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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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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.

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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!

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.

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 

 

This is such a cool property!  1.8 private acres in Hart's location - famously known as one of New Hampshire's smallest towns (population around 43!)

https://northconwayrealty.com/listing/5008255/91-burke-road-harts-location-nh-03812/

The 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

The real estate landscape is evolving, and recent changes due to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement are set to impact the home buying process significantly. If you're in the market for a new home, it's essential to understand these changes and how they affect you. Here's what you need to know.

The NAR Settlement: A Quick Overview

The NAR settlement stems from legal actions addressing the transparency and practices within the real estate industry. The aim is to foster greater clarity and fairness in real estate transactions. One of the most significant outcomes of this settlement is the requirement for all buyers to sign a buyer agreement before they can view any properties.

What is a Buyer Agreement?

A buyer agreement is a formal contract between a home buyer and a real estate agent. This agreement outlines the scope of services the agent will provide, the duration of the agreement, and the compensation details. Essentially, it ensures that both parties have a clear understanding of their working relationship.

Types of Buyer Agreements

Understanding the different types of buyer agreements can help you choose the one that best suits your needs:

1. Exclusive Buyer Agreement:

   • Definition: This agreement binds you to work exclusively with one real estate agent.
   • Pros: The agent will dedicate more time and resources to your home search, knowing you are committed to them.
   • Cons: You cannot work with other agents during the term of the agreement.

2. Non-Exclusive Buyer Agreement:

   • Definition: This agreement allows you to work with multiple agents simultaneously.
   • Pros: You have the flexibility to receive assistance from different agents, increasing your chances of finding the perfect home quickly.
   • Cons: Agents might be less motivated to prioritize your search since there is no guarantee of earning a commission.

3. Transactional Buyer Agreement:

   • Definition: This agreement is more limited in scope and focuses on facilitating a specific transaction rather than establishing an ongoing relationship.
   • Pros: It's suitable for buyers who have already found a property and need help with the transaction process.
   • Cons: It doesn't offer the same level of personalized service or ongoing support as the other types of agreements.

How Commissions Were Traditionally Paid

Traditionally, the commission for real estate agents was paid by the seller. This commission was negotiable but typically covered both the listing agent and the buyer's agent. The seller would agree to a total commission rate, which was then split between the two agents involved in the transaction. This system meant that buyers did not usually have to worry about paying their agent directly.

Changes Due to the NAR Settlement

With the recent changes, not all sellers are offering compensation for buyer's agents. This shift means that in some cases, the responsibility for paying the buyer's agent may fall on the buyer. It’s critically important for buyers to understand the value their agent brings to the table and to know how their agent is going to be compensated when making an offer.

Why is This Change Important?

1. Transparency: The buyer agreement increases transparency in real estate transactions. Buyers will have a clear understanding of the services they will receive and the associated costs upfront.

2. Commitment: By signing a buyer agreement, both the buyer and the agent are committing to work together. This mutual commitment often leads to a more dedicated and focused effort from the agent.

3. Protection: The agreement protects both parties' interests. Buyers can be assured of receiving professional services, and agents can work confidently, knowing their efforts will be compensated.

How Will This Affect You as a Buyer?

1. Prior Preparation: Before you start viewing properties, you'll need to sign a buyer agreement. This means you'll have an initial meeting with your real estate agent to discuss your needs, preferences, and the terms of your working relationship.

2. Informed Decisions: With the buyer agreement in place, you'll have a clearer understanding of the process, which can help you make more informed decisions. Knowing the terms and expectations upfront can reduce surprises and enhance your overall home buying experience.

3. Enhanced Service: Real estate agents, knowing they have a committed client, can tailor their services more effectively. This often results in a more personalized and efficient home search process.

4. Understanding Compensation: Knowing whether the seller will cover the buyer's agent's commission or if it will be your responsibility is crucial. Discuss this with your agent early on to avoid any surprises. Understanding the value your agent brings will help you see the importance of their role, regardless of who pays the commission.

Steps to Take Before Signing a Buyer Agreement

1. Research: Understand the basics of a buyer agreement and what it entails.
2. Ask Questions: During your initial meeting with the agent, ask any questions you might have about the agreement and how their compensation will be handled.
3. Review the Terms: Carefully review the terms of the agreement. Ensure you understand the services offered, the duration of the agreement, and the compensation details.
4. Seek Clarification: If any part of the agreement is unclear, seek clarification before signing.

The recent NAR settlement brings about a significant change in the home buying process, emphasizing transparency and commitment. By requiring a buyer agreement, the real estate industry aims to enhance the experience for buyers, ensuring they receive the professional services they deserve. As you embark on your home buying journey, understanding these changes, the different types of buyer agreements, and how agent commissions are handled will help you navigate the process more effectively and make informed decisions.

Send any questions that you have to info@northconwayrealty.com

 

If you are looking for a buyer agent to help with your purchase, here are a few ways I can help you.

Here are some review from past clients (Facebook) | (Zillow) | Google Business Profile

• Fast responses to all of your questions - slightly slower during hockey season :)

• A full time broker 

• A great negotiator (4 kids is good training at that!)

• Over 17 years of vacation rental experience to help with your decisions

• Honest assessments of your goals and if a property will meet them

• A fun, low stress (as much as possible!) real estate experience

• ABR certified - The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designation is for real estate professionals who have a passion for working with buyer-clients and want to take their excellence and service to the next level.

• RSPS certified - The Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification is for REALTORS® who specialize in buying, selling, or management of properties for investment, development, retirement, or second homes in resort, recreational, and/or vacation destinations.

• STRSI certified - The Short-Term Rental Safety Inspector (STRSI) program to help individuals to identify and eliminate safety hazards at short-term rental properties. This program was developed based on our 90+ years of industry experience, data analysis on insurance accidents, and information from several safety resources

As October approaches, Conway's rental licensing program gears up to issue its first violation notices to property owners not in compliance. This follows the passing of Article 24 on April 9, allowing the town to inspect and regulate long- and short-term rentals. Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngeli and Zoning Enforcement Officer Nicholas DeVito outlined the program's progress and next steps in a recent interview with the Sun.

Key Elements of the Rental Licensing Program

• Life Safety Inspections: The program mandates that rental properties undergo life safety inspections conducted by DeVito and fire officials. This step is crucial to ensure properties meet basic safety standards, such as having functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. DeVito highlighted the surprising number of properties lacking these essential safety features.

• Registration and Compliance: Landlords must file registration paperwork to be considered compliant. To date, 560 rental applications have been submitted, including those granted and pending. Property owners had the option to submit self-affidavits until January 26.

• Enforcement Timeline: The enforcement process is set to intensify with public hearings on the fine schedule expected in August. Following these hearings, violation letters may be sent out in October, with subsequent fines issued approximately two weeks later.

Addressing Violations

DeVito outlined a structured approach to handling violations. Initially, a notice of violation will be issued to non-compliant property owners, followed by fines if there is no response within a specified period. The selectmen will determine the exact fines and response times, but the process aims to be fair, providing ample time for owners to address issues.

Challenges and Legal Considerations

Despite its life safety benefits, the program has faced resistance, with groups like the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Rentals questioning its legality. DeVito remains confident in the program's due diligence and its alignment with legal standards, although he acknowledges ongoing legal scrutiny.

Looking Ahead

As the program evolves, DeVito expects an increase in inspections, particularly as one-year self-affidavits begin to expire. The town's commitment to ensuring rental properties meet safety standards remains steadfast, even as they navigate challenges and potential pushback.

Stay informed about the latest developments in Conway's rental licensing program as the town works to balance safety, compliance, and property owner responsibilities.

Read the full story in the Conway Daily Sun

 

In Madison, NH, two couples are taking legal action against the town's zoning board for denying their request to use their property as a short-term rental. The case, "Chad and Brittney Ardizzoni and Aaron and Tiffany Clymer v. the Town of Madison and the Town of Madison Zoning Board of Adjustment," is now being reviewed by Judge Michael Klass in Manchester.

Background:

• The couples, from Londonderry and Hooksett, purchased a home at 13 Lucerne Drive in Eidelweiss in June 2022.
• Madison banned new short-term rentals (STRs) in March 2022, but homes rented before 1987 are grandfathered.
• The zoning board considers STRs in Eidelweiss as commercial activity, which is prohibited in the residential district.

Legal Arguments:

• The homeowners argue their property has been used for short-term rentals since 2017 and should be grandfathered.
• They are represented by Matt Johnson, who claims the town's definition of "dwelling unit" is vague and unconstitutional.
• The ZBA upheld the violation notice, stating the property does not meet zoning ordinance definitions.

Current Status:

• The town must respond to the lawsuit by August 6.
• The homeowners seek to overturn the ZBA's decision or have the case reheard with new instructions.

This case highlights ongoing tensions between property owners and local zoning regulations regarding short-term rentals.

Click here to read the full article in the Conway Daily Sun