steve's White Mountain Blog

Residents of New Hampshire – there may be no greater threat to our states Economy than the current Northern Pass – utility attempt to run a 1200 Megawatt High Voltage Direct Current line – Over head suspended on towers 135 feet in the air across the entire Granite State. The Visual blight alone will hurt the tourist industry and the scenic beauty of our state. The real estate tax revenues,  the health and welfare of our citizens, Gas tax, toll booth revenues, rooms and meals taxes will suffer as well. Please add your town to the list of places who wish to Petition requiring “any” high voltage transmission lines – be required to be buried rather than strung from towers over 100 feet in height.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

PETITION FOR A HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL TRANSMISSION LINE ORDINANCE TOWN OF _______________

WHEREAS, the Town of _________________ currently has an existing electrical transmission line carrying High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) through the town designated by Public Service Company of New Hampshire as Line X–178; and,

WHEREAS, the aforementioned transmission line is mounted on 40 to 50 foot tall wooden poles, some of which are below adjacent tree lines; and,

WHEREAS, the proposed Northern Pass transmission line would carry 1200 Megawatts of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) power generally south from Canada through New Hampshire, including through portions of the Town of _________________, on visually damaging power lines hung from tall, intrusive steel towers at heights ranging from eighty (80') feet to one hundred and thirty five (135') feet in the air, well above tree height; and,

WHEREAS, the Voters of the Town of _________________ have concluded that the Northern Pass transmission line, as it has been proposed, would cause significant degradation of real estate property values resulting in dramatic losses of property tax receipts, well in excess of any conceivable property tax revenues from levying tax assessments on the aforesaid towers and transmission lines; and,

WHEREAS, numerous other negative impacts from the aforesaid proposed Northern Pass transmission line will occur or can reasonably be expected to occur, over time, including, but not limited to: a. A significant drop in tourist visits, and consequently, revenues, as damages from the power lines to New Hampshire’s natural scenic beauty will be a deterrent to people coming to the region. b. A drop in toll fees and New Hampshire gas tax revenues as motorists choose other routes into Northern New England, or worse, choose not come at all. c. The strong possibility of negative health impacts from Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF’s) radiating from the 1200 Megawatt HVDC cables. d. A drop in business revenues, and consequently, a drop in employment at impacted businesses such as; ski areas, restaurants, gas stations, constructions firms, shops, stores, banks, real estate firms, to name just a few - - all of which are heavily dependent upon visitors coming to the area. Therefore, the undersigned citizens of _________________, by petition, respectfully ask the town to adopt the following ordinance:

Other than high voltage electrical transmission lines in existence as of the effective date of this ordinance, there shall be no further overhead development of alternating current or direct current high voltage transmission lines allowed within the borders of the Town of __________________. All such future electrical transmission lines must be placed underground within power line rights of way or within yet to be established power line corridors, and installed in a manner approved by the State of New Hampshire’s Public Utility Commission and/or Department of Transportation. Distribution lines carrying electrical power and other utility lines such as telephone and cable television for local residential or commercial use may continue to be installed above ground, but undergrounding of such lines, is strongly recommended and encouraged. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its passage.

Printed Name____________________________Signature________________Date

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please fill in the town you reside in - print your name - Sign , Date and Mail to : Alliance Against Northern Pass P.O.Box 1732, Campton NH 03223.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

   Here is a link to the PDF - Version of this Petition *Northern Pass Petition.*

  Here is a you tube video talking about the issues involved in the Northern pass *Northern passVideo*

This is the view I want to see every day...not one with 100 miles of 100+ foot High Voltage towers over the White mountains and leading all the way down to the sea coast of New Hampshire.

White Mountain house featuring Rustic charm on a quiet road – over looking the river, close to the quaint village of Woodstock just a few minutes to three ski resorts and all the areas favorite local attractions.

Listing Price $159,900.  As is as seen with “some” furniture and fixtures to remain as a convenience to the seller. This property may be sold at anytime…this post is not a guarantee of current availability.

 . While the bank cleans up a few loose ends, I’ve been able to photograph and research the rich history of this unique home’s many hidden treasures.

 .

The home has only been owned by two families in it 90+ year’s of existence. I can tell in its early life it was well cared for and lovingly shared with friends and family.

.

Businesses were tried on this spot, but a change in access and the creation of a state highway near by put a damper on this location as an enterprise. I found evidence of an antique dealership and art and pottery studio still exists in a detached structure on the property (kilns and materials suspended in time).

.

The Robust woodstove in the dinning room and Stone fireplace in the den tell the story of warm days in front of a roaring fire. Conversion to oil heat was completed much later as was the metal roof – which is perfect for the snow loads we get in these long White Mountain winters.

.

The addition of a three season screen porch harkens back to the days when this was a simple summer camp. The formal living room, oak floors and detached two car garage are not things we all find in new construction these days.

 .

I’ll be putting this home on the market prior to next weekend…and I’ll have to let the price remain a mystery for now, but for those that are intrigued I’m guessing they will be pleasantly surprised when I post the asking price.

         I'll add the listing price to this post in a few days!!

Steve Loynd - Alpine Lakes Real Estate / Lincoln New Hampshire

         Toll free 800-926-5653 / Steve@alpinelakes.com

Staging and the next generation of home buyers…Needs and desires have changed and not all new buyers can see past the “old homes – Good Bones”. With the lack of new housing starts, it makes perfect sense to buy an existing home – but you need to see yourself living there – not the personality of the past owner (or family that made this home theirs up to now).

To stage or not to stage? It may be the question, but the answer is not always Yes or No. While there are properties where a total "staging" is not only warranted but possible, there are also homes and situations where the needs of a family still living in the house must be accommodated while allowing the rooms to present themselves in a more versatile light.

On a number of occasions I have worked with Realtors and their clients to provide some creative options for "micro-staging." This can be especially helpful in older/historic homes and for custom homes that were built with one particular family's interests in mind. It can also be useful in homes that have been lived in by one owner for many years. We are all reluctant to part with our "favorite furniture" but younger buyers may be overwhelmed by house filled with a décor format that pre-dates their childhood. The removal of one or two particularly domineering pieces can make all the difference. 

Today's furniture, technology, and lighting offer endless possibilities to transform yesterday's home for tomorrow's owner's lifestyle. From shared spaces to individual bedrooms I can help you create a dialog that presents the potential buyer with a home's most appealing and realistic opportunities.

As a Realtor, it is so important to be aware of the current design trends.  In monthly newsletters I will included several articles that might be helpful as you guide your sellers in preparing their homes for sale.  Also included will be information that you can use to help potential buyers determine how they might live in a home they are interested in purchasing.

This is our first quarterly newsletter specifically for Realtors.  If there are certain topics you would like to see in this newsletter, please contact me at crt@crtinteriors.com.  For the past 25 years I have worked very closely with the real estate community and have also sold real estate myself, so I do understand your needs.  Please call or email me if you have any questions about how we might work together : Randy Trainor –Designing Wisely.     

I hope you enjoy Randy’s thoughtful article, we will continue to collaborate on Real estate design and staging advice as it can help Realtors sell more homes.     

Several surveys I participate in have drawn the conclusion that Generations that follow the Baby Boomers are more concerned about Eco-friendly options. Smaller carbon foot prints, family oriented space and eliminating association fees in their housing choices - will be important in future purchasing decisions. which leads me to believe recycling existing homes and staging them for today's buyers will help sell homes that currently don't fit the bill for many buyers desires. 

Today's New Hampshire White Mountain Valley views.

Intervale New Hampshire - A wonderful Mount Washington View.

On the Kancamagus -Nationally recognized scenic highway...there are many look out points to stop and enjoy.

   this is part of the town of Albany New Hampshire...along the 32 mile trip between Lincoln And Conway NH

I love this section of the Kanc...32 miles of scenic highway - No Telephone poles, no gas stations, no buildings.

One of the free standing covered Lookout - rest stops on the Kancamagus.

Route 112

One Last View of Mount Washington, From the Lincoln New Hampshire side of the "Kanc"...

Looking for White Mountain Real Estate? Call a Realtor that has seen it all, 27 years as a Full time property expert in the Grafton county area of New Hampshire. Open the MLS icon on the bottom of this post to view all properties in the 44 towns of Grafton County- Lakes and Mountains .

Tips from New Hampshire’s most Experienced Realtor.

I reviewed a seller disclosure for one of my buyer clients today; I am thorough but not an alarmist. Here are a few things I noticed, that the seller’s agent may have just glossed over if the buyer wasn’t represented.

#1. The disclosure was dated March of 2010. I understand a lot of property has been on the market a while and some have lowered the price a few times to stay close to market value. BUT A seller disclosure is invalid if it’s over a year old.

#2 an oil furnace & fireplace but only 1 chimney. Before you get too concerned it could be the heating system is direct vented and not sharing the fireplace chimney. BUT if they are on the same chimney oil and wood fires are a bad combination and no longer allowed by code.

#3 Radon tested Ok in 1995 & no insulation in walls. What does one thing have to do with the other you may ask? If the property tested under 4,0 Pci in 1995 please provide a copy of the test (none attached) and if you intend to insulate the property to make it more economical to heat that is a great idea BUT A tighter house may tray more of the deadly gas than when it was tested as a seasonal camp.

#4 The 1969 Furnace was replaced in 2007 that is a nice bonus for the new buyer to have an updated system. BUT the forced hot water system didn’t replace all the plumbing when they replaced the furnace you still may have Asbestos in the walls, or on the pipes.

#5 Restrictive Covenants recorded in 1967. If the buyer intends to use the property as a rental, raise chickens, subdivide the land, add a guest house, have an in-law apartment or a whole slew of other future plans you had better know what is allowed in the deed restriction. BUT Everyone else has farm animals – doesn’t mean it’s allowed.

#6 Site assessment –septic system maintenance. If the septic in a rural property has been cleaned out in the past year that is a good thing for a new owner. BUT, if the tank size is 1,000 gallons that would have been a 3 bedroom size back when this place was built – today that is the minimum size of a 2 bedroom house by code. Are you going to overwhelm the system if you move in year-round with 4 or 5 people when this used to be a seasonal camp?

Everyone wants to live on the water, but in the last 4 years the new shore land protection act has dramatically changed what you can do with in 250 feet of a class 4 river (or higher) or a Great pond (any sized water body over a certain size). I have been selling real estate for 27 years, and I work for one of the areas most respected builders. I have learned more about property rights, restrictions, and repairs than anyone I have ever met in the general brokerage business. Let me work for you, I’ll save you a lot of head aches and a lot of money in the process.

   Steve Loynd New Hampshire most experienced Realtor.

Experience is one thing you can’t get for nothing – Oscar Wilde.

During the course of my day I often capture the view out my back window. While enjoying my first coffee of the day I watched the sun creep over the mountain peaks. White Mountain National Forest north of my Location.

  Lafayette - Liberty and the Flume...are off in the Franconia Notch State park 15 miles north of Woodstock NH

Almost full sun on the western side of the slopes as the eastern sun rises on the northern mountain peaks.

The valley floor is fully lit by the days sun....warming us up from -2 all the way up to + 20 a good day to see some real estate.

     At the end of the day the sun starts to set and the clouds roll in. Snow is in the forecast and while other dread the white weather - we White Mountain skiers love the prospect of fresh snow for tomorrows trip to the slopes.

To view all area listings - click on the MLS icon on the bottom of this post, search by town -price or style of property in all 44 towns of Grafton County New Hampshire. Covering the lakes and Mountains of NH.

Mansion hill condos – Lowest price – Offering…in years!!

When downsizing or buying a second home location and convenience are often on the top of the list of must haves. This walk in level property allows the owner easy access and one floor living. Two bedrooms and two full baths a fully applianced kitchen, and best of all close to town and Loon Mt.

The association replaced the roof a few years back and the brand new composite decking is maintenance free on your huge 24 foot long private porch. The common area offers an outdoor pool and tennis courts, and the school playground and sports fields are near by (movies & Shopping).

 The condominium fees and property taxes add up to less than $300 / month when combined…making this well run association one of the areas most affordable costs of ownership available in the Loon mountain Resort Valley.

The most recent sale of this floor plan closed at $133,000 (Dec 2011) – and we are offering this furnished turn key condo for $119,900 -Call me @ 800-926-5653. Steve L.

Use the MLS Icon on the bottom of this post to view all area listings - by town, price, size or type of property.

Wonderful Ski Day - Beautiful views -Enjoy the scenery of the White Mountains in New Hampshire.

Four Passenger Gondola nearing the top of the mountain - Loon Ski Resort - Lincoln NH.

 The View from the top of the East Basin side of Loon.

   What an awesome view from the top of the Sunset Trail.

The view of Mount Washington - from the top of The North Peak side of Loon Mt.

Boom Run - part of the South Peak side of Loon...advanced slopes open and in great shape.

The Top of Cruiser trail (the tower guns -seen here are off now - but are the source of all this man made snow)...another great trail in super condition...ready for a big three day weekend.

Upper Bear Claw Trail...a beginner trail that can be skied top to bottom...a novice run, but a great view.

One last shot of Mount Washington off in the distance...taken from Upper Flying Fox trail, a wonderful run to carve big turns an intermediate trail that all can enjoy.

My Real Estate office is less than a mile to the closest ski lift at Loon mountain in Lincoln NH. Looking for area properties give me a call...want to see all the current inventory - use the MLS button of the bottom of this post to search by town, price or type of property.

First in the Nation Primary - left up to a bunch of Hicks?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

We travel a country mile to cast our ballot. Voting at the 100+ year old Grange Hall is truly a rural experience. There is no permanent heat at the old Grange Hall which is located next to the town Cemetery. The 1,200 residents of my home town exist in the three ring binders of registered voters. We take the vote seriously and the history of our First in the Nation Primary in New Hampshire tells the nation we sure can pick-em.

I arrived at 9:30 but thank goodness someone had got there early and started the wood-stove. The local contractor, selectmen, plow truck operator was there to nod hello and enjoy the free coffee. The Town Moderator instructed the elderly couple checking off names where I could be found on the official list. The Police Chief was on his second donut, and the temporary handicap ramp was in place for the day.

It was a balmy 24 degrees outside, and the witnesses to this official freedom were mostly in flannel. I’m what the locals call a flat-lander…having grown up near Boston and not actually being born here. I do own a plow truck – a chain saw and a field and brush mower. But today I arrived in the standard Realtor issued BMW SUV.  Yup…He gets to vote here, I know – I know being here 30 years doesn’t make him a local…but he still gets to vote.

I initialed beside my name on the check list and headed for one of the four curtained voting booths. The Curtains are a lovely Red – White and Blue Striped pattern. The republican Ballot had 19 Candidates to choose from. Hell I could have been on the ballot…with a few hundred signatures and a couple of grand I could run in a New Hampshire Primary.

              The Woodstock NH Grange Hall...Where some 400 votes were cast - Quiet till November.

If you don’t vote in the primaries –or the general election don’t cry when you don’t like the outcome.  I’m a city boy who lives in the country…and I love it here. Every one of these colorful characters would pull me out of a snow bank, or lend me ten bucks if I forgot my wallet and these are the folks that set the tone of the general election for the rest of the year. I joke about our Yankee independent, Redneck status but I trust the integrity of New Hampshire voters and the quaintness of voting in a building heated only by a wood-stove surrounded by plow trucks  and American made cars (except for mine). Don’t pass up Voting this is what people in other countries are fighting and dying for…....and we don’t go out because it might snow.

               A Typical Winter Day in Woodstock New haqmpshire...my back yard.

Big Weekend coming up in the white mountains of New Hampshire...the Three day Holiday - Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend is upon us and all the ski slopes will be open at Loon Mt and Waterville Valley ski areas - in Lincoln and Waterville Valley New Hampshire.

  The top of Boom Run on the South Peak Side of Loon Mountain - Features two brand new Expert trails Twitcher and Jobber.

The North peak side of Loon's upper flume and Walking boss - have a ton of man made snow and the conditions are stellar. I really can't say enough about the new efficient tower guns - that make some incredible snow.

Not in to down hill skiing? With the lack of Natural snow a hike in Franconia notch is still a workable plan for a day out doors. The White Mountain national Forest - or- the Franconia Notch State park offer some nice hikes. Easy or serious, Ice climbing or a stroll through the Flume...adventure awaits for all levels and all outdoor activities.

If you don't care to go outside at all...enjoy the White Mountain Sunsets - you know they are not bad either.

Looking for a White Mountain Property in NH- give Alpine Lakes real estate a call...Offering general brokerage services, listing - buyer brokerage - design build services , land development, and rental management services.

                                        Offices at Loon Mountain and /Waterville Valley ski resorts

Use the MLS Icon at the bottom of this post to view all listings in the 44 towns of Grafton County -Lakes and Mountains region of New Hampshire.