Friday, June 27, 2014

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




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!




Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 1244

Price: $317500

MLS #: 71705661

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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 




Home Information:

Beds: 1

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 772

Price: $199900

MLS #: 71695036

Saturday, June 21, 2014

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 



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




Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 2.00

Sqft: 2000

Price: $279000

MLS #: 71702707

Thursday, June 19, 2014

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?

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.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

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



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




Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1137

Price: $249900

MLS #: 71699770

Thursday, June 12, 2014

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!




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.




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.




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




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 




Home Information:

Beds: 2

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 978

Price: $155000

MLS #: 71650352

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

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 



Home Information:

Beds: 3

Baths: 1.00

Sqft: 1071

Price: $199900

MLS #: 71695385

Saturday, May 17, 2014

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

Tuesday, April 01, 2014

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 

Saturday, March 01, 2014

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.

Salem Mass Home Buyers Dream about their first property
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.