Wednesday, December 17, 2014

My January 2015 Market Report is Available

My January 2015 market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through November, my updated year-end market preview, and a new listing.   

This newsletter has been published every month for almost 12 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my January newsletter now.

Saturday, December 13, 2014

New Listing - Immaculate 3 Bedroom Bayside Cape

60 Quail Cover  Lane
New Listing - This 3 bedroom, 2 bath Cape is a delight to show. You'll find a clean & well maintained home with wood floors, country moldings, a living room with fireplace, separate dining room, and an updated kitchen. The house sits on a half acre bordering 14 acres of Town land in a neighborhood of equally lovely homes, with a large side yard for volleyball or storing your boat. This house has new gas heat, new Anderson tip-in thermo-pane windows, central air, new roof, new septic, new 2 car garage and sunroom, and a new rear deck. Meticulously maintained. It's been a great rental. Easy to show - come see!

A wonderful opportunity to own a piece of Eastham. Check it out... Here. Listed at $469,000

Monday, December 01, 2014

Eastham's November Sales - Back to Normal

Eastham's November 2014 sales were 'back to normal', as compared to November of 2013.  This puts our year-to-date sales about 4.5% ahead of 2013.  There were 8 single family homes sold in November (compared to 20 for October), bringing the year-to-date sales to 116.  The details.....
  • There were 8 homes sold in Eastham in November. 
  • Total November sales were approximately $3.7M - with an average sale price of $468K and a median sale price of $412K.   
  • There are currently 121 (down 19) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $558K and a medium price of $450K. 
  • The average days-on-market is currently 216 days. 
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Thursday, November 20, 2014

My December Market Report is Available Now!

My December market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through October, my year-end market preview, and 2 new listings.   

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my December newsletter now.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

2014 Rubber Ducky Race - November 15th

Again this year, the Eastham Recreation and Beach Department is having its annual rubber duck race on the Saturday before Thanksgiving (November 15th) at the end of First Encounter Beach, on Bee's River. Prizes will be 'awarded' to the top finishers. It's a buck a duck and they start swimming at 9 AM. This should be a lot of fun.

If you'd like to buy a duck (for a buck), call the Rec Department at 508-240-5974 after 10 AM tomorrow (Nov 12th). Ducks are assigned automatically, by the order of the calls. When all the ducks are gone, they're gone! This is a rain or shine event. You must pay on race-day and be present to win.

Tuesday, November 04, 2014

Eastham's October Sales - Impressive!

Eastham's October 2014 sales were surprisingly good. This puts our year-to-date sales about 7% ahead of 2013.  There were 19 single family home sales in October, bringing the year-to-date sales to 107.  The details.....
  • There were 19 homes sold in Eastham in October. 
  • Total October sales were very slightly over $10.6M - with an average sale price of $559K and a median sale price of $395K.   
  • There are currently 140 (up 4) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $554K and a medium price of $450K. 
  • The average days-on-market is currently 199 days. 
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Saturday, November 01, 2014

Eastham New Listing - Large Cottage on An Acre

875 Samoset Rd, Eastham
New Listing - This is the 'big cottage on the hill'. We have 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large sleeping porch, detached garage, updated kitchen, & large deck. On a secluded acre w/Herring Pond rights and abutting the 17 acre Cottontail Conservation Land. Not your typical antique. To be sold furnished (w/just a few exclusions), if you want. Truly interesting and ready for your family summers. Neighboring 3 bedroom lot also available. Must see!

Eastham - as it used to be!  Check it out... Here. Listed at $449,900.

Sunday, October 26, 2014

New Listing - Eastham Bow-Roofed Cape - Abuts Bike Path

124 Oakwood Dr, Eastham, MA
New Listing - This spacious Cape-style home backs up to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, has 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths on roughly 0.5 acres, in a great neighborhood - ready for you to move in and enjoy. The first floor has a guest bedroom, large eat-in kitchen, dining area, 1.5 bathrooms, and a living room with fireplace. There is, also, a sunroom overlooking the Bike path and an attached garage. Upstairs are 2 bedrooms, a large bathroom, and a storage area. Natural gas heat.  A full basement. New roof.

A wonderful opportunity to own a piece of Eastham. Check it out... Here. Listed at $469,000.

Monday, October 20, 2014

My Eastham 3rd Quarter Market Report Is Available Now!

My November market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through September (the 3rd quarter report) and 3 new listings.   

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my November newsletter now.

Thursday, October 02, 2014

Eastham's September Sales - Disappointing

Eastham's September 2014 sales were disappointing, especially in light of the outstanding September we had last year. This puts our year-to-date sales about 7% behind 2013.  There were 10 single family home sales in September, bringing the year-to-date sales to 87.  The details.....
  • There were 10 homes sold in Eastham in September. 
  • Total September sales were very slightly under $4.0M - with an average sale price of $398K and a median sale price of $400K.   
  • There are currently 136 (up 8) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $581K and a medium price of $462K. 
  • The average days-on-market is currently 201 days. 
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Wonderfully Private 3 Bedroom Cape - On 12+ Acres

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is one of the most unique properties in Eastham. The home is a large 3 bedroom Cape on over an acre, surrounded by 11+ acres of your own conservation restricted land. The conservation land incredible privacy and has 2 outbuildings (a garage and a small cottage) that enhance the main home.

For more photos and a map, go to http://40SaltMarshWay.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see  a  Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

My October Newsletter is Available Now!

My October market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through August, Wellfleet's Oysterfest, the 2015 Eastham assessments, and 3 new listings.   

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my October newsletter now.

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Photo (Album) Of The Day - Sand Sculptures

Windmill Weekend always has a wonderful sand sculpture contest at First Encounter Beach. These photos were taken late Saturday afternoon. Click on the photo below to go to an album of photos showing lots of 'sand' creativity.


Saturday, September 06, 2014

Affordable Oceanside Ranch

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is a cute cottage with a great location - just a short distance to the Seashore and the bike path. Nice and bright 2 bedroom cottage, awaiting your special touch. Lovingly used as a summer get-away, to be sold mostly furnished, with just a few exclusions. New roof and Title V septic.

For more photos and a map, go to http://400SchoolhouseRd.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Thursday, September 04, 2014

2015 Eastham Assessment Information

I met with Gail McAleer, the Town Deputy Assessor, today. Eastham's 2015 assessment data is available now. She gave me the 'highlights'. A few data points...
  • The assessment is intended to represent home values as of 1/1/2014
  • The median single family residential home assessment for 2014 is $382,500, up 0.1% from the 2014 median assessment
  • The average assessed value is $445,695 (up 0.4%)
  • There were 5,103 single family homes in Eastham as of 1/1/2014  (up 12 from 2013)
  • The total assessed value for Eastham's single family residences is $2.275 Billion (up 0.7%)
The 2015 real estate tax rate for Eastham is $7.10/thousand (up 1.1%). The tax on the median-valued home will be $2,715.75.

The 2015 assessments for individual homes should be available soon on the Town of Eastham website...Here. You can also pick up a newspaper-like copy of the town assessments at Town Hall and at quite a few of Eastham's commercial establishments (e.g. the Eastham Superette).

Monday, September 01, 2014

2014 Eastham Windmill Weekend - September 5th - 7th

The biggest and best weekend in Eastham is the weekend after Labor Day, known here as Windmill Weekend. The town puts on a party with lots of events and it's always fun for the whole family.  The 37nd annual Windmill Weekend includes an art show, a craft show, a car show, sand 'art' at First Encounter Beach (my favorite), concerts, a photo contest, a tennis tournament, a parade, 5 mile and 2 mile runs, and much more. 

Go to the Windmill Weekend website for more information.  This year's theme is "Winds of Change". Come - join the fun! .

August Eastham Sales - Better Than Average!

Eastham's August 2014 sales were slightly higher than average for August. We continue to be on a pace for a pretty good year. There were 11 single family home sales in August, bringing the year-to-date sales to 77.  The details.....
  • There were 11 homes sold in Eastham in August. 
  • Total August sales were $5.2M - with an average sale price of $477K and a median sale price of $397K. Back to normal after a month with several large sales.  
  • There are currently 128 (down 4) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $621K and a medium price of $480K. 
  • The average days-on-market is currently 218 days. 
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Thursday, August 28, 2014

New Library Coming Soon (Sorta!)

LibrbaryA project begun in 2005 is finally going to break ground and move forward in a BIG way. The Eastham Public Library will be demolished and rebuilt over the next 18-ish months, starting with a ground-breaking scheduled for September 13th. The Library will be relocating to 3 trailers that will be installed in the parking lot of Town Hall, staying there until the opening of the new Library in early 2016.

The new Library will be state of the art in many ways. Firstly, it'll be LEEDS certified for high energy efficiency, it'll have advanced technology meeting rooms and a small auditorium, there will be climate controlled rooms to store archived historical documents, and it'll have backup power so it can be a gathering location if we lose power for an extensive period of time. I particularly appreciate that the new design incorporates the front section of the current library, which dates way back to the structure prior to it. 


The project is way too extensive to do it justice in my newsletter, but artist renderings, floor plans, ZBA presentations and video (I'm in it as the chair of the ZBA - ugh!), schedules, etc. can be found on the following sites... 1) Eastham Library Building Fund website, 2) Eastham Library,  and 3) Eastham Library - New Library. When it's done it'll be a great new addition to the easy living here in Eastham. 

The Drama Continues On Nauset Spit!

The drama continues between Eastham and Orleans over the Nauset Spit. Over the years the spit has grown north, from Nauset Beach in Orleans, into Eastham. The rules for driving on the beach differ by town (watch the video), so conflict was bound to happen.


Monday, August 18, 2014

My September Newsletter Is Available now!

My Mid-Year 2014 market report (Part 2) is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through July, my mid-year report for Eastham's neighbors, an update on the new Eastham Public Library, and the 2014 Windmill Weekend.  There is also 2 new listings.  

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my September newsletter now.

Friday, August 15, 2014

Updated 3 Bedroom Bayside Ranch - Perfect!

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is a 3 bedroom year-round home with open floorplan and a huge screened porch. We have newer windows, new roof, updated bathrooms and kitchen, outdoor shower, first-floor laundry, on a quiet sand road very near the bike path and just a short walk to Great Pond. Somewhat secluded and a joy to be at. Come see!  Listed at $349,000.

For more photos and a map, go to http://50BearsesLane.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Sunday, August 03, 2014

2014 Oldtimers Longboard Classic - Next Sunday Afternoon

It's early again this year. The 2014 Cape Cod Oldtimers Longboard Classic will be held at 5 PM on Sunday, August 10th, at Wellfleet's White Crest Beach.

This year there will be a few new rules (see below). Since vintage longboards are getting valuable and harder to come by, any longboard over 9 foot may be used in the contest (without a leash). Collector boards and vintage items should still be available for everyone to drool over. This is intended to be a fun event - not to be taken too seriously. 

The rules...
  • Any longboard (9 feet or longer) regardless of age or condition will be allowed this year.
  • Contestants must be 21 and over. (Lifeguards under 21 accepted) 
  • All boards must be nine (9) feet in length or longer.
  • No leashes / No wetsuits - (If it’s too cold – tough!!!)
  • Tow-ins by Great White sharks will result in immediate disqualification
  • No whining!
This should be a lot of fun, and a good excuse to watch an old art form (and a few old-timers) in action.  If you'd like to compete in this competition, go to the Old Timers website for complete rules and an entry form. 

Check out this video of last year's Classic.

Saturday, August 02, 2014

Eastham's July Sales - A Slowdown Coming?

Eastham's July 2014 sales slowed considerably from the robust June sales. We continue, however, to be on a pace for a pretty good year. There were 5 single family home sales in July, bringing the year-to-date sales to 65. The details.....
  • There were 5 homes sold in Eastham in July.
  • Total July sales were $4.5M - with an average sale price of $908K  (Wow!) and a median sale price of $603K (double Wow!). Note - the sales in July ranged from $230K to $2.7M.
  • There are currently 132 (down 2) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $617K and a medium price of $477K.
  • The average days-on-market is currently 208 days.
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Saturday, July 19, 2014

My Mid-Year 2014 Market Report Is Available Now!

My Mid-Year 2014 market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through June, my mid-year report. We're starting to get a handle on the year. There is also an article on my family's 'Cuzzins' Camp', and a new listing. 

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my August newsletter now.

New Listing - Wonderful 4-Bedroom Bow-Roofed Cape

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is a large and updated 4 bedroom bow-roofed Cape located not far from Herring Pond and First Encounter Beach. Almost too much to describe - The new granite kitchen, living room with fireplace, first floor guest bedroom, hardwood floors, bright sunroom, expansive decks, outdoor shower, 1st floor laundry, oversized garage with living space above, full basement, and a detached garage for your boat. This home needs to be seen to be appreciated. Come see! Listed at $624,900.

For more photos and a map, go to http://1195BridgeRd.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

The Cape Cod Canal Centennial (Video)

The 'official' 100th anniversary for the Cape Cod Canal is July 29th. The last 100 years have seen the Cape change dramatically, from a largely agricultural and fishing area to a place that has a significant vacation and retirement population. This video, courtesy of the Cape Cod Times, is of a trip through the Canal in 1927, long before the construction of the current Bourne and Sagamore Bridges.
   

The Cape Cod Canal's Centennial celebration has its own website with an event schedule, a detailed history, and lots of great photos.

Sunday, July 13, 2014

A Perfect Day in Eastham

Yesterday I spent a lot of time driving around and enjoying this beautiful town and all it has to offer visitors. The photos below show a couple kayakers on Boat Meadow Marsh during high tide, about to go under the Bridge Rd bridge, and - the art show at the Schoolhouse Museum, a 'green flag' day at Nauset Light Beach, and finishing up with the 'Super Moon', taken from Fort Hill. Amazing! Not shown was time at the Great Pond beach and dinner at Arnold's. It doesn't get much better than that!

Friday, July 04, 2014

Photo of the Day - July 4th Flag

In my travels in and about Eastham I came upon this flag .... Happy 4th of July!

Wednesday, July 02, 2014

Eastham's June Sales - Not Too Shabby

Eastham's June 2014 sales continue to impress. If things continue like this we should see a pretty good year.  There were 14 single family home sales in June, bringing the year-to-date sales to 59 sales.  The details.....
  • There were 14 homes sold in Eastham in June.
  • Total June sales was $6.5M - with an average sale price of $465K and a median sale price of $390K. 
  • There are currently 134 (up 6) active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $605K and a medium price of $468K.
  • The average days-on-market is currently 203 days.
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Thursday, June 26, 2014

2014 Orleans 'Music In The Park'

This year there is a music concert series being held in Orleans, at the Orleans Village Green at the corner of Rt 28 and Main St. The concerts start at 6 PM and run for about an hour. The 'Music in the Park is sponsored by Jeff Kobold  of Prospect Mortgage.


2014 Windmill Green Band Concerts

The Eastham Visitor's Service Board is again sponsoring the band concerts on Eastham's Windmill Green on Monday evenings this summer. The concerts are held at the bandstand, starting at 7 PM every Monday. The line up is as follows:
  • July 7 - "Salute to America" by the Chatham Chorale
  • July 14 - Bert Jackson Quartet 
  • July 21 - The Brass Connection Quintet
  • July 28 - Toast and Jam
  • August 4 - Sarah Swain and The Oh Boys!
  • August 11 - Kami Lyle Trio
  • August 18 - Jazzy Salute to Broadway with Bruce Abbott & Fred Fried
  • August 25 - Chandler Travis Philharmonic
These concerts are lots of fun. Join hundreds of folks on the lawn - bring lawn chairs and/or blankets. Or, bring a picnic dinner. These are fun for the whole family.

Monday, June 23, 2014

Eastham's Water System - First Water Is 2016

Eastham's municipal water system, overwhelmingly voted in at the May 5th Town Meeting, now has a timeline and shortly will have detailed maps showing which homes will be able to hook up. That's the good news. The not-so-good news is that it'll be spring of 2017 before 'Phase 1' is fully completed.

I met with Sheila Vanderhoef, the Town Administrator, to review the timeline. The path to water is long and arduous. Permitting should be done by this fall, to be followed by the design and build of the water tower. Actual construction is planned to start next spring with a number of components being done in parallel. Only after the tower is built and pipes laid can water flow to homes. She expects the first homes will have town water by the summer of 2016, with completion a year later. 'Completion' includes the many miles of piping throughout Eastham, providing fire hydrant coverage to 80% or so of the town.

Detailed maps will be available at town hall (and on the town website?) shortly.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

My July 2014 Market Report Is Available Now!

My July 2014 market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through May. There is an article on the timeline for the Eastham municipal water system, information on the upcoming Eastham Part-time Resident Taxpayers Association meeting, and a new listing. 

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my July newsletter now.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

2014 Hands On The Arts Festival - June 14th and 15th

The Eastham Cultural Council will hold their 16th annual fine arts and crafts show on June 14th and 15th, 2014, at the Windmill Green. The festival runs from 10 AM to 5 PM each day and its free. There will be over 40 juried artists and crafters on the Green for a show and sale including members of the Cape Cod Artisans Guild.  There will be a 'hands on' tent where you can create your own masterpiece. There will be jazz, marionette theater, storytelling, good food, and lots of fun. Did I say 'food'?

Go to the Hands on the Arts website for a complete schedule. This free event is sponsored by the Eastham Cultural Council. 

Wednesday, June 04, 2014

Boston to Cape Cod Via CapeFlyer - Year #2

Again this year, the CapeFlyer will deliver folks from Boston's South Station to Hyannis. Check out this video from the Cape Cod Times. No traffic - and only 2.5 hours!


Monday, June 02, 2014

Eastham's May Sales - On Track For a Good Year!

Eastham's May 2014 sales continue to show us that 2014 may turn out to be a really good year. There were 13 single family home sales in May, bringing the year-to-date sales to 45 sales.  The details.....
  • There were 13 homes sold in Eastham in May.
  • Total May sales was $5.1M - with an average sale price of $390K (see chart below) and a median sale price of $383K. 
  • There are currently 128 active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $578K and a medium price of $450K.
  • The average days-on-market is currently 200 days.
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

A New Alternative to the Fixed Mortgage

I've always been a 'fixed' rate mortgage kinda-guy. I liked the fact that the rate stayed the same and allowed us to plan out our expenses, month after month. We also liked the 30 year mortgage, since it minimized the required monthly payment. We recognized that a 15 year fixed mortgage provided for a lower interest rate (currently a full point lower), but at a substantially higher required payment. At the time the 15 year mortgage payment was prohibitive.

Enter a new alternative. How about a 30 year loan that's fixed for the first 15 years, then 'adjusts' once (only once!) for the remaining 15 years? How about if the starting rate is just a small increment above the 15 year fixed rate, but still well below the 30 year fixed rate?  Since the average mortgage is held for only about 7 years, this seems a no-brainer.

Of course this loan has some fine print, but doesn't seem to be too unusual. It has a 'jumbo' upper loan limit of $2M. This mortgage is offered by Prospect Mortgage, which as an office in Orleans. Call them at 508-862-6175 for more details.

Monday, May 26, 2014

Photo of the Day - Memorial Day

I was in DC many years ago on business. I was with a business associate who needed to visit the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial, known then, and now, as 'the Wall'. He looked for the 7 comrades he lost while he served in Vietnam. Although I never served, I deeply appreciate those who did, risking, for my sake, making the ultimate sacrifice. We remember...


Saturday, May 24, 2014

Dr. Beach Picks Coast Guard Beach - Again!

'Dr. Beach' (a.k.a. Stephen Leatherman, a professor from Florida International University) has named Eastham's Coast Guard Beach as one of the 'top ten' beaches in the US. Ratings each year are based on a number of criteria, such as sand, water quality, weather, facilities and crowds. Coast Guard came in as number 8 this year. It's no surprise that the number 1 beach is from Hawaii, with beaches from South Carolina and Florida in the mix. Strange, no California beaches made the list this year. 

Check out the article on Fox News' website. And go to  to Dr Beach's website see all the winners.

Monday, May 19, 2014

My June 2014 Market Report Is Available Now!

My June 2014 market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through April. There are also a number of recent articles that you should find interesting, including the results of the water vote at Town Meeting.

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my June newsletter now.

Monday, May 12, 2014

New Listing - Large 3 Bedroom Cape - Fabulous Sunroom

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is a large 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath house that has been lightly lived in and nicely updated. Downstairs is a stainless kitchen with a laundry area, a delightful 4-season sunroom (2003), large living room with fireplace, and a front-to-back master bedroom with full bath. Upstairs are 2 large bedrooms and a bath. We have newer windows, outdoor shower (2011), newer roof (2006), recently painted (inside & out), a one car garage, and a rear deck. This home is near the Bike Path and within walking distance of Herring Pond.  Listed at $539,000.

For more photos and a map, go to http://1400BridgeRd.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

New Listing - Rare Year-Round Condo Unit

EASTHAM - New Listing - This is a rare year-round 1 bedroom condo unit at the Oak Grove Condos. This cottage is really cute and in superb condition, completely furnished, and ready to use. This heated cottage has a full basement with a stackable washer/dyer and lots of room for storage. Very private. Nice deck for outdoor living. Outdoor shower. Listed at $189,000. Come see!

For more photos and a map, go to http://21OldCountyRd.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

Tuesday, May 06, 2014

Water Issue Passed At Eastham Town Meeting

The Eastham Annual Town Meeting was held last night at the Nauset Regional High School. For the most part, it was a very positive affair, with only one item on the packed warrant defeated (see Article 18, below). Here is a summary of some of the interesting articles addressed last night.....
  • Article 8 - Municipal Water - this is known as Phase 1 of the ultimate water system, to cover the affected area plus run pipes throughout the town for fire protection. Cost is $45.8M. It passed overwhelmingly with 858 'yes' and 140 'no' votes. It needed a 2/3 vote. Passed.
  • Article 17 - Rock Harbor Dredge - a project split with Orleans to dredge Rock Harbor. Passed.
  • Article 18 - Rooms Tax - to impose a 4% tax on summer rental homes. This would require the state legislature to approve it prior to any collection of taxes and would have first been applied to 2015 rentals. Defeated. 
  • Article 21 - Sign Code - long overdue regulations for signs in Town. Passed.
  • Article 22 - N. Eastham 'Overlay' Zoning District - a complicated new zoning district, that will cover the varied area mostly between Rt 6 and the bike path from Arnold's Restaurant to the northern junction of Nauset Rd and intended to encourage innovative development and more 'home town friendly' areas, such as shops, cafes, walking paths, Senior housing, etc. Passed.
  • Article 31 - Buy 3.41 acres of Bay-front land adjacent to the Town property at the end on Dyer Prince Rd. The Town had a right of first refusal on the land and voted to purchase it at just under $1.5M. This will expand an area known in Town as 'Dog Beach'. Passed.  
  • Article 35 and 36 - Private Road Maintenance and Plowing - designed to provide improved access to areas of town where the private roads are in bad shape. Primarily to provide access for emergency vehicles. Passed.
  • Article 38 - Brackett Organic Common Fields - this was a petition to encourage the Town to set aside an acre of land for towns-folk to plant 'victory' gardens. The work would be entirely volunteered. This has been the pet-project of Nate Nickerson, the owner of Arnold's Restaurant, who recalls when that area was completely planted with Eastham turnips. Passed.
The meeting dragged on until shortly after 11 PM, and lacked the unruly nature that recent meetings have had. Very tedious, but civilized. Democracy at work.

Thursday, May 01, 2014

Eastham's April Sales - Picking Up Steam!

Eastham's April 2014 sales show that 2014 may turn out to be a really good year. There were 14 single family home sales in April, bringing the year-to-date sales to 32 sales.  The details.....
  • There were 14 homes sold in Eastham in April.
  • Total April sales was $9.3M - with an average sale price of $665K and a median sale price of $444K. 
  • There are currently 110 active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $588K and a medium price of $455K.
  • The average days-on-market is currently 216 days.
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Sunday, April 27, 2014

2014 Eastham Town Meeting - May 5th

The Annual Town Meeting will be held on Monday, May 5th, this year at the Nauset Regional High School auditorium. This year the warrant has several articles that you may find interesting. They are...
  • Article 8 - Municipal Water - this is known as Phase 1 of the ultimate water system, to cover the affected area plus run pipes throughout the town for fire protection. Cost is $45.8M. I expect it to Pass this year. Needs a 2/3 vote.
  • Article 17 - Rock Harbor Dredge - a project that is being split with Orleans to dredge Rock Harbor.
  • Article 18 - Rooms Tax - to impose a 4% tax on summer rental homes. This will require the state legislature to approve it prior to any collection of taxes. This could affect 2015 rentals, not 2014..
  • Article 21 - Sign Code - long overdue regulations for signs in Town
  • Article 35 & 36 - Private Road Maintenance & Plowing - designed to provide access to areas of town where the private roads are in bad shape. Primarily to provide access for emergency vehicles.
The warrant, all 64 pages, is online on the Eastham Town website,.. Here.  I'll try to provide an update on the 'results' of the meeting on my Blog and in next month's newsletter.

Saturday, April 19, 2014

Cute Eastham Cottage - Near Cooks Brook Beach

EASTHAM - New Listing - This 2 bedroom ranch is the quintessential Cape Cod summer cottage! This cottage is just a short walk to Cooks Brook Beach and is on a quiet sand road. This cottage has been completely updated with new roof, floors, windows, new vaulted ceilings with ceiling fans, updated bathroom and kitchen, new appliances, gas furnace, new well and new septic. There is even a new loft area for storage, or as a play area. This has been a great rental. This cottage will come completely furnished - just bring your beach toys. Listed at $319,000.

For more photos and a map, go to http://25OquamoshodRd.robertsheldon.com. If you'd like to see a Virtual Tour, go ... Here.

My May 2014 Market Report Is Available Now!

My May 2014 market report is available now!  This issue has my Eastham market update through March. My 1st Quarter report.  There are also a number of recent articles that you should find interesting, including a summary of the articles to come before the upcoming Town Meeting.

This newsletter has been published every month for over 11 years. My aim, with this newsletter, is to provide accurate sales and market information about the Eastham housing marketplace, to add commentary and opinion (as appropriate), and to keep it interesting. Download your copy of my May newsletter now.

Tuesday, April 08, 2014

What You Need to Know About Mortgage Rates for 2014

There's no time like the present. It's impossible to know much of the future, but some things are fairly predictable. One of those 'things' is mortgage rates.

The good news is that rates are still attractive. The bad news is that rates will continue to rise. How high they rise depends on the Federal Reserve and the economy. How these factors interact is the subject of an article from the Improvement Center. Read the article ...Here.
The conclusion? The conclusion is that there's no time like now to buy your Cape home. As rates go up AND home prices go up, your Cape dream home gets further away. So, act sooner than later.

Eastham New Listing - Pristine Oceanside Ranch

Eastham - New Listing - Pristine and easy! This 2 bedroom, 1 bath home has been wonderfully updated with beautiful quartz counters, hardwood floors throughout, wood burning fireplace, new screened-in porch, new roof, and large bedrooms. This beautiful home comes nicely furnished (with just a few exclusions) and ready to enjoy this summer. On a quiet cul-de-sac and close to the Seashore and the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Listed at $379,000.

For more photos, a Virtual Tour, and a map, go to http://250CandlewoodDr.robertsheldon.com, This home is easy to show - just give me a call for an appointment.

New Listing - Cute Bayside Antique Cottage

Wellfleet - New Listing - This cute antique cottage has lots of charm and a great location just up the hill from Pleasant Point Landing where you can put your boat in, or just enjoy the Bay (shellfish, sunsets,etc). We have an updated kitchen with dining area, two large bedrooms (one up, one down) and a good sized living room. This home has been lovingly maintained. Listed at $369,000. Come see!

This house is fairly easy to show - just give me a call. For more photos, a Virtual Tour, and a map, go to http://36HighlandAve.robertsheldon.com.  Enjoy!

Sunday, April 06, 2014

Eastham's March Sales - Back to Normal

Eastham's March 2014 sales seemed to get us 'back to normal'. There were 8 single family home sales in March, bringing the 1st quarter of 2014 to 18 sales.  The details.....
  • There were 8 homes sold in Eastham in March.
  • Total March sales was $5.8M - with an average sale price of $731K and a median sale price of $449K. 
  • There are currently 101 active single family listings in Eastham, with an average list price of $580K and a medium price of $466K.
  • The average days-on-market is currently 230 days.
For more details, graphs, and commentary, download my latest monthly Eastham newsletter -- here. I've been publishing this newsletter for over 11 years with the goal of providing market information to my clients, so they may approach the market from a more informed position. Check it out!

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Photo of the Day - Cape Cod Shingle Art

Every once in a while I come across something that's a bit different and deserves to be displayed. Over these last few years I've noticed some 'shingle' art on the sides of homes and garages. This form of art uses the 3D aspect of cedar siding with clever cutouts and natural wood shading variations to create dramatic images. Check out the handiwork of artist Roger Dumas of Eastham. He calls his business 'Jolly Roger Woodworking'. Click on the photo to get a closer look.


Roger's studio is here in Eastham, on Cole Rd. Check out his Facebook Business Page for more photos and for his contact information..  Fun!