Diffusion can take many forms, including the opaque glass of a bulb and the fabric, glass, or paper of the shade,” Alex Kalita, founder of Common Bond Design in Brooklyn, N.Y., told Curbed.

Watch the scale. Avoid using too small a light source for the space it’s in, Guggenheim suggests. For example, don’t use a tiny table lamp in a large entryway.

Place lamps throughout. “I love putting lamps on shelves mixed in with books or on the open shelving in the kitchen,” Megan Pflug, designer and owner of the Woodhouse Lodge in Greenville, N.Y., told Curbed. “You can even put one on top of the fridge.”

 

Source: “Pro Tips to Improve Your Home’s Lighting—Without an Electrician,” Curbed.com (Feb. 20, 2020)

 

Friday & Saturday, February 21st & 22nd

Looking for something really fun to do this weekend?  Well, search no more... below are a couple of ideas to keep in mind. The weather looks perfect for outdoor activities too.  Enjoy the weekend!

2020 Fire & Ice Festival

  Hosted by the Wolfeboro Inn

Celebrate winter at our annual Fire & Ice Festival outside on the gazebo lawn! Three ice bars, two bands each night, fire pits, free s'mores fixings. Just $5 to get in. Complimentary town car transportation from 5 public parking lots from 5pm to 10pm each night. 

Big music news for this year's Fire & Ice Festival! On Friday Copilot will be opening at 5pm. Following Copilot will be the The A-Beez with Aaron Bellamy, Amy Bellamy, vocalist Melissa Bolling, Will Nelson and drummer Peter MacLean of the Maceo Parker Band.

On Saturday the A-Beez lineup will be joined by DJ Mister Rourke, Jeff Lockhart the legendary guitartist and professor at Berklee, and Sam Kininger on saxophone. 

This year's sponsors are Harpoon, Jameson and Barr Hill.

This is an outdoor event, please dress appropriately. 

 

Sunday, February 23nd 

Learn to Curl

Hosted by Wolfeboro Parks & Recreation

Where: Pop Whalen Ice and Art Center, 390 Pine Hill Road, Wolfeboro 

When: 2:30 PM – 4 PM

Lakes Region Curling will be on hand to to give you a demonstration on the sport of curling. Participants will get hands on lessons and learn the basics during this FREE program. Participants must be at least 16 years old to participate. Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver on site.

Friday, February 14th

Dueling Pianos Valentine's Day Dinner

Hosted by the Wolfeboro Inn

When: Tonight 7 PM – 10 PM

Where: The Wolfeboro Inn, 90 North Main Street, Wolfeboro, NH

For Valentine's Day, enjoy dueling pianos over a three course dinner.

Dueling Pianos, the best of Boston. 

Dinner starts at 7pm, show starts at 8pm.

Start With: Glass of Champagne

First Course: Bacon & Corn Ravioli with Roasted Pork Belly, Snap Peas, NH Mushrooms and Pecorino Cheese. A vegetarian option is available.

Second Course: Surf & Turf with Braised Short Ribs, Pan Seared Halibut, Pommes de Terre Gratin and Glazed Baby Carrots with Beurre Rose. A vegetarian option is available.

Third Course: No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars

Cash bar. 

Ticket price includes tax and gratuity.

For more information, click on View Map

 

Saturday, February 15th

Alton Winter Carnival

When: 10 AM – 3 PM

Where: Alton Bay, NH

Please come join the Alton community on the ICE for some outdoor WINTER fun!

This is a FREE admission event and is sponsored by the Alton Business Association! Local businesses sponsor events and provide raffle + prize items!! Be sure to stop at the ABA booth to purchase raffle tickets.

Featured Events Include:
• Chowder-Fest (local restaurants will be on the ice for you to sample + vote on the best chowdah!) Sponsored by TD Bank, Alton, NH.
• Crazy Hat Contest- Most creative wins a prize!
•Bob House Decorating Contest, Sponsored by Cyr Realty Group
• Horse Sleigh Rides - Nothing like a dash across the ice to embrace the season. (A charge does apply for this event.) Sponsored by TDS!
• Bed Race Contest - Feeling creative + competitive, then bring your best built bed contraption to race across the ice! Team of 5 required (four pushers and one rider). Sponsored by Meredith Village Savings Bank and Future Business Leaders of America/Prospect Mountain High School! Email us on how to register for this event.
• Helicopter Rides - Curious what the aerial view of The Bay is like in the winter? Take a ride and see for yourself! (A charge does apply for this event.) This service is offered by CR Helicopters.
• ”Yoga on the Ice” -This is a breathtaking experience! This event is sponsored by Breathe Yoga NH, registration and detail information will follow on this event page.
• ABA Food & Drink Booth - Sausage & peppers, burgers, french fries, fried dough, water, sodas, coffee, hot chocolate and more.
•Food Vendors - Speciality food from The Lodge at Smith Point and Dockside restaurants. * NEW this year!!
•Caricature Artist!! NEW this year!!
• Kids Games, Music, Scavenger Hunt, Skating, Hockey Puck Shoot, S’mores Roasting and more!
• There will also be vendor tents & local small businesses on the ICE too!!

See event page for updated event information + the Winter Carnival schedule https://altonbusinessassociation.com/

Hope to see you on the ICE for this fun outdoor WINTER community-building event!

 

Looking for some great ideas to capture one's eye in room decor?  Well, search no more. Here's an article that does just that...

Room design ideas by Jamie Wiebe

Room design ideas are a dime a dozen. But you want your place to look like those expensive home design website images you drool over, don't you? Of course you do! Problem is, your budget may not match your design aspirations. Fear not! Making your home look high-end isn't always about spending tons of cash.

It's a matter of taking the time and care to arrange things in an eye-pleasing way—and making small, inexpensive updates that have a big impact. In other words, it's about being sneaky.

Here are a few tricks to pull if you want to add the illusion of luxury.

1. Declutter

Nothing says "this home ain't worth much" like tons of disjointed knickknacks, piles of books, and other miscellaneous items that should be tossed or stored.

No, you don't need to go full Marie Kondo, but going through your rooms and getting rid of anything that doesn't mesh with your personal style is a great first step toward transforming your home from average to exceptional.

Walk through each room of your home and edit items. Make some tough decisions. Sure, you love your grandma's vintage Chinese vase, but does it really jibe with your West Elm look? It might be time to store it or let it live in another room with similar family heirlooms.

Next step: Tackle any stuff that piles up—toys (if you have kids), shoes by the door, mail on the dining table. At the very least, find places for your stuff to live in a more organized way; an upgraded closet with beautifully sorted nooks and crannies looks luxurious.

2. Eliminate grunge

You may not have time for intensive cleaning on a weekly basis, but a once- or twice-yearly deep clean is an easy way to make your home look far more luxurious. After all, you rarely see a mansion with dirty baseboards.

Go through your home and search for overlooked areas that have become dirty and downright gross. You'll want to pay special attention to the grouting, says designer Young Huh.

"Having old tile cleaned and regrouted makes a huge difference in having your bathroom look sparkly and fresh," she says. Best of all: The process is simple and inexpensive.

Get sparkly new floors–minus the refinishing. Try steam cleaning wood floors for an immediate lift to the finish.

3. Add—or rearrange—lighting

Designers use lighting to define spaces and separate rooms, making a small space grand.

Think of your living room—where you might have a reading nook, sofas and chairs for company, and a television. Visually differentiate among the areas by using different kinds of lighting: Add a table lamp beside your cozy reading chair and sconces behind your couch for conversation. Consider a dimmer for overhead lights. Architects and lighting designers swear by them. Installing is a relatively simple DIY.

Bonus cheapskate tip: Use warm-colored lightbulbs, Huh says. Cool tones are a “sure-fire way to make your home look down-market," she says. Daylight bulbs work best for reading nooks.

4. Upgrade your hardware

Don't have a kitchen renovation in the budget? You can get a similar effect for much less by swapping out old, dated hardware for new.

Tired of your brushed-steel drawer pulls? Try gold, bronze, or even crystal—or make an adventure of it and scour your local thrift store for vintage hardware that screams your style.

It's not hard to find attractive options in any decor style for next to nothing (a drawer pull, for instance, might start at just $3 or less). For hard-to-find designs, search etsy.

Changing the countertop and faucets is another change that can make your home look much pricier, Huh says. If you have the budget, exchange your dated sink accessories for something fresh that matches your brand-new hardware.

5. Repaint

There's no simpler way to make an old home feel new than painting.

"This is the most important part," Huh says. "Repaint and choose beautiful colors for an instant makeover."

You can't go wrong with classy neutrals. Minimalists might love a bright white combined with a bold accent wall; DIY decorators might enjoy a tasteful, sandy tan tone, which pairs well with any number of woods.

Paint isn't just for your walls: Add some color to your front door, window trims, or even the floor, if you're brave (hardwood can look amazing when painted white).

6. Focus on the devil in the (decor) details

Does your home feel a little meh—and you're not sure how to change it? Try vignettes—combine decor items (e.g., vases, frames, and objets) that add visual interest to an otherwise bland area—perhaps a shelf or console table.

Organize your vignette around a theme so that the decor items are unified and tell a visual story. Go around your house and cull items you love that need a new home (see tip No. 1 on decluttering).

For example, take that silver tray you've been wanting a use for, add a glass tumbler with a fresh flower, that postcard your parents sent from Thailand, and a white bowl filled with colorful candy. Voilà: You now have a magazine-worthy vignette!

Another way to go: Grouping together multiples of the same object (e.g., glass vases in the same color) is an instant update. Decorators often use odd numbers because they are said to be more appealing.

Before you know it, you'll be posting pics of your gorgeous home.

 

Jamie Wiebe writes about home design and real estate for realtor.com. She has previously written for House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Veranda, and more.

Hosted by Wolfeboro Parks and Recreation

Saturday, February 8th

When: 6 PM - 11:00 PM

Where: Abenaki Ski Area 

390 Pine Hill RdWolfeboro, New Hampshire 03894

The Annual Progressive XC Ski Dinner is held on the Abenaki X-Country Ski Loop Trail. Participants will strap on skis, snowshoes or good winter boots and progress out on to the candle-lit 4 Kilometer XC Ski Loop starting at Abenaki Ski Area. Skiers and hikers will stop at warm bonfires along the 4K trail and be treated to a delicious multi-course Italian dinner served at various stations along the way. Appetizers and a small warming fire will greet participants at the first table, followed by a delicious Italian main course at the second station a kilometer or two down the trail, followed by the dessert station in Pikes Pasture, complete with s’mores, ice cream sandwiches, cookies, cocoa, coffee and more.

In between stations, participants ski or hike through the tranquil woods of the Abenaki Loop Trail, lit by hundreds of candle-lit luminaries.

Local restaurants, cafe's, and chefs contribute their expertise to provide a simply delicious meal, served to you under the stars. Participating restaurants in the past have included Garwood’s, Wolfeboro Inn, Nolan's, Harvest Market and Hunter’s Shop N' Save It is truly a magical event that is sponsored by Wolfeboro Parks and Recreation and Wolfeboro Lions Club all to raise funds for the Friends of Abenaki. All skiers/hikers must have a ticket that is available to purchase for $25 for adults, $15 for youth.

We recommend bringing the following items for your enjoyment of the experience: headlamp, warm layers, appropriate gear for being outside at night in February, a sense of adventure and an empty stomach! Limited to 125 participants, this event typically sells out prior to the day of the event.  As of today, tickets are still available!!!

Are you in the market or thinking about purchasing a new home? Well, here are some handy tips from Meghan Belnap for just that... best of luck with your search!

Are you planning to move? Is it going to be cold when you relocate? Here are four ideas to help make the home search process faster and more convenient during the colder months:

Attend cozy open houses

Use the time you're looking for a home to mingle and fight the winter blues. Go see what's open in your area, check out a new location or inspect a home you really want. Open houses provide many opportunities including the chance to mingle and network. Even if you don't like the house you visit, you may hear of others nearby. You'll find many houses for sale in the winter that have open houses, and checking them out in person can show you exactly what the house will be like during the colder months.

Read the home inspection reports

While it's chilly outside, pull up a comfy chair and a mug of hot chocolate or coffee and do some research. With the bad weather and cold air that come with the season in some areas of the country, it's easier to sit inside and get the monotonous part of moving out of the way first. Plus, getting some of the boring stuff done early gives you more time to spend on the fun things like getting open house gifts.

Look for drafts and other leaks

There's no better time than winter to check out houses for sale. With the home working at the highest level, potential buyers can easily check out windows and doors for air leaks. Gaps are easier to find because drafts are often present when the winter wind is blowing hard outside. Plus, going to showings in the winter lets you see the property during the drab months of the year, allowing you to envision it in the nicer weather.

Check out the parking in bad weather

When you need a parking spot close to home in the winter, it's best to go for showings during this season. Looking at houses when there's snow on the ground lets you see where the problems occur in the area. You can avoid houses that have access problems, drainage issues or are last on the list for the snowplow.

Many people think winter is a bad time to look for a new home; however, several advantages make this season better than most. For example, if you don't want to go out in the cold weather, then chances are neither will your neighbors. Second, a home will show all its problems in the winter because the systems have to work extremely hard to keep up with frigid temperatures.

 

Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She finds happiness in researching new topics that expand her horizons.

 

Thinking about buying that new home or a vacation house you've always wanted so you can get away from it all? Now is the time to start looking! Following is a terrific article by Elizabeth La Riva for reasons to consider buying now:

With the holidays over, heading into the coldest months of the year, many people might assume that now is a terrible time to buy a home. However, now is the best time to score a deal on that dream house!

Here are a few reasons why it may be in your best interest to buy a house this winter:

Motivated Sellers

The colder months tend to see less activity as far as listings and sales go. This may seem like a disadvantage; however, if you're able to find a house that meets your needs, chances are you'll also have found a motivated seller. The majority of homes are listed in the spring/summer, so if you've stumbled upon a listing that's been on the market for a while, the seller will likely be ready to negotiate. 

Less Competition

We've all heard the story of the dreaded bidding war. It seems today's market is seeing this happen more than ever. Not only can it drive the price of the home above asking; you also run the risk of emotional overspending or losing the property altogether. 

With the majority of buyers taking a break from house-hunting, now is an optimal time to start your search. With the likelihood of competing offers dropping significantly, buyers can regain some control during negotiations.  

Lower Interest Rates

This is not a guarantee, however. Loan and mortgages interest rates fluctuate throughout the year. With less people looking to buy and borrow right now, interest rates tend to dip, which is a bonus for borrowers. 

It may appear to be an insignificant rate difference; however, over the term of your mortgage, you'll be in for some serious savings. So while you're out and about this winter, make a trip to your bank for a mortgage pre-approval!

Professional Availability

With fewer homes on the market, real estate agents tend to find themselves with more overall availability. If you're ready to buy a home, you'll benefit as your REALTOR® will have more time to dedicate to your search and negotiation once your dream home is found. 

Not only does the real estate market slow down during the winter, so do related professions. Mortgage brokers, home inspectors and legal professionals all may have some extra time on their hands, meaning your deal may be able to close quicker. 

Buying a new home during the winter can seem like a daunting task; however, if you're able to close on a deal in January or February, chances are you'll be enjoying the benefits for years to come! Lower purchase price and better interest rates are just a couple of the reasons why buying that dream house right now may be worth it!

 

Elizabeth La Riva, (R) ABR®, e-PRO®, MRP, is a native of Lima, Peru, and speaks fluent English and Spanish. She services the area of Oahu, Hawaii, and assists buyers and sellers with their real estate transactions. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering and giving back to the community.

Looking for something fun to do outside this weekend?  Well, search no more, plenty of outdoor activities in Wolfeboro for the whole family to enjoy!

Abenaki Ski Area Click here for more information on America's oldest small ski area, located right in the heart of Wolfeboro. Home to the Abenaki Ski Team, 5 trails, high speed rope tow, glade skiing, terrain park and some of the best groomed conditions in NH.

       

Pop Whalen Ice & Arts Center Click here for information on Public Skating,Stick Practice schedules and more.

Wolfeboro Cross Country Ski Association Since 1972, The Nordic Skier and Wolfeboro XC have joined as partners in the pursuit of a top notch nordic ski center. Click here for more information.  

 

Following is an article written by Daniel Bortz. I think, you'll find this an interesting read.

Timing determines so much when you're buying a house. Although the best time to buy a house is when you're ready both financially and emotionally, there are other factors that can help you decide when to buy a house.

By timing your purchase just right, you can nab a great home that's just right for you.  

What Is the Best Month to Buy a House?

Let's make this clear: There's no such thing as a guaranteed "best month" to purchase a home. (C'mon, we never said this would be easy!)

While some conventional wisdom says there is a best time of year to buy a house — during spring home buying season (April to June) — there are pluses and minuses when it comes to what month you choose to purchase a home.

(Note: Real estate is local. Determining a best time utlimately depends on conditions in your local market.)

Here we've outlined some of the reasons different months can turn out to be the best time to buy a house for you:

January to March. Winter isn't such a bad time to buy a house. Though there's less inventory — meaning there are fewer homes for sale — there are fewer home buyers too, so you have less competition. That means there's a lower likelihood of a bidding war, which can be a stressful experience for home buyers. Another benefit of buying a house during the cold-weather months: Home prices are typically the lowest they'll be all year.

Still, there are drawbacks to buying a house between January and March. Inclement weather can also be a challenge, since snow or ice could make it difficult to drive around and view homes or do a thorough home inspection of some elements, such as a roof. 

April to June. Welcome to spring home buying season— the peak months for not only housing supply, but also the number of home buyers shopping for houses. Because most families want to move when the kids are out of school, there's a big incentive to buy a house this time of year, since many home buyers need to allow 30 to 60 days for closing.

The warmer weather also makes open houses more enjoyable, landscaping easier to evaluate, and inspections more comprehensive.

Even though it's generally regarded as the best time of year to buy a house, there are downsides to the spring market. For starters, you'll face more competition from other home buyers —  meaning you have to move quickly when a great listing hits the market. Bidding wars are a lot more common, you tend to have less negotiating power, and home prices tend to tick up during spring.

July to September. If you can handle the heat (and a little competition), summer may be the one of the best times of year to buy. Now that the spring home buying craze is over, most home prices return to normal, allowing you to save some money. The sunniest time of the year also makes being outdoors and attending open houses more enjoyable.

The hot temperatures also give home buyers the opportunity to test how well a property's air conditioning system holds up in warm weather, which is something they can't usually test during other times of the year.

October to December. The main downside of buying a house in autumn is that there may not be as many homes for sale in the fall as there are in the spring. But it's not like the market goes completely quiet.

Many home buyers consider fall the best time of year to buy a house because of price reductions. Because home sellers tend to list their homes in the spring, sellers whose houses haven't sold yet may be motivated to find buyers, and prices start to reflect that.

Daniel Bortz is a freelance writer based in Washington, D.C., whose work has appeared in "The New York Times," "The Washington Post," "Money" magazine, "Consumer Reports," "Entrepreneur" magazine, and more.