Monique Bedard Real Estate

Find out how your town is doing in the Real Estate Market

2011-10-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Northwest Vermont Market Report created by Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty.

Our goal in providing this report is to aid homebuyers and sellers throughout Northwest Vermont with the information they need to make informed decisions.

The report, which looks at sales from May through August, demonstrates the overall stability of Northwest Vermont’s property trends during the summer real estate season.Despite the property crisis that has affected many other U.S. communities, Northwest Vermont boosted the number of sold residential properties by 4.8% from May through August, while average sale prices slipped a modest 1.6%. Pending listings across Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle Counties rose 29%, signifying a steady pipeline of buyers, while new listings increased by 11%. The region also demonstrated a robust sell to list price ratio of 96%. Real estate is a local business, and perhaps no more so than in the vibrant and diverse towns of Northwest Vermont. As you’ll see throughout the report, sale prices can vary dramatically from town to town, and each community— whether Charlotte or Winooski — carries its own characteristics. Feel free to call or email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com with questions. Click here for report

Open house Sunday October 2nd in Burlington

2011-09-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

Join me this Sunday October 2nd in downtown Burlington 1-3pm to view this beautiful home across from Battery Park. This home features original woodwork, stained glass, lake and park views, 3 plus bedrooms, 1 car garage with lots of parking as well as RH zoning with the potential to add apartments! This property is currently listed by my colleague, Steve Lipkin at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty.
For more info click here or email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

This home makes sense!

2011-09-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

This 3 bedroom home offers you a beautiful backyard and three season porch in Jericho for $241k! Enjoy fully finished basement with fireplace! Hardwood floors throughout home and updated kitchen and bathroom. Call today for a showing or email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com Who do you know who is thinking of buying or selling?

Property of the month

2011-06-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

LOOK at this view every day!!! Perfect home for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy a home that feels like it is in the trees! 459 Pleasant Valley Road, Underhill. Home is offered through Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty for $238k. Contact listing agent, Monique Bedard mbedard@hickokandboardman.com for easy showing and click here for more information.

New Listing 185 Park Street Burlington

2011-04-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

Live Downtown and have no cosmetic/interior work to do at this affordable price!
Enjoy 4 bedrooms, updated kitchen, updated bath, gleaming hardwood floors, recessed lighting, new windows, enclosed porch, large basement, garage, and more! This home has a lot of style and charm and is waiting for you to move in and feel immediately at home. This listing is being offered through Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty at $279,000 Contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com for a showing. Click here for more info

Property of the month

2011-04-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

Is it time for you to own your own place? Is it time for you to have an investment? Look no further! 26 Bright Street in Burlington offers you an updated condo-conversion with basement storage, off-street parking, recently painted exterior, washer/dryer within unit, updated interior, and more! This condo-conversion is being offered at $136k with low condo association dues. Call now or contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman realty for easy showing.

Find out how your Chinese sign will do in the year of the Rabbit

2011-02-15T07:44:00.000-08:00

Starting on February 3, 2011 we entered the year of the rabbit which is promising a more peaceful year (as opposed to the year of the tiger that we just endured). I mean look at that cute little bunny!! How could anything go wrong? This is a time to settle your nerves and catch your breath! However, it is also a time for negotiations and those who try to force issues will ultimately fail. Read here

But how will your sign do this year? To simply look up your animal sign in the year of the rabbit is not enough. It is best practice if you can calculate your actual Ba Zi Element so you can accurately predict your year. I have located one site that really does this well. To guide you through this (as the site can be confusing for first time users) follow these directions:

When you enter the site, scroll down to the end of the page where it says, "Find your Chinese Horoscope Sign & Ba Zi Element". Enter your date of birth and gender. If you do not know the time of your birth it is ok (it will still calculate your sign correctly without your time of birth)

When it calculates your sign it will inform you of what type of characteristics your sign is. At this point, it will tell you colors that are favorable for you, it will also inform you of your overall luck for your whole life. After reading this, you can remember your animal sign characteristics and then go BACK to the original page and find your sign and characteristics and how you will do in the year of the rabbit. For example, I am the weak water ox. When I look at the original page to see how the weak water ox will do in the year of the rabbit, it says that this will be my BEST year. I'll let you know!! Good luck!

Wondering if the home you are looking at purchasing is good feng shui for you personally? Contact me to find out!! You can contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

NEW property of the month. Attention investors!

2011-01-12T08:44:00.000-08:00

Attention investors: Take a look at this multi-family unit with two 3 bedroom units across from the lake in downtown Burlington. Located at 50-52 North Avenue, each of the units have a great view of the lake. Property is being offered at $249,900. This duplex is currently being listed by my colleague, Steve Lipkin. To schedule a showing, feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

For more information about this property click here

Powerful Feng Shui message for 2011

2011-01-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

I was sent this email/link yesterday and it called out to me as a powerful message to start the year. I often find myself donating lots of household items in January. Like most of us, I see January as a "new beginning" and it makes sense to me that to move forward and allow the "new" to enter, we must let go of the "old" that holds us back. Clutter is stagnant. Clutter weighs us down. Clutter distracts us and makes it difficult for us to focus. So, join me this weekend in clearing out your items that no longer serve any purpose or are attached to negative memories or past longings that you need to let go of. Give it away so that the new energy can flow into your life. Read Suzee Miller's message for more insight Click here

As always, feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com for any real estate need you may have. Who do you know that may have a real estate need this year? I would be happy to work with them!

Picture taken from Frontdoor.com

New "pick of the month" home in Five Sister Neighborhood

2010-12-02T08:09:00.001-08:00

This 3 bedroom home is located in the highly sought after Five Sister Neighborhood. Original woodwork and charm awaits you with additional space in the finished attic. This home is currently listed with my colleague, Nina Lynn. For more info click here. For a showing, please contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

2010-11-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

USA Today reports steady job market supports Burlington Vermont. Read here for full article.

Feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com if you are interested in looking at a property or selling your current home. I look forward to hearing from you!!

In response to the Doom and Gloom TIME magazine article on housing

2010-09-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

Still deciding if home ownership is right for you?

This is a great response to the TIME magazine article on September 11th titled, "A case against home ownership" that reported a doom and gloom outlook on buying/owning a home. (Click on the title to read full article).

The response to this report, titled, "10 Reasons to Buy a Home" provides a different opinion. I am providing links to both so you can decide yourself.

Contact me with comments at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Does your living room have good Feng Shui?

2010-09-15T10:14:00.001-07:00

Yes, this is me enjoying company in

my living room. A couple of Feng Shui items I would like to point out. Notice how the furniture is round? Feng shui is very careful to avoid sharp edges of furniture. The coffee table and end table (as well as the couch) is round so that energy can flow smoothly throughout the room.

Do you have sharp edges on furniture pointing at you while you are seated? These are considered "poison arrows" and can affect your body as well as your general luck and well being.

Second, notice the birds? These are two love birds which are in the southwest direction of my home to enhance my family's "love life".

Finally, you may be curious about the giant Rhinoceros? This is a very crucial piece in our living room. While calculating my flying star chart of my new home, this particular room has the mountain star "7" in this section of the home which can open this area of the home up to burglary. The Rhinoceros is used to tame this affliction in this section of the home.

Are you fascinated by this ancient Chinese custom yet? Are you curious about the feng shui in your home or are you looking to buy or sell a home and want to know which home is best for you?

As always, feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Open House this Sunday September 12th 1-3

2010-09-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

Join me and a lender from Spruce Mortgage at 277 Sunderland Woods in Colchester for an open house this Sunday. This home features a large fenced in back yard which backs up to woods. You won't believe how large this yard is! You can also enjoy the fireplace, finished basement, two car garage, deck, and more! This home is located in a quiet neighborhood not far from I-89 and Winooski making it the perfect location! I look forward to seeing you there. For more information on this property, click here or you can email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Property of the month. Open house on Wednesday!

2010-07-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

LIVE DOWNTOWN IN THE CENTER OF IT ALL!
Downtown Burlington condo (103 Maple Street unit #1) with exclusive front porch and two car driveway only 2 blocks from lake and a short walk to Church Street. This unit features wide plank hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, washer/dryer within unit, jetted tub AND flat screen tv included in sale! As an additional bonus, seller is offering 3% back at closing for closing costs with accepted offer!! Enjoy your downtown living and be in the center of it all. Additional storage in basement and low association dues which include your heat! Join us at an open house Wednesday July 14th 4:30-6:00 on your way home from work! Or email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com click here for more info and pictures

Won't you be my neighbor???

2010-06-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Wow! This home features 2,917 finished sq feet with new wiring, new kitchen, newer heating, central air, and more! Three stories of finished space with five bedrooms and four baths. Located just a few blocks from Church street you can have all your friends over and stroll downtown. Offered at $449,000 with my colleague Brian Boardman at CBHB Realty you can live next to me!! I LOVE this area of Burlington and you will be amazed at the original woodwork and majestic glory of this home. For more information or to schedule a showing contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Pick a color...feng shui guide to colors

2010-06-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Did you know that each room and area of your home has a particular color preference based on feng shui? I am going to keep it simple for this short blog (no need to get complicated).

First, remember that each direction of your home is influenced by the five elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood.

Next, remember that each element resides in a specific direction. Below is a guide to help you choose the right color for your space.

Fire: Located in the South area of your home (can also be in the southwest and northeast of your home). Fire colors would include: Red, orange, pink, purple, strong yellow

Earth: Located in the Southwest and Northeast of your home (also located in the center of your home) Earth colors include beige, light yellow (earthy/sand colors)

Metal: Located in the West and Northwest (also located in North of your home). Metal colors include Gray and white

Water: Located in North of your home (also in East and Southeast of your home). Water colors include blue and black

Wood: Located in East and Southeast of your home (also located in the South). Wood colors include Green and Brown

Now does this mean that you paint each wall the following colors listed above based on that area of your home? Nope. Remember that the objects you use in a space also affect the feng shui and it is about balance. For example, if you have a lot of natural woodwook, this will contribute to the wood element (therefore painting the space brown would be too much wood element). The key is to find the balance of all five elements within a space. Remember that shapes of furniture also affect the element. For more on this click here. This is a great site (that I borrowed from) to help you learn more about the balance of the five elements.

Happy Painting and decorating!!

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/3ywzzgs

NEW pick of the month home in Burlington, VT

2010-06-01T12:49:00.000-07:00

Wow! Three bedroom, 1334 sq feet home located at 38 Gove Court in Burlington for $329,900! This listing features granite countertop, eat-in kitchen, stainless steel appliances, gas stove and more! Listed with my colleague, Chris Von Trapp, please contact me now before this one disappears! mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

What if my front door faces the back door or the stairs in feng shui?

2010-05-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

So you found the house you love but the front door directly faces a stairway or the back door?

According to feng shui, this could prohibit positive energy from benefiting the first floor of the home. Energy will quickly rush out the back door (example, money luck, good health, relationships, etc. flows in the front door and quickly out the back), or perhaps up the stairs.

There are cures for this which I became interested in this week as the home I just purchased has this affliction. I knew this prior to purchasing the home and intended on finding the appropriate cure for this as opposed to passing up the home I love. Here is what I found to share with you:

~Place a round table in-between the two doors to re-direct the energy (not possible in my situation as it would look silly)

~Work with color to re-direct the energy (this is a powerful tool and my next feng shui article will be devoted to color and finding the right color for each room (Fascinating stuff! I struggled with colors until I utilized feng shui suggestions)

~Use a tall, healthy, strong plant and position it in-between the two doors (this is the cure I chose to use)

For more on these cures click here

What if my front door directly faces the stairs? First, how close together is the front door and stairway? If there is significant space, energy may have the ability to flow to other areas of the home (especially with the right placement of objects and color). The trick is to re-direct the energy so that it doesn't quickly disperse up the stairway. The use of plants, art, and again color will help with this. Caution: NEVER place a mirror directly facing the front door. This will direct the energy immediately out the door as opposed to allowing it to come in the home and nourish the rooms.

Check in next week when I discuss the use of color to benefit each room and maximize your well-being!

Feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com with any questions you may have or if you are interested in selling or buying your next home

NEW listing today! Beautiful home in Colchester near I-89

2010-05-20T08:39:00.001-07:00

Wow! Three bedroom, 2 bath home with additional bonus room downstairs and a fully finished basement! You will love this fully fenced back yard which features a new deck and a deep lot that backs up to woods. Close to I-89 yet located in a quiet neighborhood that enjoys common pool, tennis court, and play ground. Home is offered at $319,000. Don't miss out on this one. Contact me today at mbedard@hickokandboardman for more information.

New Property of the Month

2010-05-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

Fantastic home and location listed this past week with my colleague, David Gray (Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty) at 25 Adams Court, Burlington VT. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with stunning kitchen and woodwork. Offered at $392,000. For more information or to schedule a showing, please contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Top 10 MYTHS of having a real estate agent work for you

2010-04-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Here are the top 10 myths about having an agent working for you (buyer representation):

1. I'll get a better deal if I deal directly with the listing agent
2. I'll get a better deal by buying a for sale by owner
3. I always have to pay for my buyer's agent services
4. I can't get all the info I need from one agent
5. All websites are created equal
6. All real estate markets are created equal
7. I can go on-line to get all the information I need about a house
8. The best information about the market comes from the news
9. All real estate professionals are the same
10. A realtor's only job is to let me in the house

By the way, the house I listed a couple of days ago as my "pick of the month property" went under contract three days after my posting! Above top ten is borrowed from Chandra Hall's ABR class. Feel free to email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com if you want a skilled agent working for you!

New property of the month! Will sell fast

2010-04-16T08:10:00.001-07:00

All of my properties of the month sell within 1-3 weeks of me posting them on my blog as I have my finger on the pulse! Today I introduce to you a new listing in the sought-after South end of Burlington listed by my colleague, Barbara Craig. Located at 36 Spruce street the home features 2 bedrooms, 3 baths with 1400 finished square feet. Beautiful rooms, hardwood floors, deck, and more! To schedule a showing contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

For more pictures click here

What do you mean I have to pay more at closing? Tax adjustment explained to avoid surprise at closing table!

2010-03-22T12:40:00.001-07:00

If you are purchasing a home between April 1-July 1, you may have to come to your closing with more funds than you additionally planned. Why? It is known as the tax adjustment (prebate tax). Previously, all Education property tax was voted on through the school budget and the taxes were collected. In the year 2000, a challenge was taken to the Supreme Court where advocates were stating that all children deserve equal education despite the amount of wealth that the school district has within its community. As a result of this case, the money is now collected from all towns and the State redistributes the money to the towns equally.

The prebate program was created as a tax adjustment based on one's income. If you net $97,000 or less (maxi um household income) you may qualify for this tax adjustment. Initially, the tax adjustment money was sent back to the owner of the home. However, about 2 years ago, the State stopped sending the money to the owner of the home and instead sends it to the town. The town then applies it as a credit to the owner's tax bill. When it is time to sell, that money "should" go back to the seller.

Most of the year, we are able to know what this amount is going to be and it should be communicated to you by your realtor or attorney so that you can plan for this before your closing. However, if you are purchasing a home between April 1-July 1, we often are not aware of what this amount is going to be as the state typically sends out the letters on July 1. If there has been a significant change in a seller's income level this amount is difficult to know and some attorneys have seen this tax adjustment as high as $8,000! That can be a lot of money for a purchaser to have to come up with/reimburse a seller when they are purchasing a home. Regardless of the amount, nobody enjoys last minute surprises at the closing table!

As always, you really should have a realtor working with you to help you negotiate and plan for these issues so that you can purchase/sell your home through a smooth and successful transaction. Please contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com with any questions you may have.

New Property of the month (Tremendous value)

2010-03-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

New property of the month, known for their tremendous value! Here is a rare 3 bedroom condo in south end of Burlington just reduced today to $210,000! Walk through woods to lake, bike path, and oakledge park. Enjoy your pool, tennis court, and quiet neighborhood. Close to I-89. Enjoy new windows throughout, new sliding glass door, new flooring, new vanities, new appliances, new water heater, new roof, and very low heating costs. This end unit is priced well below recent appraisal value. This unit is owned by VT state licensed realtor. Don't wait! Open house Sunday March 21st 1-3. For more information, click here. Feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

CNN shows how Feng Shui attempts to predict markets in 2010

2010-02-28T14:13:00.001-08:00

I had to share these videos with you IF you believe in Feng Shui or are at least CURIOUS? Yes, we are in the year of the tiger (still a difficult year for many). Here is a clip on CNN where they try to predict the economy based on Feng Shui. Click here to view video. Differing opinions on this video so I included another below.

The second video (click here) I found is more detailed and notes improvements and gains in stocks in May and June of 2010 (YIPPEE, so we have that to look forward to...if you believe in it) and they note that 2010 is a great time to invest in property! Well, I could have told you that. Write to me with your comments at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

New property of the month. NEW listing in Burlington

2010-02-22T13:44:00.000-08:00

Brand new listing this week in sought-after Burlington neighborhood. This home HAS IT ALL! Join us this Sunday (2/28/10) at 65 Glen Road in Burlington for an open house (1-3) and you can enjoy my home-made cookies, ask a lender from Spruce Mortgage your questions, and view this fantastic home

Everything is done already for you in this home so you can come home to relax in your surround sound family room with 42-inch flat screen tv. Or invite your friends over to enjoy the extended deck, jacuzzi, and fenced in large back yard. Dine and entertain in front of your wood burning fireplace on those cold Burlington nights. OR, pamper yourself in your beach glass mosaic tile and marble stone luxurious bathroom. Tons of southern light exposure pours through the large open windows of this home. You can live the dream and have it all! Offered at $499,000. For more information click here or contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com You can also see a visual tour here

Happy Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year

2010-02-14T07:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year everyone! Last night a group of friends joined me for dinner to explore the year of the tiger and how their sign will do for the year. If you wish to explore this for yourself, click here. It can be a lot of fun if you do it with a group and read your responses aloud.

Today being the Chinese New Year (Year of the Tiger) is a great day to figure out your intentions for the year (similar to New Years Resolutions) and write them down on paper. The Chinese encourage people to then set these intentions on fire (in a bowel...please don't burn your house down). This releases these intentions into the air. This will be my third year doing this ritual and I believe in it 100%

May this Chinese New Year be a safe, productive, and prosperous year for you! If you find yourself on the brink of making a scary change/decision in your life, you are not alone... be brave and FIERCE like the tiger!! This is a difficult time of change and uncertainty for many people.
As always, feel free to contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com with all of your questions.

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/y8whtht

Interest rates rise and what your payment would look like

2010-02-09T11:59:00.000-08:00

As mentioned previously in my blog; later this spring the top economists are predicting that interest rates will rise. What that means to you when you break it down in terms of your monthly payment is the following, (here is an example):

Purchase of $200,000 with 3.5% down payment at current rate of 5.200% for a 30 year fixed rate loan = $1,078.33

Same scenario as above with an increase to the rate of 1% for a total rate of 6.200% = $1,202.75

Total increase in monthly payment of $124.42.

To purchase at the same monthly payment as what you could with today’s rates in an economy with higher rates you would be buying a home for around $179,000. That is a decrease in purchasing power of $21,000 or over 10% less of a home!

If you are curious about viewing a property on the MLS now, or you have another real estate need, please contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com and I will be happy to help you!

RARE 3 bedroom end unit in Burlington

2010-01-26T12:32:00.000-08:00

These three bedroom condos have never been listed on the MLS in this development. This unit is priced below appraisal value. Enjoy south-end of Burlington and a quick walk through the woods to lake, bike-path, and park. Updated appliances, floors, new windows, new counter top, updated bathrooms and light fixtures, new roof, new hot-water tank, new smoke detectors, and fresh paint! Pool, tennis court, basket ball court, so much to enjoy! For more info click here
This end-unit is owned by VT state licensed realtor with Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty. A 1-year home warranty will be purchased for purchaser. Feel free to email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com for more information.

2010-01-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

How will YOU do in 2010 Year of the TIGER??

2010-01-19T11:58:00.000-08:00

On February 14, 2010 the Chinese New Year begins. This will begin the year of the Tiger. Do you know how your Chinese Sign will do this year?

Is this a good time for you to sell or buy a new home? How will your Chinese sign do financially this year? What is the forecast for you romantically? What about your health? Do you know your Chinese animal sign? It actually goes beyond that!

Many sites will calculate your animal sign and briefly tell you how you will do in the year of the tiger. But to be 100% accurate, PLEASE use this site to calculate a detailed actual picture by also factoring in your birth time. YOU NEED to calculate not only your animal sign but ALSO your Ba Zi Element. I have made it easy for you by researching and finding this one site that will serve you best. Click here and scroll down to Ba Zi Element to calculate your forecast for the year of the tiger.

During this time of the Chinese New Year I like to evaluate my feng shui. I like to clean out closets, re-paint rooms, fix broken items in the house, eliminate clutter, and donate things I no longer use. I also like to make a list of goals that I have for the year. The Chinese have red envelopes that they use for this and burn them with their intentions (similar to new years resolutions). It is a nice ritual that I love to do to inspire me for the year.

As you may know, the tax credit eligibility will end at the end of the month April 2010. Interest rates are expected to rise 6%-7% after this time. Although these rates are still historically low, right NOW may be the best time for you and your family to move. If the year of the TIGER is your year, make the most of it now while you can. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want to take a look at a property. You can email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

~Picture of tiger taken from Declan McCullah Photography

Lawrence Yun speaks about future of Housing Market; charts included

2010-01-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday January 12, 2010 I attended the NVBR meeting at the Shearton in Burlington, Vermont to listen to chief economist, Lawrence Yun speak about the future of the housing market.

I have provided you with three choices. You can either read my TOP FIVE points that I gathered, listen to a video of Lawrence Yun speaking directly where he summarizes these points, or view the Graphs he used that apply directly to his presentation.

Top Five points I gathered from Lawrence Yun presentation on Tuesday January 12, 2010:

1. Price declines are over
2. Inventory is falling meaning we are approaching a more balanced market (balanced market is a six month supply of inventory)
3. We will begin to see an increase in jobs in the next quarter
4. Tax credit is working with 2 million 1st time home buyers potentially claiming credit to date and an expected additional 2.4 million buyers taking advantage of tax credit by the end of June 2010 so that existing home sales will get a 15% boost and home prices will get a 3%-5% boost.
5. Interest rates will rise in the spring perhaps 6%-7% so people should take advantage of the lower rates now allowing them to save more monthly on their mortgage.

Feel free to email me at moniqueb@hickokandboardman.com
with any questions or comments you may have

Picture of Lawrence Yun taken from sarastoarealtors.com

Lawrence Yun speaks about Future of Housing

2010-01-14T10:04:00.001-08:00

New pick of the month property since last one sold within week.

2010-01-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

So my listing on Weaver Street in Winooski went under contract in less than a week (It was my pick of the month...I called that one!)

I have found another one for you...so you don't get too bummed out.

Imagine yourself roaming through your light filled home in Burlington and walking into your open updated kitchen (with very updated attractive cupboards!). Can you feel the hardwood floors under your feet as you gaze out onto your private yard and deck? This home is priced at $219,900 with 2 bedrooms and additional office space downstairs. This is a fantastic updated home ready for you to move in. I can't believe the value here. My colleague at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty, Geri Reilly, has listed a real gem here! Call me today to schedule a showing. Do yourself a favor and take advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit and low interest rates (wall street journal reported today a significant increase in interest rates over 2010). If you have any comments or would like to schedule a showing, contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com You should really see this home!

Pick of the month! NEW LISTING

2009-12-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

Here is the hot property of January 2010! New listing this week. An exceptional home and value. Home features 3 bedrooms plus bonus room, detached garage, large fenced in back yard with deck, hardwood floors, new appliances, new windows, new roof, new light fixtures and freshly painted and updated throughout. Come home to relax and enjoy your quiet neighborhood. Call today! $218,000. For more info click here

Blending Families in Feng Shui. Re-visit the Brady Bunch

2009-11-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

Are you blending two families and wonder how feng shui can help with a smooth transition? Think BRADY BUNCH! Each member of the family will benefit most by having their rooms located in the corner of the house that is devoted to them (click on Brady Bunch above to find this direction for each family member).

Also check each member's KUA number to ensure that each member is facing their best personal directions. In other words, each family member should have their dinner chair at the dinning table facing their best possible direction. Yes you should eat dinner together! Place a mirror directly facing the dinning room table to increase your good fortune and love together.

Each family member should have the seat in the living room that faces their best possible direction AND their bed should face their best possible direction (top of head while sleeping should face this direction). Make sure people's bedroom doors are not directly across from each other or this could lead to arguments. If it is, call me, I'll help you move! Or I guess you could place something between the two doors to interrupt this flow of energy. There are always remedies or "cures" to feng shui problems. (Traditional feng shui masters will tell you that prevention is always better than the "cure" if possible).

In addition, pay attention to your current home and how easily energy can move throughout the rooms. The East corner of your home (and each individual room) represents your family corner in feng shui. Is it cluttered? Is it missing? Make sure it is clean and well dusted and display a family picture of everyone together here. Make sure everyone is smiling in the picture. If someone has an unhappy face in the picture take a magic marker and make it a happy face. Just kidding! Take another picture I guess. So no scowls or tongues sticking out.

The Northwest area of the home represents the father in the family and the Southwest area of the home represents the mother. Is there a toilet located in these areas of the home? Ouch. Time to move again...not really. There are remedies for this. Is the area cluttered? Missing? Make sure you display positive images in these areas. Click here for a detailed look into this.

Each member of the family needs to be honored and respected. Be sure that each member has their own space which is uncluttered and auspicious with positive symbols of love and well-being.

As always, feel free to contact me if you have specific questions. If it is time to move so you can expand the home, also give me a call and I will be happy to help you find the perfect house for you and your happy family.

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/yae68d8

103 Maple Street unit #2 open house video

2009-11-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

Check out this video (click here) of open house at 103 Maple Street unit #2 Burlington Vermont. Contact me for a showing at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Open House Sunday 11/22/09 1-3pm

2009-11-21T17:08:00.000-08:00

Join me and a lender from Spruce Mortgage for an open house and home made cookies from Fresh Market Sunday at 103 Maple Street unit #2 Burlington, Vt 1-3pm. For more info click here

Vermont ranks #1

2009-11-18T07:43:00.000-08:00

Another reason to live in Vermont! Vermont is ranked #1 healthiest states in the country. Click here to read more

Picture taken from http://m.www.yahoo.com/

New listing Downtown Burlington

2009-11-14T06:56:00.000-08:00

New Listing Downtown Burlington. 2 bedroom condo listed with Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty. Contact Monique Bedard (mbedard@hickokandboardman.com) or

Click here for details

Great resource if you have questions about Tax credit

2009-11-10T12:14:00.000-08:00

Check out this website if you have specific questions about the recent extended and expanded tax credit.

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

Feel free to call me if you are curious about selling your home and would like to take advantage of the $6500 tax credit for your next home, or if you are a first time home buyer and want that $8,000 tax credit!!

Tax Credit extended and expanded!!

2009-11-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

BREAKING NEWS
Tax credit extended and expanded
Congress Votes for Home Buyer Tax Credit Expansion November 5 - Charles McMillan, president of the National Association of REALTORS®, has released a special edition podcast announcing the passage of a bill by Congress that will extend and expand the Homebuyer's Tax Credit. When President Obama signs the bill, the expiration date for the credit will move to April 30, 2010.
First-time buyers who have not had interest in a principle residence for three years are still eligible, and the maximum amount remains the same - $8,000 for married couples, $4,000 for those filing separately.
Current homeowners, who have consecutively maintained the home they want to sell as their primary residence for five of the last eight years, are also eligible. However, the maximum amount for those homeowners is lower: $6,500 for married couples and $3,200 for those filing separately.
The income limits for both tax credits have been raised to $125,000 for single buyers and $225,000 for married couples.

This info is taken from NVBR. Please contact me if you have questions

What about love...doesn't Feng Shui want someone to care about you?

2009-11-03T18:48:00.001-08:00

I know... all I talk about is real estate and how to make money in Feng Shui on my blog. After all, it is a difficult financial year for many living in the US right? But what about love? My clients purchasing homes ask me all the time about how to keep their new love alive, or find the love they are looking for, etc. So I have decided to dedicate this blog to creating love in one's life.

As always, you should calculate your KUA number and face your personal love direction when you eat, sleep, etc if this is what you want to focus on (at least face one of your good directions). However, there are other tips that I think may come in handy so you can create that space to invite your new love in OR keep the love you have alive. Here are my top five:

1. Does your living space have room for another? If you look around your home and find that it is filled with lots of stuff (have you seen my office? Ha Ha) then there is NO ROOM to invite in another's energy or personal belongings. Clean out all that you do not need so that new energy may come in. Do you have lots of pictures of other people in your bedroom? Creepy... This invites others to intrude in your love life. Remove all pictures from your bedroom.

2. In your bedroom, pair items together. For example, have two candles by the bed. Or have a picture of two birds together. If you have lots of "single" items, it does not create the energy needed for "togetherness" or "couple".

3. The Southwest corner of your house and the southwest corner of each individual room is your "romance" area. What is sitting in yours? A toilet? Uh oh. A pile of clutter? Not very inviting for a new partner to come in is it? A cactus? Ouch. Clear this area and put items of "two" such as two birds, or two flowers (esp. peonies).

4. The bedroom area should be quiet and peaceful. Do NOT have a mirror facing your bed as this will create a third partner entering the relationship. NO TV'S in the bedroom! And if you have an office or exercise equipment in your bedroom DON'T tell me about it...just put it somewhere else...no exceptions.

5. Do NOT have water features or pictures of water in your bedroom (and as I have mentioned before, do not have water to the right of your door as you walk out of the house as this creates infidelity).

This should get you started and make a huge impact in this area of your life. Good luck! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Picture above is from http://tinyurl.com/yjxu8n3 NOTICE how each side of the bed is balanced by looking the same? Translation: A balanced relationship!

SPOOKY MEDIA today on Extension of Tax Credit: True or False?

2009-10-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hey it is Halloween, my favorite time of the year! Do ghosts exists? How about vampires? Do you believe in the Lake Champlain Loch Ness Monster?

How about the extension of the first time home buyer tax credit? The media reported today that it has been extended! Do you believe it? Skeptical? Well good for you. Here are the facts:

Despite the recent news announcements today, the REALITY is that the Tax Credit has NOT been voted on. According to the National Association of Realtors and our Principal Broker at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman, Annemarie Daniels, the Tax Credit has not been voted on. Here are the FACTS:

Senate leaders of both parties, key Senate Finance Committee members
> and staff, and the homebuyer tax credit sponsors Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT), Sen.
> Joe Lieberman (I-CT, and Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-GA), have reached an
> agreement on extending and expanding the housing tax credit. However,
> right now, there is no agreement on how to attach this tax credit to
> the pending Unemployment Insurance bill, or whether to offer the tax
> credit agreement as an amendment to another bill, or whether to bring
> the agreement to the Senate floor and vote upon it as a separate,
> stand alone bill.
>
> After Senate action - if passed - the legislation must still go to the
> House of Representatives for consideration. There are still a number
> of steps to take before anything is final. We will continue to keep
> you updated as we receive additional information.

In the meantime, while we wait for the facts to be sorted out, I do believe in one thing, HOPE!!!!

Picture from http://tinyurl.com/yhyvaeq

Recent news on extension of 1st time home buyer tax credit...perhaps this week!!

2009-10-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

Today we learn that the 1st time home buyer tax credit may be extended this week...with a phase out schedule. Click here to read more.

How do I search for an Auspicious house using feng shui?

2009-10-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/ykc2yoc

Not all homes are created equal in Feng Shui. Your house is directly affected by its location as well as the surrounding homes, water, roads, fields, cemetaries, etc. So what should you look for when searching for a home that you hope will provide you with years of good fortune?

1. Read my last article on Feng Shui to be sure that you find a home that sits in your wealth direction. You definitely don't want to move into a home that sits in your total loss direction! I've experienced this in the past and the results can be devastating (break ups, financial loss, etc). You may also reflect on your life and recall a time when a certain house you lived in was disastrous to your well being...in other words, everything went wrong while you lived there??

2. In general, water surrounding a home can be auspicious (but not always, depending on where the water is located). Typically, water in front of a home is better than water behind the home however this is very complicated so be sure to look into this further. For example, you never want water to the right of the door (inside the home looking out) as this creates infidelity from the male figure in the home and often leads to divorce or separation. I sold a home recently where there was a bird bath to the right of the home while exiting the house. I told my clients during the final walk thru to remove it after closing and I told them my suspicions. Sure enough, we learned at the closing that the couple was getting a divorce. My clients learned that day that not only can I get them the house they want...but I can ensure them how to remain happy together in it!

3. Make sure to scan the property to look for neighboring properties...are they in good condition? Do they have roof lines or edges/corners of building aimed at your home? If so, this is not good as they are considered to be "poison arrows" and can bring trouble to members of your home. Also make sure that your house doesn't sit at the end of a road directly (with road ending at house...like a dead end).

4. It is not a good idea to buy a home that is lower than the ground (or sitting lower than the road). Typically, you want your home to be on a hill overlooking other properties and roads.

5. Open fields are auspicious next to your home. And mountains located in a certain position (similar to water, this needs to be looked into further for accuracy...compass readings are crucial for this).

6. Finally, the number of your home is important. For this, I suggest you look into numerology. But basically, because we are in period 8 (until 2024), any house numbers that add up to the number 8 is considered VERY Auspicious. For example, if your house number is 26, this is an auspicious home because 2+6=8.

As always, I am happy to help you. Feel free to email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com if you have questions about your house or want to learn what homes for sale out there right now I consider to be AUSPICIOUS!

Will the first time home buyer tax credit be extended? Watch video for update

2009-10-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

The word it out, we are continuing to push for an extension of the first time home buyer tax credit for another year. According to the statistics, 1.4 million people have already taken advantage of it. 375,000 would have not bought without it!

Our principal broker, Leslee MacKenzie at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty states that in our company alone, over half of the purchasers this year were first time home buyers. There is enough evidence out there to suggest that it is working...will it be enough to convince the need for an extension?
For more info, watch this video

Are you living/buying the best feng shui house for you?

2009-09-29T18:33:00.001-07:00

Picture taken from http://dawnsvision.com/images/feng_shui%20-witing.jpg

Did you know that everybody has a specific house that will increase their wealth, health, romantic relationships, and personal development?

Did you know that some houses will actually HURT or HARM (according to Feng Shui) your wealth, health, romantic relationships, and personal development?

Do you know which house is right for you and are you living in it right now??

Are you curious to find out?

First, do you know your KUA number? This is different for everybody. To find yours, go to KUA number.

Second, now that you know your "best" and "worst" directions, you also know if you are an East or a West group person from these charts.

Third, based on your directions, please read http://tinyurl.com/yl8b3wk to determine if your house should sit in the West, East, etc.

Now go get your compass and if you learn that your house sits in the wrong direction based on your personal KUA number, you can either change the placement of your furniture (which will help some...) OR, you can call your favorite realtor and find the house that is right for you and start living to your fullest potential!!

Confused? Have questions? It is overwhelming so don't be discouraged. If you don't "get it" or understand...send me an email and I'll be happy to help you! mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

New Technology to sell and buy homes at CBHB!

2009-09-11T14:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever walked or drove by a home with a for sale sign in front of it and wondered what the price was or how many bedrooms it has?

Well, thanks to Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty, we will now be offering sellers the ability to have a sign rider attached to their for sale sign where the public can simply text a short message to a specific number and they will automatically receive a text with the home's information! How is that for service!?

If you want to try it from your phone now, send a text to 88000

In the message type, CBHB1 and press send!

If you do this over the weekend, it will text you a list of open houses!! Remember, if you see a sign rider in front of a house and you want to know the details, press the number on the sign rider and then start packing!!!

Oh, and in case you haven't heard this before, it is just ANOTHER REASON why to list with Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty!

Feel free to contact me with questions or to list your home now!!

Picture is from http://tinyurl.com/lgrc29

New Listing in Five Sister Neighborhood

2009-07-07T11:23:00.001-07:00

Highly sought after Five Sister Neighborhood home! Close to bakery, coffee shop and downtown. Classic 2 bedroom plus additional bonus room with original hardwood floors. Home features detached garage, mudroom, fenced-in backyard, patio, garden space, gas wood stove, and lots of light throughout! This listing is being offered through Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman Realty. Please call Monique Bedard 802-598-0916 for and easy showing! Click here for more

Use of dragons in Feng Shui to bring you prosperity

2009-05-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/ok2wzo

Dragons symbolize masculine energy or "yang energy" and represent activity. They, "symbolize success in any achievement as well as prosperity" http://tinyurl.com/o6suxw

The best place to display the dragon in your home is in the East side of the room or house but do not place an image of the dragon in the bedroom which is supposed to be a restful area. For further detail on dragon placement read Lillan Too http://tinyurl.com/oauhkj

If you are thinking about selling your home, please be sure to check out my feng shui blog http://tinyurl.com/cbfbpl and check your KUA numbers to be sure that you are always facing your most auspicious directions!

Use of horses in feng shui to achieve fame

2009-05-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

Picture from http://tinyurl.com/o98pvf

"In Feng Shui, the horse, whose natural element is fire, is the seventh creature of the Chinese zodiac. It is favorably regarded as one of the animals that exude Yang energy and its representative direction on the zodiac is the South. The horse is emblematic of nobility, class and a comfortable lifestyle, and stands for speed and perseverance...typically placed in the south corner of your living room to energize the fame corner and activate opportunities for becoming famous and widely respected" from http://tinyurl.com/on85g4

Lillian Too goes on to describe three types of horses you can use depending on your goals; the tribute horse, victory horse, or the celebration horse. http://tinyurl.com/ohumjx

As always, remember to have your space clear from clutter before activating areas of your home. Also remember to check out your personal KUA number to activate your fullest luck potential.

Opportunities with birds in Feng Shui

2009-05-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/dnfuht
Place images of birds in the South area of your home and south corners of rooms. Birds in feng shui represent opportunities. Lillian Too writes, "not only will your reputation be enhanced but you will achieve recognition and obtain great success in your chosen profession". http://tinyurl.com/dm7tg8

Please refer to my article on preparing one's home for selling by using feng shui. http://tinyurl.com/cbfbpl

Not only is it important to de-clutter your house and clear away stagnant energy...then the fun part enters when you enhance your space using auspicious symbols. If you don't like birds, don't worry, there are other auspicious symbols you can use as well. Keep checking my blog for updates! Feel free to comment or write me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Animal symbols of wealth in Feng Shui

2009-04-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

Picture taken from http://tinyurl.com/ddfm6m

The Chinese believe that there are three kinds of luck:

1. Heaven luck which is determined by the time and place of your birth

2. Karma which is determined by your choices and actions in this life and previous lives.

3. Earth luck, the kind you get from living in harmony with your environment.

"Feng shui does not improve your fortunes in magical or supernatural ways. It won’t make you win the lottery or instantly find Ms or Mr right. But by achieving balance and harmony in your environment, you will feel happier and experience an enhanced sense of well-being, which over time will yield positive results in all the important areas of your life-health, wealth, career and relationships. Things will fall into place for you." http://fengshuibeginners.info/?

Over the next few weeks I will be focusing on animal symbols that are considered to bring prosperity and wealth to one's life. The thought is that by displaying these objects, one will increase their good fortune.

"Feng Shui recommends that peacock's 100 eyes on its tail, could activate fame luck, promote public admiration and bring positive motives from other people. The 100 eyes can also protect you from disasters and dangers". http://www.indusguru.com/peacock-symbols-of-love-and-life/

Keep in mind that the wealth and prosperity area of your home is located in the back left corner of any room or home when standing and looking in from the front door. Display the peacock here or you can display it in the southeast area of your home which is the wealth area as well. I just realized I have a struggling Orchid in my wealth area of my home. Yikes! Remove any objects that could be draining energy. Feel free to let me know your thoughts on this. You can email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Also be sure to check out your most auspicious directions and those directions you should NEVER face. Check out Find my KUA number

New listing in Five Sister Neighborhood (Burlington)

2009-04-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

I'm anticipating this listing will sell within a few days. It was listed by my colleague Chris Von Trapp. I just previewed it and it is beautiful and in an exceptional location. Home offers; high ceilings, lots of light, hardwood floors, 3 bedrooms, lake and mountain views, garage, 2 bathrooms, 2080 square feet, and more! 50 Caroline Street, Burlington, Vermont $499,000

For listing click here

How do I use Feng Shui to sell my house?

2009-04-17T07:17:00.001-07:00

As the West continues to face challenges economically, many people are starting to expand their awareness and philosophies and look for answers and suggestions from other cultures. Feng Shui is an ancient Art and Science that started over 3,000 years ago in China. My personal opinion is that the West and East will continue to learn and borrow from each other as we find the balance between our lifestyles and thinking. Feng shui is a balance in the energies that exists around us continuously. I have developed a list of necessities that I think are important for sellers to complete before listing their property. My hope is that you will have fun with it as the feedback I usually get from people is, "After I did this I felt so much better!"

Picture is taken from Murins in Bali on http://www.flicker.com/

1. Come in or go away? Stand outside your home and face your front door. What do you see? If you see garbage or other debris/unnecessary items, remove them. Are the plants and trees healthy? If not, remove them. Do you have flowers and a nice welcome mat welcoming your potential home buyer into your home? Is the lighting near your front door bright and working? Is your front door in good working order? Fix any items that need fixing. Remember that broken/dirty or old items drain fresh energy from the surroundings making it difficult for new energy to enter your home.

2. You feel welcomed to keep going or you feel trapped and want to leave? Once you open your front door take a look around your home. What immediately do you see? Are the halls open allowing energy to flow through? Are there obstacles immediately facing you as you open the door? If there are shoes near the front door remove them. Place them in a closet or other modern organizer (shelf, bench) so that as one opens the door they are greeted immediately with open space as an invitation. I once opened a door to a home that was listed for sale for over 6 months and the first thing I saw was over 15 pairs of shoes that smelled really bad! Each time you open the door in Feng shui the energy from outside comes in and disperses the energy throughout your home. I think I could even smell the shoes from the kitchen of this home!

3. You see open space for future or you see chaos? Now take a look at each room of your home. Don't do this all at once! Do 15-20 minutes at a time. This is NOT easy. Look at all the furniture and "stuff" you have. It is probably time to de-clutter. Clutter is stagnation and energy gets stuck here. Clutter, "usually represents things we resist and places we don't wish to pay attention to" http://tinyurl.com/cksgv2 One would think that it would be easy to de-clutter but it can actually be really hard for people who "hold onto" the past or get stuck in their emotions. Do yourself a favor before doing this. Open the windows, turn on ALL the lights and play your favorite upbeat music to put you in a good emotional mood. Take three boxes and start with one room at a time (maybe even one corner of a room if you have A LOT of clutter). Now, for each item in the room, pick it up and hold it. What do you FEEL? Does this item hold positive memories for you? Do you smile when you think about this item? If the item reminds you of something unfriendly, throw it in the first box. Give it away. It no longer serves you. If it is trash and you are certain that NOBODY wants it then throw it in box number two which you will later bring to the dump. If you love this item and it makes you FEEL good when you hold it, put it to one side. If you are uncertain about the item, perhaps conflicted about if you really need or want it still, place it in box number three. This box will get saved in a basement or garage which you will unpack in 6 months. If you open it six months later and decide you did not miss this item, it is time to give it away.

Now again, this is not an easy exercise for everyone. Do it in stages. It gets a lot easier over time and I actually look forward to it and encourage my family to do this regularly with me. In the past three weeks I have donated over 7 boxes of items to the Salvation Army. I LOVE giving away beautiful items that I no longer need. The act of giving makes me feel good when I think about how someone may love that picture or item in their home and it opens up space for me in my home to bring in newer ideas and new opportunities and energy. To this day, I have NEVER regretted giving anything away. Isn't that interesting? Practice non-attachment. Have fun with this. Once you start giving, you won't stop. It feels good and my opinion is that the universe will support this behavior! It saddens me that a lot of Westerners are living in fear and "scarcity mode" holding on to all they have right now. The media even encourages us to "save, save, save!" The East would argue that we have everything we need and as long as we continue to give we will continue to receive. I've given more away to charity this year than I have ever given previously. Trust this process.

4. Sit down and relax or be careful not to trip and fall? Similar to removing the clutter in your rooms, are there pieces of furniture that are waiting to stab you or trip you as you move through the room? Remember that Feng Shui is about energy flowing and moving. If there are large pieces of furniture in a room with sharp or pointy edges, they may jeopardize your future and keep it in the shadows. I am a fan of antique armoires and I used to own about eight. I'm down to three! I've learned that the Chinese do not like sharp corners and prefer round smooth edges (ex round tables, and round end furniture and coffee tables). If you have an item that has sharp edges, consider placing a plant with long leaves to hang over the sharp edge so that it doesn't "stab" you or someone sitting across from it. These are known in Feng shui as, "poison arrows" and can do a lot of harm to someones well being. Along this line, are there too many pieces of furniture in your home? If you remove some pieces will you have more room for energy to flow and more light? Remove it from the room for a few minutes and see how it looks and feels.

5. Remove personal items. No potential buyer wants to see what toothpaste you use. They don't want to see your brand of coffee on your counter. Imagine that you were taking a picture of the room for a magazine. Do you see these items? Put these items in cabinets and drawers and get into the habit of doing it daily. Remember that real estate is about people buying a dream. You want them to walk into your home and imagine themselves there...not you. The more that you can hide personal items (especially photos of family and friends) the more people will be able to envision themselves living there. I can't tell you how many times I have shown a home and my clients start to get involved with the pictures of the people that live there. 9 out of 10 times they turn to me after viewing the house and say, "I like the home, but it doesn't feel like my home". Get the picture!?

6. Clean clean clean! Are your windows clean to allow in new light? Are your mirrors clean? Are the floors bright and shiny? Are your counter tops clean and sparkly and free from all daily use items? (Place your toasters, etc. in cabinets). Try to only have three items on your counter top! Coffee maker, butter dish, toaster oven (you choose your three items)...that is it! Try it...its not easy.

Picture from http://tinyurl.com/cy7t5n

7. "Oh there is lots of room" or "I would outgrow this place quickly". Now open your closets and cabinets (hopefully you don't have to take a step back to protect yourself). Is there space? Lots of space? If a potential buyer opens your closets or cabinets and sees that it is full to the max, they will immediately think that they too will outgrow the space and have no room. If they open the space and find that there is LOTS of room and that items are neatly placed in bins and carefully organized, not only will they be envious and want to be as organized as you but they will envision that if they live here they could have that closet with lots of space as well!

8. Finally, do your walls need a fresh coat of paint? Are your walls painted bright orange, purple, neon green, hot pink, or electric blue? If you answered yes to any of these its time to neutralize. Look to paint your walls soft colors that are neutral such as off-white, ivory, cream, etc. Fresh paint can really brighten a room and the less color you have the more a potential buyer will be able to envision their furniture in that room. If you have strong patterned window treatments or bed spreads, its time to take them down and again look for light, neutral colors.

This portion of the Feng Shui real estate blog is to help you de-clutter and sell your home. In another upcoming blog I will speak more about how to increase your likelihood of selling as well as increase your wealth by using feng shui enhancers. If you have any questions about this or would like to comment, feel free to email me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com In addition, please keep in mind that it is important that you have your home priced appropriately! If you have had your house on the market for awhile and you are not getting offers, in addition to the above you may want to consider a price reduction.

Is the market balanced in Chittenden County?

2009-04-04T13:52:00.000-07:00

Market Statistics in Chittenden County suggest a seller's market for most!!! WHAT??

How do we know if it is a seller's or buyer's market? A balanced market is considered a market where you find a six month available inventory.

A seller's market therefore is indicated by less than a six month inventory and a buyer's market is indicated by more than a six month available inventory. Well guess what our recent statistics show in Chittenden County? For homes priced under $350k, it is a seller's market with the inventory showing about 4 month supply. And do you know what else?? Sellers don't know it yet! Which gives you an opportunity to cash in on some great home prices AND low interest rates.

Look at these recent statistics: http://tinyurl.com/cacj6m

What does this mean for the homes that are priced over 351k in Chittenden County? It means that all of those people who are selling their homes under 351k are NOW READY to buy those homes and are, "moving on up" as the Jeffersons would say!!

If you are interested in taking advantage of this moment, I would suggest that you call a lender now and, "lock in" your rate before they go up. Just like gas prices go up as we approach summer... so do the interest rates which means you could save yourself LOTS of money a month down the road by "locking in" today while you shop for your new home. If you wish to see homes within your price range or you have other real estate needs, contact me at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com and I would be happy to be of assistance!

Do I qualify for the first time home buyer tax credit? What is it?

2009-04-04T13:11:00.000-07:00

Overview

􀂄 In 2008, Congress created a $7,500 First-Time>Homebuyer Income Tax Credit. It went into effect
April 8, 2008 and was set to expire July 1, 2009.

􀂄 One of the criticisms of the credit was that a homebuyer
who received the tax credit had to repay it over 15 years.

􀂄 It has been modified and has new rules effective for
homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before
December 1, 2009.

􀂄 One of the key modifications is that in most circumstances
the homebuyer does not have to repay the tax credit.

The Modified Tax Credit

􀂄 Removed the repayment requirement, provided the
homebuyer does not resell the home for three years.

􀂄 Extended the time period for home purchases out to
December 1, 2009.

􀂄 Credit maximum was increased from $7,500 to $8,000.
The credit is calculated as 10% of the purchase price.
Example: If purchase price is $70,000, the credit is
$7,000. (Assume a property price of over $80,000 for the
rest of the discussion).

􀂄 It is still only for first-time homebuyers, and only for
properties that are the buyer’s primary residence.

First-Time Homebuyer Definition

􀂄 Again, the credit is for first-time homebuyers only.

􀂄 A homebuyer who owned another primary home at any
time during the three years prior to the date of purchase is
not eligible for the tax credit.

􀂄 For example, if a person purchases a home on
January 1, 2009 and has not owned, or had an
ownership interest in, another home at any time from
January 1, 2006 through January 1, 2009, he or she is
eligible for the tax credit, even if the new home is not
the person’s “first” home purchase.

Who cannot take this Tax Credit …Other than
Buyers Who Aren’t First-Time Homebuyers?

􀂄 A homebuyer whose income exceeds the phase-out range.

􀂄 This means joint filers with Modified Adjusted Gross
Income (MAGI) of $170,000 and above and other
taxpayers with MAGI of $95,000 and above.

􀂄 A homebuyer who buys a home from a close relative. This
includes a spouse, parent, grandparent, child or
grandchild.

>􀂄 A homebuyer who stops using the home subject to the
credit as a main residence.

􀂄 A nonresident alien.

􀂄 Note: A homebuyer who sells the home subject to the
credit within three years must pay back the tax credit

More on Income Limits

TYPE INCOME LIMIT PHASE OUT
START

Single Filers $95,000 $75,000

Married Filers $170,000 $150,000

This means that for singles making over $75,000 and couples
making over $150,000, the credit is proportionately reduced as
incomes approach $95,000 and $170,000 respectively.
So if a couple makes $165,000, the excess amount is used to
create a fraction 15,000/20,000 (.75) times the credit amount.
75% or 6 000 of disallowed They would
still get a tax credit of $2000

The Home

􀂄 The home subject to the credit must be the “main home”
(i.e.: principal residence, where the homeowner spends
50% or more of his or her time.) It can be a condo, single
family detached, co-op, townhouse or something similar.

􀂄 The home must be located in the United States.

􀂄 Vacation homes and rental properties are not eligible.

􀂄 For new construction, the “purchase date” is the date the
homebuyer occupies the home. So the move-in date
must be before December 1, 2009.

Recapture - 3 Year Residency

􀂄 If the home is resold prior to three years of ownership,
the tax credit must be repaid.

􀂄 This is an improvement from the prior credit. That
credit needed to be repaid in total over 15 years or the
balance had to be repaid on resale.

􀂄 This provision is designed to prevent flipping homes in
order to get the tax credit

Other Provisions

􀂄 The new credit is now also available to residents of the
District of Columbia.

􀂄 Purchasers who utilize state/local revenue bond financing
can now use the credit.

􀂄 Purchasers who bought before January 1, 2009 are still
subject to the terms of the repayable credit that was put
into effect in April 2008.

When Can You Claim the Credit?

􀂄 It can be claimed on your 2008 Tax Return
(to be filed by April 15, 2009), an amended
2008 Tax Return, or your 2009 Tax Return.

Conclusion

􀂄 The new credit is greatly improved compared to the old
credit.

􀂄 The credit does not need to be repaid as long as you
occupy the home for 3 years.

􀂄 Hundreds of thousands of potential buyers are estimated
to take advantage of the credit.

􀂄 For more info on the credit and the 2009 Stimulus
legislation visit http://tinyurl.com/5u9o4z or consult your tax advisor.

Caveat

This is based on information available as of
February 18, 2009 and is not meant to be tax or
legal advice.

As with any tax law change, check with a tax
advisor regarding availability, eligibility and
possible timing of any tax credit.

Re-distributed by Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty · www.HickokandBoardman.com

Obama recently quoted the Chinese Symbol for Crisis which also means Opportunity. Is this accurate?

2009-03-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

The Nature of Conflict can be described by using this Chinese symbol. It shows both danger and opportunity. Conflict contains both; Mediation offers solutions.
This symbol is the Chinese word for "crisis". It is a combination of two characters. The top stands for "danger" and the bottom represents "opportunity".
Conflict contains both of these elements. Too often our focus is on the danger and we fail to appreciate the opportunity which is present as well.

Taken from http://tinyurl.com/cyr4br

Obama recently referenced in one of his motivational speeches the Chinese symbol of, "crisis" which has been cited to translate into the meaning, "opportunity". He was referring to this symbol perhaps to give hope to our uncertain economic times.

This theory and translation of this symbol has been cited among many motivational speakers and the symbols can be purchased on-line in art form for empowerment. But is the translation accurate? Does the Chinese symbol of "crisis" also mean, "opportunity"? Or is this just positive thinking in our interpretation of this symbol? Are we naive to think that we can benefit or even profit from a crisis situation? Think about all of those investors who claim, "now is the time to buy" when the stocks or real estate is lower than previous times. Are they right? Should we listen and take action?

In working with children for over ten years, it was often cited and believed that in a moment of crisis with a child (especially behavioral issues or traumatized children) a moment of crisis provides the ideal learning situation and opportunity for change. To be with the child in that moment to process their crisis allows them an opportunity to work through their faulty cognition or behavioral responses and learn new tools for coping and dealing with stress or conflict. The belief is that in the next moment of crisis their memories will trigger them to refer to the previous conflict moment and thereby make "better choices". There may be others who would argue that intervening in a moment of crisis will only add more fuel to the fire and make the situation worse. Two sides of the coin...which one are you calling out?

I've researched the Chinese symbol and what I found is that not everyone agrees that this symbol has been translated correctly. Instead of the symbol referring to, "opportunity", they believe it refers to, "incipient moment" or "crucial time". In addition, they believe that crisis is not the moment to "prosper oneself" but rather it is the time to "save one's neck". See http://tinyurl.com/b83va5 for this fascinating flip of the coin insight.

What is the real meaning of this Chinese symbol? Have we misinterpreted it? Many argue that the symbol, which is actually two symbols means danger+opportunity for action= crisis. Is it safe to say that in a crisis situation it is more important that the appropriate action is taken in the crucial time or incipient moment thereby solving the crisis and lending to a new opportunity? Wasn't it John Lennon who said, "there are no problems, only solutions?" thereby encouraging action and focusing on the present moment?

Or is it best to resort to "fear" mentality and try to "save one's neck" in attempts to take the appropriate action at the crucial time? This seems to hint to past thinking and "scarcity mode" and doesn't offer much promise in the moment and power of "now" but rather seems to suggest that things are outside and beyond our control. Is that how you choose to live your life?

I would argue that fear is not the answer. Fear is the other side of the coin thereby not solving the problem but rather contributing to it. Read the article included and let me know your thoughts. What is your interpretation of this symbol? But more importantly, how do you choose to act today assuming that even "inaction" is in fact, "action" in itself? Are you saving your dollars or investing in the unknown possible opportunity and the hope for a better tomorrow?

Real Estate Listing

2009-03-10T10:14:00.001-07:00

Investment opportunity in Hinesburg with 2 acres for $299,000. Three units rented with large barn. This property has so much to offer either the investor or future owner-occupied buyer. 3 units presently with one tenant maintaining lawns. Hot tub included in enclosed porch. Beautiful setting in Hinesburg. Call today! If you would like to schedule a showing, please contact Monique Bedard at mbedard@hickokandboardman.com (802-598-0916)

McDonalds Uses Feng Shui

2009-03-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

As the US continues to face uncertain economic turmoil, we are finding that more and more successful businesses are looking to the East to provide tools to correct the balance of energy so that the businesses may continue to prosper.

As a real estate agent in Burlington VT, I have personally found success in incorporating Feng Shui in my office and my personal home. Look for my article on "Finding your KUA number" as each of us have specific directions in relation to our success in relationships, health, and wealth.

http://tinyurl.com/36yrou

Article in LA Eater.

Feng Shui has more to do with just the placement of objects. It also involves discovering your personal auspicious directions. For example, my personal "wealth direction" is West. My home is not currently located in the west sitting direction, however, I have adjusted this by facing my computer and desk to the West side of my home. To find out your personal KUA number for wealth, health, personal development, and love go to http://tinyurl.com/6da382 .

80 Austin Drive

2008-12-03T06:50:00.000-08:00

Lots of thought has been put into this tastefully updated Condo in a sought after location. Enjoy low heating costs, cozy gas stove, and convenience to everything! $238,000

If you'd like to schedule a showing of this property, please contact me mbedard@hickokandboardman.com

Monique Bedard Starts a Blog

2008-12-03T06:45:00.000-08:00

The moment is now. I am establishing my blog right now. I AM monique.