Blog

Welcome to the North Conway Realty blog. This is where you’ll find helpful information about buying and selling real estate in North Conway and the surrounding Mount Washington Valley. We share local market updates, tips for buyers and sellers, neighborhood highlights, and insights based on real, current activity—not just headlines. Whether you’re planning a move, watching the market, or simply curious about what’s happening locally, this blog is designed to give you clear, useful information so you can make confident real estate decisions.

Please note: The information shared on this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, financial, surveying, or professional real estate advice. Real estate laws, regulations, market conditions, and property-specific details can change over time and may vary by situation. Buyers and sellers should consult with qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

5 Must-See Hiking Trails Near Hart's Location, New Hampshire

Nestled in the White Mountains, Hart’s Location is a small, charming town surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in New Hampshire. For hiking enthusiasts, the area offers a range of trails that showcase the beauty of the White Mountain National Forest, with options suitable for all levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a peaceful walk through the woods, here are five of the most popular trails in and around Hart’s Location.

1. Arethusa Falls Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 2.8 miles round-trip
  • Highlights: Waterfall views

The Arethusa Falls Trail is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. This moderate hike leads you through a dense forest and rewards you with views of Arethusa Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire. The trail can be steep in sections, but the views of the cascading falls and the surrounding foliage make it well worth the effort. It’s an excellent option for families or those looking for a classic White Mountains waterfall hike(

North Conway Foliage Guide

2. Ripley Falls Trail

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip
  • Highlights: Scenic waterfall

Just a short drive from Hart’s Location, the Ripley Falls Trail is perfect for those looking for an easy, family-friendly hike. The trail is well-marked and takes you to Ripley Falls, a beautiful 100-foot waterfall tumbling down a rock face. It’s a short and sweet hike that packs a scenic punch, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists(

North Conway Foliage Guide

3. Ethan Pond Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
  • Highlights: Mountain views and pond scenery

For a longer hike that offers a bit of everything, the Ethan Pond Trail is a great choice. Starting from the Willey House Station, this trail offers gradual inclines and takes hikers through picturesque woods, crossing streams and passing scenic views of surrounding mountains. The trail culminates at Ethan Pond, a serene spot perfect for picnicking or taking in the beauty of the White Mountains. This trail is also part of the Appalachian Trail, so it’s a great option for those interested in exploring sections of this iconic route(

North Conway Foliage Guide

4. Mt. Willey Trail

  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
  • Highlights: Summit views

For hikers seeking a challenge, the Mt. Willey Trail offers a strenuous climb with a big payoff. This trail takes you up to the summit of Mt. Willey, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Crawford Notch and the surrounding peaks. The trail is steep, with some ladder sections, so it’s best for experienced hikers who are comfortable with more technical terrain. On a clear day, the summit offers some of the most stunning views in the White Mountains(

North Conway Foliage Guide

5. Nancy Pond Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Distance: 8.6 miles round-trip
  • Highlights: Multiple ponds, waterfall views

The Nancy Pond Trail is a longer and more adventurous hike, ideal for those wanting to explore a less crowded trail with plenty of natural beauty. Starting from Route 302, the trail climbs steadily through the forest and passes by Nancy Cascades, a gorgeous waterfall that is especially striking after rainfall. Continuing further, the trail reaches Nancy Pond and Norcross Pond, two peaceful and picturesque spots that make for a perfect rest or picnic break. The total distance is longer, so it’s best for hikers prepared for a full day’s adventure(

North Conway Foliage Guide

Final Thoughts

Hart’s Location and the surrounding areas provide some of the most scenic and diverse hiking options in the White Mountains. From waterfalls to summit views, these trails offer something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sturdy footwear, and a map or GPS, as trail conditions can vary. Always check local weather and trail reports before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

If Hart's Location sounds like a great place to live, check out this listing on 1.8 private acres!

Comments

  1. No comments. Be the first to comment.

Black Mountain Reveals Co-op Vision

Exploring Black Mountain: Jackson, New Hampshire’s Hidden Gem and Its Exciting New Co-op Vision

Tucked away in the scenic town of Jackson, New Hampshire, Black Mountain is a beloved ski area that offers both locals and visitors a chance to experience the best of New England’s winter wonderland. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, classic trails, and stunning views of the White Mountains, Black Mountain has been a community treasure for decades. However, this year marks an exciting new chapter for the mountain as it embarks on a journey of transformation and growth with its recent acquisition and future plans for a co-op ownership model.

The Indy Pass Partnership

In a move to enhance its reach and appeal, Black Mountain has joined forces with Indy Pass, a collective pass program that provides access to independent ski resorts across North America. By becoming part of the Indy Pass network, Black Mountain is not only attracting a broader audience of skiers and riders but also reinforcing its identity as a unique, independent mountain that values the skiing community.

The partnership with Indy Pass allows pass holders to enjoy two days of skiing at Black Mountain (and at other participating resorts) without blackout dates, making it an appealing option for skiers looking to explore a range of destinations. This collaboration fits seamlessly with Black Mountain’s mission to maintain the classic New England ski experience while becoming part of a broader network that promotes independent ski culture.

Moving Toward Co-op Ownership: A Community-Focused Vision

One of the most exciting developments at Black Mountain is its goal to transition into a co-op ownership model. This change represents a shift toward a more community-driven and sustainable way of operating the mountain. Under the co-op structure, members of the public—whether they are local residents, regular visitors, or those who simply want to support an independent ski area—will have the opportunity to become owners of the mountain.

This ownership model empowers the community and ensures that decisions about the mountain’s future remain aligned with the interests of those who know and love it most. Co-op ownership also creates a sense of shared responsibility and pride among the members, fostering a tight-knit and passionate skiing community.

What’s Next for Black Mountain?

With the partnership with Indy Pass and the pursuit of co-op ownership, Black Mountain is positioning itself for a future that preserves its character while adapting to the evolving landscape of the ski industry. The co-op model is designed to support not just the mountain's operations but also its long-term growth and sustainability. Black Mountain’s management is currently working on structuring the co-op to maximize benefits for members, with perks likely to include discounted lift tickets, priority access to events, and voting rights on key decisions.

Why This Matters for the Community

For residents of Jackson and the greater North Conway area, Black Mountain’s transformation is more than just a business decision; it’s a commitment to the region’s skiing heritage and a nod to the local values of collaboration and community spirit. By opening up ownership to the community, Black Mountain is ensuring that its legacy as a family-friendly, classic New England ski destination will continue for generations to come.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re looking for an authentic ski experience with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning mountain views, Black Mountain should be on your winter adventure list. Whether you’re visiting for a day or considering becoming a co-op member, there’s no better time to explore what Black Mountain has to offer and be a part of its next chapter.

For more information about becoming a co-op member or planning your trip, visit Black Mountain’s website or follow their latest updates on social media.

https://www.blackmt.com/

Comments

  1. No comments. Be the first to comment.

Conway Pauses Inspections - STR Group Pauses Lawsuit

A recent article in the Conway Daily Sun discussed the Conway Board of Selectmen's decision to temporarily pause their rental inspection program following ongoing legal disputes. The town had been inspecting rental properties for life safety compliance based on a program approved by voters in April, but the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals filed a lawsuit against the town, claiming the inspections were unconstitutional, citing concerns over warrantless searches and overreach of authority.

In response, the selectmen voted to halt inspections and any issuance of Certificates of Compliance until a vote scheduled for April 2025. Property owners who had already paid for inspections will receive a credit for future inspections, and any additional costs will not be charged. The town's legal team and the association reached an agreement to pause the lawsuit while revisions to the town ordinance and inspection program are considered.

The association’s president, David Cavanaugh, argued that the ordinance was flawed and illegal, emphasizing that their lawsuit aimed to protect property rights rather than oppose safety regulations. He suggested the town consider voluntary safety inspections or educational programs instead of mandatory compliance. The association has also requested the town refund fees for inspections deemed unnecessary or based on the flawed program. The article concludes with the association's commitment to monitor the situation and potentially withdraw or reinitiate legal action as needed.

Link to the full story below:

https://www.conwaydailysun.com/news/local/town-pauses-rental-inspections-owners-suspend-lawsuit/article_dddfe48a-80c5-11ef-af56-63f4c92d1f02.html

The Best Week To Buy

Based on an article from Realtor.com, now is the best week of the year to buy a home.  Here is a link to the full article.

Here is a quick summary:

  • Best Time to Buy: The week of September 29 to October 5, 2024, is the best time to buy a home nationally.

  • Increased Inventory: Active listings could be up 37% from the start of the year, offering more options for buyers.

  • Potential Savings: Buyers could save over $14,000 on a median-priced home compared to summer peak prices.

  • Easing Mortgage Rates: Mortgage rates are expected to improve, making homes more affordable this fall.

  • Less Competition: Buyer competition typically decreases during this week, allowing for a more manageable market pace.

  • More Time on Market: Homes are staying on the market longer, giving buyers extra time to make informed decisions.

  • Regional Variations: Inventory increases are stronger in the South, with prices rising in the Northeast and Midwest.

  • Flexible Buying Strategies: Buyers prioritizing options should act early in the fall, while those focused on price savings might wait until later in the season.

  • Overall Favorability: This week offers a balance of favorable conditions, including reduced prices, plentiful listings, and less buyer competition.

Here is a link to the full article.

Why “Flushable” Wipes Are Still a No-Go for Your Septic System

Here is some advice after just going through a home inspection that was all jammed up with "flushable" wipes!

In recent years, flushable wipes have become a popular alternative to traditional toilet paper. They promise a more thorough clean and a convenient flush, but when it comes to your septic system, these wipes are still a major problem. Despite being labeled as “flushable,” these products can cause significant damage to your plumbing and septic system.

The Problem with “Flushable” Wipes

The term “flushable” can be misleading. While these wipes may go down the toilet with ease, they don’t break down the way toilet paper does. Instead, they maintain their structure, leading to clogs and buildup in your septic system.

Unlike toilet paper, which disintegrates quickly in water, flushable wipes are designed to be stronger and more durable. This durability is what makes them problematic for septic systems. When these wipes enter the septic tank, they don’t break apart as expected. Instead, they accumulate and can cause blockages that disrupt the entire system.

How Flushable Wipes Affect Your Septic System

Your septic system is designed to handle wastewater, toilet paper, and human waste. Anything beyond this, such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or even excessive amounts of paper, can cause problems. When flushable wipes enter the septic tank, they can:

  1. Clog Pipes: As these wipes move through your plumbing, they can get stuck, causing slow drains and blockages.

  2. Fill the Tank: Since they don’t break down, these wipes take up space in your septic tank, reducing its efficiency and requiring more frequent pumping.

  3. Cause Costly Repairs: Blockages and backups caused by flushable wipes can lead to expensive repairs or even the need for a complete septic system replacement.

Best Practices for a Healthy Septic System

To protect your septic system, it’s best to avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Here are some tips to keep your system running smoothly:

  1. Dispose of Wipes in the Trash: Even if the packaging says “flushable,” place used wipes in the trash. This simple step can prevent clogs and system failures.

  2. Educate Household Members and Guests: Make sure everyone in your household knows not to flush wipes, even if they’re labeled as safe for flushing.

  3. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Regular septic system inspections and pumping can help identify issues before they become major problems.

  4. Use Septic-Safe Products: Stick to toilet paper that is labeled as septic-safe. These products break down more easily and won’t contribute to blockages.

Conclusion: Protect Your Septic System

Flushable wipes might seem convenient, but they pose a serious risk to your septic system. To avoid clogs, backups, and costly repairs, it’s best to keep them out of your toilet and dispose of them in the trash. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure the longevity and health of your septic system, keeping your home running smoothly.

STR Rental Inspections on HOLD for now

Here is a summary of an article that was published in the Conway Daily Sun recently.  You can read the full article here

The recently adopted rental inspection ordinance in Conway has hit a legal snag that prevents its enforcement until an amendment can be made at the next town meeting. This comes as the town faces a lawsuit from the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals.

Background and Current Situation: At the Sept. 3 Selectmen’s meeting, Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngeli announced that the town would not take action against landlords out of compliance with the new rental inspection plan until the ordinance is updated and the lawsuit is resolved. The main issue lies in the ordinance’s wording, which does not correctly cite the relevant state laws.

The ordinance, which was approved by voters, needs to be amended to include references to specific state statutes, such as RSA Chapter 31, which pertains to the town’s ability to enact bylaws. The current version lacks this necessary verbiage, which has led to confusion and legal challenges. DegliAngeli stated that while the ordinance is not believed to be illegal, the town wants to clarify its language before moving forward.

Legal Actions and Reactions: This revelation surprised David Cavanaugh, president of the rental association, who noted that the town's intention to pause enforcement for ordinance adjustments was unexpected. The association, alongside White Mountain Properties, LLC, filed a lawsuit in August arguing that the rental inspection program was implemented without proper legal authority from the state. They are also challenging the town on the grounds of warrantless inspections and seeking to prevent the enforcement of the program.

Next Steps: To address the issue, the town plans to draft a letter explaining the situation to rental property owners. This letter will be presented at the next Selectmen’s meeting on October 1. Meanwhile, the town has received a two-week extension to respond to the lawsuit, with their new deadline being September 30. The first court hearing is scheduled for October 15 in Belknap Superior Court.

Looking Forward: The town aims to amend the rental ordinance at the 2025 town meeting to include the correct citations and set a fine schedule. Until then, enforcement of the rental inspection program remains on hold. This situation underscores the importance of precise legal language in local ordinances and the potential complexities that can arise when implementing new regulations.

For landlords and renters in Conway, this means a continued period of uncertainty. Stay tuned for updates as the town works to resolve these legal challenges and clarify the future of the rental inspection program.

Changes to the waterfront site assessment

As of September 1, 2024, significant changes have been made to New Hampshire's waterfront septic system regulations. Governor Chris Sununu signed into law House Bill 1113, which shifts the responsibility for septic inspections from sellers to buyers during the transfer of waterfront properties. This blog post will walk you through the key aspects of the new law and what it means for both buyers and sellers of waterfront homes.

Key Changes Under House Bill 1113

Previously, sellers of waterfront properties were required to perform a septic site assessment before selling. However, the new law eliminates that requirement. Now, buyers are responsible for ensuring that a septic inspection is performed prior to the transfer of property. This change applies to any property with a septic system located within 250 feet of a water body such as lakes, rivers, or coastal waters.

What Does This Mean for Sellers?

Sellers no longer need to conduct a septic assessment. Instead, they must allow the buyer to perform the septic inspection. This makes the selling process simpler but still requires coordination with the buyer, particularly if the septic system is in need of repair.

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

Buyers are now responsible for arranging a septic inspection as part of their due diligence. This inspection must be performed by a licensed septic evaluator. The buyer can accept a recent septic inspection from the seller as long as it was conducted within 180 days of the transfer date.

If the inspection reveals that the septic system is failing, the system must be repaired or replaced within 180 days after the property transfer. Both parties can negotiate who will bear the costs for this.

Do All Buyers Need to Perform a Septic Inspection?

No. The new law only mandates inspections if any portion of the septic system is within 250 feet of the reference line, which includes high-water marks of lakes or ponds over 10 acres, coastal waters, or fourth-order or higher rivers.

Special Considerations for Older Septic Systems

If the property’s septic system was never approved by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) or was approved before September 1989, a licensed septic system designer must evaluate the system to determine its condition.

Why Was This Law Passed?

This legislative change was driven by concerns over environmental protection, particularly regarding water quality. Cyanobacteria outbreaks, which are harmful to aquatic ecosystems, are often worsened by phosphorus runoff from malfunctioning septic systems. The new law aims to ensure that septic systems near New Hampshire’s water bodies are functioning properly and not contributing to this problem.

For More Information

For any questions or more details on the new septic inspection requirements, contact the NH Department of Environment Subsurface Systems Bureau at 603-271-3501.

Lock in your price - Save if rates drop with Rate Rebound

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a home because of rising interest rates, the Rate Rebound Program could be just the solution you’ve been waiting for. This unique program provides buyers with the peace of mind that, if interest rates drop in the future, they can refinance and get the lower rate—without paying a bundle in lender fees. But the key point here is that waiting for rates to drop before buying could actually cost you more in the long run. Here’s why:

The Impact of Falling Interest Rates

When interest rates fall, it often leads to an increase in buyer demand. More people want to take advantage of the lower rates, meaning more competition for available homes. This surge in demand can drive up home prices. So, while you might be hoping to save on a lower rate by waiting, you could end up paying a higher price for the same home.

Lock in Today’s Prices with Future Rate Protection

With the Rate Rebound Program, you can purchase a home now and lock in today’s prices while knowing you have the opportunity to refinance at a lower rate later. Here’s how it works:

  • Rate Rebound allows you to refinance your loan if rates drop after your purchase, without the burden of typical lender fees like processing fees, administrative fees, appraisal fees, or credit report fees.
  • You can refinance any time from six months to five years after closing, as long as the new rate provides a tangible benefit, such as a 0.5% rate reduction.
  • Plus, CMG Home Loans will cover up to $1,000 of third-party fees, making the refinance process even more affordable.

Why It’s Smart to Act Now

By buying now, you’re securing your home at today’s price. If interest rates decrease, you’ll have the flexibility to refinance without all the extra fees, putting you in a great financial position. And if rates don’t drop, you’ll still have the security of knowing you bought a home at a lower price before increased buyer demand pushes prices higher.

In summary, waiting for lower interest rates could mean paying more for your dream home. The Rate Rebound Program gives you the best of both worlds: locking in a home at today's prices with the chance to refinance and save later if rates fall.

If you’d like more information or are ready to explore your options, reach out to us at North Conway Realty or Kaylie at CMG Mortgage (603-323-0992) or kdean@cmgfi.com

Bartlett, NH Real Estate - 2024 Market Update

Bartlett Real Estate – A 2024 Market Update Deep Dive

Whether you're looking for a single-family home or a condo, staying up-to-date on market trends is essential. Here's an in-depth look at the current state of the market, based on data from January 1, 2024, through September 4, 2024.

Bartlett Single-Family Homes

The single-family home market in Bartlett remains steady, with 25 homes currently on the market:

  • Median Price: $650,000
  • Median Days on Market: 49
  • Price Range: The least expensive home is listed at $215,000, while the most expensive is at $3,000,000.

In addition to the active listings, 10 homes are currently under contract:

  • Median Price of Pending Sales: $984,500
  • Median Days on Market: 52
  • Noteworthy Listings: Three of these pending properties are new construction, priced at $1,200,000.

Sales Data So Far in 2024

So far this year, 37 single-family homes have sold in Bartlett:

  • Median Sale Price: $525,000
  • Median Days on Market: 15
  • Sales Price Range: The least expensive sale was for $269,000, while the most expensive sold for $2,350,000.

With 37 sales in the first eight months of 2024, Bartlett averages about 4.6 sales per month. Currently, there are 25 active listings, giving the market around 5.4 months of supply. This points to a balanced market, where neither buyers nor sellers have a strong upper hand.


Bartlett Condos

The condo market in Bartlett offers a variety of options as well. Currently, 19 condos are listed (excluding timeshares):

  • Median Price: $375,000
  • Median Days on Market: 31
  • Price Range: The least expensive condo is listed at $220,000, while the most expensive is at $700,000.

Additionally, 12 condos are under contract, and here’s a breakdown of those pending sales:

  • Median Price of Pending Sales: $427,450
  • Median Days on Market: 72
  • Pending Sales Price Range: From $300,000 to $650,000

2024 Condo Sales Performance

In the first eight months of 2024, there have been 41 condo sales:

  • Median Sale Price: $410,000
  • Median Days on Market: 17, indicating strong buyer interest.
  • Sales Price Range: The least expensive condo sold for $205,000, while the highest-priced condo sold for $915,000.

With 41 sales in the first 8 months, the condo market averages 5.1 sales per month. Given that there are 19 active listings, Bartlett's condo market has approximately 3.7 months of supply, making it more seller-friendly than the single-family market. This lower inventory tends to favor sellers, giving them the advantage of quicker sales and possibly stronger pricing power.


What This Means for You

The 2024 Bartlett real estate market presents a mix of balanced opportunities for single-family homes and a more competitive edge for condo sellers. For buyers, the single-family home market offers more breathing room with a balanced supply, while condo buyers may need to act more swiftly in a seller-favorable environment.

If you’re considering listing your property, the data shows a healthy, active market with homes and condos moving at a reasonable pace. On the flip side, if you’re looking to buy, staying informed and ready to move quickly—especially in the condo market—will be essential.

As always, if you have any questions or need help navigating the Bartlett real estate market, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you’re buying or selling, I’m here to assist!

Written Buyer Agreements Just to See a House???

If you're in the market to buy a home, you've probably noticed that things have changed a bit. Starting August 17, 2024, there's a new requirement for homebuyers working with real estate professionals—specifically those who are REALTORS®. You might be asked to sign a written buyer agreement, and if you're wondering why or what this means for you, you're in the right place. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

What Exactly Is a Written Buyer Agreement?

A written buyer agreement is essentially a contract between you, the homebuyer, and your real estate professional. This agreement outlines the services your agent will provide, as well as the compensation they’ll receive for those services. It’s a way to ensure that both you and your agent are on the same page from the get-go.

Why Am I Being Asked to Sign This Agreement?

This requirement stems from a recent change initiated by the National Association of REALTORS®. As part of a proposed settlement of litigation related to broker commissions, it’s now necessary for real estate professionals to have a written agreement in place with their clients. This is a nationwide change that took effect on August 17, 2024.

Are These Agreements a New Thing?

Depending on where you live, you might have never encountered a written buyer agreement before. Some states have had this requirement for years, while others haven’t. So, if this is new to you, don’t worry—many homebuyers are in the same boat. But now, it’s a standard practice across the country for many real estate professionals.

Can I Negotiate the Terms of the Agreement?

Absolutely! The terms of your written buyer agreement are not set in stone. You have the right to negotiate aspects such as the services you expect, the duration of the agreement, and the compensation involved. The key is that whatever you agree on with your agent should be clearly stated in the agreement—no vague terms, no ranges, just a clear understanding of what’s been decided.

How Does This Benefit Me as a Homebuyer?

One of the biggest advantages of having a written buyer agreement is that it removes any guesswork. You’ll know exactly what your agent is going to do for you and how they will be compensated. This clarity helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that both you and your agent have a solid understanding of your working relationship.

When Will I Be Asked to Sign This Agreement?

You’ll need to sign a written buyer agreement before you start touring homes with your real estate professional. This applies whether you’re doing an in-person visit or a virtual tour. However, if you’re just attending an open house on your own or having an initial chat with an agent about their services, you won’t need to sign anything yet.

Do I Have to Pay My Agent Out of Pocket?

Not necessarily. While the agreement will outline how your agent will be paid, it doesn’t mean you have to cover the cost directly out of pocket. In many cases, it’s possible to negotiate for the seller or their agent to cover your agent’s compensation. This is something you can discuss with your real estate professional to find the best arrangement for you.

Does This Agreement Define the Type of Relationship I Must Have with My Agent?

No, it doesn’t. You’re free to establish any business relationship with your real estate professional that is allowed under state law. Whether you want a more casual arrangement or a full-service partnership, the agreement can be tailored to fit your needs.

Can I Change or Get Out of the Agreement?

Yes, you can. If circumstances change or you’re not satisfied with the arrangement, you and your real estate professional can agree to modify the agreement. Just be sure to read the terms carefully so you understand the conditions under which the agreement can be changed or exited.

Protect Guests and Property Rights

A recent article in the Conway Daily Sun explains how the town of Conway’s rental inspection and certification program, designed to ensure the safety and compliance of both short- and long-term rental properties, is currently under legal scrutiny. A lawsuit filed by the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals, along with White Mountain Properties LLC, has brought the program’s legality into question, effectively halting its progress. The town was on the brink of finalizing the program by holding public hearings regarding the fine schedule for violations, which could be as steep as $1,000 per occurrence. However, these hearings have been postponed due to the ongoing litigation, with a court date scheduled for September.

Despite the legal challenges, the need for accountability among rental property owners cannot be overstated. As a real estate professional, I recently showed a three-story, three-bedroom home that shockingly lacked any smoke alarms—a basic safety requirement. This highlights a critical issue: regardless of the outcome of this legal dispute, rental property owners must take their responsibility seriously. It’s not just about adhering to local regulations; it’s about safeguarding the lives of those who stay in these properties.

The town’s inspection program, supported by over 1,000 Conway citizens, was designed to enforce life safety inspections for all rental properties, ensuring they meet basic safety standards before being granted a Certificate of Rental Compliance. While the program’s enforcement is currently in limbo due to the lawsuit, the need for some accountability is clear. Property owners should not only focus on protecting their privacy rights but also on ensuring the safety and well-being of their guests.

This legal battle could take years to resolve, but in the meantime, the responsibility falls on property owners to maintain high standards of safety. Whether or not the town’s program is ultimately upheld, the importance of protecting guests in rental properties should remain a top priority for all owners. The ongoing litigation serves as a reminder that while legalities are being debated, the safety of people staying in these properties should never be compromised.

Read the full story here - 

921 Grandview Road in Conway

Check out this video tour of 921 Grandview Road in Conway.  Located in Hale Estates, this GORGEOUS home sits on a private lot that abuts 14 acres of common association land.  

  • 3 bedrooms plus an office and a bonus room 
  • Hot tub and fire pit / patio area
  • Massive finished basement 
  • Living room with 18' ceilings and gas fireplace
  • Attached garage
  • Beautiful kitchen that looks like something out of a magazine 

 

Market Trends in Conway and North Conway: 7 months of 2023 vs 2024

Photo by Joe Viger PhotographyThe real estate market in Conway (which includes North Conway) has seen significant changes over the past year. Here is a look into the statistics comparing the first seven months of 2023 and 2024, focusing on single-family homes.

January 1, 2023 - July 31, 2023

During the first seven months of 2023, 73 homes were listed with a median list price of $474,900. The market was quite active, with 49 homes sold in this period. The homes that sold had a median days on market (DOM) of just 7 days, indicating a fast-moving market. The median selling price was $427,000.

January 1, 2024 - July 31, 2024

Fast forward to 2024, the market activity has ramped up. There were 114 single-family homes listed, a significant increase compared to the previous year (56%). The median list price also saw a rise, reaching $499,900. There were 62 sales during this period (an increase of 26%), reflecting a growing demand in the area. However, the median DOM for sold homes increased to 10 days, suggesting a slightly slower pace than last year. The median selling price jumped to $460,000, indicating a stronger sellers' market.  I have seen a significant increase in the number of price changes in single family home listings so while homes are selling very close to their asking prices, they aren’t necessarily  selling close to their initial asking prices.

Current Market Overview

As of now, there are 34 active single-family homes on the market. The median asking price for these homes is $555,000, a noticeable increase from earlier in the year. The median DOM for these listings is 35 days, reflecting a potential cooling off or a shift in market dynamics.

Analysis and Insights

The comparison between these two periods reveals a few key trends:

  1. Increased Listings and Sales: The number of homes listed and sold has increased, showing a growing interest in the Conway and North Conway areas.  The number of listings has increased 56% while the number of sold homes has gone up 26% so there is some more inventory that is sitting on the market.  Our inventory was so low, even with inventory climbing we are still not at a balanced market.
  2. Rising Prices: Both the median list and selling prices have gone up. This suggests a competitive market where demand is keeping pace with, if not outstripping, supply. The increase in median asking prices for currently active listings also indicates that sellers are optimistic about the market's direction.
  3. Longer Days on Market: The slight increase in DOM for sold homes and the more noticeable increase for active listings suggest that homes are taking longer to sell compared to last year. This could be due to a higher volume of listings or buyers being more selective.

Overall, the Conway and North Conway real estate market is showing signs of growth and dynamism. While prices are rising, the increased number of listings and slightly longer DOM suggest a market in transition. For buyers and sellers, staying informed and working with knowledgeable real estate professionals will be key to navigating these changes.

Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest, understanding these market trends can help you make more informed decisions. As always, we're here to help you every step of the way in your real estate journey.

PHOTO ABOVE BY JOE VIGER PHOTOGRAPHY

76-90 of 201 Posts