Sprague & Curtis Real Estate Blog
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- 2026 | 23 Posts
- 2025 | 48 Posts
- 2024 | 48 Posts
- 2023 | 48 Posts
- 2022 | 48 Posts
- 2021 | 48 Posts
- 2020 | 51 Posts
- 2019 | 48 Posts
- 2018 | 29 Posts
26
The Age of These 5 Things Could Impact a Home Sale
Whether you're buying or selling a home, you must understand how some aspects of the house may impact the sale of the property. For many prospective home buyers and homesellers, a strong focus is placed on aspects like curb appeal, remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, and new paint throughout the house. Each of these features can influence the price of a home. However, they aren't alone in impacting the success of a real estate transaction. The age of these five things could affect a home sale.
- Roof
The roof is one of the most important and expensive elements of a home, so it should be no surprise that its age may impact the sale. The average roof has a lifespan between 20 and 30 years. Depending on the age of the roof, the seller may consider replacing it to maximize their potential selling price. Although the buyer may negotiate the cost of the home based on the old age of the roof, they may have trouble securing homeowners insurance until it's replaced. There's a possibility that an insurer will deny a policy renewal on homes with roofs over 20 years old without first passing an inspection.
19
The Show Must Go On at the Theater at Monmouth
According to Shakespeare, all the world's a stage, and he would be delighted with Theater at Monmouth, the year-round repertory company that's been entertaining local audiences since 1970. Here's a closer look at one of the most popular attractions near Monmouth homes for sale.
Bringing Shakespeare to Monmouth
Theater at Monmouth was established as a way to enrich the cultural landscape around Monmouth and the state of Maine. Professional actors from across the country present innovative approaches to the works of Shakespeare and other fascinating plays, from comedies to dramas.
Five years after it was founded, Theater at Monmouth was officially recognized as the Shakespearean Theater of Maine by the state legislature. Throughout 49 years of the three-month summer repertory season, TAM has staged upwards of 340 productions, including 28 world premieres.
12
Applying for a Mortgage When You're Self-Employed
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.
5
Paddle Your Way Around the Kennebec Valley
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
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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.
29
Sharing in the Bounty: Gardiner Food Co-Op
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.