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Harcourts Waterfront & Fine Properties is a full-service brokerage serving buyers and sellers throughout the state of Maine. They are affiliated with Harcourts International, the oldest and 6th largest real estate company in the world. With a slogan of "Rethink Real Estate," the company provides innovative services to sell unique properties, including our luxury non-distressed auction platform, which provides global exposure and an online streaming bidding platform. Global exposure combined with local expertise and a focus on customer satisfaction makes Harcourts Waterfront & Fine Properties the brokerage you should choose for your real estate needs.
Here, Charlene Hamiwka of Harcourts gives an update on the Maine market and why she loves where she lives.
What is the best thing about your market?
Maine has always had a certain appeal. The rocky coast, mountains, forests, lakes, and wonderful outdoor recreation—not to mention our fabulous seafood—have made Maine a vacation destination for years. However, since 2020, the demand for homes in Maine has really taken off. In 2023, Maine had the most inbound moves of any state in the US. People are starting to realize they can live where they love to be, so why not make Maine your home instead of just visiting?
What do you foresee as the future of your market in 2024?
While the demand for homes is not quite as strong as in 2023, I still see a fairly strong market. Pricing has moderated a bit, and the outlook for mortgage rates is to be more stable and potentially drop slightly, which will bring more buyers into the market. Compared to many other parts of the country, waterfront, and luxury homes are still a bargain in Maine.
What advice would you give someone who wants to buy or sell in your market?
For sellers, now is the time to get your home ready for sale to take advantage of the spring market. There will be more inventory coming on the market, so it's important to make sure your home stands out. We can certainly help you with that!
For buyers, the best advice I have is that if you can afford to purchase the home you want now, DO IT! Rates are stable and historically about average for interest rates. But if rates drop, a lot of buyers will jump back into the market, which will raise the competition and the price of the home. We have access to a fabulous rate refinancing program, which should alleviate any concerns about a higher rate.
Why do you love living in your market?
Maine has a lifestyle for everyone and anyone. From urban locations to remote wilderness, award-winning chefs and restaurants, theater and the arts, luxury homes to cabins - it's all here, and we can help you find the home that fits your lifestyle the best.
For more information, please contact Charlene M. Hamiwka at charlene@harcourtswfp.com or 207-671-0085.
Charlene M. Hamiwka is one of the exclusive agents representing the Maine real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.
