Lisa Glowacki, Real Estate Broker - RI & MA

We only had a few opportunities to enjoy the boat this summer. I kept telling myself to bring the camera and on our last voyage I did.

There are few things I enjoy more than a boat ride through the Sakonnet River. It was a chilly day and white billowy clouds littered the sky. A beautiful day not a wave or ripple to be found as far as eye could see.

As we enter the River from Nanaquaket Pond we are greeted by this Island. I guess it is called Gould Island as kids we always called it Rat Island with many stories to support how the rats got to the Island. It is a haven for the Birds. My family loves to explore this island. Not me. I'll stay on the boat and leave the Island for the Birds.

Moving down river towards Little Compton I am welcomed by some of my favorite homes which can only be seen by water (well unless you drive on the property).

A house on the river and corral in back reminds me that Tiverton is not just about the sea but also the land. Horse back riding is enjoyed as well as farming and fresh produce. Talk about the best of both worlds.

So close to the water sitting a top of a grand sea wall in the midst of the trees I smell the salt air blowing through the open windows. Images of crashing waves beating the grand sea wall singing it's stormy song on not so pleasant days. Magnificent sunsets on warm summer evenings. Standing by the glow of a fire watching a light snow fall feeling the chill of the sea. Oh, this is the life for me.

Along the shore of the river is this treasure waiting patiently for new owners knowing one day it too will be a wonder to see.

So now we bid farewell to Summer and say hello to winter. Soon we will be covered with a blanket of snow and the shore will hibernate. Her beauty will shine for only few to see as the fishermen make their way to sea.

Here is a great article"New England Style, Little Known and Liking It" found in the travel section of the New York Times written in 2007.

When you need to remember summer on a cold winter's day you could search out Paul Bergeron of Sakonnet River Pie. Enjoy a Handmade Native Fruit Pie made from fruit and berries grown on small coastal farms. Sakonnet River Pie is dedicated to supporting these family farms.

It is funny how at times I am reminded how closely my two businesses are related. When you are in the Antique Business and you get a call to look at something you go because you just never know.

The other day I was researching water front property and seeing what was available for list price under $550,000.00. Among others I came across this listing I just couldn't avoid going to see. One - I love the water and two - the price just seemed right. Built 2006, 3/4 bedroom, 3 full baths, salt water front in a sort after RI town with a list price under $540,000. I have to go look right?

When you live in New England you sometimes forget that this:

Turns into this:

And it is exactly why I start searching early for water front property for sale. If you refer back to my post Spring is in the Air I can Smell the Ocean I was letting you know then about the water front listings. There are a lot of great links providing a ton of information about Newport County. In that post I mention Bristol County and Massachusetts and they are both still on the list. My other post Coastal Village Newsmy be of interest to you also. This post mentions the new marina in Tiverton which is still on the way. Here is an update for those interested. Apparently Quality Yacht Services sold it to Trinity Marine Group of the Channel Islands for 8.6 million dollars.

Getting back to that water front property. When I saw the house I wanted to stay. It is in great condition. Hard wood and tile floors, whirl pool tub in the master bedroom with a deck overlooking the water, garage opening from both the drive way and water front, stucco/masonry exterior with trex decking, central a/c. Not to large not to small just right so there is plenty of time to enjoy summer. Need I say more? Whether you plan this home to be a vacation or full time property it has to be on your must see list.
If you start looking now maybe just maybe you can be in this home or another by the 4th of July.

Enjoying your morning coffee like this:

And enjoying a glass of wine after a long day of play like this:

Seriously, if you are looking for water front property this is probably the best time to buy. There are many choices and the prices are right. I have many picks on my list. Don't miss out on that water front property you always wanted to own. I am even seeing bank owned water front property and those are five words I never thought I would use in the same sentence. Call me at 401-369-1766 or e-mail me at lgtiv@aol.com. Lets got House Hunting 2009 for Water Front Property.

The sun is out and I am going to grab my book, sit by the water and enjoy the rest of my day.

Happy Memorial Day,

Lisa

It's that time a year again "The Brimfield Antique..." starts again in May. The first show date in 2009 is May 12-17. See the Brimfield General Info Page for the next show dates.

If you have plans to attend the Brimfield Shows when you are walking New England Motel be sure to stop by Booth 211.

If you are in search of decorative items this is the booth for you. Lovely inlaid tables, a wide variety of lighting, nice furnishings, and unique finds.

If your desire is Oak Furniture you really need to stop at the booth next to 211 which is probably 212 - 214 also New England Motel. There are some great pieces and ready for your home.

If you have never been to the Brimfield Shows and you find yourself looking for something to do it is an experience you will not forget. There are 21 independent venue/field owners with lots of vendors offering antique and unique merchandise for sale. If you are a collector you are almost guaranteed to find a treasure to add to your collection. If you are looking to furnish or shop for items for your home the selection couldn't get better. There are also lots of food vendors and the smell of kettle corn in the air.

If you find that perfect piece of furniture you have been looking for that is in need of repair or refinishing don't disregard the purchase you have options. Mark Faris (401) 624-0680 Furniture Restoration Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts does wonderful repair and refinish work. I am sure there are talented people in your area also.

If you do visit the Brimfield Shows stop by New England Motel and say hello to my friends. Put on your walking shoes and have fun shopping and treasure hunting.

There are sure tell tale signs that spring is coming. For the first time in months the pond isn't frozen, the temperature reached about 50 degrees and when I walked out the door I smelled the ocean. Other signs are telling me spring is right around the corner also.

A couple of weeks ago a friend of mine went clamming and gave me some of the bounty. He is a brave soul he even clams in the winter and it can get real cold. The clams were so sweet and delicious. I did have to share them with my dog. Crazy thing she loves clams and raw quahogs. Thank you my friend.

We also had our first claim boil of the season. Think we are trying to get this spring thing on or what? Have you ever had a clam boil? It is one of the best one pot meals going. Basically you get potatoes, onions, hot dogs, sausage, chourice, and clams (maybe if you have been really good you put in some lobsters). Layer in a pot in that basic order spice with garlic, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper add a little water in the bottom of the pan and let it boil til the hot dogs plump and the clams open.

One last sign for me is no matter how warm a day I still have the heat in car on high. Even when I think to myself: Wow, I'm a little warm I don't turn it down. I can't wait to hear everyone complaining about how hot it is. We New Englanders love to complain about the weather. Part of our charm I guess.

So Spring is sneaking up on us and Summer will be here in a flash so this post is all about salt waterfront living in Newport County Rhode Island. I know we are the smallest state in the Union but we are not as small as one might think and when it comes to seaside fun there is a lot of ground to cover.

The Towns of Newport County

Jamestown An Island Community in Narragansett Bay: Jamestown is a small island in the middle of Narragansett Bay. It is approximately 9 miles long and 1 mile wide. Wonderful ocean views and island scenery make this area a desirable summer vacation destination.

Little Compton Is a rural-farming community and home of the famous Rhode Island Red (a breed of fowl). There are currently 3 salt waterfront properties listed at prices from $650,000.00 - 7,900,000.00.

Middletown is known for it's exceptional beaches, diverse cultural heritage and outstanding quality of life. There are currently 4 salt waterfront properties listed at prices from $4,999,000.00 - 9,750,000.00

Newport The City by the Sea: watch the video There are currently 4 salt waterfront properties listed at prices from $1,499,00.00 - 9,900,000.00

Portsmouth a traditional New England coastal charm is allied with dynamic business attitudes. There are currently 24 salt waterfront properties listed at prices from $239,000.00 - 6,999,000.00 15 of which are listed under $600,000.00.

Tiverton in recent years has grown as a summer resort and residential area. There are 15 salt waterfront properties listed at prices from $450,000.00 - 2,750,000.00 4 of which are listed under $600,000.00.

Each of these coastal communities are entitled to their bragging rights. They offer some spectacular views while maintaining a cozy, country lifestyle. Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, or relaxing at one of the beautiful beaches reading a good book this is the place you want to be. Did I forget to mention the seafood? All I have to say is some of the BEST.

Check out the links in this post. There are some great photos, all the information you could want concerning each town. If you are planning a vacation to this part of Rhode Island the link for Newport County leads to a really nice web site with lodging, shopping, things to do, and events for each of these towns with the primary focus on Newport.

If you every wanted to live on the water front now is the time to be looking. Enjoy and discover Newport County Rhode Island. Next we will explore Bristol County Rhode Island salt water front living. Then on to Massachusetts.

TIVERTON, RI

There are a few things in life I am passionate about:

FOOD - I love good food and trying new recipes. I think we are lucky in this area to have such a variety when it comes to food. We have seafood, Portuguese, Italian, Polish, Greek, just to mention a few.

Small to Medium Size Business - I love to support small to medium size business. I have always had a great amount of respect for the owners of these businesses. Until you have one yourself you can't image the work it takes to keep a business running never mind the sleepless nights.

Music - There is nothing better than when you are driving and you hear all your favorite songs. I have a lot of them. Once somebody made me a tape (I know I'm dating myself) called Ooh, That's my Favorite Song.

Real Estate (saving the best for last) - I love looking at homes. Lately I have been noticing some really good prices. So not being able to hold back any longer I had to go look. For those of you who read my blogs it isn't a secret how I feel about Tiverton.

Here are my picks of the week:

2 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch -List Price $131,900.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 646
nice neighborhood, good size fenced in yard, up-dated kitchen, hardwood floors, full basement, deck, replacement windows, septic system installed in 2006. PENDING

3 Bedroom 1 Bath Raised Ranch - List Price $149,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 1208
large yard, fenced in above ground pool area, dead end street, hardwood floors, up-dated bathroom, replacement windows, additional living area below, 2 stall garage, really nice deck, needs some work - no boiler or hot water tank. SOLD

2 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $159,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 850
completely renovated, nice corner lot offering a great yard, parking for 4, hardwood & ceramic floors, new windows & roof, new stainless steel appliances. If you are looking for this size home this is a must see. PENDING

3 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $190,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 1384
nice large yard (Lot SF 17,178), vinyl siding, hardwood floors, nice lighting fixtures, makes you say Wow, I noticed painting going on. Should see soon. Once painting is done this house would merit a price increase. Just my opinion. PENDING

3 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $225,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 1232
I love when you walk through the door and you say nice! Hardwood floors, fireplace, bright dining area with sliding doors, nice size bedrooms, bathroom off one of the bedrooms, 1 car garage with lots of extra storage space, big very clean basement. Well cared for home. PENDING

Lets take a few more minutes to let you know about homes I drove by that I think you would be interested in seeing. I haven't seen the insides of these homes but if you are interested it could be arranged (if you are not currently in a contract with another agent). Of course you can see them but your agent would have to arrange the viewing.

2 Bedroom 1 Bath Cape Cod Style - List Price $144,900 - Above Grd Liv Area: 840 PENDING
2 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $189,900.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 748 Expired
3 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $201,900.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 944 SAME
2 Bedroom 1 Bath Cape Cod - List Price $218,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 910 SAME
3 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch - List Price $225,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 1216 PENDING
3 Bedroom 3 Bath Contemporary - List Price $225,000.00 - Above Grd Liv Area: 1650 Below Grd Living Area: 1100 - PENDING 2/3/09

So there you have it. Eleven homes priced $225,000.00 or less. I see you picking up those real estate books. If you want to view these properties or others and you are not in a contract or don't have a real estate agent call me at 401-369-1766 or e-mail at lgtiv@aol.com. I am always looking for properties for you.

Two Pending since I wrote this post.

Updated - 3/9/09

Updated - 3/25/09

There are many other great towns in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Which one should I explore next? Any requests?

Thank You,
Lisa Glowacki
Real Estate Broker RI & MA