Property Revaluation and Tax Shifts in North Conway: A Closer Look

The recent property revaluation in North Conway has led to a significant shift in the tax burden, particularly affecting residential and commercial property owners differently. The revaluation process, mandated by state law to be revenue-neutral, unexpectedly resulted in increased taxes for many homeowners, while some commercial properties saw a decrease in their tax bills.

- Impact on Residential Properties: Residential property values have surged, with some experiencing a threefold increase, significantly outpacing the rise in commercial property values, which only saw about a 30% increase. This imbalance in valuation growth has shifted the tax burden more heavily onto homeowners.

- Specific Examples: The average assessed value of mobile homes jumped from $45,500 in 2022 to approximately $125,000 in 2023. One homeowner saw their tax bill nearly triple, while another, a local business owner, experienced a 65% decrease in their office property tax bill despite a 25% increase in property value.

- Community Reaction: The shift has sparked concerns and protests from residents. Shawn Bergeron of Bergeron Technical Services expressed dismay at the increased taxation on homeowners, warning of long-term impacts on the community's demographic. Local farmer Justin Hussey voiced concerns about the sustainability of these tax increases, fearing it could lead to the end of dairy farming in the area.

- Tax Rate Changes: The new base tax rate was set at $10.18 per $1,000 of property value, a significant decrease from the 2022 rate of $17.08. However, due to the sharp rise in assessed property values, many homeowners found their actual tax bills higher.

This revaluation and resulting tax shift have stirred a significant dialogue in the community about the implications for both the residential and commercial sectors, highlighting the complexities of property taxation and its impact on the local economy and community fabric.

 

There must be some snow in the forecast.....  When it comes, here is a quick summary of the downhill ski mountains around North Conway!

• Attitash Mountain Resort: Located in Bartlett, NH, Attitash is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels. It features two connected mountains, Attitash and Bear Peak, providing a diverse range of trails and glades. The resort is also popular for its après-ski scene with live music and events.
• Cranmore Mountain Resort: Situated right in North Conway, Cranmore is a convenient and versatile ski destination. It's particularly well-suited for families and beginners, offering a wide range of lessons and programs. In addition to its ski and snowboard trails, Cranmore is also known for its tubing park and mountain coaster.
• Black Mountain: Located in Jackson, NH, Black Mountain is one of the oldest ski areas in New Hampshire. It's revered for its classic New England ski experience, with a mix of natural and groomed trails suitable for all abilities. Black Mountain is particularly popular with families and those who appreciate a more laid-back, traditional skiing atmosphere.
• Wildcat Mountain: This ski area, in Pinkham Notch, is known for having some of the most challenging terrain in the White Mountains, making it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Wildcat offers breathtaking views of Mount Washington and is praised for its long ski season, often stretching from early November to late April.
• Bretton Woods: Located in Bretton Woods, NH, this is the largest ski area in New Hampshire, offering a vast array of trails and glades. Bretton Woods is renowned for its well-groomed runs, high-speed lifts, and family-friendly environment. The resort also features a top-rated Nordic center for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• King Pine at Purity Spring Resort: Located in Madison, NH, King Pine is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is especially well-suited for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The resort is part of the Purity Spring Resort, offering a more intimate and relaxed skiing experience. King Pine features well-groomed trails, a tubing park, and a variety of winter activities including ice skating and cross-country skiing. Its smaller size and fewer crowds make it an excellent choice for families or those just learning to ski or snowboard.

Each of these ski areas offers a unique experience, from challenging terrain and panoramic mountain views to family-friendly atmospheres and historic charm. They collectively make the North Conway area a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The Conway Daily Sun recently posted the Top 10 Stories of 2023.  Here is a summary of the stories chosen by the Sun.  What do you think?  Anything else that should have made the list?

1. Paid Parking Debate: In early 2023, Conway selectmen shelved the controversial paid parking proposal in North Conway Village after significant community backlash and logistical concerns.

2. Property Revaluation and Tax Shifts: A revaluation led to increased taxes for many homeowners and decreased taxes for some commercial properties, causing community unrest due to the significant shift in tax burden.

3. Casino Proposal Controversy: Developers filed a lawsuit against the town after facing challenges in turning a space in the former Shur-fine Plaza into a charitable gaming casino.

4. Extreme Weather Patterns: 2023 experienced unusual weather, including a wet summer affecting foliage and apple crops, and significant precipitation leading to flooding and altered snowfall patterns.

5. Rental Inspection Ordinance: Following a Supreme Court ruling, Conway selectmen faced resistance while implementing a new program for licensing and inspecting all rental properties.

6. School Closure and Realignment: Discussions on closing one of Conway's elementary schools and moving sixth grade to Kennett Middle School intensified due to declining enrollment and budget cuts.

7. Market Basket Opens: After delays and anticipation, Market Basket finally opened in October at Settlers Green, bringing a new grocery option to the area.

8. Kennett High’s 100th Anniversary: Kennett High School celebrated its 100th anniversary with a range of events, including a large parade and various festivities, highlighting strong community spirit.

9. Transitions and Retirements in SAU 9: Several key educational and administrative figures in SAU 9, including the Superintendent, announced retirements or transitions, marking a significant change in local leadership.

10. Sign Ordinance Disputes: Legal battles emerged over Conway's sign ordinance, particularly involving Leavitt’s Country Bakery and Settlers Green, leading to ongoing court cases and community debate.

North Conway homeowners! Thinking about putting your home on the market? Before you get too excited, let's chat about some common slip-ups folks tend to make. Trust me; you'll want to sidestep these to ensure a smooth sale. And hey, there's a bonus tip at the end – hint: it involves contacting North Conway Realty sooner rather than later.

1. Neglecting Curb Appeal:
   Picture this: a potential buyer drives by, sees your place, and thinks, "Eh, not interested." Why? Curb appeal. North Conway's got that scenic charm, so don't skimp on sprucing up the exterior. A bit of landscaping and a fresh coat of paint can do wonders.  When listing your property, North Conway Realty has people ready to tackle some of these projects for you.

2. Ignoring Necessary Repairs:
   Leaky faucet? Peeling paint? Hold up before listing! Ignoring necessary fixes might cost you in the long run. Get a pre-listing inspection, tackle those repairs, and make sure your home is in tip-top shape. Trust me, buyers notice the little things.  As a new bonus, North Conway Realty is now offering a complimentary pre-listing inspection!  Don't get caught off guard in the middle of your sale.

3. Incorrectly Pricing the Property:
   Let's talk dollars and cents. Overpricing scares folks away, while underpricing means you're leaving money on the table. Do your homework, maybe chat with a local real estate pro, and find the the price that gets buyers excited to see your property.

4. Inadequate Home Staging:
   Ever walk into a cluttered room and feel overwhelmed? Buyers do too. Clear out the unnecessary stuff, depersonalize a bit, and give your home some breathing room. Proper staging can make all the difference in showcasing what makes your place special.

5. Not Contacting North Conway Realty Early Enough:
   And here's the grand finale – not picking up the phone and calling North Conway Realty early in the game. Let 20 years of real estate experience work for you. You will get personalized advice, local insights, and a smoother selling experience. It's like having a secret weapon for your home-selling journey.

In a nutshell, steer clear of these blunders, and you'll be well on your way to a successful home sale in North Conway. Remember, it's not just about selling a house; it's about selling the North Conway lifestyle. So, grab your to-do list, give North Conway Realty a ring, and let's get that 'For Sale' sign up with confidence!

Here are some real estate metrics! Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding these numbers can give you a powerful advantage in the market. 

First up, we have the Months Supply of Inventory, which currently stands at 3.69. This metric represents the number of months it would take to sell all the homes on the market, assuming no new listings come in. A lower number suggests a seller's market, where demand exceeds supply, causing prices to potentially rise. In our case, 3.69 months indicates a fairly balanced market, where both buyers and sellers have room to maneuver.

Now, let's take a look at the 12-Month Change in Months of Inventory, which has seen a whopping increase of 64.73%. This significant jump indicates that the market has become more favorable for buyers over the past year. With more inventory available, buyers have more options to choose from, potentially leading to increased negotiation power and lower prices.

Moving on, we have the Median Days Homes are On the Market, which currently stands at just 8 days. This metric represents the average number of days it takes for a home to be sold. A lower number here suggests a fast-paced market, with homes flying off the shelves in no time. In our case, 8 days indicates a high demand for properties, making it crucial for buyers to act swiftly if they find a home they love.

Now, let's talk about the List to Sold Price Percentage, which currently sits at an impressive 99.7%. This percentage represents the ratio between the original listing price and the final sold price of a property. A higher percentage suggests that homes are selling very close to their initial asking prices, indicating a strong market and potentially limited room for negotiation. With a 99.7% List to Sold Price Percentage, sellers can feel confident that their homes are fetching top dollar.

Finally, we have the Median Sold Price, which currently stands at $560,000. This metric represents the middle point of all the sold prices in a given area. For sellers, a higher median sold price is great news, indicating that they have the potential to fetch a higher price for their own property. On the other hand, buyers should be prepared for competitive pricing and potentially need to adjust their budgets accordingly.

Now that we've explored these real estate metrics, it's clear that the market is in a unique state. With a balanced supply and demand, buyers have more options than before. The increase in inventory over the past year gives buyers a chance to find their dream home without feeling rushed. However, the low Median Days Homes are On the Market indicates that the competition is fierce, and buyers need to act quickly.

Sellers, you're in luck as well! With the List to Sold Price Percentage at an impressive 99.7%, you can feel confident that you have a strong chance of selling your property near your desired price. And with the Median Sold Price sitting at $560,000, it's clear that the market is favoring sellers, potentially allowing you to make a tidy profit.

So, whether you're a buyer or a seller, these real estate metrics provide valuable insight into the market's current state. Stay informed, be proactive, and remember to adapt your strategies accordingly. Happy buying and selling!

In a heartwarming celebration attended by nearly 100 people, the MWV (Mount Washington Valley) Trails Association's North Conway Rec Path was officially inaugurated at the northern end of the 2.9-mile paved recreational route. The event saw the gathering of individuals who had dedicated their efforts to bringing this project to life, including the visionary behind it, 90-year-old retired SAU 9 psychologist Steve Swenson. Swenson, who originally conceived the idea over two decades ago, expressed his joy at seeing the project come to fruition, highlighting the teamwork and dedication of everyone involved.

The project, with a total cost of $3.6 million, received funding from various sources, including the New Hampshire Community Development Tax Authority ($240,000), the Connie Davis Watson Foundation ($300,000), the Ham Foundation ($300,000), the Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation ($200,000), The Berry Companies River Run ($100,000), and thousands of dollars from businesses, individuals, and fundraising events such as the "Rock the Rec" concerts and Mountain Meisters' "pay-to-run" fundraisers, held at Cranmore Mountain.

Speakers at the ceremony included capital campaign co-chairs Ted and Sharon Wroblewski, who praised the project's significance. Conway Selectman John Colbath represented board chair Mary Carey Seavey and the board, expressing his support for this community-enhancing endeavor. Ben Wilcox, president and general manager of Cranmore Mountain Resort, highlighted how the Rec Path opens up opportunities for people of all abilities and called Cranmore Mountain Resort "Conway's park."

Furthermore, the Rec Path has three access points: Cranmore, Thompson Road, and Hemlock Lane, making it easily accessible for the community. The path is not only a testament to the community's shared values but also a beautiful and safe space for people to enjoy exercise and scenic beauty. The event showcased how a dedicated community can come together to create a healthy and vibrant space for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

Conway Introduces Rental Inspection Program for Enhanced Safet

In a proactive move to prioritize the safety Conway, New Hampshire, has launched a comprehensive rental inspection program. The program, initiated after a unanimous 5-0 vote by the Selectmen on August 5th, encompasses both long-term and short-term rental properties, including single-family homes and duplexes. Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngli has underlined the urgency for property owners to secure a rental license or initiate the application process by January 1st, highlighting the town's commitment to safety.

Licensing Options

Property owners have been presented with two distinct options, available until December 31st, to meet the program's requirements:

1. **Comprehensive Inspection**: Property owners can choose to complete a detailed form and pay a fee of $375. This choice entails allowing a fire department official to conduct a thorough inspection of the rental property, guided by a 10-point life safety checklist. Successful completion of this inspection results in the issuance of a rental license, valid for an impressive three-year period. Importantly, the form must be notarized for validation.

2. **Self-Affidavit**: Alternatively, owners may opt for a "self-affidavit," affirming that their property adheres to established life safety codes. This option carries a reduced fee of $125 but comes with a shorter validity period of one year.

**First-Movers: Mary and Wayne Bolduc**

Leading the way in embracing the program's safety measures were Mary and Wayne Bolduc, proud residents of Redstone and owners of a duplex on Greenstone Street. Having owned the duplex since 2008, they chose the first option to ensure their property underwent a meticulous inspection. Mary expressed their satisfaction with the process, stating, "We're just happy to know that everything is safe." Their inspection, conducted on August 29th and lasting a mere 10-15 minutes, culminated in the issuance of their rental license on August 30th.

Rental License: Symbol of Safety

The rental license, a certificate embellished with the town seal, stands as tangible proof that the property has successfully passed a life safety inspection, meticulously conducted by local fire departments. This certification grants authorization for rental, and its validity spans an impressive three years. Upon expiration, the license necessitates renewal through re-inspection.

Program Progress and Future Prospects

Nicholas DeVito, the Conway Zoning Officer, expressed his satisfaction with the program's progress, stating that the new life safety inspections program has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. He emphasized the program's growth potential and commitment to further enhancing its effectiveness in the future. DeVito also outlined the inspection process for upcoming assessments, which will involve an inspector from one of the fire precincts and himself.

Safety Criteria

The life safety inspection criteria encompass a range of essential elements, including ensuring that the address number is visible from the street, hard-wired smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, sufficient egress, annual servicing of central heating systems, chimneys and wood stoves compliant with codes, an up-to-code electrical system, an adequate number of fire extinguishers, code-compliant fire pits, and safe grill placement. A detailed checklist is available for reference.

Differing Opinions

It's worth noting that not everyone in the community is entirely aligned with the program. The Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Rentals has voiced concerns, with its president, David Cavanaugh, raising questions about the legality of licensing single-family homes and the physical inspection of such properties.

Program Uptake

As of now, the town has issued a total of three licenses and three affidavits under the program, according to Administrative Assistant Valerie Kollander.

First License Granted

The Bolducs, who received their inaugural license via mail, plan to safeguard it in a filing cabinet. They take pride in being the first to have their rental property inspected and licensed, aptly summarized by Wayne, who remarked, "Pretty cool to be No. 1, wouldn’t you say?"

 

Starting this Friday (9/1), the town of Conway is kicking off a new rental license and inspection program. Basically, if you're renting out your place, you need to get a license for it. They've already got a few folks signing up, and they're aiming to start inspections next week or so.

Here's the deal: if you're a property owner, you've got two options. Option one is filling out a form, paying $375, and having the fire department inspect your rental based on a safety checklist. If you pass, you'll get a three-year rental license. Option two, available till the end of the year, involves a $125 fee and a self-affidavit form confirming your place is up to safety codes.

Starting next year, the self-affidavit option is out, and everyone needs to go through the inspection process. The inspections are about stuff like having working smoke alarms, proper exits, safe heating, and more.

Fire chiefs from different areas will be doing the inspections. There were some folks who didn't quite like this plan during public discussions, worrying it could make the housing crisis worse. But the town officials are aiming for safety without making things harder for renters or landlords.

The whole idea behind this is to make sure rental properties are safe because there have been cases of dangerous situations in rentals elsewhere. The town of Durham has been doing something like this for a while, and they found a bunch of safety issues during inspections.

Got questions? Contact Nicholas DeVito, the Conway Zoning Officer, for more info - (603) 447-3811, ext. 231 or ndevito@conwaynh.org.

Here is a copy of the Self Inspection Checklist

there's this situation in Freedom, where a couple, James and Susan Cotter, are taking the town's short-term rental ordinance to the New Hampshire Housing Appeals Board. These folks split their time between Freedom and Massachusetts, and they're represented by a lawyer who previously won a case against Conway's attempt to regulate short-term rentals.

The Cotters are challenging the town's new rules on short-term rentals, saying that their use of their property was established before these rules came into play. They've got a hearing scheduled for October, and you can even join in via Webex.

The town passed its short-term rental ordinance last year and started sending warnings to short-term rental owners like the Cotters. The Cotters are being backed by an association that supports responsible vacation rentals.

The case is centered around whether the town can impose these new regulations and if the rules even apply to the Cotters. They're arguing that the town can't restrict the number of days they legally rent out their home, based on a previous court ruling.

The town, on the other hand, believes that they can regulate short-term rentals and that property owners who want to rent more than 90 days a year need to get a conditional use permit. They say it's about ensuring public health, safety, and the environment.

Both sides have their legal arguments, and it's going to be interesting to see how it plays out. This is becoming a trend in New Hampshire towns, and this case could set a precedent for how short-term rentals are regulated in the future.

The town of Madison is going on the offensive against STRs (short term rentals) that started renting after March 2022 when voters passed a warrant article saying residential homes could not be used as short term rentals.  It's a very interesting decision considering the NH Supreme Court's recent decision that said short term rentals are an acceptable residential use in Conway.  Click here for the full story

If you want a development that does not allow short term rentals, here are some places to look:

• Bartlett Place in Bartlett (60 day min)
• Cranmore Woods in North Conway
• Saco Woods in Conway
• Mount Cranmore condos in North Conway (they limit to 5 rentals per year)
• Northface in North Conway (30 day minimum)
• Partridge Woods in Bartlett (30 day minimum)
• Black Mountain Meadows in Jackson

Golf in North Conway, NH

North Conway, New Hampshire is a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels. The town is home to several golf courses, each with its own unique challenges and beauty.

Here are a few of the best golf courses in North Conway:

• North Conway Country Club: This 18-hole course is located in the heart of North Conway Village. It is a challenging course with rolling hills and water hazards.

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  North Conway Country Club golf course in North Conway, NH

• Hale's Location Golf Course: This 9-hole course is located in the town of Hale's Location. It is a scenic course with stunning views of the White Mountains.

  White Mountain Hotel & Resort

  Hale's Location Golf Course in Hale's Location, NH

• Wentworth Golf Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Jackson. It is a challenging course with narrow fairways and deep bunkers.

  www.wentworthgolf.com

  Wentworth Golf Club in Jackson, NH

• Eagle Mountain House and Golf Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Jackson. It is a challenging course with mountain views.

  Eagle Mountain House

  Eagle Mountain House and Golf Club in Jackson, NH

• Lake Kezar Country Club: This 18-hole course is located in the town of Lovell, Maine. It is a challenging course with water hazards and rolling hills.

  www.lakekezargolf.com

  Lake Kezar Country Club in Lovell, Maine

In addition to these five courses, there are several other golf courses in the area that are worth checking out. No matter what your skill level or experience, you are sure to find a course that you will enjoy in North Conway.

Here are some tips for planning your golf trip to North Conway:

• Book your tee times early: The golf courses in North Conway are popular, so it is important to book your tee times early, especially during the peak season (June-August).
• Bring your own clubs: If you are planning on renting clubs, be sure to do so in advance. The rental shops in North Conway can get busy, especially on weekends.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring sunscreen: The sun can be strong in the mountains, so be sure to bring sunscreen.
• Have fun: North Conway is a beautiful place to play golf. Relax and enjoy the scenery.

Shalimar of India: A Taste of the Indian Subcontinent in North Conway

Shalimar of India is a hidden gem in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving authentic Indian cuisine for over 20 years. The menu features a wide variety of dishes from all over the Indian subcontinent, including tandoori chicken, biryani, and lamb vindaloo.

The food at Shalimar of India is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The spices are used sparingly, so the flavors of the food shine through. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

The service at Shalimar of India is warm and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is also family-friendly, with a separate children's menu.

If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Indian meal, Shalimar of India is the perfect place for you. The restaurant is located in North Conway, New Hampshire, and is open for lunch and dinner.

Here are some of the dishes you can try at Shalimar of India:

• Tandoori chicken: This dish is made with chicken that has been marinated in yogurt and spices, and then cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the spices add a nice heat.

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  Tandoori chicken dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Biryani: This is a rice dish that is cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is a popular dish in India, and there are many different variations. The biryani at Shalimar of India is made with chicken or lamb, and it is cooked with basmati rice, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish.

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  Biryani dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Lamb vindaloo: This is a spicy dish that is made with lamb, potatoes, and a variety of spices. It is a popular dish in Goa, a state in India. The lamb vindaloo at Shalimar of India is made with tender lamb, and it is cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce.

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  Lamb vindaloo dish at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

• Vegetarian dishes: Shalimar of India also has a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes include aloo gobi (cauliflower and potato curry), dal makhani (lentils in a creamy sauce), and shahi paneer (cottage cheese in a creamy sauce).

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  Vegetarian dishes at Shalimar of India restaurant in North Conway

If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Indian meal, Shalimar of India is the perfect place for you. The restaurant is located in North Conway, New Hampshire, and is open for lunch and dinner.