| Maine Real Estate
News, Trends & Observations
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Greetings!
We hope you are enjoying this early Spring. We've lived in Maine for just over 10 years and don't really remember a March quite like the one we just experienced - from both a weather and business point of view!
As we have been saying for the last several months real estate activity around the state has improved dramatically. For example, in March 2010 there were 220 single family homes sold in Cumberland County, compared to only 137 during the same time period in 2009. That is a 61% improvement. Additionally, another 266 went under contract.
Although it is difficult to determine just how much of the activity can be traced to the government's extension of the homebuyer tax credit, the overall mood is continues to be one of more cautious confidence and optimism.
In this issue of our newsletter we have featured some stories (and videos) on the current status of consumer attitudes towards mortgage defaults and the governments ongoing efforts to "soften" the foreclosure landing. The other articles, we hope you agree, are "just kind of interesting...."
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Mortgage Modifications
Round 2
 When first introduced in 2009, the (HAMP) Home Affordable Modification Program was initially predicted to help at least 3 million homeowners prevent foreclosure. To date only about 170,000 have received any kind of permanent or partial loan modifications - what a surprise!
Whether you are for or against these types of government programs, the objectives were not met. So now begins the second phase of the program.
The government is now prepared to
assist unemployed homeowners and those who are seriously underwater on their
mortgages. Lenders will now be required to allow payment reductions for
unemployed borrowers for at least three months and as long as six months. Learn More...
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g-Speak Spacial Technology
What Exactly?
 When it comes to new technology, we like to pride ourselves as being on the
leading edge - at least as far as real estate goes. We have been the first in
our local market to create HD videos and to commonly use narration and a
streaming server, providing our clients with the very best presentation of their
homes online.
However, when it comes to new things, the speed with which new products are
introduced becomes faster all the time. For example, have you ever heard of
g-Speak Spatial Operating Environment?
In the most simplest of terms, g-Speak has the potential to change how people
interact with machines. Developed by Oblong Industries, it is today's virtual reality. It wont' be long before we need to reserve space on the holodeck!
As you watch the video, some of it may be familiar. Think of it as kind
of CSI meets Minority Report. Learn More... |
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Lessons from Zig Ziglar
Prime the Pump
 Zig Ziglar is one of the most well know motivational speakers of all time.
Last year he was in Portland as part of a one-day seminar that included other
nationally well-known celebrities, authors and presenters.
At that time his health was not
the best and his daughter was on hand to provide assistance and keep him on
track. Nonetheless, he still provided some sage wisdom that is just as relevant
today as it was years ago. It was the first time I had seen him in person Learn More...
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Thank you for your continued support. As with everything we do we constantly strive to set a standard of professionalism uncommon in our industry.
Sincerely,
Michael & Laura Sosnowski
Maine Home Connection |
