Selling Tombstones Lead to Selling 3 Waterfront Properties, Land and a House.

How Selling the highest number of tombstones of any real estate agent in New Hampshire turned into selling three waterfront properties, a vacant lot, and a very nice brand new home for the sellers.

Yes I did say tombstones. 

No I’m not in the business of peddling tombstones, headstones, gravestones—new or old. However there was a perfect home for about 25-30 tombstones that had typos or other errors used as curbing, landscaping, or patios at a Wakefield waterfront home. It happened to be a home I sold 5 or so years earlier. 

As part of undertaking the tombstone listing I was faced with buyers wondering what the story was with all these headstones. Was it a family compound burial site for all to perpetually be near each other on earth as in heaven. It was a family home for the many dearly beloved to enjoy I know.  

What I didn’t know was that the house had been listed by others for over 565 days with no photos of the lakefront and very dark photos of the property inside and out. With some new beautiful lake photos and bright interiors I did manage to sell it in short order for only 5K less than previously advertised in the middle of winter after putting up my own sign with no typos on it.  

The person who took notice was the next door neighbor who stated that anybody who could sell that house after being on the market for over 4 years, he would need to remember my number so he etched my name on a tablet of paper (not stone-no typos). 

Though where I hung my license at the time had changed, fortunately my phone number and website www.WaterfrontAgent.com remained the same. My Real Estate Marketing for lake homes always alive and well. Even my car license plate BuySell remained the same—though the car went away with 200,000 real estate miles on it with a newer one.

So I get this call from the waterfront neighbor of the tombstone house who decided it was time to move. His father of 93 and his next door neighbor had already moved and decided to rent in a community of peers instead of having to maintain his meticulously maintained house on 2 waterfront lots. 

In 2 days I sold his father’s house with two waterfront lots and sold his house and vacant land across the street in a couple of weeks later. Then the happy sellers purchased a beautiful brand new house for their next chapter in life to enjoy. The angels were on everyone’s side in these few weeks. 

   

Sellers home on Belleau Lake (Click Here for Electronic Book). |. (Click Here for Video)

  

Sellers Father's House next door (Click Here for Electronic Book). |. (Click Here for Video)

On a personal note, real estate agents are so lucky when the sellers are simply the most generous, thoughtful and prepared. The type of people who you could show up unannounced and the property and it was show ready. Immaculately maintained with nothing an inspector could find wrong. Impeccable taste and decades of pride of ownership appreciated by the buyers immediately. The setting on Belleau Lake could not be more perfect and serene with mature and low maintenance grounds ideal for the lake life the sellers had enjoyed for decades and the new owners will hopefully enjoy for generations to come.  

In this business it isn’t always about digging 6 feet under a pile of contacts for leads. Sometimes heaven just happens. 

Thank you to all involved. Michael Travis

The Happy Sellers as Buyers in the new home in Barrington NH.

To leave a great review visit www.KudosForMichael.com

Purchasing a home is a monumental decision, especially in the unpredictable post-pandemic
real estate market. For those wrestling with buyer's remorse, this guide from Realtor Michael
Travis offers actionable strategies to navigate and alleviate regret. It serves as a beacon
through the uncertainty, providing clear direction for mitigating second thoughts.

Reasons Behind the Purchase
Doubt can dim the brightest of decisions. Revisit the core reasons behind your home
purchase—be it a dream realized, an investment secured, or a future planned. This reflection
can reilluminate your path, transforming regret into reaffirmation. Remembering your initial
excitement and the goals you set can reignite your passion for the decision. It's about anchoring
yourself to the positives that led you to this milestone, ensuring you don't lose sight of what truly
matters.

Your Financial Compass                                                                                                                                                                              In a sea of uncertainty, financial advice is your compass. Consulting a financial advisor
illuminates the landscape, offering a clear view of the consequences of selling versus renting.
This guidance is not just advice—it's a strategy tailored for your financial future. A professional
can help you assess the equity you've built and the market's potential, providing a roadmap that
aligns with your financial well-being.

A Business to Support Your Mortgage Payments
If you find yourself struggling to meet mortgage payments after hastily purchasing a home
during the pandemic, starting a business could be a viable solution to expand your income.
Begin by identifying a niche market or service you can provide, then draft a comprehensive
business plan outlining your goals and strategies. Next, register your business as an LLC to
protect your personal assets from potential liabilities. You can save on legal fees by either filing
yourself or utilizing a formation service, but ensure you understand how to start an LLC.

Mastering the Market
An informed homeowner is a powerful one. Staying attuned to the real estate market's pulse
enables you to discern the optimal moment for action—be it selling or renting. This knowledge
doesn't just inform; it empowers, equipping you with the confidence to navigate market tides. By
understanding trends, you can anticipate shifts and position yourself advantageously.

Taking Time to Deliberate
Impulse is the enemy of wisdom. In facing buyer's remorse, patience becomes your shield,
allowing the dust of doubt to settle before you journey forth. This deliberation, this thoughtful
pause, is the bedrock upon which sound decisions are built. It's in these moments of reflection
that clarity emerges, guiding you towards decisions that are not only reactive but reflective of
your long-term goals. Patience fosters the environment for wisdom to flourish, ensuring that
when you do act, it's with both confidence and conviction.

Technological for Efficient Home Maintenance
In the realm of home upkeep, efficiency is king. Adopting a home maintenance app not only
streamlines repairs but also connects you with professionals for quick quotes—consider this
service as a game-changer in managing your household tasks. By leveraging the power of
technology, you can easily schedule maintenance, track expenses, and receive timely
reminders, ensuring that no critical task falls through the cracks. This digital assistant becomes
an indispensable ally in maintaining the health of your home and your financial well-being,
providing you with peace of mind and more time to focus on the things that matter most.

The Rental Realm: An Alternative Strategy

When the market whispers caution, renting out your property shouts opportunity. This strategy
offers not just income but time—time to wait for the market's embrace to warm, time to plan your
next move with precision. Renting becomes not just an option but a strategic pivot, ensuring
your financial stability and peace of mind.

Navigating post-pandemic necessitates a blend of strategic planning,
market insight, and innovative thinking. You can transform regret into resolution by rekindling
your initial motivations, staying informed about market trends, and embracing both patience and
entrepreneurial opportunities. These approaches offer not only a pathway through buyer's
remorse but also lay the groundwork for a future anchored in your aspirations.
Work with Realtor Michael Travis to discover your dream waterfront property today! Explore
extensive listings to find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and dive into the comfort and
luxury of lakeside living with unmatched expertise to guide you.

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Image: Freepik

Returning to college as an adult brings its own set of financial challenges. Tuition fees, textbook
costs, and living expenses can quickly add up, making the dream of further education seem
distant. House flipping, the process of buying, renovating, and selling homes for profit, presents
a unique and practical solution to this dilemma. In this article from Verani Realty, we’ll explore
how flipping houses can be a viable method to fund your college education as an adult.

Finding Flexibility With an Online Degree
Balancing learning and business is a strategic approach especially beneficial for adult learners
engaged in ventures like house flipping. Affordable online degree programs offer the flexibility

necessary to manage both educational pursuits and business projects effectively. As an
example, you can enrich your knowledge by exploring psychology degrees and career options
through online learning. This dual focus not only enhances your understanding of human
behavior, crucial in real estate dealings, but also broadens your career prospects. Ultimately,
online learning facilitates a harmonious blend of academic growth and practical business
experience.
Strategic Planning and Timely Execution
Developing a comprehensive plan for your house flipping project is vital. This plan should
include a timeline with clear milestones and deadlines for each renovation phase. Effective
planning helps in managing your budget and ensures timely completion of the project. Adhering
to a well-thought-out schedule minimizes delays and increases your chances of a successful
flip.
Critical Eye for Property Inspection
A successful house flip starts with a thorough property inspection. Before investing, it’s crucial to
identify any potential issues like structural damage, plumbing, or electrical problems. These
inspections can reveal hidden costs that might impact your budget and profit margins. A detailed
examination ensures you’re aware of what renovations are needed and helps you decide if the
investment is worthwhile.
Mastering the Art of Buying Strategically
Acquiring properties at competitive prices is key in house flipping. Develop your negotiation
skills and conduct thorough market research to find the best deals. Look for undervalued
properties in promising neighborhoods, as they offer the most potential for profit. It's important
to buy low to ensure you have the funds for renovations and while still making a substantial
profit upon selling.

Efficient Home Cleaning and Maintenance
Before listing a flipped house, ensure it's clean and appealing to potential buyers. DIY home
cleaning can save money; maintain your vacuum cleaner and other cleaning equipment to
ensure efficiency. A well-maintained and spotless property creates a strong first impression,
which can significantly influence a buyer. Small efforts in cleaning and staging can lead to larger
returns on your investment.

Targeting the Right Buyers

Understanding your target market is crucial in house flipping. Tailor your renovations and
marketing strategies to meet the demands of potential buyers in your area. Whether it’s a
family-friendly neighborhood or a bustling urban area, knowing your buyers helps in making
informed decisions about renovations and pricing. Attracting the right buyers quickly can
significantly reduce the time your property stays on the market.

Collaborating for Greater Success
Consider partnering with someone who has expertise in real estate or construction. This
collaboration can bring additional resources, knowledge, and manpower to your project. Sharing
responsibilities and resources with a partner can maximize profits and reduce the workload,
making your flipping project more manageable alongside your studies.
House flipping can be a strategic and effective way for adult students to fund their college
education. By conducting thorough property inspections, buying strategically, maintaining
efficient cleaning, planning meticulously, balancing learning with business, understanding your
target market, and considering partnerships, you can successfully flip houses and finance your
academic aspirations. This approach not only provides financial support but also equips you
with valuable real-world experience in business and real estate.

Unlock the door to your dream home today! Let Michael Travis from Berkshire Hathaway HomeaServices - Verani Realty guide
you through a sea of options to find the perfect property.

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Inevitably, there comes a time in life when adult children of seniors need to be closer to their
senior parents, or even other close relatives at that. This need may become even more
apparent when they aren't able to take care of their daily needs on their own. But how do you
know when the time is right to make the move? And how do you go about making the move as
easy and stress-free as possible for both of you? Read these helpful tips from realtor Michael
Travis on precisely how to go about this.

Seeing the signs
As seniors age and time progresses, the telltale signs that your loved ones require more
assistance can slowly become more and more apparent. Some of these signs can include:

Changes in their mental health
APlaceForMom.com points out that obvious changes in their mental and emotional behavior
may signal that your loved one is really struggling in some area. This is where your love and

support are often required, which can be difficult to do if you're thousands of miles away, and
you can't be physically present to show your support when they need it most. 

Forgetting to take medication
Certainly, for seniors who often forget to take chronic medication, these situations can quickly
turn into a life-threatening condition if not treated promptly. DailyCaring notes that proper
medication management is so critical that an issue like this might definitely necessitate the need
to move nearer to your senior loved one sooner rather than later. 

A disorganized home that once used to be orderly
A disorganized living space that used to be tidy and orderly might also be another sign that your
loved one requires help. Additionally, it may point to the need to maybe consider moving your
loved one to a senior care facility so that they no longer have the responsibility of tending to the home. 

Talking it through
Once you've decided to move closer to your loved one because you've decided that it is the
best option for the both of you, it's time to get the process started. First things first though are
communicating your intentions to your relative beforehand. You could start with an open and
honest conversation with them about how you've noticed changes that don't seem to be working
for them anymore (like the examples mentioned above). Then you could suggest how, if you
moved closer, you could assist them with those things they've been struggling to keep on top of
lately.

If they agree and are open to exploring the option of you moving closer to them more, it's time to
start learning about how you can assist them with everyday living. This may include finding out
more information about senior care facilities in the area to suit their needs better or having an in-
house caregiver to tend to their needs when you are not around to do so.

Moving on over 
Of course, one of the first things you'll have to think over is where you will stay. Renting is an
option if you are not sure about the suburb, for example, and you want to explore your options
more before settling on one specific home. However, if you've already seen the area and know
what it is you want, then you could start preparing by getting the homeowner's application
process started.

Another task to handle early on is researching the housing market of your destination locale.
Going online, you can easily find what houses are currently going for and how “hot” the market
is (for instance, houses in Meredith are selling for around $550K). This will help you know what
you can afford. One of the things that could save a lot of time is getting preapproved for a mortgage. Getting preapproved by a qualified mortgage broker or lender will let you know how much you can spend on a home, and it’ll
be easier to purchase a home because you will have done the preliminary work already.

Needing to move your business?

If you need to move your business to your new location, the first step is to notify your customers
of the change of address and update your contact information. Next, you will need to update
your business license and permits. If you have an LLC, an online formation service that’s
already familiar with New Hampshire LLC regulations can be a huge help in this regard. Once
that is taken care of, you can start packing up your office or store. Make sure to label all boxes
clearly so that you can easily find what you need when you arrive at your new location. Finally,
hire a professional moving company to transport your belongings safely and efficiently.

Showing up to show your support 
In summary, as is moving into senior living, moving closer to a senior loved one is sure to be a
big adjustment, particularly on their part. In some cases, they might be hesitant at first for fear of
losing their independence. But once they see that all you want to do is show up to show your
support, they'll no doubt appreciate all the effort you've gone to help make their lives that bit
easier.
Michael Travis is here to help make your real estate dreams come true. Call 603.303-2599.

Make It Smooth: Relocating While Launching
Your Home-Based Empire

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Starting a home-based business while simultaneously moving is a daunting task.
However, with strategic planning and effective organization, you can navigate
this complex transition. This guide from Michael Travis of Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices — Verani Realty is tailored to provide you with actionable
strategies, ensuring that both your move and business launch are as seamless as
possible.
Space and Financial Planning
Crafting Your Ideal Workspace

Your first step is to determine the needs of your workspace. It's crucial to have a
dedicated area in your new home where you can focus and operate efficiently.
Consider factors like natural light, quietness, and room for necessary equipment.
This space is not just a physical location; it's where your business dreams take
shape.
Selecting the Perfect Living and Working Environment
Your new home or apartment should cater to your personal and business needs.
Prioritize locations that offer the right balance between living space and a
functional work area. Think about the layout, ensuring there's a clear distinction
between your personal and professional zones. Amenities like high-speed
internet and ample storage are also key considerations.
Financial Realities and Budgeting
Understanding your financial limits is crucial. Allocate your budget wisely
between personal living expenses and business needs. This involves realistic
planning, potentially cutting back on personal expenses to fuel your business
aspirations. Remember, a well-planned budget is the backbone of any successful
venture.
Organization During Your Move
Staying organized is paramount during your move. Develop a detailed moving
checklist that includes timelines for packing, utility setup, and essential tasks.
Label your boxes clearly, and keep important documents like contracts and
leases easily accessible. A systematic approach will minimize stress and avoid
disruptions to your business operations.
Enhancing Business Skills and Operational Efficiency
Developing Essential Business Acumen
As you embark on this journey, consider enhancing your business skills. Getting
an MBA degree, for instance, could significantly bolster your understanding of
the business world. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to learn while

you establish your business. This investment in education will pay dividends in
your entrepreneurial journey.
Effective Local Marketing Strategies
Marketing is essential for establishing your new business in the local community.
Begin by crafting eye-catching posters that feature compelling designs, tailored
to capture the attention of potential customers. Use colors to enhance your
message and make your business stand out, ensuring your brand's visibility and
appeal. Strategically place these posters in high-traffic areas throughout your
town or city to effectively draw in local clientele.
The Role of Technology in Business
Investing in the right technology is not optional; it's a necessity. From reliable
computing equipment to efficient software, these tools are crucial for
productivity and staying connected with clients. Research and invest in
technology that aligns with your business needs, ensuring that you stay ahead in
this digital age.
Mastering Time Management
Balancing the demands of moving and setting up a business requires adept time
management. Develop a schedule that allocates specific time slots for business
tasks and moving-related activities. Learn to prioritize urgent tasks and consider
delegating when possible. Effective time management is key to maintaining
sanity and ensuring progress on both fronts.

Successfully launching a home-based business while moving is a challenging yet
achievable goal. By carefully planning your space, managing finances, enhancing
your business skills, and employing effective marketing and technology
strategies, you can make this transition smoother. Remember, organization and
time management are your allies in this dual endeavor. With determination and
strategic planning, you're well on your way to establishing a successful home-
based business in your new abode.

For all your real estate needs in New Hampshire Lakes Region and beyond, contact Michael Travis of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices — Verani Realty today!

Real Estate Agent sells Northwood Tornado House to its Owner

Michael Travis—Your Waterfront Agent

    

Michael Travis was an agent with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Portsmouth, gets a call from a lady in December, 2008 to sell her waterfront on Northwood Lake–well that part isn’t unusual since he is known as the waterfront agent (hence his website WaterfrontAgent.com)

But this isn’t your ordinary lake house—It has unobstructed floor to ceiling views —primarily because the walls were literally blown away from the deadly tornado in July 2008 that weaved a path of destruction from Deerfield to Ossipee. A dock slammed into the side of the house,—half ripping a 6 foot gapping hole in the second floor and the other half souring through the kitchen like a torpedo shattering everything. Only 3 windows in the house didn’t’ smash to smithereens. However, the bed in the guest room upstairs was still made.

You couldn’t miss this house from Route 4 since the walls on 2 floors of the north side were missing. For months it lay open to the elements while the insurance company was working out a settlement–and while thieves were working out removing anything of value including copper piping.

I was contacted by the owner to sell this tornado house. I told her she can’t sell it. It was clear she had been contacted by many unscrupulous people trying to steal it for nothing. Instead I put a good team together to redesign and fix the house. She liked the plans so much, she wants to keep it, and I am out of a job—sort of.

James O’Reilly, first generation Irish here, is the general contractor and one of the finest craftsman I know. He spent 20 years renovating high end units in Manhattan until he moved to his 76 acre mountain top paradise in New Durham.

Also working on this project are James Rowe and Brendon Madden (both Irish Natives) along with Michael Travis–a formally red headed non Irish real estate agent who helped with grunt work and who has discovered muscles never used before during the demolition work.  Thank God for Advil.

James O’Reilly is also used local Northwood talent Freddy Walker of Topo Tech Septic Design for septic design, and Fusion Mechanical for Heating & AC, Portsmouth’s Dave Walters of All Pro Electric, Lakes Region Designer Steve Melbourne for architectural services Instead of tearing the house down, it was rebuilt from the ground up including a new foundation—why—well the insurance company was a bit stingy on funds and the owner is on a fixed income. Besides it is fun digging holes in the frozen ground and mixing 6 tons of concrete with a shovel.

We recycled as much of the debris as possible. A local resident unscrewed and removed the old deck boards and old 2x4s – nails and all-for a project at his house. All the scrap aluminum and copper was recycled—(at least what wasn’t stolen)  Much of the scrap wood is being used for campfires for the summer.

 

This home now has a new layout, additional bathroom, larger windows to enjoy the view, a great kitchen and a new life of its own.

And I am out a listing.

No wonder the owner wants to keep it. I would too.

Plow your field–buy a house.

 Michael Travis—Your Waterfront Agent

“You cannot plow a field by turning it over in your mind.”  A great statement that relates to so many people on the fence to do something–like buying a home—so let me help you push the plow.

For one, this is a great time to buy a home–the rates are manageable–with all kinds of lending options including the ability to make chunk payments toward principle and drop your payment right away. .

For two, all indications are that the market in NH isn’t really looking to drop — after all New Hampshire is the wealthiest state in the country per capita with the third highest number of second homes and the lowest poverty rate in the country—hey not bad.

For three, there is some great inventory–and all indications more is coming in the horizon. Just go to my site and see the deals at www.WaterfrontAgent.net. 

New Hampshire is considered the healthiest state in the country–just ask my blood pressure and cholesterol–it has dropped just living on my little Northwood paradise with the loons compared to NYC and Boston where I resided prior to here. Didn’t need pills to do the job.

I can’t say this is a time to grab and flip properties in general–but there are still deals for that. Cash is king. This is not a rehearsal for another life for sure–so enjoy it now.

Let me help you plow through all the maze called real estate so that together we ca turn that field called home. Just email me at michael.travis@verani.com or give me a call at 603-303-2599.

Enjoy, Michael

You don't have to look far to see how insane prices have become in the last few years especially on waterfront homes. People blame the pandemic. Maybe the government. Maybe the very low interest rates creating demand. Of course we see a different picture now with very hig rates, new assessmentts coming in way higher and the fear our taxes will double or more. Here is an explanation on how rates and there fore actual tax bills are determined. 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release November 30, 2021

Media Contact: Jessica Knight 734.355.2490 jessica@montagnepowers.com

NH Department of Revenue Administration Explains Town Tax Rates

NHDRA explains how to calculate property taxes as it releases new town tax rates Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration (NHDRA) sets tax rates for the cities and towns in New Hampshire beginning in October of each year. This comes on the heels of local property reappraisals many New Hampshire cities and towns have undertaken and which assessors are required by law to perform every five years. NHDRA oversees the assessment review process, but individual municipalities hire the assessors. “We see a rise in taxpayer concerns over property taxes when the department releases municipal tax rates each year,” said Lindsey Stepp, Commissioner, NHDRA. “We recognize that taxes can be complex and confusing, so along with our objective to fairly administer and collect taxes, NHDRA is committed to educating the public about the taxes they pay.” Property value is assessed at the property’s market value on April 1 each year.

 

Real estate values in New Hampshire have been on the rise since 2012, with the most dramatic increase happening between 2019 and 2021. Due to that increase, many New Hampshire property owners are seeing dramatic increases in their assessed valuations. James Gerry, Director of the Municipal and Property Division at NHDRA, answers the central question many homeowners are asking, “what does an increase in assessed value mean for my property taxes?” “In short, just because a homeowners’ assessed value goes up does not mean the amount of property taxes they pay will also go up,” said Gerry. “Assessed value (AV) determines who will be paying the property taxes. While an individual’s AV is important, the driving force behind how much any property taxpayer will pay is the relationship between their AV and every other property owner’s AV in the city or town in which they reside.” For example, if a taxpayer’s AV in a town increases by 10%, but the town’s overall AV increases by 15%, given that everything else is equal, the taxpayer should see a decline in their property tax bill. “One way to think about a town’s total AV is to think of it as a pie,” said Gerry. “Your AV is just one slice of that pie. If your slice goes up by 10%, but the overall pie grows by 15%, your share of the overall pie will decrease.” Assessed value is not the only factor to dramatically influence property taxes. One of the main drivers of property taxes is appropriations. Appropriations are the amount of money a municipal entity is approved to spend each year due to each municipality’s budgeting process. Another factor is the amount of non-property tax revenue the municipality collects. Increases in non-property tax revenue, such as grants, fees, and other taxes, could help lower property taxes. Of course, a decrease in these revenues could have the opposite effect. To illustrate this point, please refer to the chart below: While the taxpayer in this example saw an increase of 15% in their AV, the town’s overall AV increased by 16.4%. The town’s tax effort, calculated by subtracting tax revenue from appropriations, decreased slightly. Despite the 15% increase in the taxpayer’s AV, their property tax bill will decline by 1.55%. The average New Hampshire property taxpayer will see four tax rates: a municipal rate for the individual’s city or town, the school district rate, the county rate, and the state education rate, each of which have an associated equation. The four rates are added together to produce the town or city’s overall tax rate. For an individual homeowner, the overall tax rate is then multiplied by the assessed value of that home and then divided by 1,000 to arrive at the taxpayer’s final property tax bill. To learn more about NHDRA’s Municipal and Property Division, please visit www.revenue.nh.gov/mun-prop. About the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration The New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration (NHDRA) is responsible for fairly and efficiently administering the tax laws of the State of New Hampshire. NHDRA collects approximately 80% of New Hampshire’s general taxes. During Fiscal Year 2021, NHDRA collected $2.4 billion in taxes, most of which went to the New Hampshire General Fund and Education Trust Fund. NHDRA also assists municipalities in budgeting, finance and real estate appraisal. NHDRA administers and collects the following taxes at the state level: Business Enterprise Tax, Business Profits Tax, Communications Services Tax, Interest and Dividends Tax, Meals and Rooms Tax, Medicaid Enhancement Tax, Nursing Facility Quality Assessment, Tobacco Tax, Taxation of Railroads, Utility Property Tax, Real Estate Transfer Tax; and the following taxes at the local level: Property Tax, Excavation Tax, Timber Tax. To learn more about NHDRA, please visit www.revenue.nh.gov. ###

 

COMMENTARY

Why live in New Hampshire?

by PAUL DOSCHER

 What often brings people to New Hampshire and keeps them here? This photo of foliage in North Conway offers a hint. (Joe Raedle | Getty Images)

About 50 years ago, just after finishing graduate school in Ohio, I made the decision to decline some good job offers and move back to New Hampshire. Well, moving back might be a bit of an overstatement, as my life in New Hampshire up until age 24 consisted of summers as a kid on a lake with my family, and then summer jobs living in the Lakes Region during my college years.

When I was a kid, with two parents who worked in the public school system, it was affordable in those days to rent a cottage on a lake for most of the summer. My dad would drive us up in late June,  leave me, my sister, and mother at the cottage, and return to being the principal of summer school sessions in New Jersey. After the summer sessions ended, he would drive back up to the lake and we would all stay until Labor Day when the next school year beckoned.

I loved New Hampshire. My childhood days were absorbed with swimming, fishing, hiking, and playing outdoors. My biggest problem was getting back to the cottage late for dinner. When I returned to New Hampshire in the summers during my college years, I had a range of jobs, from working in an architect’s office to digging perc test holes for a septic system designer. The work occupied my weekdays, but hiking occupied my weekends. The White Mountains felt like my backyard.

When I returned to live here full time, it was a decision motivated not so much by opportunities as by a need to plant roots in a place that felt like home. The mountains, the forests, the farms, and the culture of small-town New England all were an irresistible lure. So I packed up my little car, the cat, and the camping gear, and drove to New England with no job, no leads, and the optimism that somehow it was all going to work.

Obviously, it did. After a couple of months of living in various campgrounds and brief stays with family friends, I landed a job and a place to live. Not too many years later, I met the love of my life and we bought some land, built a house, and raised two children who have become successful adults with families of their own. Now, all these years later, I am still here for the same reasons.

So why tell this story? I recently read a couple of studies about why people migrate to New Hampshire and why once here they choose to stay. You wouldn’t be alone if you thought that most new arrivals come because we are the “Live Free or Die” state and taxes are low. Surprise! That’s not it.

A UNH study in 2020 found that the No. 1 reason people moved here is to be with family. Of course, that should be no surprise. But the second most common reason is “the natural environment.” For those who live here and choose to stay, the same two reasons are No. 1 and No. 2. Here’s the surprise: Low taxes was not in the top three, and was cited by under 20 percent of those moving in and only around 20 percent of those already living here.  

A more recent study for Stay Work Play conducted by St. Anselm College in 2023 revealed similar answers. When asked why New Hampshire is a better place to live, 83 percent said “the environment.”  

Don’t get me wrong: In addition to the environment, there are plenty of good reasons for wanting to live in the Granite State, and lower overall taxes is certainly one of them. But we are not the lowest. Tax Foundation statistics found that when it comes to a low per capita state and local tax burden, we are 16th lowest. Yes, the lowest in New England, but not in the 10 lowest in the nation. And statistics like this are only part of the story, as demonstrated by the two current major lawsuits about the wide disparity of the property tax burden from town to town and the inequitable education funding that results.

But let’s get back to people coming and staying. Our current housing shortage is certainly a damper on the ability of people to move here and stay here, even if they cherish the access to the outdoors and our natural environment. Many proposals – from zoning changes, to requirements that towns allow multiple units on single lots, to public subsidies for affordable multi-family developments – are all in the news. No single one of these will solve the problem. 

But in any discussion about creating more housing, so more people can come and stay here, we should remember that what differentiates New Hampshire from other places for most people is our natural environment. We have done a good job of conserving it and continuing to do so is what sets us apart from all those other places with lower taxes, more or higher paying jobs, and other amenities.

It’s encouraging that recent major housing developments like the proposal to replace the Steeplegate Mall in Concord with mixed housing and commercial uses, and the project on the former Rockingham race track in Salem, will use already developed land to meet the housing need. Whenever it’s possible we should find ways to integrate more housing in our existing cities and villages rather than sprawling into the countryside and sacrificing farms, forests, and wildlife habitat. Our rural towns should not be forced to abandon their rural character in order to create more housing. A one-size mandate for zoning changes from the Legislature is sure to meet H.L. Mencken’s observation that “there is always a well-known solution to every human problem – neat, plausible, and wrong.”

We can certainly find ways to expand the good work that is already being done to support affordable and market-rate housing expansion in New Hampshire. But the mix of solutions will be different in each town or city. Some will involve changing regulations, and some will involve investing our tax dollars to make construction more affordable. Our public policy should be to encourage creativity in our communities, while recognizing that we should never give up our special natural heritage.  

PAUL DOSCHER

Paul Doscher is a retired environmental professional. During his career he worked in both the architecture and building professions, and in land conservation. He lives on his family’s farm in Weare. For more stories on NH visit https://newhampshirebulletin.com/

Knowing When the Time Is Right to Be

Nearer to Your Senior Loved One

Image via Pexels. andrea-piacquadio

Inevitably, there comes a time in life when adult children of seniors need to be closer to their
senior parents, or even other close relatives at that. This need may become even more
apparent when they aren't able to take care of their daily needs on their own. But how do you
know when the time is right to make the move? And how do you go about making the move as
easy and stress-free as possible for both of you? Read these helpful tips from realtor Michael
Travis on precisely how to go about this.

Seeing the signs
As seniors age and time progresses, the telltale signs that your loved ones require more
assistance can slowly become more and more apparent. Some of these signs can include:

Changes in their mental health

APlaceForMom.com points out that obvious changes in their mental and emotional behavior may signal that your loved one is really struggling in some area. This is where your love and support are often required, which can be difficult to do if you're thousands of miles away, and you can't be physically present to show your support when they need it most. 

Forgetting to take medication

Certainly, for seniors who often forget to take chronic medication, these situations can quickly turn into a life-threatening condition if not treated promptly. DailyCaring notes that proper medication management is so critical that an issue like this might definitely necessitate the need to move nearer to your senior loved one sooner rather than later. 

A disorganized home that once used to be orderly
A disorganized living space that used to be tidy and orderly might also be another sign that your
loved one requires help. Additionally, it may point to the need to maybe consider moving your
loved one to a senior care facility so that they no longer have the responsibility of tending to the
home. 

Talking it through

Once you've decided to move closer to your loved one because you've decided that it is the best option for the both of you, it's time to get the process started. First things first though are communicating your intentions to your relative beforehand. You could start with an open and honest conversation with them about how you've noticed changes that don't seem to be working for them anymore (like the examples mentioned above). Then you could suggest how, if you moved closer, you could assist them with those things they've been struggling to keep on top of lately.

If they agree and are open to exploring the option of you moving closer to them more, it's time to start learning about how you can assist them with everyday living. This may include finding out more information about senior care facilities in the area to suit their needs better or having an in-house caregiver to tend to their needs when you are not around to do so. 

Moving on over
Of course, one of the first things you'll have to think over is where you will stay. Renting is an
option if you are not sure about the suburb, for example, and you want to explore your options
more before settling on one specific home. However, if you've already seen the area and know
what it is you want, then you could start preparing by getting the homeowner's application
process started.

Another task to handle early on is researching the housing market of your destination locale. Going online, you can easily find what houses are currently going for and how “hot” the market is (for instance, houses in Meredith are selling for around $550K). This will help you know what you can afford. One of the things that could save a lot of time is getting preapproved for a mortgage. Getting preapproved will let you know how much you can spend on a home, and it’ll be easier to purchase a home because you will have done the preliminary work already.

If you need to move your business to your new location, the first step is to notify your customers of the change of address and update your contact information. Next, you will need to update your business license and permits. If you have an LLC, an online formation service that’s already familiar with New Hampshire LLC regulations can be a huge help in this regard. Once that is taken care of, you can start packing up your office or store. Make sure to label all boxes clearly so that you can easily find what you need when you arrive at your new location. Finally, hire a professional moving company to transport your belongings safely and efficiently.

Showing up to show your support

In summary, as is moving into senior living, moving closer to a senior loved one is sure to be a
big adjustment, particularly on their part. In some cases, they might be hesitant at first for fear of
losing their independence. But once they see that all you want to do is show up to show your
support, they'll no doubt appreciate all the effort you've gone to help make their lives that bit
easier.
Michael Travis is here to help make your real estate dreams come true. Call 603.303-2599.