Posts made by author 'Sprague and Curtis'

If you're self-employed and considering buying a home, our real estate agents are trained to help you through the maze of red tape associated with obtaining a mortgage. More than anything, you've got to have your paperwork in order, to satisfy the mortgage company's requirements. Being self-employed adds an extra layer to this process. 

Lenders don't make special requirements for self-employed home buyers, although it may seem like it. Regardless of where you work, they ask for proof that you are financially solvent. This includes confirmation of steady income, a good credit rating, and a low debt to income ratio. 

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Maine's Kennebec Valley has many charms, including spectacular outdoor scenery that you won't find anywhere else. From hiking trails to public parks and waterways, there are so many different ways to experience the natural beauty of the Kennebec Valley. There's nothing like traversing the area by water, in a kayak, canoe, or small boat. It provides a unique perspective on familiar natural spots throughout the area and offers a great workout in the process. Our real estate agents know outdoor fun, and we've got all the info you need to paddle your way around the Kennebec Valley.

Touring the Kennebec Valley by Water

Kennebec Valley Kayak and Boat Rentals

• Belgrade Canoe & Kayak – 1005 Augusta Rd., Belgrade 04917
  With a convenient location close to Belgrade homes for sale, you can find everything you need for a day of paddling at Belgrade Canoe & Kayak. This spot is known for its fantastic customer service and extensive selection. It's also open 24 hours, so you can always find equipment for your next trip.

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When potential home buyers start exploring Gardiner homes for sale, one of the first things they notice is the area's small-town feel and strong sense of community. Residents here love to support small business by shopping local. That's one of the reasons the Gardiner Food Co-Op is so popular. 

Not sure what a food co-op is or how it works? No worries! Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on everything you need to know! 

What is a Food Co-Op? 

On the surface, a food co-op works in much the same way as a traditional grocery store or food market. The storefront is open to the public, and you don't have to be a member to shop there. 

The biggest difference is the fact that local residents can become cooperative owners by making an equity investment, or purchasing shares. This gives them a vote in important matters regarding the operations of the business.

Unlike a traditional stock investment, the value of the shares does not fluctuate. When excess funds are accumulated, they are typically invested back into the co-op, held as reserves, or used to support other activities approved by the shareholders. Although it's not the primary objective, occasionally excess funds are returned to members based on their use of the services.  

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To move or to improve—that is the question. Don't worry—plenty of homeowners are faced with the same dilemma when considering purchasing new Augusta homes for sale.

Our real estate agents believe that if buying your first home is the biggest real estate decision of your life, then deciding whether to remodel or sell your home is the second-biggest real estate decision you'll make. If you're like many homeowners, you've been struggling to make a choice. On the one hand, a new home is an exciting thought. A new space in a new area—now may be the perfect time to move. On the other hand, although you're no longer in love with your home, you still have a coveted attachment to it. Why not give it a second life by remodeling a few rooms, upgrading some appliances or even adding an extension on for more space?

If you're wondering whether it's time to move or improve, consider these questions:

• Why do you want to move?
  This question is the most important: Why are you considering changing homes? Perhaps you've become disinterested in your neighborhood, maybe you don't want to contend with the seasonal weather changes. You could simply be unhappy with work or school and believe that moving with help resolve these feelings. Whatever the reason might be, it's important that you identify it and discuss it openly with your household.

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One of the many things our real estate agents love about the Kennebec Valley is that it's one of the best places in America to experience the great outdoors. And despite offering some of the best fishing in the country, this region still flies under most people's radar—and we think that should change!

When it comes to fishing in the Kennebec Valley and Augusta, Maine area, the options are endless. The Kennebeck River offers unmatched fly fishing opportunities, especially in spring and fall when trout spawn in the main river and its many tributaries. Lakes and ponds up and down the river provide excellent bass fishing in summer as well. Even in winter, ice fishing gives hardy anglers a chance to tangle with big fish through the ice. 

So if you're in the neighborhood looking at Augusta homes for sale, you may want to set aside some time to do some fishing. You can't go wrong in any of the Kennebec Valley's rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, but if you're new to the area, you may want a bit of expert guidance. These great local guide services can guarantee a great fishing trip in the Augusta area:

1. Blue Heron Fly Fishing - 80 E. River Road, Whitefield, ME
   Your go-to guide for fly fishing adventures on the Kennebec Valley, Blue Heron Fly Fishing offers both wade and drift boat trips in Central Maine, including the Kennebec River and several other nearby rivers and streams. Located near these Whitefield homes for sale, Blue Heron Fly Fishing offers not only a chance to fish for big wild brook and rainbow trout in a beautiful environment but also an opportunity to learn more about the region's rich history, plants, and wildlife. Blue Heron Fly Fishing provides everything from fishing gear to lunch prepared on shore, along with fly fishing lessons and fly tying lessons. 

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