December 8, 2014
This festive time of the year, is probably my favorite. I was recently reminded that my affinity for the Holidays is a "need to not let go of my childhood." Since I turn "60" this week…I must agree with this statement!
The real estate market settled down a bit in November after a very active September and October. In November there were 33 sales (compared to 42 sales in October) and the average price remained strong ($1.44M) but the median price was back to normal ($550K). As with last month, the YTD numbers continue to be a "reality check" of the good monthly news. The YTD news indicates we are still in a steady market with the number of sales slightly below last year and prices basically the same. The average "days on market", however, are down by 15%!
Month/Year Nov/2014 Oct/2014 Nov/2013 2014(YTD) 2013(YTD)
# Residential Sales 33 42 38 359 369 Average Price $1.44M $1.36M $1.1M $1.03M $1.01M
Median Price $550K $1.02M $710K $595K $610K
Avg. Days on Market 219 190 219 222 261
There are currently 78 properties showing "Under Agreement" in our system which should equate to 30-40 closings for the month of the December. And…the "pipeline" for January 2015 transactions indicates a good start to the New Year.
Have a great Holiday Season and in the words of Charles Dickens, ""I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!"
All the best…
Doug Reece
Accredited Buyers Agent®
Certified Residential Specialist®,
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist®
November 5, 2014
Mother Nature delivered us a "whooper" of a nor’easter on November 1st and 2nd. We experienced 60+ mph winds, torrential rains and ferry/road cancellations; reminding us of the fragile environment we live in (and on).
I mention the fragile environment, not only because of the storm, but because of some island happenings that I think you should be aware of:
1. There is an increasing issue of excess nitrogen in all the island ponds, especially Lagoon Pond, Sengekontacket Pond and Lake Tashmoo. Please note that the nitrogen level in each pond has exceeded the allowable threshold resulting in a decline in eel grass and overall water quality. I am involved in some groups who are looking into changing this. Let me know if you want to get involved or receive information.
2. There is a recent movement by the Commonwealth to introduce sand mining in some of the islands rich fishing grounds. Sand mining is a technique of removing sand from the ocean floor to replenish beaches. Public comment is welcomed until 11/25/14 before policy is established. Let me know if you would like more information.
I will now "step down off my soapbox" and discuss the real estate market. October was another strong month with 42 sales and both average and median price well over $1M! We have not seen both average and median prices above $1M in the same month for some time. As with last month, the YTD numbers are a "reality check" of the good monthly news. The YTD news indicates we are still in a steady market with the number of sales slightly below last year and prices basically the same. However, a steady market is not a declining market!
Month/Year Oct/2014 Sept /2014 Oct/2013 2014(YTD) 2013(YTD)
# Residential Sales 42 51 44 319 331
Average Price $1.36M $911K $1.40M $992K $989K
Median Price $1.21M $565K $670K $595K $597K
Avg. Days on Market 190 226 188 224 269
There are currently 83 properties showing "Under Agreement" in our system which should equate to 25-30 closings each month forthcoming.
Have a great Thanksgiving Holiday. Enjoy your time with family and friends.
Please let me know any questions or thoughts you might have.
Thank you for your trust and patience in what I do. All the best.
Doug Reece
Accredited Buyers Agent®
Certified Residential Specialist®,
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist®