1 – Three Generations Under One Roof

Why we renovated - and the moment that made it all worth it

This summer, my daughter Larisa and her family made the trip all the way from New Zealand to spend July with us at the lake cottage. And for the first time since the renovation was complete, all three of my children were here with their families - three generations, all together. Me, the three adult kids, and five grandchildren, in a place that has been special to our family and now, we know, will stand for at least another hundred years.

Larisa's two boys simply can't get enough time on the water when they are here. Between fishing, swimming, and kayaking, they made the most of every moment. They live by the ocean in New Zealand, but being on a lake is a completely different experience - and one they clearly love!

And shortly after they arrived, we had that first big family dinner - all three of my children with their families, everyone together, reminiscing, laughing, and letting the newest generation have their cousin time. It was one of those moments you hold onto. It was the moment I realized exactly why we did all of this. Doesn't get better than that.

2 – When You Didn't Know You Needed It

The importance of date-of-death appraisals for estates

This summer, I found myself doing a lot of work that doesn't always make it into a newsletter - but probably should. Date-of-death appraisals.

When a spouse or parent passes away, it's important to establish an opinion of the real estate's value at the time of death for tax purposes. It's something most people don't realize they need until they're already in the process of closing out an estate. And it's especially important if the surviving spouse is still living in the home - it can significantly help minimize capital gains taxes when that home is eventually sold.

It's not the most pleasant conversation to have. But it's one of the most genuinely helpful things I can do for someone during one of the hardest times in their life. Being a trusted resource in those moments - that's the most rewarding part of this work.

If you or someone you know is navigating an estate and hasn't thought about this, please don't hesitate to reach out. It's a conversation worth having.

3 – Maine Life, Lobster Boats & A Great Afternoon on the Water

A shoutout to some amazing partners

Harcourts Waterfront & Fine Properties has been a proud sponsor of Maine Life Media for several years - a show that beautifully highlights the Maine lifestyle. This summer, we had the great fortune of filming our newest commercial spot, and we got to work with the incredibly talented Johnny Mehler of Good Eye Productions. Johnny did a fabulous job capturing everything that makes Maine so special.

And here's where it gets really fun - our real estate client also runs The Back and Forth, a lobster boat touring business out of Belfast. They generously offered their boat for the shoot, which meant Johnny got some stunning waterfront footage, the crew was amazing, and our team had an absolutely unforgettable afternoon on the water. We also learned a LOT about lobsters!

If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind Maine experience, we highly recommend a cruise with The Back and Forth. You can learn more here: The Back and Forth. And check out the work of Good Eye Productions and our friends at Maine Life Media.

4 – Maine's Market Wakes Up for Fall

After a quiet summer, signs of life are emerging

The July and August market was, as expected, pretty flat. With people on vacation and broader economic uncertainty in the mix, things were quiet. But that's changing.

September has brought a noticeable pickup in activity - both sellers who are newly motivated to list and buyers who are re-engaging after a summer pause. Recent data confirms what we're seeing: September and October offer a valuable window for Maine homeowners to reach active buyers before the holidays and winter set in. Inventory has been improving, and while the market is becoming more balanced, well-priced and well-positioned properties are still moving.

For buyers, this fall window may offer more options and some negotiating room compared to the competitive spring market. For sellers, the key remains the same as ever: right pricing and compelling presentation from day one.

If you've been thinking about making a move this fall, now is a great time to start the conversation.