Home for Sale

It’s spring—traditionally the season for real estate sales.   I’m working with many buyers now who are ready, willing and able to buy a home. What we’re finding is a small supply of homes for sale in Andover and North Andover.   Currently there is only a 5.3 month supply of single family homes listed for sale in North Andover and 3.8 months supply in Andover.  If you’re thinking about selling your home in the near future now might be a good time to list your home.  Homes are selling.  To see which homes have sold in your town or neighborhood sign up for your free Market Snapshot.

Tired of ho-hum apartment style condominiums?  Enjoy a better lifestyle in this lovingly cared for home. With 1300 square feet of living space and 3 good sized bedrooms you won’t feel cramped or crowded in this meticulously maintained Andover home. The floor plan flows smoothly from room to room and there are plenty of window for natural lighting and fresh air.  Modern kitchen, hardwood floors,full size  in-unit laundry and garage! Close to Andover center, Andover schools and shopping.  Search the MLS for other homes for sale in Andover and the surrounding communities.

$249,900

Tax Tips for Homeowners

It’s tax time and you’re probably gathering all of the forms and paperwork you’ll need to prepare your 2009 income tax return.  As a  homeowner you know that you are eligible for various tax deductions and tax credits.  Here are some tax tips that I hope will help my neighbors here in Andover and North Andover take full advantage of the tax benefits of home ownership.  Curious about what your home is worth?  Find out what homes are selling for in your North Andover or Andover neighborhood.

One of the fun parts of my job is staying connected with the communities I serve and passing that information along.   Did you know you could shop online AND support the North Andover Youth Center at the same time? Click here for store listings.  Start your North Andover home search or sign up for  my free MLS Property Finder.

Reading today’s edition of the Boston Globe, I came across this comic strip by Terri Libenson….I thought it was a perfect commentary for the last day of winter break in Massachusetts communities!  Enjoy….

The end of winter break in the Andovers

Historic Andover Landmark

This stately residence boast an architecture and style unparalleled in the Andover area.  Truly unique and affordable, this Andover landmark showcases a stunning new ballroom and grand entry and foyer.   The new heating system, storage facilities, laundry, elevator and carpeting are among the fully insured improvements you’ll enjoy. Upstairs, soaring ceilings, spacious open living room  a bonus sleep/storage loft area welcome you home.  Deeded and guest parking and close to parks,schools,shops and transportation.  Offered at an incredible $139,900 and presented by Paulette Zuena, REMAX Partners, Andover, call for your personal tour or click here for more details.

Andover Budget Blog

We all know that the cost of owning a home in Andover is more than just the initial sale price.   Real estate taxes are a large part of your home buget and while no one likes paying taxes, we know that the town services and amenties we enjoy here in Andover come with a cost.  Spring is not only the season of warrmer weather and blossuming trees, but also the season of town meetings and budget discussions.  With that in mind I thought I’d introduce you to the Andover Budget Blog–your chance to follow the discussion,  ask questions and become an informed resident and voter in Andover.

Every news report I read reports improving real estate sales in Massachusetts. According to  the Boston Globe sales of single family homes in Massachusetts rose 3% in 2009, the first year over year increase since 2004.  Whether or not this trend continues is the subject of much debate.  There is much speculation and many opinions as to whether or not the housing market will continue to recover after the government home buyer tax incentives expire.  Let’s take a look at single family home sales in Andover and North Andover. 

 In Andover the average single family home price in 2009 was $574,387 down .9% from the 2008 average sale price of $585,193.   A total of 252 single family homes sold in Andover in  2009 up 1.6%  over 2008 sales.

In North Andover the average single family home price in 2009 was $459,480 down 14.2% from the 2008 average sale price of $528,274. A total of 195 single family homes sold in North Andover in 2009 up 7.8% over 2008 sales.

You see the market data can be very different even in two neighboring towns.  Knowing and understanding your local market is critical when making buying or selling decisions.   See what homes have sold in YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. 

Your Vote Counts

I’ve been getting calls and emails all week from both campaigns asking for my vote in Tuesday’s special election.  Tomorrow I will cast my vote and I hope you will all do the same. This is an exceedingly important election – your vote will count!

Old Town Hall Andover, MA

For more ideas on how to enjoy these winter months take a look at the many activities offered right here in town by the Department of Community Services. There are indoor and outdoor activities and field trips for children and adults alike and for those who like to plan ahead you’ll find a schedule of Andover Community events planned for the spring and summer as well. While I remember having to arrive early at the Doherty Middle School auditorium to reserve a spot for my children in the most popular activities, you can now register online . Page 3 of the booklet features an introduction and overview of current Andover happenings by our Town Manager, Buzz Stapczynski–good information whether you live in Andover or are thinking about buying a home in Andover.