Al and Cal Homes and Community

Spending More Might Save You Money When Purchasing a Home

Mon, 20 May 2013 05:12:59 -0700

Spending More Might Save You Money When Purchasing a Home

I want to first say, loud and clear that I am not advocating for spending beyond ones means. Rather, the thought comes by knowing that people will look at bargained price property without thinking long term at the costs of dollars and time that it will take to make the home "liveable" for them.

If at the end of the day, if the bargain costs you capital and time, and you could have bought a slightly higher priced home, at the current rates, it could save you cash in the long term. It could definitely save you headache.

This thought comes from the voice of experience, not just in selling homes, but a personal observation as well.

"Don't you just love a bargain!" As I write, I can hear that Christmas Tree Shop jingle in my head. I can so relate. I love to get a bargain. Obviously, others do too. That's what makes the jingle and it's store so it is widely popular.

Real Estate is NO different. Everyone dreams of the "deal".

I grew up in a family of do it yourself folks and contractors. It has always been easy for me to look beyond an imperfection, seeing the way it will be transformed with a little work. The other thing I do know is that, a "little" work most times means a lot money. At the very least it will cost time, and in many cases lots of it.

How Spending More Can Sometimes Save You Money.

Before getting out there to look at that home, you need to be prequalified. That's not news to anyone these days. The lender will look strictly at numbers and make an educated and strategic assumption based on those numbers. They will let you know what your purchasing power is. What you can spend up to. I am not a fan of spending the most you can, but staying with in your means and understanding your own personal lifestlye is always the best bet. When a buyer wants to focus on a price range under what the bank says they are good to go for, I am all over that.

But, there are some considerations.

When faced with a choice of two homes, one priced for less because it needs more work, should you go for the lower priced home and plan to put those upgrades in? We are talking about major updates here. Unless one has the capital saved already, it can cost more to save for those updates/repairs, especially considering current home loan rates.

How to weigh the decision?

Be Serious. I watch a lot of those home improvement shows. You know them. The ones where they can transform a room with just a couple of thousands of dollars. What they don't give you in the transformation cost is the labor involved. If you must get someone else to complete the job, then factor those costs in!
Do It Yourself vs. Contractor. My brother says this best. Yea, he can put a roof on. But he's not a roofer. It will take him longer than a professional in that field. In that time that he takes to figure it out, he can work at his own job and make more money doing what he does best, leaving the repair to the pro. There is something to be said for that.

From Experience. My First Home. Needed everything. Of course the family came through with all the essentials, getting those up to speed, but the cosmetic upgrades, kitchen etc.. well, that was on me. It took me a long time to save the cash for a remodel. I figured out over the years that it took me to save, if I had only spent a little more, right out of the gate, I would have had what I wanted sooner. I would have been happier sooner. Now I am wiser.

Again, Spend according to your lifestyle,

but, remember that a bargain is not always a bargain!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

So Many Great Blogs So Little Time

Tue, 14 May 2013 04:58:37 -0700

So Many Great Blogs So Little Time

Since joining the ranks of active rain, I have been addicted to reading, learning, writing and commenting on the many great blogs of the members. I have learned a lot! It has helped me to grow and stay up with the trends of today. Helping to grow means it is an important part of business.

As my journey into social medias lengthens and lingers, the time it takes to read, write and comment on blogs takes longer and longer. I find myself waking earlier to read the folks I follow and to catch a few more posts that come up during the day.

I'll admit I have always had somewhat of an issue with time management, putting the fun things and sometimes family things aside to get what I need to get in for work. It's not a nine to five kind of job and it will never be. Things are ever changing. Those are two of the things that we love about this business. But as business gets better, the work day gets longer.

We get up before the sun, we eat in our cars, and sometimes dinner isn't served until after nine. Have you ever seen a really thin successful Realtor? Okay!!!! I KNOW that's an excuse.

Time management. The need/ability to block off the time. But when someone needs to see something, in this market, or wants to make an offer, or put their house up, can I really say, oops... not now. Got to go to the gym? Not really. In this market, the early bird can catch the worm. I would hate for a client to miss out on their dream home, because I had to get a mani/pedi ...or, more likely, my kayak was calling and wouldn't be available for them.

So, appointments get shifted and the fun stuff usually takes a beating. Blogging and reading posts is a "fun" part of business to me. It makes sense that this part is one of the things that get's pushed aside more easily.

I made a vow to myself last week, not to let this happen. So, I set my clock for a bit earlier. My eyes are a bit more tired as I try to keep abreast of what is happening, escaping into my thoughts and ideas that sitting in front of the computer brings. Reading what co workers from afar have to say, bringing yes, bringing even more thoughts and ideas into an already overloaded early morning mind. The day begins.

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

What You Need To Know About Multiple Offers

Sat, 11 May 2013 04:15:51 -0700

What You Need To Know About Multiple Offers

Last year, or the year before, many of us would not have thought this possible again. But Folks. Here we are, back at it.

Yes. We are talking about dealing with multiple offers on properties. Example. Yesterday we put a home on the market at 7 am. By 7 pm we had 6 offers with promises of more to come. All great offers. One party happy, the other five scratching their heads, wondering what happened and why.

So what really happens when there is more than one offer on the table? Other than the anxiety of buyer, and believe it or not seller too.

There are several ways the Seller and their agent will deal with this situation.

They might want to look at all offers and simply accept one.
They might look at all offers and pick one to negotiate. In this case, they will try and come to terms on this offer. If it doesn't work, they will move on to the next, but
More than likely, they might go back to all potential purchasers and ask for their highest and best offer.

Highest and Best Offer

If you are involved in a multiple offer situation and the seller asks for every one's highest and best offer, consider the fact that the best offer might not have the highest price. Don't get me wrong, there are many sellers out there that are looking for simply the highest price, but I can guarantee you that this is not always the thing that seals the deal. Depending on the sellers circumstances, contingencies and terms may count heavily in their decision on what offer to pick.

So, having said that, Evaluate your contingencies and decide what is really necessary and important to you. Delete all that are unnecessary. Do you really want/need that swing set in the back yard? Look at the comps and know your finances. Figure out what is the most you are willing to spend and go for it. This might be the only chance you will have. Trust me. Losing a property over a small amount of money when you know you would have paid more will haunt you for the rest of your life. I know. Been there personally and done that.

The Listing Agent's Role.. The listing agents role is to counsel the seller, present any and all offers, and to treat all equally and ethically. I would be very surprised if any listing agent shared the terms of an offer to another. You will be on your own to come up with that best and final.

The Buyers Agents Role.. Their role is to assist a buyer in coming up with their best offer. Evaluating the market, comps and contingencies, making strategic and judgement calls as to what might beat out the competition.

So know you know how your offer will be dealt with if you are involved in this type of situation. Check out.

Tips to Win at Multiple Offers

____________________________

About the author

Carol-Ann Palmieri is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.

Al and Cal Licensed in MA and RI...

Al and Cal's primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole, Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro, Norwood, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have resourses to help anyone, anywhere....

Their mission.... To exceed your expectations!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Medfield Ranks as One Of Greater Bostons Top Spots To Live

Tue, 07 May 2013 06:12:14 -0700

Medfield Ranks as One Of Greater Bostons Top Spots To Live

Boston Globe Magazine has rated Medfield as one of the top spots to live in Greater Boston are in 2013.

Medfield was one of 13 communities that the Boston Globe ranked in it's feature "Greater Boston's Top Spots to Live" article. They cited the importance of buyers wanting to "feel confident in their investment" when making a home purchase. And confident you would. Medfield's home price was up more than 17% in 2012 from the previous year.

Not news to me. Medfield is a beautiful community that lies approximately 17 miles south west of Boston.

Medfield MA has that quintessential New England feel. Traveling down Main Street, a couple of white church steeples dot the sky. The town offices and library are architectural works of art. Speaking of works of art there is an art gallery that has a second floor outdoor terrace that overlooks downtown. One might hear soft, classical music streaming outside, as one sits in the downtown gazebo.

Not only beautiful, Medfield is rich in history, and significant in the formation of our country. It was devastated by King Philip during the Indian Wars and was burnt to the ground. It was rebuilt and has become an affluent and desirable place to live.

From early on, it's settlers believed in education and women's right to vote. Today, Medfield is known for it's commitment to education evidenced by it's top notch public school system.

The well known artist George Inness even depicted scenes of Medfield in some of his famous works.

If there is anyway I can help you with your real estate needs and dreams,

contact me at 508-494-9061 or send me an email at Cal @AlandCal.com

No one knows Medfield better!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

My First Blog Since the Boston Marathon

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:58:50 -0700

My First Blog Since the Boston Marathon

Since the bombing of Boston Marathon I Have Lost My Voice.

Anyone that knows me would never in a million years think that anything could shut me up. I never thought so either. But, in the past 3 weeks, I haven't really felt like writing about real estate. I haven't felt like sharing thoughts or feelings.

It's not that I am afraid, or that the terrorists have had their way, it's just that what I have to say seems so meaningless. I have just lost the words that usually flow from my lips with abandon.

The Boston Marathon.

To many, a sign of spring. A sign of accomplishment. A sign of Boston. Many of my clients have had the stamina to run. I've seen them training in all kinds of weather with a determination that amazes me. One gal, under 5 feet tall. I always thought to myself, "it's kind of not fair. With legs that short, that poor girl is running like, 3, marathons."

Back in my days at the PD, there was an officer that would run the route and finish by coming in to the station at about 5:30 am. His little dog, (one that looked like Toto) would come in about 15 minutes after him. I would get that pup a cup of water and give him a pat. I can tell you right now that patting that dog was like patting a 2 x 4. He was as solid as solid gets!

It has always been our custom to go to the Marathon. This year I went kayaking instead.

It is hard to push the thoughts that rise to the front of my head to the back. Disgust, pride, hate, sorrow and sadness. But not fear because like many, I am just highly Pissed off!

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this sensless crime. The good in people shines through. Support flows in from all over the country. American's have big hearts.

While the authorities debate where to put the remains of the scum bag that died as a result of his actions, and his accomplice recovers from his wounds, and as we all struggle to understand why these people, so young, would have such a hate and unfeeling disregard for life.

Boston Strong has become, not really a new sentiment, but now one that is voiced often and worn proudly.

And now, I must try to push all thoughts of this senseless act as well as the pursuit of justice to the back of my mind knowing that life has, again, forever changed.

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA Price Changed

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 06:58:21 -0700

31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA Price Changed

$239,900

Buys you this 2/3 bedroom bungalow that is ready for you to just pack your bags and move in! The work has been already done for you so you can sit on your front porch and relax with a book!

Recent updates include a new kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless appliances. The recently remodled bath offers heated tiled flooring. Finished basement offers more space for office or playroom.

Electric, plumbing and roof are updated. Most of the windows have been replaced and the home has recently been insulated. There is also a central air system and updated heating and hot water.

Municipal taxes are less than $2400 per year. The lot is 5000 square feet.

Great location. Located just minutes to shopping on a quiet side street neighborhood, this home is located approximately 10 minutes to the Boston commuter rail station and route 495. Easy access to the MA Pike and route 95 as well.

If you would like to see this turn key property, please contact Carol-Ann Palmieri

508-494-9061 or email Cal@alandcal.com

31 Woodland Road, Bellingham MA is perfect for someone with a busy lifestyle!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

19 W. Main Street Hopkinton MA Sold by Al and Cal Remax Executive Realty

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 05:43:06 -0700

19 W. Main Street Hopkinton MA Sold by Al and Cal Remax Executive Realty

Another Hopkinton MA home sold by the Al and Cal team at Remax Executive Realty. Contact us for a Free Market Analysis of your Home!

Property Details Search for similar properties

List Price: $300,000

Sale Price: $286,400

Days on Market: 24

Style: 1963 Split Entry

Living Area: 1508 s.f. 3 bedrooms, 1 bath

Lot Size: .88 acres

This fabulous and well maintained home was not on the market for long when the right buyers came by and recognized it as the home for them!

Don't let the West Main street address fool you! This home and driveway is situated on the cul de sac of Whalen Rd. A very country feel with a private back yard with beautiful views of expansive woodlands. This home is still very convenient to routes 495 and the MA pike and downtown Hopkinton.

The sun filled home was move in ready with 3 bedrooms and a bright young cherry kitchen, hardwood floors and an updated bath and a spacious family room. Plenty of storage, Gas heat, and a young roof.

If you are looking to sell your home contact the Al and Cal Team at Remax Executive Realty. Put our 50 years of local experience to work for you! Cal@Alandcal.com 508-494-9061

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Another Bellingham MA home Sold by Al and Cal Remax Executive Realty

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:35:45 -0700

Another Bellingham MA home Sold by Al and Cal Remax Executive Realty

110 Wrentham Road, Bellingham MA has new owners courtsey of Al and Cal, Remax Executive Realty. It is always somewhat bittersweet when we get to sell a listing that we love so much. This was true of the contemporary antique at 110 Wrentham Road. The showings for this unique, custom home were kicked off with an open house right after a furious snow storm on February 10th 2013. Even though the snow banks were immense, the open house was well attended and we had many interested parties. It went under contract right away.

Property details

List Price: $355,000
Sale Price: $350,000
Living Area: 3414
Lot Size: .82 Acres
Taxes: $4483
3 Bedrooms
2 Baths
2 Car Garage
Central Air
Amenities: Inground Pool, Wine Cellar, Pellet Stove, Master suite, Wood shop. Wood floors

If you are looking to start your home search click here to find homes.

If you are interested in selling your home, No one knows Bellingham better! Call Al and Cal today and start with a Free Market Analysis!

110 Wrentham Road Bellingham MA. SOLD. We Can and Will Sell Yours Too! Give us a call!

About the author

Carol-Ann Palmieri is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.

A former US Marine, she grew up in Walpole, MA... is committed to the serving the community through various volunteer opportunities. She attended MA Bay Community and Suffolk University and is committed to constantly updating her Real Estate education.

Al and Cal Licensed in MA and RI...

Al and Cal's primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole, Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro, Norwood, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have resourses to help anyone, anywhere....

Their mission.... To exceed your expectations!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Open House 31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA on April 7th

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:02:31 -0700

Open House 31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA on April 7th

Join us from 1-3 on April 7th to view this charming, move in ready 2/3 bedroom bungalow. Have a busy lifestyle? This is the home for you!

Asking $249,900

Property Features

1920 Style Bungalow
1109 s.f. of living space
5000 s.f. lot
2/3 Bedrooms
1 Fully Renovated Bath (with heated tile floor)
Taxes $2380

31 Woodland Road

The minute you walk through the front door, this charming sun drenched bungalow says welcome home!

Many recent updates combine to make a perfect blend of today's comfort and old world charm. From the cabinet packed kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless appliances, to the updated bath with heated tile floor, and recessed lighting to the beautiful moldings, wood floors and front porch you will find nothing to do but unpack your bags!

Updates include central air, electrical, plumbing, heating (very low heating costs), hot water, siding, roof, many replacement windows and lighting, and even insulation.

Easy maintenance makes this a perfect home for a busy lifestyle!

Situated on a quiet side street neighborhood with sidewalks, this home is located just minutes to shopping, Boston commuter rail and major commuter roads.

Please join me for the first public open house this Sunday April 7th from 1-3. If you can't make that date, please give me a call and we can schedule something that works for you. 508-494-9061 or email to cal@alandcal.com

Map of 31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA

Open House April 7th from 1-3.

Scan QR Code with your smart phone for more pics and info.

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Medfield Police Log Advises A Realtor Impersonation

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 06:32:41 -0700

Medfield Police Log Advises A Realtor Impersonation

Yesterday's daily Patch reports that a woman walked into the local police house to report that she had been duped by someone, a lady, claiming to be a Realtor. Apparently this women got into her home and walked off with a chest.

My first thought is that it sounds just crazy. But is it?

I often get calls from folks I don't know who invite me into their homes to do a market analysis or a consult. In fact my business depends on it!

In 25 years, I have never been asked to show an ID. In lieu of that, I always hand my new prospective client a business card. Unlike most Realtors, I no longer bother to have a photo on my business card and rather use our logo in place of that.

It drives me crazy when I see cards that don't remotely resemble the person that holds them. I mean really with my every changing hair style, the natural aging process and, yup, I hate to say it, weight fluctuation, one might not recognize the person on the card to be me anyway! So that being said, I guess the homeowner is taking a leap of faith that it is in fact me.

So, why wouldn't some crafty thief gain entry into someones home posing as a Realtor just to pick them off? Realtors are typically welcomed into "strangers" homes. It does sound a bit crazy doesn't it?

I mean, after all, imagine someone gaining entry into a home pretending to be a Realtor. That homeowner would have an easy time giving the PoPo a description of the perp. I mean I can't imagine anyone letting a "Realtor" with a ski mask covering their face into their home! I am guessing that one wouldn't be able to hide the "get a way" car either. In our neck of the woods, a real estate professional will pull right up to the home. Anyone on foot would probably set up a red flag or two.

Seems to me it gaining access to a home to rip someone off in this way is a bit risky with promise of little gain.

Of course I joke a bit, but you should always protect yourself.

If you are worried or concerned, ask for an ID. We are happy to show you one!!

:) Just promise not to look to close at that date of birth!

_______________________

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Deciphering Your Home Inspection Report

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 05:24:24 -0800

Deciphering Your Home Inspection Report

Gone are the days are the days when I would hear a home inspector shout.... My God!".....and as I would be picking the buyers up off the floor, I would hear, "Great plumbing job!".

Also gone, thankfully, are the days of a home inspection without a written report, something a buyer could hang his hat on.

We all know and agree that the home inspection is a very important part of the home buying process. In fact, I emphatically suggest that every one hire a professional inspector to check out their home prior to purchase. Please read All About Your Home Inspection.

Over the years and with the progression of technology and I'm sure a ton of law suits the home inspection has changed.

I appreciate the difficult job a home inspector has. But, in an effort to inform a buyer of all deficiencies, armed with computer and camera, some home inspectors have become more robotic in their inspection and their reporting of it. The home inspection has become so matter of fact that it is difficult to determine what is really important.

In the old days a home inspector would point out the "defects" but in general at the end of the inspection would offer their opinion as to whether they thought the home was a good solid home or it wasn't. Today's inspection report just points out the deficiencies and offers no opinion at all! Is that really the help that the buyer needs?

A typical inspection report will give the same weight to a broken door bell as a rusted electrical panel.

Read, (Defective, replace).

That does one of two things.

Waters down the major items.
Makes the number of defects appear so large that it becomes overwhelming.

Couple that with a buyer that is not knowledgeable about home systems and it doesn't help them out at all. Does this sound foolish? I don't thing so, look at it this way. It would be kind of like me going to the auto mechanic and having him tell me every little thing that is wrong with the car. Without getting an actual opinion as to what's a big deal and what isn't, I would be freaked when I might not need be!

Don't get me wrong, I get why things have changed. It is not the home inspectors fault. It's kind of like the medical field. No more Dr. Welby's. It's just the way it is.

So What's A Buyer To Do?

Hire a competent inspector. Ask for referrals. Do they have certifications? References? Don't just hire based on money!
Attend the inspection. Not just attend, but follow the guy around. See what he/she is seeing.
Ask questions. When they point out a defect, ask how important it is or how difficult or expensive to fix. Ask. Is it a safety issue?
Don't be intimidated. If you knew this stuff you would be a builder. Forget about the brokers or anyone else present. This is about you.
Don't be distracted. Same thing. There will be agents there, maybe other inspectors, etc. Don't let them distract you. Follow the guy. Make sure you can hear him.
Insist on getting the report ASAP. Most inspectors will get the report to you right away. Many times the reports read differently than what was discussed at the inspection. Do not let days go by without getting that report.
Ask for an opinion. At the end of the inspection ask the inspector what is really important.
Use common sense. A clogged drain might read consult a licensed plumber. Could it simply be a typical hair clog that requires cleaning?
Can't make sense of the report? Call the inspector back. Good inspectors want you too!
Remember why you are here. You wouldn't have gotten this far if you didn't really want this house. Be ready to face the fact that no home is perfect.

The home inspector's job is to find all deficiencies in the home. Do not let the list freak you out. Attend the inspection and ask questions and don't be afraid to ask for an opinion.

A Great Home Inspection should leave you feeling secure about your purchase!

But, You have to find that home first! So, Call me! 508-494-9061 or email

_________________________________

About the author

Carol-Ann Palmieri,

is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.

A former US Marine, she grew up in Walpole, MA... is committed to the serving the community through various volunteer opportunities. She attended MA Bay Community and Suffolk University and is committed to constantly updating her Real Estate education.

Licensed in MA and RI...

Al and Cal's primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole, Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro, Norwood, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have resourses to help anyone, anywhere....

Her mission.... To exceed your expectations!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Waterfront Property for Sale Wrentham MA 02093

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 07:13:57 -0700

Waterfront Property for Sale Wrentham MA 02093

Property Details

95 Lake Street, Wrentham MA 02019

$299,900

3 bedrooms, 1 bath

2238 sq ft of living area

4530 sq ft of land

Direct lake front 85 foot frontage

Needs work

MLS#71496036

Call Carol Ann Palmieri at 508-494-9061 to see if this property is still available and to arrange for a showing.

Welcome to the lake! Imagine having a home with 85 feet of frontage on Lake Archer in Wrentham MA. It would be like being on vacation year 'round! Well, here is your opportunity to do that.

Lake Archer is one of the three well know lakes in Wrentham. It is the only one that has no public access. Consisting of approximately 79 acres, the average depth is 16 feet and it runs to 50 feet. A great fishing lake if you can gain access, it is also great for swimming and boating with not many weeds. About Lake Archer

95 Lake Street is for sale at $299,900. This A-Frame lake home consists of approximately 1650 square feet. A tree strike during a storm has left the home in need of a roof. The house is retro and will need other updates including a septic system.

There are million dollar homes on this Lake and with some work this investment will pay off.

Click here for additional photos.

Waterfront living with convenience. 95 Lake Street, directly on the shores of lake Archer is located within minutes to the Boston commuter rail, routes 495, 95 and the MA pike. Shopping at the Wrentham Village Outlet Mall is a few short miles away.

95 Lake Street is located within a 50 minute ride to Boston and 35 minutes to Providence RI making this a convenient lakeside lifestyle.

View Larger Map

Search here for Homes In the Area

Call or email Carol Ann Palmieri for a private showing.

508-494-9061

cal@alandcal.com

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

A Reminder About Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Nicole's Law

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 04:57:45 -0700

A Reminder About Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Nicole's Law

We count our blessings. My sweet niece and and her best friend are fortunate to have lived through an incident of carbon monoxide poisoning last weekend. They spent some time in a in hyperbaric chambers, and all is well.

We are thankful to her BFF's folks for their quick recognition of the situation and of course the local first responders for their immediate and competent response.

As it hits close to home, I feel compelled to address this important topic again.

Nicole's law was adopted in 2006 after young Nicole Garofalo succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of a heating vent being block by drifting snow. The MA law calls for a home to have a CO detector on each finished level, a detector tor placed within 10 feet of the bedrooms.

What makes Carbon Monoxide so deadly is that being colorless and odorless, it is hard to detect. Fortunately we have detectors to let us know when we have exceeded the acceptable levels in a home. Like many things, life has become easier with the invention of seemingly simple devices that let us know when something is a miss. Heck, even my car now tells me if one of my tires has low pressure. Unfortunately, we can easily fall complacent in trusting that they will always work. If my tire goes flat, it's probably no big deal, but if the CO detector doesn't work it could be.

What should we do?

Have the detectors.
Have them installed!
Check the batteries.
Periodically check to make sure they are functioning properly.

What else can we do?

Remember that machines fail.
Do not rely fully on them.
Check our homes to make sure that vents are not blocked allowing this deadly gas to build up in your home. When we think of CO building up we think of furnaces, car exhaust, dryer venting, stoves, ovens and water heaters, but that is not just it.

Know the signs and symptoms

In last weekends episode, the parents of her friend recognized the symptoms as being dangerous acted quickly.

Because CO is odorless and colorless people might not know they have been exposed. Low to moderate CO poisoning symptoms are flu like (without the fever).

Headache
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Dizziness

Higher levels of CO poisoning can result in

Mental confusion
Vomiting
Loss of muscular coordination
Loss of consciousness
Ultimately death

If you suspect CO poisening, get out into fresh air and call for help. Do not forget that our pets can fall victim to this as well!

We were lucky and we know it.

Please watch out for this "silent killer".

About the author

Al and Cal Licensed in MA and RI...

Her mission.... To exceed your expectations!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA Home for Sale

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 13:47:42 -0700

31 Woodland Road Bellingham MA Home for Sale

Just listed for $249,900 this 3 bedroom bungalow is ready for you to just pack your bags and move in! The work has been already done for you so you can sit on your front porch and relax with a book!

Electric, plumbing and roof are updated. Most of the windows have been replaced and the home has recently been insulated. There is also a central air system and updated heating and hot water.

Municipal taxes are less than $2400 per year. The lot is 5000 square feet.

If you would like to see this turn key property, please contact Carol-Ann Palmieri

508-494-9061 or email Cal@alandcal.com

31 Woodland Road, Bellingham MA is perfect for someone with a busy lifestyle!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Things Every Homeowner Should Have

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 06:52:05 -0700

Things Every Homeowner Should Have

While writing No Home is Perfect How to Decide, I mentioned that every home owner should have a hammer. It started me thinking about what it was that I didn't have when I left apartment living. I remember thinking, "I never thought of that".

You probably should have a screwdriver, a drill, and a step ladder too. ( How else will you hang those curtains!)

What else? How many converted apartment dwellers have purchased a home with no thought that they need a trash barrel... or in today's world, recycle bins.

In our neck of the woods, you will need a mailbox. Yep, that mail will likely be delivered to the street not to your front door.

You'll need a garden hose, and unless you have a landscaping service or a goat, a lawn mower will be a must have. A rake too.

If you live anywhere near Boston, you will always need a shovel even if you have a "plow guy".

You might need to have an oil company. Understand what that entails and how that works. The name of a plumber, electrician, HVAC guy and carpenter will be as necessary as having a dentist and a doc. Hopefully not needed, but good to have ready in case you need one!

Flashlights! Nothing worse than fumbling in the dark when the lights go out!

You should have a fire extinguisher. Smoke and CO detectors are supposed to come with the house. Make sure they are there! While I am thinking of that, it's a good idea for have a fire proof lock box for those important papers, and my Dad would be disappointed if I didn't mention an escape plan.

Last but not least and probably most important,

you must have a sense of humor,

because while there is nothing like owning your own home, there is always something to do!

______________________________

About the author

Carol-Ann Palmieri,

is a full time Real Estate professional in Massachusetts for the past 25 years along with her partner Al Mussi have helped literally hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.

Licensed in MA and RI...

Her mission.... To exceed your expectations!

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

Remax Executive Realty

www.AlandCal.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061