21 Hot Housing Trends for 2015

Everyone wants to be hip, and the latest trends in design can help distinguish one home from another. And it’s not all flash; many new home fads are geared to pare maintenance and energy use and deliver information faster.
 Here’s a look at what’s coming: 21 Hot Housing Trends for 2015 | Realtor Magazine

Median Home Sale Prices are Up, Number of Homes to Choose From Still Declining

Real estate sales in Essex County were strong in the 2nd quarter of 2014, with median prices up 1.9% over last year. The number of closed sales is down, but that's a reflection of the drop in inventory from 2013 - ie: the number of homes on the market for buyers to choose from. 

Until there are more sellers taking advantage of this great selling market, the number of sales will continue to suffer. 

The Median sale price is up more than $100,000 over the 1st quarter of 2009.

- Jim Armstrong

President/Broker

Armstrong Field Inc

Click Graphic to Enlarge

Stakes Raised In Real Estate Agent Independent Contractor Case

SJC To Hear Important Employment Classification Case

The critical question of whether real estate agents are governed by the state’s strict independent contractor law is now headed to the Supreme Judicial Court, the highest appellate court in Massachusetts. The SJC will hear arguments in December, and a decision is expected in the Spring of 2015.

See the rest of the article from Attorney Rich Vetstein's blog at:

Stakes Raised In Real Estate Agent Independent Contractor Case

6 Tough Home Pricing Truths

The pricing conversation is always a challenge. You want top dollar for your home, and your real estate agent will, too. After all, a better commission comes from a better price. But a lot of psychology and strategy goes into home pricing, and if you don’t go in with your eyes wide open, you could end up heartily disappointed.

Here are some tough truths about home pricing. While they can vary a little depending on unique market conditions, they should all be in the back of your mind as you prepare to list.

1. Some agents will try and “buy the listing.” Sad but true: Some agents will tell you what you want for the home is accurate, even if it’s too high. Figuring they can manage disappointment and reductions down the line, the less-than-ethical agent will try and cut off the more honest competition by telling you the price you think you should get for the listing is the price you should shoot for.

2. Nobody cares what you paid for the home. No buyer in the history of real estate has ever agreed to pay more for a home because of the profit a a seller hopes to get. Yes, you may have sunk $150,000 in renovations into the basement, but the market will dictate the pricing, not what you “think is right.”

3. Lowball pricing is risky. Yes, you can generate a lot of interest by undercutting other listings on the market, but people may still attempt to negotiate. While you may stay firm on your price, you could find yourself making contract compromises you’d rather not make.

4. Precise pricing suggests you’re less wiling to negotiate. List a home for $403,750 versus $400,000 and you’re basically broadcasting a kind of inflexibility. This may or may not be part of your pricing strategy, but whatever you do, don’t do it unconsciously.

5. Seasonal timing can influence pricing. Are you the only comparable home on the market in January? You might be able to get a little more, especially if schools are good.

6. Infomercial pricing can make a difference. Have a million dollar home? Swallow your pride and try your hand in the $990K+ range. Slipping under the seven-figure mark can cast a slightly wider net for buyers.

Most homes sell within 3% of a market-savvy asking price, so go with an agent who is willing to explore the deep local conditions. Curious how much your home might be worth right now? I’d be happy to put together a no-obligation pricing matrix for you.

Jim Armstrong - 978-394-6736

North Shore Massachusetts Real Estate Market (as seen from someone who just searches the web for the info)

I had another blogger that wanted to write about the North Shore Real Estate Market of Massachusetts. Though she seemed really nice, she was from Indonesia and apparently her grasp of the English language was not very strong. Still, the blog makes for some interesting reading, abet a little confusing. I hope you enjoy it!
http://www.nicashomes.com/northshore-massachusetts-real-estate-market/

Jim Armstrong
Armstrong Field Real Estate

75 Walnut St 302, Peabody, MA

75 Walnut St 302 Peabody, MA 01960

New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/A4A67J

Description: Spacious 2 BR, 2 BA with easy access to 128, Salem Depot T station, supermarket and more! The unit is well kept and features an open kitchen with dishwasher, central air, ceiling fans, washer/dryer and plenty of storage. The bedrooms are large with ample closet space. Nice hardwood floors throughout. This building provides secured access, with security cameras; elevator access available. This rental comes with 2 assigned parking spots, 1 covered. Tenant(s) subject to credit and background checks. Absolutely NO pets, NO smoking. NO exceptions! Schedule a showing today and make this lovely condo your next home!

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 963

Price: $1600

MLS #: 71712720

Rental- Spacious and Well Kept 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo in Manchester, MA

807 Summer St 3 Manchester, MA 01944

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/G2UW6C/619/2263

Description: This is a spacious and 2 BR unit on the Magnolia/Manchester line you will not want to pass on! The unit is very well kept, freshly painted, featuring stainless steel appliances and nice hardwood floors. Laundry in unit. The condo gets great light exposure, boasts 2 full baths with standing showers and 1 half bath. Exclusive patio for your enjoyment this summer! Take advantage of a large shared backyard, grill and bocce areas. Parking for 2 cars (first come, first serve). This is a fantastic location that is only a few steps from restaurants, supermarket, Commuter rail and the beach! Get to Boston in less than 40mn on the T and wake up to the smell of the ocean from the condo. Landlord lives next door and is looking for responsible tenant(s); NO smoking, pets negotiable. This is a commuter's dream come true! If you've been looking to start North Shore living, look no further! Schedule a showing today before it's gone!

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1100

Price: $2000

MLS #: 71694240

2 Bedroom Home in Wenham For Sale with Great Views of Pleasant Pond

20 Longfellow Rd Wenham, MA 01984

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/GFZRAH/619/2263

Description: Very seldom do you come across a home in this price range in Wenham. Like being on vacation year round with great views of Pleasant Pond. Beautiful perennial gardens surround this great home with a fireplace living room, screen porch over looking the pond, large newer windows allows plenty of light and one and a half baths. Pleasant pond is stocked with fish from the Mass Dept of Wildlife. Enjoy canoeing, fishing and swimming steps from your door.

See Full Description and Photos on This Property 

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1136

Price: $294900

MLS #: 71688089

Rental- 2 Bedroom Apartment Near Salem State University

3 Hersey 1 Salem, MA 01970

New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/XZP6VN

Description: Nice clean 2 bedroom near Salem state University available now. Prospective tenants to provide own credit report and references.

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1320

Price: $1400

MLS #: 71709029

11 Williams St 2, Salem, MA

11 Williams St 2 Salem, MA 01970

New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/RTYAE6

Description: Perfect location! Recently updated condominium in 1799 antique on a quiet side street steps from Salem Common. Beautiful renovation - granite countertops, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, central air, insulated windows, deeded parking (one space), two bedrooms with bonus room on third floor can be used as office or third bedroom, marble-tiled master bathroom, spa-like travertine bath, mud room with washer/dryer combo, original details including pocket shutters in living room and master bath, two private entrances, private deck, newer electrical and plumbing systems, tons of storage, low condo fee. Just a five minute walk to the commuter rail (25 minutes to Boston). Steps to Salems great restaurants, Peabody Essex Museum, Pickering Wharf, and everything Salem has to offer!

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1446

Price: $339000

MLS #: 71708739

How to Part Peacefully with Your Landlord while Breaking a Lease

If you've been thinking of buying a home, but the prospect of breaking your apartment lease has you holding back, you might be glad to know there are options available to you as a renter. A lease isn't always an iron-clad agreement with all the rights on the side of your landlord. Of course, buying a home isn't the only reason to break a lease. There are many reasons to break a lease: Your job may have changed, you might find the rent too steep, or you may have lost a loved one who used to share the space with you. Here are a few things you can do to help extract yourself from the situation:

1. Find the opt-out clause. You may not have read your lease very carefully when you were excited to move in, and now is the time to go back and pick it apart with a fine-toothed comb. Many leases will have clauses which allow you to legally break your obligation to stay for the full-term of the agreement. This might involve a fee of some kind, but can often be worth the expense if the conditions are right.

2. Negotiate with your landlord. If you’re on good terms with your landlord, come out and explain your situation honestly. The landlord (or property management company) can elect to let you out of the lease, even without an opt-out clause. See if you can do anything to “sweeten the pot” for the landlord, such as finding a replacement renter, or propose a sum to buy your way out. (Get anything you agree to with your landlord in writing.)

3. See about subletting. Look at your lease agreement and see what your rights are regarding subletting the apartment to someone else. While some forbid the practice, others may create allowances for subleasing your apartment to someone for the balance of the agreement. If the agreement is unclear about subleasing, talk with your landlord about your plan and get an agreement in writing. (Recognize you’re risking your security deposit if the subletter doesn't take care of the place.)

4. Go to mediation. If you can’t come to common terms, consider enrolling the help of a mediator. Local housing advocates and “renter’s rights” groups may be able to connect you with people who can help.

This all assumes, of course, that you’re not leaving because your landlord is a deadbeat. If you’re battling a landlord who refuses to fix up the place or otherwise has been combative, you may have a legal case to make to break your lease. The key is documentation. Document everything with photo or video evidence, and keep meticulous records of your complaints.

Shouldn't your monthly payment be paying you instead of a landlord? Talk to me today about taking the first steps towards home ownership: 

Jim Armstrong
Armstrong Field Real Estate
978-394-6736
http://www.afhomesearch.com/agents/968-Jim-Armstrong

Gorgeous 4 Bedroom Home in Topsfield with Custom Upgrades Throughout

6 Mansion Drive Topsfield, MA 01983

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/LQVSHH/619/2263

Description: Sophistication and Elegance are the hallmarks of this magnificently updated and expanded home set on just under an acre of picture perfect sweeping green lawn. With nothing but the highest quality materials utilized, you can be sure that not only will you get what you paid for....you will get way more! The custom upgrades include all new Low E argon-filled Pella windows, Carrier whole house air filter, central air and central humidification systems, radiant hydronic heat in the main bath floor and shower walls, and a gorgeous kitchen with custom Village Woodworking cabinets, stainless appliances, loads of granite counters, and a sunny dining area with access to the very spacious maintenance free deck. Entering into the new formal entryway and living room, your guests will be "wowed" by the 16' ceilings, beautifully detailed crown molding, gorgeous oak floors and stairway leading to a spacious 480 sf unfinished room awaiting your finish as a master suite or "great" room. Don't miss out!

See Full Description and Photos on this Listing

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Home Information:

Beds: 4

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 3386

Price: $670000

MLS #: 71643275

2 Bedroom Condo in the Middle of Downtown Salem.

289 Essex St 101 Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/RVHEDN/619/2263

Description: Right in downtown Salem! Enjoy all the Salem has to offer right outside your door. The commuter train, restaurants and shops plus easy access to major routes! Professionally managed and pet friendly! Beautiful one level living unit with granite counters and high end cabinetry, two bedrooms and two baths, laundry in unit with deeded garage parking in the building, a major plus for downtown Salem. Professionally managed and pet friendly!

See full description and photos on this property

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1244

Price: $317500

MLS #: 71705661

289 Essex St 101, Salem, MA

289 Essex St 101 Salem, MA 01970

New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/RVHEDN

Description: Right in downtown Salem! Enjoy all the Salem has to offer right outside your door. The commuter train, restaurants and shops plus easy access to major routes! Professionally managed and pet friendly! Beautiful one level living unit with granite counters and high end cabinetry, two bedrooms and two baths, laundry in unit with deeded garage parking in the building, a major plus for downtown Salem. Professionally managed and pet friendly!

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1244

Price: $317500

MLS #: 71705661

One Bedroom Condo for Sale in Downtown Salem, MA

9 Barton Square 101 Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/LL2R3Q/619/2263

Description: Downtown Salem condominium in a quiet location. The good size open concept living room has a gas fireplace and new sliding doors to a nice patio that is perfect for enjoying that glass of wine after work. The kitchen was recently upgraded with new cabinets and stainless appliances. Newer replacement windows. The entire unit was just painted and the carpets were professionally cleaned, so all you need to do is move in. In-unit washer/dryer (included).One car deeded PARKING! Everything you need is just a few minutes walk away including the commuter train, many restaurants & pubs, the waterfront and more. Included in the low condo fee is heat & hot water and access to the exercise (new equipment!), sauna & event rooms. Excellent professionally managed association.

See Full description and photos on this property 

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Home Information:

Beds: 1

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 772

Price: $199900

MLS #: 71695036

Spacious 2 Bedroom Condo For Sale in Downtown Salem, MA

102 Bridge St 1 Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/MDBVT9/619/2263

Description: BRIGHT ROOMY CITY CONDOMINIUM WITH 10 FT.HIGH CEILINGS AND ANTIQUE ORIGINAL PINE FLOORS THROUGHOUT. BRILLIANT LOCATION, WALK TO EVERYTHING..TRAIN, SALEM COMMON, DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS RIGHT OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR. AMAZING YARD / GARDEN WITH 2 CAR DEEDED OFF-STREET PARKING AND GARAGE STORAGE. BIG CLOSETS AND TONS OF STORAGE IN BASEMENT! TWO LARGE BEDROOMS, CHEF KITCHEN WITH LARGE GRANITE ISLAND W/ SINK. EVERYTHING ON ONE FLOOR. NEWER WINDOWS AND INTERIOR FINISHES. NEWER CENTRAL AIR. HISTORICAL CHARACTER ABOUNDS! THIS CONDO HAS IT ALL FOR ROOMATES OR A COUPLE THAT WANT TO MAKE THE SALEM OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE CHOICE. NO SHOWINGS UNTIL FIRST OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY JUNE 22ND - 12:00 - 3:00 PM. MUST BE SEEN, WILL NOT LAST LONG. MANY EXTRAS, MOVE IN READY

See Full description and photos on this property 

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1137

Price: $249900

MLS #: 71699770

Wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home in Castle Hill in Salem MA

10 Read Street Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/H4JM6X/619/2263

Description: SHOWINGS SUNDAY 1-3PM. Wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home in a Great Neighborhood. Located in Castle Hill on a dead end street, this spacious American Four Square colonial home has numerous upgrades. Gorgeous kitchen with pantry, granite counters, stainless appliances, island and a prep sink at the stove. Open concept dining and living rooms has original gumwood woodwork and gleaming hardwood floors. Sliders open to the huge composite deck overlook the fenced yard with fruit trees. Upstairs you will find two bedrooms, an office (or bedroom) and a full bathroom with Jacuzzi tub and separate shower. The good size master bedroom has a dressing alcove with closet. On third floor is another bedroom with a full bath and lots of storage. South facing 3 season front porch. 3 zone heating. Parking for 3+ cars in the driveway. Located near Castle Hill Park, Salem High School and an elementary school. Should be a quick short sale. PLEASE SEE DISCLOSURES. OFFERS MUST BE IN BY MONDAY AT 5PM.

See full description and photos on this property

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Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 2000

Price: $279000

MLS #: 71702707

It Only Takes 6 Seconds To Break Into Your Home This Way

How Fast Can a Burglar Break In to Your Garage?

Article from HouseLogic.com

Article by: Deirdre Sullivan

Published: March 14, 2014

     

     A recent video that’s gone viral shows how thieves can break in to your garage in just six seconds. But there are ways to prevent it from happening to you.

     A video that shows a burglar only needs a wire hanger and six seconds to break in to a garage has received nearly 1.5 million views on YouTube.

     Maybe that’s because garage door burglaries are on the rise in parts of the country, according to a variety of reports we found.

     We’re not saying this video is to blame, but it’s a good idea to button up when it comes to your attached garage. It’s the fourth most-common entry point for residential break-ins.

     What can you do? A few DIYs can secure your garage door:

• Use a 1-by-4-inch piece of wood above your garage door to block a wire hanger. 
• Thread a plastic zip tie through the door’s emergency release latch.
• Get alerts from a smartphone garage door controller when your door is opened

Are You Ready for Glow-in-the-Dark Trees?

Article From HouseLogic.com

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Published: April 16, 2014

They’re no longer science fiction. A team of California biologists has already created glowing plants, and now they’re working on glowing trees.

We’re big proponents of trees as energy savers — they create shade and wind breaks for your home. So how would you like a tree that actually illuminates your landscaping at night for free?

Glow-in-the-dark trees are more than a glimmer now that a California biologist, Antony Evans, and his colleagues have inserted genes from bioluminescent bacteria into plants. They’ve found that the bioengineered flora grows and glows. It’s the first step to growing glowing trees that can light streets and your front yard, and save energy.

Backers loved the idea of glow-in-the-dark plants. Evans had hoped to raise $65,000 through a Kickstarter campaign. But the Kickstarters pledged over $484,000.

What does this mean to homeowners who want to substitute a glowing tree or rosebush for their porch light? Nothing, yet. Trees take a long time to grow and to demonstrate which bioengineering techniques work and which fizzle. So don’t expect a glowing elm anytime soon.

Jamaican Rice & Peas (Beans)

With every change of season, I send out a jar of spice to all my past real estate clients. This is a recipe for a side dish that was included with the Jamaican Jerk Spice that I sent out in June 2014. It was originally developed by Bobby Flay, but being the type of person that just can't leave a good thing alone, I had to tweak it to make it better. I hope you enjoy it.

Jamaican Rice and Peas

Yield: 4 servings
Total cooking time: about 1 1/2 hours



Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
• Approximately 1 1/2-2 cups water.
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 Teaspoons grated ginger
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (add another if you like a little more heat)
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions:

Place beans, garlic and ginger in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water (about 1 1/2 cups). Bring to a simmer and cook until the beans are tender, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. When the beans are tender, stir in the coconut milk, green onions, Scotch bonnet, and thyme, and increase the heat to a boil. Stir in the rice, add some salt and pepper, cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid (adding more water if necessary), stirring occasionally to keep the rice from sticking on the bottom of the pan. Transfer to a large serving bowl, taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with sliced green onions.

- Jim Armstrong

I welcome your feedback.

2 Bedroom Apartment for Rent in Manchester, MA

807 Summer St 3 Manchester, MA 01944

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/G2UW6C/619/2263

Description: This is a spacious and 2 BR unit on the Magnolia/Manchester line you will not want to pass on! The unit is very well kept, freshly painted, featuring stainless steel appliances and nice hardwood floors. Laundry in unit. The condo gets great light exposure, boasts 2 full baths with standing showers and 1 half bath. Exclusive patio for your enjoyment this summer! Take advantage of a large shared backyard, grill and bocce areas. Parking for 2 cars (first come, first serve). This is a fantastic location that is only a few steps from restaurants, supermarket, Commuter rail and the beach! Get to Boston in less than 40mn on the T and wake up to the smell of the ocean from the condo. Landlord lives next door and is looking for responsible tenant(s); NO smoking, pets negotiable. This is a commuter's dream come true! If you've been looking to start North Shore living, look no further! Schedule a showing today before it's gone!

See the full description and photos of this apartment for rent

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1100

Price: $2000

MLS #: 71694240

Condo for Sale in Salem, MA Near Downtown

102 Bridge St 1 Salem, MA 01970

New listing just posted: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/MDBVT9

Description: BRIGHT ROOMY CITY CONDOMINIUM WITH 10 FT.HIGH CEILINGS AND ANTIQUE ORIGINAL PINE FLOORS THROUGHOUT. BRILLIANT LOCATION, WALK TO EVERYTHING..TRAIN, SALEM COMMON, DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS RIGHT OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR. AMAZING YARD / GARDEN WITH 2 CAR DEEDED OFF-STREET PARKING AND GARAGE STORAGE. BIG CLOSETS AND TONS OF STORAGE IN BASEMENT! TWO LARGE BEDROOMS, CHEF KITCHEN WITH LARGE GRANITE ISLAND W/ SINK. EVERYTHING ON ONE FLOOR. NEWER WINDOWS AND INTERIOR FINISHES. HISTORICAL CHARACTER ABOUNDS! THIS CONDO HAS IT ALL FOR ROOMATES OR A COUPLE THAT WANT TO MAKE THE SALEM OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE CHOICE. NO SHOWINGS UNTIL FIRST OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY JUNE 22ND - 12:00 - 3:00 PM. MUST BE SEEN, WILL NOT LAST LONG. MANY EXTRAS, MOVE IN

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1137

Price: $249900

MLS #: 71699770

Townhouse Style Apartment for Rent in Peabody Massachusetts

1 Lark St 1 Peabody, MA 01960

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/YT79CK/619/2263

Description: Very spacious townhouse style home for rent. The unit is located on a quiet street, close to main roads; features 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths! Master bedroom upstairs. Ample closet space available. This unit has been deleaded. Small porch and shared, fenced in yard for your enjoyment. Landlord lives next door and is looking for quiet, responsible tenants. No Pets, No smoking, No exceptions. Tenancy at will. Showings after 6pm on weekdays, flexible on weekends. 24 hr notice required. This won't last long, schedule a showing today!

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Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1200

Price: $1650

MLS #: 71684751

Downtown Salem Condo for Sale with Parking

9 Barton Square 101 Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/LL2R3Q/619/2263

Description: Convenient 1st floor condo in the heart of downtown Salem in a quiet location. The fireplaced open concept living room has sliders to the patio. The kitchen was recently upgraded with new cabinets and stainless appliances. The entire unit was just painted and the carpets were professionally cleaned, so all you need to do is move in. In-unit laundry.PARKING! Everything you need is just a few minutes walk away including the commuter train, restaurants, pubs, waterfront, etc. Included in the low condo fee is heating & hot water and access to the exercise (new equipment!), sauna & event rooms. Excellent professionally managed association.

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Home Information:

Beds: 1

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 772

Price: $199900

MLS #: 71695036

MUlti-Family Home For Sale in Salem MA

10 Prince St Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/PGUKQS/619/2263

Description: RARE. Brick three family residence. Move in condition. Extensive restoration now ready for new owner(s) looking for the urban city vibe in historic Salem which is one of the hottest markets on the North Shore of Boston. Own with rental income or investors looking for positive cash flow wont miss this property with an attractive $54,000.00 gross operating income! Separated utilities. Lead certificates of compliance. Coin operated laundry in basement. One off street parking space. All appointments require updated pre qualification letter from local lender. Shown by appointment only. Showings begin June 9th.

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Home Information:

Beds: 9

Baths: 3.00

Sqft: 3537

Price: $375000

MLS #: 71692339

Single Family Home For Sale in Salem MA is Priced to Sell!

13 LAWRENCE Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/PPHLVH/619/2263

Description: PRICED TO SELL ! GREAT VALUE FOR UNDER THREE HUNDRED GRAND IN SALEM. THIS THREE BEDROOM HOME COMES WITH A VERY COMFORTABLE BRIGHT FAMILY ROOM & "EAT IN KITCHEN" AND LIVING/DINING ROOM, MASTER BEDROOM ON THE IST LEVAL. TWO FULL NICE & BRIGHT BATHS WITH SHOWER & TUB ON EACH FLOOR. AND TWO LARGE SECOND FLOOR BDRMS., CENTRAL AIR, AND AN EXTRA FINISHED ROOM IN THE BASEMENT FOR A HOME OFFICE OR "MAN CAVE". PLENTY OF CLOSET SPACE. THE OUTSIDE FEATURES A NICE LEVAL YARD, GREAT FOR FAMILY GET TOGETHERS ETC. !! KITCHEN IS MODERN & UPDATED, OFF STREET PARKING FOR TWO.

See Full Description and Photos on this Property

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Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1485

Price: $274900

MLS #: 71680053

Single Family Home for Sale in Winter Island in Salem, MA

12 Winter Island Rd Salem, MA 01970

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/BVE46D/619/2263

Description: Winter Island - Salem Willows location! Great views of Juniper Cove with a right of way to the water & beach right across from the house. New chefs/bakers kitchen with high end appliances & granite counters, fireplace living room with custom cabinetry, three bedrooms, an office, 2 1/2 baths and a lovely manageable yard with beautiful perennials makes this home a great find for anyone wanting to live near the ocean. Master bedroom with master bath. Beautiful parks are right around the corner along with several other beaches, boating & fishing - all within walking distance.

See the full description and photos of this apartment for rent

Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1780

Price: $449000

MLS #: 71692161

Great Deal for Contractors! 2 Bedroom Home in Gloucester

6 BECKER LANE Gloucester, MA 01930

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/KS46LG/619/2263

Description: CONTRACTOR SPECIAL, OR TEARDOWN. ITS YOUR CALL. IN WINGAERSHEEK BEACH AREA, TWO BEDROOM COTTAGE WITH EAT IN KITCHEN, AND LIVING ROOM. WITH 10, 000 SQ. FOOT LOT, 100 FEET STREET FRONTAGE. NEWER ROOF, BUYER TO DO TITLE FIVE, BUYER RESPONSIBLE FOR TITLE 5 COMPLIANCE WITH HIS LENDER. COULD BE USED FOR GREAT SUMMER WEEKEND GETAWAY AFTER TOTAL REMODEL. WILL CONSIDER ALL OFFERS..***** PLEASE SEE ATTACHED DOCUMENTS FOR PLOT PLAN *******

See Full Description and Photos of this Listing 

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Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 978

Price: $155000

MLS #: 71650352

3 Bedroom Colonial Near Flax Pond in Lynn, MA

18 Mystic Ave Lynn, MA 01904

New listing video just posted:

http://video.circlepix.com/ADTJVT/619/2263

Description: 3 bedroom colonial on a dead end street near Flax Pond with seasonal water views. Updated eat in kitchen and a half bath on the first floor. Enclosed porch is a bonus room.Deck in the rear of the home.

See Full Description and Photos of Listing 

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Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1071

Price: $199900

MLS #: 71695385

Better Business Bureau Accredited Real Estate Companies

The Better Business Bureau has been providing consumers with the tools to make smarter decisions. For over 100 years the BBB has set standards for ethical business behavior and monitors compliance. 

For over 9 years Armstrong Field Real Estate has been an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau. There are 83 Accredited real estate companies in Massachusetts out of the thousands of offices licensed to operate in the state, and Armstrong Field Real Estate is ranked #4 by the number of years that they have held accreditation. In fact, Armstrong Field is the only accredited real estate company on the north shore of Massachusetts and has achieved an A+ rating - the highest the the BBB gives a business.

For more information on Armstrong Field Real Estate, go to:
http://www.afhomesearch.com/about

Protect Your Roof, and You'll Protect Your Home

Ah, the humble roof. We forget that the single most important structural element in our home is the roof. It provides shelter for those we love and the things we value.

It’s easy to let maintenance slide on something we take for granted. With better weather days upon us, now is a good time to inspect the roof and make sure it’s up to the task of protecting your home’s value.

Here are some crucial elements you’ll want to look for during a home roof inspection:

1. Are the gutters clean and in good shape? Organic debris building up in your gutters can cause water to pool and foster an environment for roof rot.

2. Do you see any curling around the bottom edges? Are there any gaps or holes in the soffit?

3. Are there surface cracks in shingles? Cracks warn you of impending disintegration or separation.

4. Is the flashing in good shape? Flashing is material installed to prevent the passage of water into a structure from a joint. This often amounts to shaped metal around seams for chimneys, vents, etc.

5. Are there any blisters? This could reveal a defect or possibly insufficient ventilation.

6. Is the insulation in good shape? Attic insulation can protect a roof from warping and reducing overall moisture in your home. Additionally, it helps keep snow from melting and refreezing, a major contributor to water damage.

7. Is anything going to fall on the roof? Part of roof maintenance is ensuring there’s nothing which might cause an undue load on the house. This includes rotten trees or dangerous overhanging limbs. It’s also a good idea to look at areas which may be eroded by vegetation or tree contact.

A happy roof makes for a happy home. May these simple tips help you protect your home for years to come. - Jim Armstrong 

Guidelines For Determining Your Home Purchase Price Range

Shopping for a home, especially your first one, can be tough when you’re not sure how much you can afford. If you've wanted to live the dream of owning your own home, but haven’t been sure where to start, I've put together a few tips that can make it easier to get a handle on where to start.

The American Dream

1. Tax benefits usually mean you can afford more than your rent. Interest deductions on taxes typically translate into significant savings. Many people find they can afford about 33% more than their current rent. To get an idea of what this might be for you, multiply your current rent by 1.33.

2. A home price three times your gross income is usually a reasonable place to begin. For example, if your household made $75,000 last year, you could begin looking in the $225,000 range to start.

3. Know how much you can put down. Ideally, you’d want to have 20% of the home’s price set aside for a down payment. On a $200,000 home, this would be roughly $40,000. You can definitely put down less money, as low as 3%, but it may result in higher interest rates (which translate to higher monthly payments). It will still be better and most likely less expensive than renting. If you are a veteran, you can buy a home with no money down, and still get the lowest interest rates.

4. Determine your “debt factor.” Lenders will often cite the 28/41 rule when it comes to your debt. This means that your mortgage (plus taxes and insurance) shouldn't exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Your total payments (credit card, car loan, etc.) plus your mortgage shouldn't come to more than 41% of your gross monthly income.

The Realtors at Armstrong Field Real Estate specialize in helping first-time home buyers getting themselves lined up for home ownership. Contact one of our Massachusetts Realtors today.