Churchill Properties Massachusetts & NH Real Estate Guide - Volume 20 Aug/Sept 2023

About Us

At Churchill Properties, we are committed to providing our clients with exceptional and personable service. We will work tirelessly to make your next purchase or sale a rewarding and enjoyable experience. We are experts in the local real estate markets and communities. Our unique marketing program utilizes multiple media channels and today’s technologies to ensure broad market exposure for our properties and unrivaled results for our clients.

Churchill Properties is a member of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, an elite international network of real estate companies, including 4,600 offices and 150,000 agents in 70 countries worldwide. This global network attracts relocating buyers from more than 800 cities. Additionally, we are members of Luxury Portfolio International – one of the world’s premier Luxury Real Estate networks.

Multimedia Marketing for Your Property

In order to achieve the maximum sales price for your property, it is critical to reach and attract the widest possible audience of relevant Buyers.

Today’s diverse marketing landscape demands the use of multiple media channels to achieve the best price. At Churchill Properties, we create a customized program specific to your home including a powerful mix of professional imaging and floor plans, international real estate websites, digital advertising, enhanced Zillow advertising, luxury networks, quality print advertising, social media promotion, targeted email, and direct mail.

OUR UNIQUE MARKETING AND SALES PROGRAM INCLUDES: ,

• A Premier Brokerage Partnership with the Zillow Group.

• Multiple international real estate websites – Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia, ChurchillProp.com, Homes.com, NYTimes.com, Boston.com and many more.

• The Massachusetts Multiple Listing Service – 25,000 brokers cooperatively selling homes.

• Magazine and newspaper advertising in quality international, regional, and local publications.

• Digital advertising through Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

• Social media engagement and promotion – Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

• Quality property brochures and direct mail.

• Real estate direct mail catalogs –60,000 sent annually.

• Email marketing to the brokerage community and potential Buyers.

• Professional Imaging including dazzling drone and interior video, photography, and floor plans.

If you are considering a move, contact us today for professional pricing, home staging recommendations, and a customized marketing plan for your property.

North Shore Real Estate – Market Review

by Christopher Bernier – Principal Broker and Owner of Churchill Properties - August 17, 2023

Happy Fall! – The real estate market remains a strong Sellers market as the summer is coming to a close and we head into the Fall market. The most notable feature is the significant decline in the number of listings coming onto the market which is likely due to many people delaying their discretionary move to a larger home with the rise in both prices and interest rates. As real estate market statistics can vary widely by local area, my comments on the North Shore relate specifically to the combined group of the 26 towns listed below. Also, to provide the most up to date information, my comments relate to the Year-to-Date (YTD) July 31, 2023 market statistics versus the same period in 2022. All comments are based solely on data drawn from the multiple listing service and do not include “off-market” sales.

The Economy and Interest Rates – The inflation rate in July ticked up slightly from June to 3.2% but is well below the 6% experienced earlier in 2023. Unemployment remains low at only 3.5% however the interest rates continue to creep up for Massachusetts purchase mortgages and are now in the 6.5% to 7.0% range. Credit card debt in the U.S. increased 4.6% in the second quarter of 2023 and for the first time was in the aggregate over one trillion dollars.

Single Family Homes – Single Family homes comprised 62% of the homes sold on the North Shore. There were 1229 closed sales YTD through July 31th, a decline of 20% from the same period in 2022. For the same period comparison, the median sale price increased 3.5% to $735,000. Despite the rise in interest rates, demand for homes remains exceptionally strong. The number of newly listed single-family homes was lower in 2023 by 25% and this reduction in supply, combined with the strong demand, continues to fuel higher prices. The inventory of homes remains very low and all these conditions continue to favor the Sellers of homes.

Condominiums – Condominiums comprised 33% of homes sales on the North Shore. There were 657 closed sales through July 31st 2023, which was a decline in unit volume of 23% versus the same period last year. There were 838 newly listed condominiums on the North Shore in the first seven months of the year, which was 21% lower than last year. Demand for condominiums remains very strong and, with fewer condominiums coming on the market this year, the median sale price has increased 8.2%, over the same period in 2022, to $500,000. Inventory of condominiums remains very low, favoring the Sellers of condominiums.

The Luxury Market – There were 109 luxury homes ($1.5M+) sold on the North shore in the first 7 months of 2023 vs. 126 homes in the same period of 2022, a 13% decline. The decline of luxury homes sales has been less than in the lower price ranges and luxury home sales remain strong. The median sale price of the closed Luxury homes in 2023 increased to $1,852,000 from $1,800,000 in 2022 – a 2.8% increase. Average days to accepted offer for Luxury homes increased significantly in 2023 to 57 days, up from only 21 days in 2022. The highest price achieved in the first 7 months of 2023, after 452 days on the market, was $18,275,000.

If you are considering a move, contact us today for exceptional and personable service that will make your next move an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Thank you.

About Christopher Bernier - Chris Bernier is the owner and principal broker of Churchill Properties. Chris has held numerous leadership roles in residential real estate in the greater Boston area over the last 30 years. He rose through several brokerage management positions to Chief Operating Officer in New England for Coldwell Banker which had more than 80 offices and 3,500 agents. He was responsible for agent training and education, marketing, and luxury marketing. Chris was elected to, and served for several years, on the board of directors of MLS Property Information Network which is Massachusetts largest multiple listing service serving more than 25,000 real estate agents. As a real estate broker, Chris was recognized for ranking in the top 1% of brokers for closed sales volume.

North Shore Towns - Amesbury, Beverly, Boxford, Danvers, Essex, Georgetown, Gloucester, Groveland, Hamilton, Ipswich, Lynnfield, Manchester, Marblehead, Merrimac, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, Peabody, Rockport, Rowley, Salem, Salisbury, Swampscott, Topsfield, Wenham, West Newbury

Gloucester, MA

$3,295,000

This iconic waterfront compound, the “Pink House”, including a guest house, and dock is situated in the quaint village of Annisquam. Extensively renovated in 2020, the main residence seamlessly combines the original antique elegance with modern functionality.

Wenham, MA

$1,160,000

Beautifully renovated home! Offering Single Level Living on a ve ry private lot at the end of a cul de sac, 25 Fiske is aptly described as a true oasis. Enjoy the peace of natural surroundings and connection of a neighborhood.

Tracey Hutchinson

Karen Bernier

Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA

$3,195,000 Ocean Views! Prominently situated in one of the most exclusive locations in Manchester, a short distance to the Manchester Yacht Club, Singing Beach, and the Village. This elegant 4 bedroom has had extensive renovations and offers functional spaces with a flexible floor-plan.

Philio Cushing

978-884-9904

Gloucester, MA

$1,500,000

This spectacular 3 bedroom property has panoramic water views and is located in a protected area around the corner from the Annisquam Yacht Club and across the river from Wingaersheek Beach. The property has direct river and ocean access with a dock.

Karen Bernier

978-807-5580

Wenham, MA

$2,300,000

Immaculate, sunlit, elegant oasis! Open living for hosting, yet intimate spaces for home offices. Timeless updates. Slate fireplace library, chef kitchen, in-ground pool, mature gardens. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation every day!

SOLD

Newburyport, MA

$2,390,000

Absolutely spectacular home on Plum Island! Unobstructed ocean views from just about every window. Three oceanfront decks to relax all summer long. The homeowners have taken care of every detail in this home so you can move right in.

Andrea Lacroix

508-561-1161

Real Estate Market Review

Real Estate Market Review

Real Estate Market Review

This tool, similar to the Zillow Zestimate, uses available market data and sophisticated algorithms to estimate the value of your home. However, more accurately pricing, a property requires a thorough review by a skilled real estate professional. We will gladly provide you with a complimentary professional opinion of value and a customized marketing plan for your property.

Ipswich, MA

$1,400,000

This exceptional residence at Turner Hill with FIRST FLOOR main bedroom suite is in move in condition! Formerly a Model unit, this home was constructed with the highest quality materials and many extras. This beautiful unit is freshly painted and ready for you!

Wenham, MA

$1,195,000

On a private corner lot this spacious home has a terrific open floor plan abundant with natural light and gleaming hardwood floors. The newly renovated kitchen at the hub of dining, family & living rooms. Nothing to do but move in & enjoy!

Manchester, MA

$939,000

A rare opportunity awaits the buyer of this well maintained Condo that is conveniently located in the center of Manchester. The home has 3 floors of living, 2 1/2 baths, 3 bedrooms and a gas fireplace and central air.

Tracey Hutchinson

John Kotch 978-500-4271

Gloucester, MA

$599,000

Calling all Lanesville lovers! This late nineteenth-century paired gable, Gothic Revival house offers perfect blend of charm, location, and space to expand. This offering is rare with more than acre of land with ocean breezes, summer blossoms, fireflies, and magic.

Hamilton, MA

Call for Price

Handsome Colonial offering 5 bedrooms and many updates! 3 floors of living space and manageable fenced-in yard, convieniently located about a mile to downtown Hamilton emergency services, shops, restaurants, and commuter train, and a mile to the H/W Middle/High School.

Tracey Hutchinson

978-473-9720

Kristal Pooler & Ronald Farren

All roads lead home to the comfort of the familiar and the rewards of your endeavors.

This is where lifeʼs conversations begin and where you revitalize.

With its charm and eloquence your fine property welcomes and embraces you and all those whom you cherish.

At Churchill Luxury Properties our team is committed to providing extraordinary, personable service and achieving exceptional results for our clients. We have devised an extensive luxury marketing and sales program which provides broad exposure for your property on an international, national, regional, and local level. We utilize a variety of media channels and promotional activities including online, print, social media, property brochures, direct mail, and email marketing. Our geo-targeted approach tirelessly promotes your property to both the most relevant Buyers as well as the luxury real estate brokerage community.

Our goal is to achieve the optimal selling price for your property, within the desired time frame, and with the least disruption to your lifestyle.

We look forward to assisting you in the successful sale of your fine property.

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12 Simple Improvements to Enhance Your Home’s Value

Within seconds of arriving at your property, Buyers are forming an opinion based on their first impressions. Preparing your home to create the most appealing presentation will help sell your home in less time and at the best possible price.

1. Remove excess furniture and create easy, flowing traffic patterns. Less is often better.

2. Improve lighting by installing recessed lighting or additional lamps. A well but softly lit room creates appeal.

3. Paint any areas/rooms in need and change very bold personal colors to more neutral colors.

4. Refinish worn floors with fresh polyurethane.

5. Unclutter by removing all excess personal belongings and empty over-filled closets.

6. Replace worn carpeting, rugs, lampshades, furniture.

7. Add accessories such as fresh flowers, pillows, throw blankets, mirrors, and sculptures.

8. Enhance the curb appeal by improving the exterior – repair, paint, landscape.

9. Thoroughly clean all rooms, especially the kitchen and bathrooms.

10. Wash the windows and open all shades for daylight showings.

11. Neutralize any strong odors from pets or other sources.

12. Clean out and organize the garage.

Newbury, MA $1,895,000

This exquisite home sits on a private, level, 1 acre lot abutting farmland in a great location close to Newburyport/beaches. Modern amenities include 9' ceilings, a dramatic 2-story foyer and a functional open floor plan. Custom chefs kitchen with Quarts countertops and large panty.

Rockport, MA

$5,200,000

Overlooking Pebble Beach in the South End of Rockport, this oceanside clapboard and stone home will captivate you from the moment you arrive. The sights and sounds of the Atlantic are present from every vantage point. Ideal for grand scale or intimate entertaining, this 5 bed/5.5 bath home has been masterfully renovated to the highest standard.

Michael Beaton

978-884-9910

Lynn, MA

$879,500

RARE OPPORTUNITY. PRIME LOCATION overlooking Historic Lynn Commons. Presently Law offices and 3rd floor 2 bedroom apartment. So much potential for this magnificent building. Beautiful period detail throughout with three working fireplaces.

Edward Scialdoni: 781-771-9729

David DiLisio: 978-210-7361

Wenham, MA

Call for Price

Lovely expanded 5 bedroom Cape with custom chef’s kitchen, hardwood floors, finished walk out lower level, full length screen porch, office with gas fireplace, spacious dining and living rooms, first and second floor primary options on over an acre in one of Wenham’s favorite neighborhoods!

Tracey Hutchinson

978-473-9720

Templeton, MA

$629,000

2-year young Colonial on nearly 15 Acres. Open floor plan, ideal for entertaining, centered around a kitchen with white cabinets and quartz countertops, with a dining area off of the kitchen leading out to a 12x12 deck, perfect for enjoying coffee or cocktails.

Gloucester, MA

Call for Price

TWO newly renovated townhouse condos. Fantastic location, near Stacy Boulevard and Stage Fort Park. Each with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, off street parking, lots of private storage and yard area! Lovely original details with modern amenities. Kathleen McHugh

978-314-9131

LOCAL EXPERTISE. GLOBAL REACH.

As a member of the elite International brokerage network Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Churchill Properties attracts clients from more than 4,600 offices and 150,000 associates in 70 countries and more than 800 cities worldwide.

This LeadingRE distinction ensures that you can count on a quality real estate experience when working with us and will benefit from our global connections to buyers and high quality real estate professionals around the world.

Contact us today for an exceptional real estate experience wherever your real estate needs take you.

Our luxury properties are marketed on several luxury networks including Luxury Portfolio International. A luxury property requires a tailored and strategic approach to pricing, marketing, and negotiation. Churchill Propertiesʼ agents represent a level of expertise which gives you the confidence that comes with working with the very best.

Luxury Portfolio has more than 3 million high-net-worth visitors annually. The website is translated into 9 languages and 65+ currencies. The average household income of visitors is $1.1 million.

Let us connect you with high-net-worth Buyers in more than 800 cities and 65 countries.

Someone You Know Works at Churchill Properties

Boston, MA

Welcome home to this lovely two bedroom, two bath condo situated on one of the South End’s highly sought after tree-lined cul-de-sacs.This gorgeous South End home boasts an open concept layout, perfect for hosting your next dinner party.

Newbury, MA

$2,795,000

Showpiece renovated property including 1.64 park-like acres on the Newbury Upper Green with separate entertainment/office cottage. Dramatic architectural features abound including 21 ft ceilings, massive brick fireplaces, huge rounded windows and wood beams.

Churchill Properties is a Premier Brokerage Partner With Zillow

Zillow is the highest traffic real estate search portal in the world, with more than 245 million daily users, and Churchill Properties has partnered with them as a Zillow Premier Brokerage Firm. This provides greatly enhanced Buyer visibility and dramatically more Buyer leads for the properties of our clients.

Churchill Properties has also earned a 'Best of Zillow' badge based on direct ratings from Buyers and Sellers. Best of Zillow Agents have been recognized for going above and beyond throughout the process.

Benefit from a larger group of qualified buyers from the world’s largest real estate search portal - list your home with Churchill Properties!

Churchill Properties has an extensive and unique program to ensure our associates' success. We offer exceptional training and personal coaching at no cost.

Our comprehensive program includes:

associates from Zillow and other sources. No High Franchise or Administrative Fees.

Hundreds of direct LEADS to

Name and Cell Phone on the signs and in all print advertising. An extensive marketing program promoting you and your properties. We invest hundreds of thousands of dollars annually in digital online, email, direct mail, magazines, newspapers, and more.

We provide professional imaging and floor plans for every listing.

We prepare beautiful brochures for every property listed.

Business tools including the kvCORE technology platform & Dotloop.

We are members of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. This elite network includes more than 150,000 agents in 4,600 offices in more than 70 countries and 800 cities.

We have powerful Luxury Networks including Luxury Portfolio International.

Condo/townhouse conveniently located near Stage Fort Park and m ajor highways also boasts water views from the second, third and roof deck levels. First level, has been used for a home business was initially a third bedroom and has a half bath.

Salem, MA

$889,900

New Construction: 2 properties left, Approx. 3,500 sq ft. 5 bedrooms 3 bath central air. Center entrance colonial open concept with great room over 2 car garage. The basement level will have high ceilings. Potential for AADU with owner occupancy and City approval.

Edward Scialdoni: 781-771-9729

David DiLisio: 978-210-7361

833-668-4649

Gloucester, MA $799,000

$739,900

Luxury living in this private retreat right in Boxford! This charming home is a spacious property featuring modern amenities, and a serene backyard. The convenient location is Ideal for anyone seeking a comfortable living space in a beautiful neighborhood.

Tara Farley

978-267-7785

$399,000

Need a little space to build your summer cottage or perfect year round tiny home by a river? This could be just the opportunity you are looking for. Offering important utility hook ups in place. Complete with city sewer. Zoned for neighborhood business.

Michele Allison-Elwell

978-766-8041

Gloucester, MA

Boxford, MA