Old blue truck/ Waterbury Vermont
Food, Entertainment, and Arts
Friday, July 30, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
103. Willowbook Museum in Newfield ---About 45 minutes from Portland, this marvelous museum is actually a collection of buildings and artifacts from the nineteenth century that give the visitor an excellent sense of what life was like in a country Maine village. Begun in 1965 by Don King, the museum has grown over the years to house a remarkable amount and variety of interesting items. I have been visting at least once annually since the 1970's. My daughter grew up loving her visits when she would pretend to live in one of the homes. We usually have lunch at the barn and include a treat from the ice cream soda shoppe. You need to have time to stroll through all the buildings and to enjoy all the exhibits. They are open May through October 11 this year. Be sure to check out the schoolhouse and merry-go-round.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
102. Short trips from Portland: Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor is one of those cute little towns along the coast of Maine that comes alive in the summertime. You can stroll along the harbor or take a cruise to sightsee, whalewatch or fish. There are lots of fun shops and restaurants. I love the fudge at Downeast Fudge. All you need to know is that heavy cream plays prominently in the ingredients! We tried the chocolate and penuche walnut--both were fab! In fact, it's worth the trip for the fudge alone....
Check out the bowling alleys next to Downeast Fudge---talk about a step back in time!!
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
101. Hey, here is #101 but I have to go on with the list. There are just too many great things about Portland to stop now...
Montsweag Flea Market just a short trip from Portland between Bath and Wiscasset. This is a good old-fashioned flea market with all sorts of stuff. Antique buffs, go early on Wednesdays and Sundays to pick up the best finds. Tables are outdoors in a field so depends on weather if there are many dealers. I have found some wonderful items there over the years. My favorite to date is a big hooked rug with a cat in the center. You can usually find some fun item--most reasonably priced-- especially when you check out the shops in Wiscasset for comparison!
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
100.Short trips from Portland: Wiscasset is just up the coast from Portland and well worth the trip. We always stop for lunch at Sarah's Cafe on the corner of Water Street. The food is always good. I get the whole wheat crust pizza---the small is enough for 2 people! My husband enjoys the soup bar. He usually has the fish chowder which can be refilled for a dollar. There is a choice of delicious homemade breads with fillings and cheese toppings etc. that come with the soup or chowder.
If you have any room left, you can try one of their incredible desserts including cakes, pies and cheesecake or the strawberry shortcake!
There are lots of great antique stores and gift shops. The best women's clothing is at Debra Elizabeth's-- great linen lines like Bryn Walker--and fun accesories like eye bob reading glasses.
For a real Maine experience, stand in line at Red's for a Maine lobster roll. They must be good judging by the folks willing to wait.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
99. Theaters--Old Port Playhouse. I am looking forward to tonight's performance at this small theater in downtown Portland as I have heard favorable mention of the actress Susan Poulin who plays the main character in "Ida: Woman who Runs with the Moose". I am expecting some good old Maine humor with plenty of Maine accent! There are some other fun-sounding plays this weekend, too. Their website: http://oldportplayhouse.com
101 Things I Love about Portland Maine
98.Maine Stables--Hearts and Horses in Buxton is a great boarding stable. My daughter keeps her horse Trinity there. You can get riding lessons, go for trail rides, work with trainers, and enjoy a big indoor ring. They also have a program for folks with developmental and physical disabilities. And you can see some very cute miniature horses!
A Helpful Punch List for New Home Buyers
Your newly constructed dream house is almost ready and it's time for the all-important walk-through with your builder. Do you know what you should be looking for?
Some problems may not be readily visible, even if you hire a professional inspector. Fortunately, most builders offer a warranty to cover problems in the workmanship of a home -- they do not, however, cover problems resulting from owner neglect or faulty maintenance. Still, knowing what to look for in your pre-settlement walk-through is a good way to catch potential problems. Here's a helpful "punch list" to use from the National Association of Homebuilders:
Outside
Grading: Does the ground around the foundation slope away from the house? Make sure the water does not pond or pool in large puddles, especially near the foundation. To check, water the areas with a hose, if possible. Are there signs of erosion? Is the shrubbery placed at least 2-3 feet from the foundation
Roof and Gutters: Are the shingles flat and tight? Is the flashing securely in place? Do the gutters, downspouts and splash blocks drain away from the house?
Exterior Appearance: Are the windows and doors sealed and protected by weather stripping? Are the trim and fittings tight? Are there any cracks? Does the paint cover the surface and trim smoothly? Has landscaping been installed according to the terms of your contract?
Inside
Doors and Windows: Are all doors and windows sealed? Do they open and close easily? Is the glass properly in place? Are any windows loose or cracked?
Finishes: Is the painting satisfactory in all rooms, closets and stairways? Did the painters miss any spots? Are the trims and molding in place?
Floors: Is the carpet tight? Do the seams match? Are there any ridges or seam gaps in vinyl tile or linoleum? Are wooden floors properly finished?
Appliances, Fixtures, Surfaces, Etc.: Do all of the appliances operate properly? Are all of the appliances the model and color you ordered? Check all faucets and plumbing fixtures, including toilets and showers, to make sure they operate properly. Are there any nicks, scratches, cracks or burns on any surfaces, including cabinets and countertops? If you have tile counters or floors, was the tile and grout sealed by the builder or will you need to handle?
Electrical, Heating and Air: Check all electrical fixtures and outlets. Bring a hair dryer to test the outlets. Do the heating, cooling and water-heating units operate properly? Test them to make sure. If the home has a fireplace, do the draft and damper work? Test the doorbell. Also test the intercom system, garage door opener and any other electrical items.
Basement and Attic: Are there indications of dampness or leaks? Is there significant cracking in the floors or foundation walls? Are there any obvious defects in exposed components, such as floor joists, I-beams, support columns, insulation, heating ducts, plumbing, electrical, etc.?
Certificate of Occupancy: Has your local municipality signed off on your house?
As your real estate agent, I will be available to assist during all phases of your home purchase, including your walk-through. Please call me for more information on what you should look for and how I can help.
New or resale: hiring a professional inspector is a smart approach
Buying a home, whether a new or resale property, is one of the biggest investments you're likely to make. That's why hiring a professional inspector to check out your home's basic systems and structural integrity is so important. An inspector looks for and recommends changes that can make the difference in how much money you will spend for future repairs and maintenance. Even if you have a good eye for detail or are buying a brand new home, a thorough inspection by an experienced professional is a wise choice that can save you a lot of time, money and frustration in the future. Please call me for more information on how a professional inspector can make a difference in your home's purchase
Some problems may not be readily visible, even if you hire a professional inspector. Fortunately, most builders offer a warranty to cover problems in the workmanship of a home -- they do not, however, cover problems resulting from owner neglect or faulty maintenance. Still, knowing what to look for in your pre-settlement walk-through is a good way to catch potential problems. Here's a helpful "punch list" to use from the National Association of Homebuilders:
Outside
Grading: Does the ground around the foundation slope away from the house? Make sure the water does not pond or pool in large puddles, especially near the foundation. To check, water the areas with a hose, if possible. Are there signs of erosion? Is the shrubbery placed at least 2-3 feet from the foundation
Roof and Gutters: Are the shingles flat and tight? Is the flashing securely in place? Do the gutters, downspouts and splash blocks drain away from the house?
Exterior Appearance: Are the windows and doors sealed and protected by weather stripping? Are the trim and fittings tight? Are there any cracks? Does the paint cover the surface and trim smoothly? Has landscaping been installed according to the terms of your contract?
Inside
Doors and Windows: Are all doors and windows sealed? Do they open and close easily? Is the glass properly in place? Are any windows loose or cracked?
Finishes: Is the painting satisfactory in all rooms, closets and stairways? Did the painters miss any spots? Are the trims and molding in place?
Floors: Is the carpet tight? Do the seams match? Are there any ridges or seam gaps in vinyl tile or linoleum? Are wooden floors properly finished?
Appliances, Fixtures, Surfaces, Etc.: Do all of the appliances operate properly? Are all of the appliances the model and color you ordered? Check all faucets and plumbing fixtures, including toilets and showers, to make sure they operate properly. Are there any nicks, scratches, cracks or burns on any surfaces, including cabinets and countertops? If you have tile counters or floors, was the tile and grout sealed by the builder or will you need to handle?
Electrical, Heating and Air: Check all electrical fixtures and outlets. Bring a hair dryer to test the outlets. Do the heating, cooling and water-heating units operate properly? Test them to make sure. If the home has a fireplace, do the draft and damper work? Test the doorbell. Also test the intercom system, garage door opener and any other electrical items.
Basement and Attic: Are there indications of dampness or leaks? Is there significant cracking in the floors or foundation walls? Are there any obvious defects in exposed components, such as floor joists, I-beams, support columns, insulation, heating ducts, plumbing, electrical, etc.?
Certificate of Occupancy: Has your local municipality signed off on your house?
As your real estate agent, I will be available to assist during all phases of your home purchase, including your walk-through. Please call me for more information on what you should look for and how I can help.
New or resale: hiring a professional inspector is a smart approach
Buying a home, whether a new or resale property, is one of the biggest investments you're likely to make. That's why hiring a professional inspector to check out your home's basic systems and structural integrity is so important. An inspector looks for and recommends changes that can make the difference in how much money you will spend for future repairs and maintenance. Even if you have a good eye for detail or are buying a brand new home, a thorough inspection by an experienced professional is a wise choice that can save you a lot of time, money and frustration in the future. Please call me for more information on how a professional inspector can make a difference in your home's purchase
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Start a Compost Pile
By: Jeanne Huber
Published: March 9, 2010
Save money and grow healthier plants by recycling yard and kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost.
Save Money Low $100 (rather than buy 1 load)
Effort Low 5 hrs (build two bins)
Investment Low $375 (build two compost bins)
Instead of having your food waste, plant debris, and fallen leaves hauled to the dump, why not turn them into compost? The dark, rich organic matter helps garden and landscape plants grow bigger and more beautiful. Plus, it saves you money and time by reducing your water, fertilizer, and even weeding needs, since a few inches of compost laid like mulch will prevent most weeds from sprouting.
Making backyard compost even has a civic benefit because it saves landfill space, helping to keep garbage-processing costs lower for you and your neighbors.
You can make compost without spending a penny, or you can buy simple equipment that looks tidier and speeds up the transformation process. Whichever approach you take, you’ll need to understand a few key principles of composting.
How compost happens
Left alone in a natural habitat, plants create their own compost. Leaves, twigs, and overripe fruit fall to the ground and slowly get broken down into nutrients. You can make this same process happen in an out-of-the-way spot with a compost pile—and distribute the results by sprinkling the compost over planting beds as fertilizer, dropping it into the hole before you set a vegetable plant in the ground, or even using it as mulch.
There are two main ways to compost: You can use only yard waste—or add kitchen waste, too.
Yard waste composting
If you’re composting only yard waste, an open pile is all you need. For the richest, fastest results, alternate layers of green (nitrogen-rich) plant material, such as lawn clippings and plant cuttings, with brown (carbon-rich) material, such as dry leaves. Make the layers approximately equal or add a little more browns than greens.
Cut branches and stems down to 3 to 6 inches long—and skip any that are more than ½ inch thick—unless you’re willing to sift out remaining chunks when you use the compost. Moisten the materials with a garden hose as you add them so they are about as damp as a wrung-out sponge.
If a pile of dead plants would look too messy for your yard, corral the trimmings in a compost bin. You can buy one, but first contact your local solid-waste disposal company or municipal service to ask whether it offers a subsidy for buying a composter—or perhaps even gives them away free.
The Concord Compost Bin, which consists of top and bottom lids and a side wrapping made of flexible plastic perforated with holes, sells as for about $100 to $175, depending on capacity, at composters.com. Or you can make your own from wood and wire mesh following instructions from Seattle Tilth or Lowe’s.
You can make “hot compost” or “cold compost.” Hot composting works faster (usually in three to six months) and kills most weed seeds. But you need to build the whole pile at once and turn it with a pitchfork every month or so to ensure that the stuff at the edges has a turn in the center and vice versa.
For cold composting, you just layer on the materials as you collect them, add water as needed to keep the pile damp, and let nature do the rest. It might look like nothing is happening, but after six to 12 months, when you remove the relatively unchanged top layer, you’ll find compost underneath. You can tell it’s ready if it looks like dark black soil, with no sign of its original form remaining.
With either system, having two bins makes the job easier because you can scoop the contents of one into the other to turn a hot pile, for example, or to expose the compost under a cold pile. Three bins are even better because you can store finished compost in one while you’re working on a new batch in the other two.
Adding food waste
Kitchen scraps are high in nitrogen, so adding them to your compost speeds up decomposition and results in a richer material. Plus, since it counts toward your green materials, which are usually less abundant than brown ones, it allows you to create more compost.
Just don’t put food waste in an open compost pile. That would draw rats, raccoons, and other pests. To make any compost bin rodent-proof, wrap it with metal mesh, called hardware cloth, with quarter-inch openings—including the top and the bottom.
Or you can choose a tumbler-style composter, which consists of a drum that rotates on an axis, so instead of turning a pile with a pitchfork, you simply tumble the drum a few times to mix up the contents.
This system works fast, though if you want finished compost in two to four weeks, as some of their labels promise, you have to shred everything first and turn the tumbler every day or two. Tumblers are also relatively pricey—around $300 to $400 at sites such as People Powered Machines and CompostBins.com. Some large-capacity bins may cost more.
What not to compost
Never put the following into your compost:
Weeds, which can survive and sprout again
Diseased or insect infested plants, which can infect your garden plants
Any plant, including grass clippings if you use weed control products, which was sprayed with a pesticide
Dog and cat waste, which can harbor parasites and diseases
Meat, which stinks as it decomposes and may contain harmful bacteria that can survive composting
Wood ashes, which are too alkaline for some plants
Jeanne Huber is a writer who specializes in home and garden topics. She composts yard waste and whatever kitchen scraps her chickens don’t relish.
From http://www.houselogic.com/
By: Jeanne Huber
Published: March 9, 2010
Save money and grow healthier plants by recycling yard and kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost.
Save Money Low $100 (rather than buy 1 load)
Effort Low 5 hrs (build two bins)
Investment Low $375 (build two compost bins)
Instead of having your food waste, plant debris, and fallen leaves hauled to the dump, why not turn them into compost? The dark, rich organic matter helps garden and landscape plants grow bigger and more beautiful. Plus, it saves you money and time by reducing your water, fertilizer, and even weeding needs, since a few inches of compost laid like mulch will prevent most weeds from sprouting.
Making backyard compost even has a civic benefit because it saves landfill space, helping to keep garbage-processing costs lower for you and your neighbors.
You can make compost without spending a penny, or you can buy simple equipment that looks tidier and speeds up the transformation process. Whichever approach you take, you’ll need to understand a few key principles of composting.
How compost happens
Left alone in a natural habitat, plants create their own compost. Leaves, twigs, and overripe fruit fall to the ground and slowly get broken down into nutrients. You can make this same process happen in an out-of-the-way spot with a compost pile—and distribute the results by sprinkling the compost over planting beds as fertilizer, dropping it into the hole before you set a vegetable plant in the ground, or even using it as mulch.
There are two main ways to compost: You can use only yard waste—or add kitchen waste, too.
Yard waste composting
If you’re composting only yard waste, an open pile is all you need. For the richest, fastest results, alternate layers of green (nitrogen-rich) plant material, such as lawn clippings and plant cuttings, with brown (carbon-rich) material, such as dry leaves. Make the layers approximately equal or add a little more browns than greens.
Cut branches and stems down to 3 to 6 inches long—and skip any that are more than ½ inch thick—unless you’re willing to sift out remaining chunks when you use the compost. Moisten the materials with a garden hose as you add them so they are about as damp as a wrung-out sponge.
If a pile of dead plants would look too messy for your yard, corral the trimmings in a compost bin. You can buy one, but first contact your local solid-waste disposal company or municipal service to ask whether it offers a subsidy for buying a composter—or perhaps even gives them away free.
The Concord Compost Bin, which consists of top and bottom lids and a side wrapping made of flexible plastic perforated with holes, sells as for about $100 to $175, depending on capacity, at composters.com. Or you can make your own from wood and wire mesh following instructions from Seattle Tilth or Lowe’s.
You can make “hot compost” or “cold compost.” Hot composting works faster (usually in three to six months) and kills most weed seeds. But you need to build the whole pile at once and turn it with a pitchfork every month or so to ensure that the stuff at the edges has a turn in the center and vice versa.
For cold composting, you just layer on the materials as you collect them, add water as needed to keep the pile damp, and let nature do the rest. It might look like nothing is happening, but after six to 12 months, when you remove the relatively unchanged top layer, you’ll find compost underneath. You can tell it’s ready if it looks like dark black soil, with no sign of its original form remaining.
With either system, having two bins makes the job easier because you can scoop the contents of one into the other to turn a hot pile, for example, or to expose the compost under a cold pile. Three bins are even better because you can store finished compost in one while you’re working on a new batch in the other two.
Adding food waste
Kitchen scraps are high in nitrogen, so adding them to your compost speeds up decomposition and results in a richer material. Plus, since it counts toward your green materials, which are usually less abundant than brown ones, it allows you to create more compost.
Just don’t put food waste in an open compost pile. That would draw rats, raccoons, and other pests. To make any compost bin rodent-proof, wrap it with metal mesh, called hardware cloth, with quarter-inch openings—including the top and the bottom.
Or you can choose a tumbler-style composter, which consists of a drum that rotates on an axis, so instead of turning a pile with a pitchfork, you simply tumble the drum a few times to mix up the contents.
This system works fast, though if you want finished compost in two to four weeks, as some of their labels promise, you have to shred everything first and turn the tumbler every day or two. Tumblers are also relatively pricey—around $300 to $400 at sites such as People Powered Machines and CompostBins.com. Some large-capacity bins may cost more.
What not to compost
Never put the following into your compost:
Weeds, which can survive and sprout again
Diseased or insect infested plants, which can infect your garden plants
Any plant, including grass clippings if you use weed control products, which was sprayed with a pesticide
Dog and cat waste, which can harbor parasites and diseases
Meat, which stinks as it decomposes and may contain harmful bacteria that can survive composting
Wood ashes, which are too alkaline for some plants
Jeanne Huber is a writer who specializes in home and garden topics. She composts yard waste and whatever kitchen scraps her chickens don’t relish.
From http://www.houselogic.com/
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Seven Selling Mistakes You Don't Want to Make!
Mistake #1 -- Pricing Your Property Too High
Every seller obviously wants to get the most money for his or her product. Ironically, the best way to do this is NOT to list your product at an excessively high price! A high listing price will cause some prospective buyers to lose interest before even seeing your property. Also, it may lead other buyers to expect more than what you have to offer. As a result, overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a lower price.
Mistake #2 -- Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for the Market Value
Unfortunately, a re-finance appraisal may have been stated at an untruthfully high price. Often, lenders estimate the value of your property to be higher than it actually is in order to encourage re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be lower. Your best bet is to ask your Realtor for the most recent information regarding property sales in your community. This will give you an up-to-date and factually accurate estimate of your property value.
Mistake #3 -- Forgetting to "Showcase Your Home"
In spite of how frequently this mistake is addressed and how simple it is to avoid, its prevalence is still widespread. When attempting to sell your home to prospective buyers, do not forget to make your home look as pleasant as possible. Make necessary repairs. Clean. Make sure everything functions and looks presentable. A poorly kept home in need of repairs will surely lower the selling price of your property and will even turn away some buyers.
Mistake #4 -- Trying to "Hard Sell" While Showing
Buying a house is always an emotional and difficult decision. As a result, you should try to allow prospective buyers to comfortably examine your property. Don't try haggling or forcefully selling. Instead, be friendly and hospitable. A good idea would be to point out any subtle amenities and be receptive to questions.
Mistake #5 -- Trying to Sell to "Looky-Loos"
A prospective buyer who shows interest because of a "for sale" sign he saw may not really be interested in your property. Often buyers who do not come through a Realtor are a good 6-9 months away from buying, and they are more interested in seeing what is out there than in actually making a purchase. They may still have to sell their house, or may not be able to afford a house yet. They may still even be unsure as to whether or not they want to relocate.
Your Realtor should be able to distinguish realistic potential buyers from mere lookers. Realtors should usually find out a prospective buyer's savings, credit rating, and purchasing power in general. If your Realtor fails to find out this pertinent information, you should do some investigating and questioning on your own. This will help you avoid wasting valuable time marketing towards the wrong people. If you have to do this work yourself, consider finding a new Realtor.
Mistake #6 -- Not Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities
It is extremely important that you are well-informed of the details in your real estate contract. Real estate contracts are legally binding documents, and they can often be complex and confusing. Not being aware of the terms in your contract could cost you thousands for repairs and inspections. Know what you are responsible for before signing the contract. Can the property be sold "as is"? How will deed restrictions and local zoning laws will affect your transaction? Not knowing the answers to these kind of questions could end up costing you a considerable amount of money.
Mistake #7 -- Limiting the Marketing and Advertising of the Property
Your Realtor should employ a wide variety of marketing techniques. Your Realtor should also be committed to selling your property; he or she should be available for every phone call from a prospective buyer. Most calls are received, and open houses are scheduled, during business hours, so make sure that your Realtor is working on selling your home during these hours. Chances are that you have a job, too, so you may not be able to get in touch with many potential buyers.
Every seller obviously wants to get the most money for his or her product. Ironically, the best way to do this is NOT to list your product at an excessively high price! A high listing price will cause some prospective buyers to lose interest before even seeing your property. Also, it may lead other buyers to expect more than what you have to offer. As a result, overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a lower price.
Mistake #2 -- Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for the Market Value
Unfortunately, a re-finance appraisal may have been stated at an untruthfully high price. Often, lenders estimate the value of your property to be higher than it actually is in order to encourage re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be lower. Your best bet is to ask your Realtor for the most recent information regarding property sales in your community. This will give you an up-to-date and factually accurate estimate of your property value.
Mistake #3 -- Forgetting to "Showcase Your Home"
In spite of how frequently this mistake is addressed and how simple it is to avoid, its prevalence is still widespread. When attempting to sell your home to prospective buyers, do not forget to make your home look as pleasant as possible. Make necessary repairs. Clean. Make sure everything functions and looks presentable. A poorly kept home in need of repairs will surely lower the selling price of your property and will even turn away some buyers.
Mistake #4 -- Trying to "Hard Sell" While Showing
Buying a house is always an emotional and difficult decision. As a result, you should try to allow prospective buyers to comfortably examine your property. Don't try haggling or forcefully selling. Instead, be friendly and hospitable. A good idea would be to point out any subtle amenities and be receptive to questions.
Mistake #5 -- Trying to Sell to "Looky-Loos"
A prospective buyer who shows interest because of a "for sale" sign he saw may not really be interested in your property. Often buyers who do not come through a Realtor are a good 6-9 months away from buying, and they are more interested in seeing what is out there than in actually making a purchase. They may still have to sell their house, or may not be able to afford a house yet. They may still even be unsure as to whether or not they want to relocate.
Your Realtor should be able to distinguish realistic potential buyers from mere lookers. Realtors should usually find out a prospective buyer's savings, credit rating, and purchasing power in general. If your Realtor fails to find out this pertinent information, you should do some investigating and questioning on your own. This will help you avoid wasting valuable time marketing towards the wrong people. If you have to do this work yourself, consider finding a new Realtor.
Mistake #6 -- Not Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities
It is extremely important that you are well-informed of the details in your real estate contract. Real estate contracts are legally binding documents, and they can often be complex and confusing. Not being aware of the terms in your contract could cost you thousands for repairs and inspections. Know what you are responsible for before signing the contract. Can the property be sold "as is"? How will deed restrictions and local zoning laws will affect your transaction? Not knowing the answers to these kind of questions could end up costing you a considerable amount of money.
Mistake #7 -- Limiting the Marketing and Advertising of the Property
Your Realtor should employ a wide variety of marketing techniques. Your Realtor should also be committed to selling your property; he or she should be available for every phone call from a prospective buyer. Most calls are received, and open houses are scheduled, during business hours, so make sure that your Realtor is working on selling your home during these hours. Chances are that you have a job, too, so you may not be able to get in touch with many potential buyers.
101 Things I Love about Portland Maine
97. Italian Sandwiches--DiPietro's has been making their fantastic sandwiches since 1944! The Portland shop is located near Munjoy Hill on Cumberland Avenue. The classic sandwiches are made fresh with ham, cheese, pickles, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and black olives. Then, sprinked with salt, pepper and olive oil.
The soft but chewy bread at DiPietro's is laid flat with the heap of meat and veggies. The small size is a full meal.
Monday, July 19, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
96. Shops and boutiques in the Old Port--I walked around the delightful Old Port area tonight and went to an old favorite and found a new favorite---both on upper Exchange Street. The first is Folly 101 which has a wonderful combination of chippy, funky antique furnishings like lawn chairs and small tables; and a colorful array of home and decorator items like dishes, linens and candles. They have some very sweet children's clothes in the back, too. Check it out frequently as there are always new wares. Great place to buy gifts!
The next shop is nearby--Motifs. This store has all sorts of jewelry, reading glasses, home goods and other fun stuff. The most exciting find for me was the great selection of women's clothing including one of my favorites of all time--Krista Larson! Her clothing which is made in New Hampshire from beautiful materials is unique and so edgy that you will be way outside the fashion box. Congrats to owner Paula Jalbert for bringing her to Portland!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
95.Len Libby's Candies in Scarborough, Route One, is a treat for the sweet lover. They are famous for Lenny the lifesize moose made out of 1700 pounds of chocolate that took 4 weeks to construct. If you go to the store to see him you can watch a video about how he was made.
I have been visiting the stores at variuos locations since I was a kid. I like their peanut butter taffy, fudge, and other candies but my favorite is the Bangor Taffy. The taffy is small buttery caramels dusted with confectioner's sugar. Give them a try!
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
94. Yarmouth Clam Festival--this super family event is held every July for a whole weekend. This was year 45! There is so much to do and see you need a weekend to take in all the fun and food. The food court has every type of seafood, esp. clams of course, that you can imagine including fried whole clams in batter or crumbs, clam strips, clam cakes, lobster rols, crab cakes, haddock fingers etc.
There is a fireman's muster, diaper derby, road races, pancake and flapjack breakfasts, a carnival with rides and junkfood, and great arts and crafts vendors. Plus musical performances all day everyday of the fest!!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Foreclosure Alternative: The Short Sale
By: Gwen Moran
Published: July 8, 2010
A short sale is far from hassle-free, but it’s a better alternative than foreclosure. And now you’ve got a little help from your friends in D.C. Here are the facts about short sales and how to get started.
Progress K
Effort High 10+ hrs
Investment Low up to $500 (for attorney)
0Comments Added to Binder
After a short sale, you may qualify for a loan again in two years--quicker than you could with a foreclosure in your past. Image: fotog/Getty Images
Facing foreclosure and tempted to stay in your home until the bank pulls it out from under you? Bad idea. Don’t do it. A much more graceful exit is a short sale, an agreement between you and your lender to sell your home for less than you owe. Although there’s no guarantee that your lender will let you avoid foreclosure with a short sale, new government regulations are aimed at encouraging lenders to do so.
Short sales get government incentives
Although short sales are not hassle-free, at least you’ve got the government backing you. The Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) program provides financial incentives for lenders and borrowers to avoid foreclosure through short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosures.
Participation in the HAFA program requires adherence to guidelines—including a standard process and minimum timeframes—that speed the process, says Dallas-based REALTOR® Tom Branch, co-author of Avoiding Foreclosure: The Field Guide to Short Sales. The HAFA program is for homeowners who can’t keep their homes with the help of a loan modification.
Advantages of a short sale
You can be a homeowner again more quickly with a short sale in your past than with a foreclosure. New Fannie Mae guidelines help you qualify for a new mortgage in as little as two years after a short sale, as opposed to three years or more after a foreclosure.
You will have more time to make relocation plans and save money than with a deed in lieu. A short sale may take four to 12 months. A deed in lieu of foreclosure arrangement typically requires you vacate your home within 30 to 60 days of signing, according to real estate attorney Lance Churchill.
You can receive up to $3,000 from your lender for moving expenses at the time of closing of a HAFA short sale or a HAFA deed in lieu of foreclosure. Relocation funds are part of the incentives of HAFA, but not necessarily for other short sale or deed in lieu programs of the lenders.
You can help your community’s home values. Because the lender often receives a higher amount of the remaining loan balance than it would from the sale of a home after a foreclosure, short sales help support home values in the surrounding community.
Disadvantages of a short sale
Your credit score will take a severe hit. But that would happen anyway with a foreclosure. Fair Isaac, creator of the FICO score, says foreclosure and short sales have virtually identical impacts on your credit score. VantageScore—a company that has created a credit score model for consumers—says a short sale will lead to only a marginally lighter hit when compared with foreclosure.
You may owe additional taxes. In the past, if your outstanding mortgage was $100,000 and your lender accepted a short-sale purchase offer of $90,000, you were liable for income tax on the forgiven $10,000, says Harlan D. Platt, economist and professor of finance at Northeastern University in Boston. However, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, which runs through 2012, generally allows taxpayers to exclude income from the discharge of debt on their principal residence in some circumstances. Full relief is available only if the amount of forgiven debt doesn’t exceed the debt that was used to acquire, construct, or rehabilitate a principal residence. Consult a tax professional and an attorney to minimize or avoid this liability.
In some states, your lender may still be able to come after you for the difference between the short sale price and the amount needed to pay off the mortgage. Your actual agreement with your lender and state and local laws and regulations spell out the details. Consult a tax professional and an attorney to minimize or avoid this liability.
How to proceed with a short sale
Find a qualified REALTOR® experienced in short sales. Short sales are tough to navigate, and they’re further complicated by your loan type—FHA vs. Veterans Administration vs. conventional loans. Real estate agents who specialize in short sales will know the proper steps and order of the steps involved. They’ll also be able to navigate the many parties involved in the process and over-burdened loss mitigation departments. Look especially for agents who have Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) Certification, which requires specialized training.
Gather evidence to support your need for a short sale as opposed to a foreclosure. You’ll need to prove that you have little or no equity in your home, you’re behind on your payments, and you’re no longer able to afford your home. You’ll need to write a hardship letter to the lender describing your circumstances, such as a divorce, job loss, illness, death, or other event that has impacted your income.
A short sale can be a time-consuming process, but if you can avoid foreclosure, it’s worth it in the long run.
Gwen Moran has been writing about business, finance, and real estate for more than a decade. Her work has been published by Entrepreneur, Newsweek.com, Financial Planning, Woman’s Day, and The Residential Specialist. She bucks the cottage trend and lives in a Colonial near the Jersey Shore.
From: http://www.houselogic.com/
By: Gwen Moran
Published: July 8, 2010
A short sale is far from hassle-free, but it’s a better alternative than foreclosure. And now you’ve got a little help from your friends in D.C. Here are the facts about short sales and how to get started.
Progress K
Effort High 10+ hrs
Investment Low up to $500 (for attorney)
0Comments Added to Binder
After a short sale, you may qualify for a loan again in two years--quicker than you could with a foreclosure in your past. Image: fotog/Getty Images
Facing foreclosure and tempted to stay in your home until the bank pulls it out from under you? Bad idea. Don’t do it. A much more graceful exit is a short sale, an agreement between you and your lender to sell your home for less than you owe. Although there’s no guarantee that your lender will let you avoid foreclosure with a short sale, new government regulations are aimed at encouraging lenders to do so.
Short sales get government incentives
Although short sales are not hassle-free, at least you’ve got the government backing you. The Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) program provides financial incentives for lenders and borrowers to avoid foreclosure through short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosures.
Participation in the HAFA program requires adherence to guidelines—including a standard process and minimum timeframes—that speed the process, says Dallas-based REALTOR® Tom Branch, co-author of Avoiding Foreclosure: The Field Guide to Short Sales. The HAFA program is for homeowners who can’t keep their homes with the help of a loan modification.
Advantages of a short sale
You can be a homeowner again more quickly with a short sale in your past than with a foreclosure. New Fannie Mae guidelines help you qualify for a new mortgage in as little as two years after a short sale, as opposed to three years or more after a foreclosure.
You will have more time to make relocation plans and save money than with a deed in lieu. A short sale may take four to 12 months. A deed in lieu of foreclosure arrangement typically requires you vacate your home within 30 to 60 days of signing, according to real estate attorney Lance Churchill.
You can receive up to $3,000 from your lender for moving expenses at the time of closing of a HAFA short sale or a HAFA deed in lieu of foreclosure. Relocation funds are part of the incentives of HAFA, but not necessarily for other short sale or deed in lieu programs of the lenders.
You can help your community’s home values. Because the lender often receives a higher amount of the remaining loan balance than it would from the sale of a home after a foreclosure, short sales help support home values in the surrounding community.
Disadvantages of a short sale
Your credit score will take a severe hit. But that would happen anyway with a foreclosure. Fair Isaac, creator of the FICO score, says foreclosure and short sales have virtually identical impacts on your credit score. VantageScore—a company that has created a credit score model for consumers—says a short sale will lead to only a marginally lighter hit when compared with foreclosure.
You may owe additional taxes. In the past, if your outstanding mortgage was $100,000 and your lender accepted a short-sale purchase offer of $90,000, you were liable for income tax on the forgiven $10,000, says Harlan D. Platt, economist and professor of finance at Northeastern University in Boston. However, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, which runs through 2012, generally allows taxpayers to exclude income from the discharge of debt on their principal residence in some circumstances. Full relief is available only if the amount of forgiven debt doesn’t exceed the debt that was used to acquire, construct, or rehabilitate a principal residence. Consult a tax professional and an attorney to minimize or avoid this liability.
In some states, your lender may still be able to come after you for the difference between the short sale price and the amount needed to pay off the mortgage. Your actual agreement with your lender and state and local laws and regulations spell out the details. Consult a tax professional and an attorney to minimize or avoid this liability.
How to proceed with a short sale
Find a qualified REALTOR® experienced in short sales. Short sales are tough to navigate, and they’re further complicated by your loan type—FHA vs. Veterans Administration vs. conventional loans. Real estate agents who specialize in short sales will know the proper steps and order of the steps involved. They’ll also be able to navigate the many parties involved in the process and over-burdened loss mitigation departments. Look especially for agents who have Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) Certification, which requires specialized training.
Gather evidence to support your need for a short sale as opposed to a foreclosure. You’ll need to prove that you have little or no equity in your home, you’re behind on your payments, and you’re no longer able to afford your home. You’ll need to write a hardship letter to the lender describing your circumstances, such as a divorce, job loss, illness, death, or other event that has impacted your income.
A short sale can be a time-consuming process, but if you can avoid foreclosure, it’s worth it in the long run.
Gwen Moran has been writing about business, finance, and real estate for more than a decade. Her work has been published by Entrepreneur, Newsweek.com, Financial Planning, Woman’s Day, and The Residential Specialist. She bucks the cottage trend and lives in a Colonial near the Jersey Shore.
From: http://www.houselogic.com/
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
93. Oh yes, the reataurant category again--Espo's Trattoria on Congress Street has been around for a while but it always serves up delcious Italian fare. I had a big meaty square of 3" high lasagna and my husband tried the specail-- haddock Parmigiana. Both portions were more than adequate--for a family of four! My entree was a delious combination od pasta, cheeses and sauce with pepperoni, ground sirloin and sausage. I barely made a dent in it. We started with fresh salads and their yummy bread. The olive oil, grated cheese and herb dipping sauce was fab!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
92.Restaurants--- The Farmer's Table is located on Commercial Street but really the Old Port area. On the corner of one of Portland's cobblestone streets, this bistro has indoor and outdoor seating. Our server(who looks like one of the characters from "True Blood" in a good way) was fun and helped make our eating experience very relaxed and pleasant. The meal began with a nice red wine, local Sebago Brewery Runabout Red Ale and their delicious French bread with olive oil.
I tried the 1/2 pound burger with crisp fries and my husband had the salmon with snowpeas and mashed potatoes. Both were delicious! We ended with a warm, tangy blueberry cobbler with creamy vanilla ice cream. Already looking forward to another trip---might try brunch next time.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
101 ThingsI Love About Portland Maine
90. Day trips from Portland--SOWA Vintage Market in Boston. Only about 2 hours from Portland Maine, this fun and funky market offers free parking and great shopping!
There are vendors outside with new crafts including colorful pillows, aprons, towels and bags. Lots of artistic jewelry for all tastes and pocketbooks. You can also buy fresh baked goods, flowers and plants. Inside you will find an interesting array of vintage goods especially unique decor pieces--furniture, chandeliers, linens etc. You could find all the items you need to outfit a super cool 50's style apartment. The stagers for Mad Men should be notified.
The whole area has shops and studios specializing in home decorative arts. Tour de France has those great chairs that you see in every sidewalk cafe in Paris and a wonderful selection of tableware.
91. Although located as part of the food court of the market, Yummy Mummy brownies has to get its own special mention as my daughter and I both ageed that these brownies were the BEST ever! The owner who somehow manages to be very slim told us that she uses her grandmother's recipe. I can only say that they have a thin crust layer on top and bottom and a thick delicious soft chocolate fudge center. With or without big pecans, they are fab! www.YummyMummyBrownies.com
Monday, July 5, 2010
Schools. Check Before You Buy
Don't forget to check into the SCHOOL DISTRICTS of the area you're considering. Information is available on every school; such as class sizes, % of students that go on to college, SAT scores, etc. Check this website: http://nces.ed.gov/
You can also find the information on my personal website: http://www.mainehomesmarket.com/
You can also find the information on my personal website: http://www.mainehomesmarket.com/
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Show Off the Interior of Your Home
Attic
•Check underside of roof for leaks, stains or dampness
•Look around chimney for condensation or signs of water
•Clean and clear ventilation openings if necessary
•Clean out stored junk
Walls and Ceilings
•Check condition of paint and wallpaper
•Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster or wallboard
Windows and Doors
•Check for smooth operation
•Replace broken or cracked panes
•Repair glazing
•Check condition of weather stripping and caulking
•Examine paint
•Test doorbell or chimes
•Test security system
•Wash windows and woodwork, if necessary
Floors
•Inspect for creaking boards, loose or missing tiles, worn areas
•Check baseboards and moldings
•Test the staircases for loose handrails, posts or treads
Bathrooms
•Check tile joints, grouting and caulking
•Remove mildew
•Repair leaking faucets and shower heads
•Check the condition of painted or papered walls
•Test operation of toilet
Kitchen
•Wash all appliances
•Clean ventilator or exhaust fan
•Remove accumulation of grease or dust from tiles, walls and floors
Basement
•Remove clutter
•Check for signs of dampness, cracked walls or damaged floors
•Inspect structural beams
•Check pipes for leaks
Electrical System
•Check exposed wiring and outlets for signs of wear or damage
•Repair broken switches and outlets
•Label each circuit or fuse
Plumbing System
•Check water pressure when taps in bathroom(s) and kitchen are turned on
•Look for leaks at faucets and sink traps
•Clear slow-running or clogged drains
•Bleed air off radiators if needed, and check for leaking valves
Heating and Cooling Systems
•Change or clean furnace and air-conditioning filters
•Have equipment serviced, if needed
•Clear and clean area around heating and cooling equipment
•Check underside of roof for leaks, stains or dampness
•Look around chimney for condensation or signs of water
•Clean and clear ventilation openings if necessary
•Clean out stored junk
Walls and Ceilings
•Check condition of paint and wallpaper
•Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster or wallboard
Windows and Doors
•Check for smooth operation
•Replace broken or cracked panes
•Repair glazing
•Check condition of weather stripping and caulking
•Examine paint
•Test doorbell or chimes
•Test security system
•Wash windows and woodwork, if necessary
Floors
•Inspect for creaking boards, loose or missing tiles, worn areas
•Check baseboards and moldings
•Test the staircases for loose handrails, posts or treads
Bathrooms
•Check tile joints, grouting and caulking
•Remove mildew
•Repair leaking faucets and shower heads
•Check the condition of painted or papered walls
•Test operation of toilet
Kitchen
•Wash all appliances
•Clean ventilator or exhaust fan
•Remove accumulation of grease or dust from tiles, walls and floors
Basement
•Remove clutter
•Check for signs of dampness, cracked walls or damaged floors
•Inspect structural beams
•Check pipes for leaks
Electrical System
•Check exposed wiring and outlets for signs of wear or damage
•Repair broken switches and outlets
•Label each circuit or fuse
Plumbing System
•Check water pressure when taps in bathroom(s) and kitchen are turned on
•Look for leaks at faucets and sink traps
•Clear slow-running or clogged drains
•Bleed air off radiators if needed, and check for leaking valves
Heating and Cooling Systems
•Change or clean furnace and air-conditioning filters
•Have equipment serviced, if needed
•Clear and clean area around heating and cooling equipment
101 Things I Love about Portland Maine
89. Arundel Barnhouse Theater- Just saw a really fun performance of The Producers at this wonderful theater in an old Maine barn. The performers were overall on the youthful side but still very accomplished. A real fun night out.
101 Things I Love About Portland Maine
88. Restaurants--Sebago Brew Pub--best mojito! Before attending the theater my husband and I got a light meal of soup and salad at the Pub in Kennebunk. All locations are great eateries but in the summer, try one of their mojitos---very refreshing.
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