MedfordHouse Blog

Will FiOS Be Coming to Medford in 2012? Sure Looks Like It

2012-01-08T19:44:00.000-05:00

(Medford, MA) I've been writing about Verizon FiOS and it's arrival here in Medford for several years now. Over the last few weeks I've been hearing more and more chatter that 2012 will be the year we finally get FiOS here. For many years Comcast has been our exclusive wire cable provider. Verizon at great expense has already wired much of the city and used some high tech methods to do it. Evidently negotiations between Verizon and the city had been at a stalemate. Tonite when I checked out the availability of FiOS for my neighborhood I didn't get the usual screens saying to check back and/or leave my info for further follow up when it does become available.

When I take the new web page availability along with the chatter I've heard from several different people I am really hoping that 2012 will be the year that FiOS makes it's debut here. Frequently in the past buyers have asked about FiOS availability in Medford when coming from other communities. Many take it as a sign of a communities affluence and desirability. Hopefully the increase in competition will also mean better value for the citizens of Medford along with increased options for business.

With over 22K households and the level of interest it should mean for quite a few hookups to be made. Should keep the Verizon crews busy for a while if even 10% of households sign up. It'll be another attractive feature our city has to offer and hopefully add to the value of our community as well as desirability compared to our neighboring communities.

Coats for Kids Collection Drive Continues After Christmas till Jan. 08 2012

2011-12-23T18:08:00.000-05:00

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Dear Coats for Kids collection partner –

Happy Holidays and thank you for your participation and extreme generosity in the 2011-2012 Coats for Kids collection drive. We have two full weeks from Christmas day left in this year’s drive. Anton’s will be collecting coats until Sunday, January 8^th, 2012.

Please encourage your families, friends, and co-workers to donate especially if they receive a new coat for Christmas. Typically donations increase after the holidays as people receive new coats for gifts. If Santa brings you a new coat under your tree, consider donating your old one to any 43 Anton’s locations.

As you celebrate with your family, please remember others that are in need this holiday season. The demand for coats is extremely high this year and you are helping reach our goal of 60,000 coats by continuing and pushing your organization to collect gently used or new winter coats of all sizes - for kids, men and women.

Please see more information on the drive below. If you have any additional questions please call me at 617-776-5800 or email me at abradley@fuseideas.com. Thank you again for helping keep someone warm this winter and making it possible to serve our continued mission “everyone who needs a coat will have one”.

Keep up the great work and collections! Warm wishes for a Happy Holiday!

All the best,
Aidan

Aidan S. Bradley

Director of Public Relations
Fuseideas
P: 617.776.5800

C: 508.365.8386
abradley@fuseideas.com

Track Santa via NORAD 2011

2011-12-23T17:31:00.000-05:00

Image by Doblonaut via Flickr

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Track Santa for Christmas via NORAD www.noradsanta.org also new this year featuring iTunes/Apple and Android Apps for your mobile device.

Medford MA Comprehensive Recycling Guide 2012

2011-12-08T15:18:00.001-05:00

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(Medford, MA) The city of Medford MA along with Waste Management have produced a very thorough and detailed guide to recycling for the 2012 year. It also contains the benefits the program has so far produced for the city. It's downloadable from the city website www.Medford.org or direct link here . It really describes the program very well and in alot of detail along with other programs on yard waste and holiday collections as well. One part of the program that is overlooked by many is the use of overflow bags available for $9.99 for 5 bags. These special trash bags can be picked up at Medford City Hall or at stores located in Medford. This helps out alot of people who occasionally overflow their barrel rather than renting a whole second barrel. Kudos on the guide, it answers alot of questions that many have had.

Sellers Tips to Sell Your Property (3 of 3)

2011-11-23T12:39:00.001-05:00

Image by debomb1 via Flickr

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16. Learn Why Your Buyer is Motivated
The better you know your buyers, the better you can use the negotiation process to your advantage. This allows you to control the pace and duration of the process. As a rule, buyers are looking to purchase the best affordable property for the least amount of money. Knowing what motivates them enables you to negotiate more effectively. For example, does your buyer need to move quickly? Armed with this information you are in a better position to bargain.

17. What the Buyer Can Really Pay
As soon as possible, try to learn the amount of mortgage the buyer is qualified to carry and how much his/her/their down payment is. If their offer is low, ask their Realtor about the buyers ability to pay what your home is worth.

18. When the Buyer Would Like to Close
Quite often, when buyers would "like" to close is when they NEED to close. Knowledge of their deadlines for completing negotionations again creates a negotiating advantage for you.

19. Never Sign a deal on Your Next Home Until You Sell Your Current Home
Beware of closing on your new home while you're still making mortgage payments on the old one or you might end up becoming a seller who is eager (or even desperate) for the first deal that comes along.

20. Moving Out Before You Sell Can Put You at a Disadvantage
It has been proven that it's more difficult to sell a home that is vacant because it becomes forlorn and looking forgotten, no longer an appealing sight. Buyers start getting the message that you have another home and are probably motivated to sell. This could cost you thousand of dollars.

21. Deadlines Create A Serious Disadvantage
Don't try to sell by a certain date. This adds unnecessary pressure and is a serious disadvantage in negotiations.

22. A Low Offer - Don't take it Personally
Invariably the initial offer is below what both you and the buyer knows they'll pay for your property. DON'T BE UPSET, EVALUATE THE OFFER OBJECTIVELY. Ensure it spells out the offering price, sufficient deposit, amount of down payment, mortgage amount, a closing date and any special requests. This can simply provide a staring point from which you can negotiate.

23. Turn That Low Offer Around
You can counter a low offer or end an offer that's jut under your asking price. This lets the buyer know that the first offer wasn't seen as a serious one. Now you'll be negotiationg with the buyers with serious offers.

24. Maybe the Buyer's Not Qualified
If you feel an offer is inadequate, now is the time to make sure the buyer is qualified to carry the size of mortgage the deal requires. Inquire how they arrived at their figure and suggest they compare your price to the prices of homes for sale in your neighborhood.

25. Ensure the Contract is Complete
To avoid problems, ensure tat all terms, costs and responsibilities are spelled out in the contract & purchase and sales agreement to be negotiated later. It should include such items as the date it was made, names of parties involved, address of property being sold, purchase price, where deposit monies will be held in escrow, date for loan approval, date and place of closing, type of deed, including any contingencies that remain to be settled and what personal property is included (or not) in the sale.

26. Resist Deviating From the Contract
For example, if the buyers requests a move-in prior o closing, JUST SAY NO. Tell them that you've been advised against it. Now is not the time to take any chances of the deal falling through. Seek the advice of your real estate professional AND your attorney for any changes to be made or deviations from the agreed upon contract.

Seller Tips to Sell Your Property (2 of 3)

2011-11-21T12:48:00.001-05:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

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7. Deciding Upon a Realtor
According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 2/3 of the people surveyed who sell their own homes say they wouldn't do it again themselves. Primary reasons included setting a price, marketing handicaps, liability concerns and time constraints. When deciding upon a Realtor, consider two or three. Be as wary of quotes that are too low as those that are too high.

Evaluate each candidate carefully on the basis of their experience, qualifications, enthusiasm and personality. Be sure you choose someone that you can trust. Make sure you feel confident that they will do a good job on your behalf.

If you choose to sell on your own, you can still talk to a Realtor. Many are more than willing to help do-it-yourselfers with paperwork, contracts, etc. and should problems arise, you now have someone you can readily call upon.

8. Ensure You Have Room to Negotiate
Before settling on your asking price make sure you leave yourself enough room in which to bargain. For example, set your lowest and highest selling price. Then check your priorities to know if you'll price high to maximize your profit or price closer to market value if you want to sell quickly.

9. Appearances Do Matter - Make the Right First Impression
Appearance is so critical that is would be unwise to ignore this when selling your home. The look and "feel" of your home will generate a greater emotional response than any other factor. Prospective buyers react to what they see, hear, feel and SMELL even though you may have priced your home to sell. Consider professional services such as landscapers, home stagers and cleaning services to make sure your home shows to the best possible potential. Have your local and trusted handyman/general contractor address any items that might need some attention prior to marketing the property. Deferred maintenance is a prime item that buyers pick up on.

10. Invite the Honest Opinion of Others
The biggest mistake you can make at this point is to rel solely on your own judgement. Don't be shy about seeking the honest opinions of others. You need to be objective about your home's good points as well as bad. Fortunately, your Realtor will be unabashed about discussing what should be done to make your home more marketable.

11. Allow Prospective Buyers to Visualize Themselves in Your Home
The last thing you want prospective buyers to feel when viewing your home is that thy may be intruding into someones life. Avoid clutter such as too many knick-knacks etc. Decorate in neutral colors, like white or beige and place a few carefully chosen items to add warmth and character. You can enhance the attractiveness of your home with a well-placed vase of flowers or potpourri in the bathroom. Home-decor magazines are great for tips. www.HGTV.com has great resources for this.

12. Deal Killer Odors - Must Go
You may not realize this but odd smells like traces of food, pets and smoking odors can kill deals quickly. If prospective buyers know you have a dog or that you smoke, they'll start being aware of odors and seeing stains that may not even exist. Don't leave any clues. Keep a consistent smell throughout the your property so competing smells don't overpower or conflict and make for a less than pleasant home viewing experience.

13. Be a Smart Seller - Disclose Everything
Smart sellers are proactive in disclosing all known defects to heir buyers. This can reduce liability and prevent law suits later on. Consult with your Realtor AND real estate attorney as to how to best address this in compliance with local laws and expectations. Many homeowners are not fully qualified to properly answer and fill out a property disclosure statement. Your attorney can best advise you on these issues due to very specific liabilities that can be established.

14. It's Better With More Prospects
When you maximize your home's marketability, you will most likely attract more than one prospective buyer. It's much better to have several buyers because they will compete with each other, a single buyer will end up competing with you.

15. Keep Emotions in Check During Negotiations
Let go of the emotions you've invested in your home. Be detached, using a business-like manner in your negotiations. You'll definitely have an advantage over those who get caught up emotionally in the situation.

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

Seller Tips To Sell Your Poperty (Part 1 of 3)

2011-11-16T13:55:00.001-05:00

Image by nunodantas via Flickr

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Your home may be your biggest asset. Selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. The following tips are good items to keep in mind through the selling process.

1. Understand Why You Are Selling Your Home
Do you need to sell quickly or have the ability to wait out for the highest price? How you stratgetize your selling plan will need to adjust to your timeline, finances and also work around where you may be moving to and those timelines.

2. Keep the Reasons You Are Selling To Yourself
The reasons you are selling your property will affect the way you negotiate it's sale. By keeping this to yourself you don't provide leverage to your prospective buyers. For example, should they learn that you must move quickly due to work, death, divorce, family growth etc. you could be placed at a disadvantage in the negotiation process. When asked, simply say that your housing needs have changed. Remember the reasons you are selling is only for you to know.

3. Before Setting A Price - Do Your Homework
When you set your price, you make buyers aware of the absolute maximum they have to pay for your home. As a seller, you will want to get a selling price as close to the list price as possible. If you start out by pricing too high, you run the risk of not being taken seriously by buyers and their agents and pricing too low can result in selling for much less than you were hoping for.

Setting Your Home's Sale Price

a) If You Live In A Subdivision - if your home is comprised of similar or identical floor plans, built n the same period, simply look at recent sales in your neighborhood subdivision to give you a good idea of what your home is worth. You can compare price per sq./ft and then also factor in items like views, parking or additional features your property has or doesn't have.

b)If you Live in An Older Neighborhood - As neighborhoods change over time each home may be different in minor or substantial ways. Because of this you will probably find that there aren't many homes truly comparable to your own. In this case you may want to consider seeking a Realtor to help you with the pricing process.

c) If You Decide to Sell On Your OWN _ A good way to establish a value is to look at homes that have sold in your neighborhood within the past 6 months, including those now on the market. This is how prospective buyers will assess the worth of your home. For most comunities, a trip to City Hall can provide you with home sale information from the public records.

4. Do Some "Home Shopping" Yourself
The best way to learn about your competition and discover what turns buyers off is to check out other open houses. Note floor plans, condition, appearance, size of the lot, location and other features. Particularly note not only the asking prices but what they are actually selling for. Remember, if you're serious about getting your home sold fast, don't price it higher than your neighbors.

5. When Getting an Appraisal is a Benefit
Sometimes a good appraisal can be a benefit in marketing your home. Getting an appraisal is a good way to let prospective buyers know that your home can be financed. However, an appraisal does cost money, has a limited life and there's no guarantee you'll like the figure you hear.

6. Tax Assessments - What they Really Mean
Some people think that tax assessments or condo assessments are a way of evaluating a home. The difficulty here is that are assessments are based on a number of criteria that may not be related to property values, so they may not necessarily reflect your home's true value.

3 Things You Must Know Before Buying - Mortgages

2011-11-14T15:31:00.001-05:00

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Mortgage regulations have changed significantly over the last couple years. Often narrowing options available to many would be home buyers. Even small differences in the way you structure your mortgage can literally cost or save you thousands of dollars and years of expenses.

1. You can and should get pre-approved PRIOR to going looking for a home.
Pre-approval is easy and can give you a much better idea of what you can reasonably afford in today's market. You should consult with your local credit union or banking institution which you have an established history with or work directly with a mortgage professional. Ask friends, family, colleagues for the name of a trusted mortgage professional they've worked with recently and been pleased with. This is the ultimate thank you to them and also a great incentive for them to work extra diligently on your behalf.

2. Know what monthly dollar amount you feel comfortable committing to.
You and your mortgage professional can work out what you're eligible to borrow but this may not be what you are comfortable with paying every month. You need to work on a 1, 3, 5 and even 10 year plan for your outlook as far as employment, social obligations, family needs might be and look at what is considered comfortable with you as far as payments will be and what plans are available to you given your situation.

3. Make sure you understand what prepayment privileges and payment frequency options are available to you.
More frequent payments (weekly, bi-weekly) can literally shave years off your mortgage. Some programs will also set up direct deposit/withdrawals for you. Depending on your finances and comfortability this could potentially add up to an extra payment each year cutting down the principal amount quicker with some programs.

Discuss these topics with your mortgage professional, also ask if they have local & recent experience and the number of transactions they regularly work with. Ask about types and methods of contact, frequency etc. This is going to be someone that will be part of your "team" to assist you in your search and purchase of your property. Make sure you feel absolutely comfortable with them and their methods of operation. Research them and the companies they work for and with. The internet has a wealth of information along with the Division of Banks here in Massachusetts and the Better Business Bureau. You can also check their licences now that mortgage professionals are licenced by the state at the Division of Professional Licencing via the state website www.Mass.gov.

Medford, MA Yard Waste Recycling Schedule - Hope it lasts long enough

2011-11-04T21:06:00.002-04:00

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(Medford, MA) The City of Medford, MA will be doing yard waste recycling & collection on the following weeks. It can be found here on the City of Medford's website here. In recent years though I'm finding that the leaves aren't falling completely off the trees until early to mid December. Hopefully we'll either be lucky this year or that Waste Management and The City will accomodate the late leaf fall. Here at my house we routinely have 60+ bags of leaves to be picked up during this season. Not easy to schedule the raking of the leaves to coincide with the pick up schedule especially if the pick up day is rainy and don't want to make a mess of the streets.

I'm quite glad that the city collects all the yard waste they do and they generally do a great job of it, just wish that there were a few extra days/weeks for the program, especially with the new curbside recycling program that we're part of.

Medford Street Sweeping Schedule Fall 2011

2011-11-04T20:57:00.001-04:00

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(Medford, MA) The fall 2011 street sweeping schedule has been posted on the City of Medford website here. Residents are reminded when there is street sweeping going on that street parking will be restricted. It will be running from November 9th till the end of the month.

November 09, 2011 Nation Wide Test of Emergency Alert System

2011-11-04T09:43:00.001-04:00

(United States) On Wednesday November 09, 2011 there will be a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (Emergency Broadcast System as it used to be known as). It will occur at 1900 GMT, that's 2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. Make sure to share this with friends, family and colleagues so they won't be unduly alarmed when it occurs.

"The test is part of the Emergency Alert System designed to transmit, via TV and radio, emergency alerts and warnings regarding weather threats, child abductions and other types of emergencies, according to officials."

Some emergency operators and safety officials have expressed concern that uninformed people may confuse the test and flood 911 call centers with calls or have other unintended consequences of their panic. Local and statewide tests occur on a regular basis but this is the first time ever that the system has been tested nationwide.

Daylight Savings Time Changes 10/6/2011 - Alert Change Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

2011-11-03T12:36:00.000-04:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

(Massachusetts) Daylight savings time ends this weekend on November 06, 2011. Make sure you adjust your alarm clocks. Most everyone's mobile phones, devices and computers will automatically adjust for this but make sure you're updated.

With the change of the season it's also important to take this opportunity to change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. It's especially vital here in the north east part of the USA to change the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors with the home heating season coming into full effect. Make sure to check on sick and elderly friends, family and collegues that their detectors are up to date and functioning properly. With the design of some homes with especially high ceilings you should even consult with an alarm contractor or home repair contractor to work with ladders to change the detectors and/or their batteries. If a system or detector is chirping it's usually a sign that the battery needs replacing. Contact your local fire department to make sure you are properly covered by the needed detectors. Also with Christmas coming up make extra sure you have the appropriate fire extinguishers in case of fire and check kitchen fire extinguishers for being up to date.

Furniture Drive - Masschusetts Coalition for the Homeless

2011-11-01T12:21:00.000-04:00

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(Massachusetts)

The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless needs your help!

GBAR (Greater Boston Association of Realtors) is running a furniture drive from November 7-10 to collect furniture to donate to families transitioning from homelessness into permanent housing. Please contact Olympia Moving and Storage to schedule a truck pickup by sending an email to mahomeless@olympiamoving.com or contact Mark McEwen at 617-231-1204 to schedule an appointment.

You may also contact Anastasia Prapas at aprapas@kw.com or 774-264-0155 with any questions.

You may also drop off items at Olympia Moving & Storage, 17 Bridge Street, Watertown, MA

**All items must be clean and in usable condition. No rips or tears. GBAR reserves the right to refuse unsuitable items. The deadline for pickup requests is Friday, November 4th.**

Medford MA Drug Take Back Initiative 10/29/2011

2011-10-28T17:41:00.000-04:00

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(Medford, MA) Drug Take Back Initiative - Captain Barry Clemente of the Medford Police Department with a reminder. The Medford Police Department and the City of Medford's Board of Health will be sponsoring a National Drug Take Back Initiative at Medford City Hall tomorrow, Saturday, October 29th from 10AM to 2PM. This is part of a nationwide effort to take back prescription drugs. Residents will be able to turn in any unused or expired medication for safe disposal. This includes any pills, tablets, capsules, cough medicines, and any other medications. This service is free and anonymous for residents. More information on this program is available at www.dea.gov. Contact Medford Police Department at http://medfordpolice.com/ with any questions.

Medford, MA Flu Clinic 10/20/2011

2011-10-18T16:28:00.000-04:00

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(Medford, MA) Hello, This is Captain Barry Clemente of the Medford Police Department with an informational message. Medford's Board of Health will be hosting a Flu Shot Clinic for the citizens of Medford. The clinic will be held on Thursday, October 20th from 4PM to 7PM at the Medford City Hall Council Chambers. Anyone wishing to attend should bring their insurance cards and wear short sleeve shirts.

MassPro also has a list of flu clinics and how to locate them, they can be found at: http://flu.masspro.org/clinic/

BlackBerry Service Outages

2011-10-13T18:41:00.000-04:00

Image via CrunchBase

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Those of us that use Black Berry services were hit in the US with an outage last nite Wednesday, October 12th, from around 5pm until around 9am today October 13th, 2011. Black Berry had been having service issues since Monday October 10th in Europe &Aftican markets totalling around 3 days of outages there. Co-CEO Mike Lazaridis made a YouTube Video expressing the sorry by the company and discussing the issues involved around the outage. The video can be found here . This outage of close to 3/4's of Black Berry users comes on the eve of Apple's launch of their new iPhone 4s. Black Berry (RIM) has been fighting to maintain their 3rd place market position behind Android devices and the market leader Apple's iPhones. Today they even had an investor/press event online where they addressed and answered questions regarding the outage, causality and methods/events that led up to the outage and what will be going on in the ensuing days regarding customer satisfacton and quality assurances.

Black Berry (RIM) last had a major outage of their services aproximately 3 years ago and have typically been very tight lipped on details of these events. Today marks a shift from previous corporate culture in openly addressing and reaching out to discuss what had happened, what steps are being taken and how this can be possibly avoided in the future. Shares of RIM traded down today .15 or .62% in market trading.

Local Company Profile - 360Shine.com

2011-10-13T14:45:00.001-04:00

Image by Hadleygrass is asparagus via Flickr

Local Company Profile

Company Name & People Involved

360Shine.com

Marcelle Burns & Jerry Chu

How Long In Business

www.360Shine.com is a new cleaning business for 2011. Partners have over ten years of experience.

Type of Business

Professional Cleaning Service for Residential and Commercial Properties.

Location of Business

Revere, MA

Hours of Operation

7 Days a Week

Business Ideas or Ethic

360Shine your place around. We take pride in our service providing

our clients with more than just a cleaning service. We save you time, money

and energy cleaning your place for a happier, healthier, and more productive environment.

How does your business differ from others

We believe in quality not quantity.

What type of customers/clients do you serve

All

What areas do you serve

Boston Areas, surrounding towns North and South Shore

Any special offers or promotions

Visit www.360Shine.com for promotions.

Marcelle Burns & Jerry Chu
www.360Shine.com
Residential & Commercial Cleaning
339-532-79-41 - Marcelle
617-297-8210 - Jerry
781-210-0260 Fax
360Shine@gmail.com

Disclosure: This company is neither a paying advertiser or compensating MedfordHouseBlog.com it's authors or creators. No funds/compensation or offers of future benefit have been made or promised. MedfordHouseBlog makes no representations or holds a position in relation to the company above. Consumers are advised to review and research any and all claims or offers.

Preparing Your Home for Winter Provided By J. Murray and Sons Construction

2011-10-10T16:58:00.002-04:00

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Preparing Your Home for Winter

NOW is the time! Not when it looks like this!

1) Furnace Inspection

Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace and clean ducts.
Stock up on furnace filters and change them monthly.
Consider switching out your thermostat for a programmable thermostat.
If your home is heated by a hot-water radiator, bleed the valves by opening them slightly and when water appears, close them.
Remove all flammable material from the area surrounding your furnace.

2) Get the Fireplace Ready

Cap or screen the top of the chimney to keep out rodents and birds.
If the chimney hasn't been cleaned for a while, call a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote.
Buy firewood or chop wood. Store it in a dry place away from the exterior of your home.
Inspect the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing.
Check the mortar between bricks and tuck-point, if necessary.

3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows

Inspect exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes; seal them.
Use weatherstripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home and caulk windows.
Replace cracked glass in windows and, if you end up replacing the entire window, prime and paint exposed wood.
If your home has a basement, consider protecting its window wells by covering them with plastic shields.
Switch out summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them.

4) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

When the temperature falls below 32 degrees, adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof and causing ice dams.
Check flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home.
Replace worn roof shingles or tiles.
Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris.
Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the home.

5) Service Weather-Specific Equipment

Drain gas from lawnmowers.
Service or tune-up snow blowers.
Replace worn rakes and snow shovels.
Clean, dry and store summer gardening equipment.
Sharpen ice choppers and buy bags of ice-melt / sand.

6) Check Foundations

Rake away all debris and edible vegetation from the foundation.
Seal up entry points to keep small animals from crawling under the house.
Tuck-point or seal foundation cracks. Mice can slip through space as thin as a dime.
Inspect sill plates for dry rot or pest infestation.
Secure crawlspace entrances.

7) Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Some cities require a smoke detector in every room.
Buy extra smoke detector batteries and change them when daylight savings ends.
Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and / or water heater.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work.
Buy a fire extinguisher or replace an extinguisher older than 10 years.

8) Prevent Plumbing Freezes

Locate your water main in the event you need to shut it off in an emergency.
Drain all garden hoses.
Insulate exposed plumbing pipes.
Drain air conditioner pipes and, if your AC has a water shut-off valve, turn it off.
If you go on vacation, leave the heat on, set to at least 55 degrees.

9) Prepare Landscaping & Outdoor Surfaces

Trim trees if branches hang too close to the house or electrical wires.
Ask a gardener when your trees should be pruned to prevent winter injury.
Plant spring flower bulbs and lift bulbs that cannot winter over such as dahlias in areas where the ground freezes.
Seal driveways, brick patios and wood decks.
Don't automatically remove dead vegetation from gardens as some provide attractive scenery in an otherwise dreary, snow-drenched yard.
Move sensitive potted plants indoors or to a sheltered area.

If you need any help with these projects please call at 617-625-9015 or email us.

J. Murray and Sons Construction

114 Broadway

Somerville, MA 02145

Phone: 617-625-9015

Office: 617-440-5115

Fax: 617-625-9335

Weekly Mortgage Market Update Provided by Virna Brown of Guaranteed Rate

2011-10-10T10:33:00.000-04:00

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This Week: today the bond and mortgage markets are closed for Columbus Day but the rest of the markets are open. Over the weekend France and Germany announced they would re-capitalize Europe's banks in a major move to fend of Greek default, or at least put it off a while longer. On the news Europe's stock markets rallied and the US stock indexes also improved. Interest rates in Europe are about 3 to 5 basis points higher in yields, if our bond market was open today the 10 yr and mortgages would be starting the day lower in prices and higher in rates.

This week Treasury will auction $66B in notes and bonds; Tuesday $32B of 3 yr notes, Wednesday $21B of 10 yr notes and Thursday $13B of 30 yr bonds. Economic data is skimpy; weekly claims on Thursday of course, Friday Sept retail sales and the U. of Michigan consumer sentiment index are about it. Focus will continue to be on how Europe progresses with the debt mess. As noted, over the weekend some positive news but no real details; over the past year we have been here before a number of times only to witness one failure after another.

Last week the bond and mortgage markets broke some critical technical support levels, unless the rate markets find footing at the present levels the near outlook is becoming more negative. The markets still carry huge volatility however. Europe will dictate the direction in US equities and bonds. Recently analysts are forecasting better economic outlooks for Q3 and Q4 with some now forecasting +2.5% GDP in Q3 and +3.0% in Q4. We don't believe the economy will improve that much but the optimism in the markets is increasing.

Virna Brown
Guaranteed Rate
Office 508-369-6988
Email virnabrown@gmail.com
Website www.guaranteedrate.com/virnabrown

National Fire Prevention Week 2011 - Oct. 9th - 16th

2011-10-06T10:06:00.001-04:00

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Fire Prevention Week is next week, October 9th - 16th, 2011. During this week everyone is asked to pay attention to fire & fire related safety issues in and around their lives. With the change of seasons upon us and the home heating season starting it's especially important for all to check the batteries in their smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and to also check their fire extinguishers. Other items to remain aware of is to make sure exits are clear of debris and working properly. Make sure to check on elderly and infirm friends and relatives as well. Your local fire department is also a great resource for information and inspection to make sure you and your living situation is in compliance and safe. They'd rather come out to assist you with making sure your home is safe rather than responding to a fire.

Also families with children should make sure to develop an emergency plan so children will know and understand what to do if there is an emergency. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) has a great site with resources on how to discuss and deal with childrens questions and concerns. Their link is Fire Prevention Week .

Here's to another year of safety & awareness for all

Bedding Drive Against Domestic Violence

2011-10-01T12:27:00.000-04:00

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(Boston, MA) Saturday, October 1 at 3:30am - October 8 at 6:30am

Drop Off Locations: Mattapan Library 1350 Blue Hill Avenue, Mattapan MA

Contact:

Doreen Wade

More Info	Drop Off Times: Mon, Wed Thurs 10:00 - 6:00p.m Tuesday 12:00 - 8:00p.m., Fri and Sat 9:00- 5:00 No Sunday drop offs For more info: call 617-803-8357

Drop off a new twin or full sized sheet/pillow all will benefit Elizabeth Stone House Crisis Shelter of Boston

Massachusetts Insurance and Heating Laws Changing September 30, 2011

2011-09-29T12:27:00.000-04:00

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(Massachusetts) Tomorrow Friday September 30th, 2011 there are some major changes coming for homeowners who use fuel oil to heat their homes. Due to the risk to health and public safety the state enacted new law Chapter 453 of the Acts of 2008, as most recently amended in 2010 to address the potential hazards that a fuel oil leak can cause.

Home heating oil is a common heating source here in New England. The new law requires that backflow valves be installed on tanks and/or the fuel lines be encased in a protective sleeve. Typical costs are quoted by the state as $150 - $350 (including labor, parts, and local permit fees). Homeowners of single family and 1-4 unit multi-family properties are encouraged to have their fuel supplier and/or licenced heating contractor inspect their systems to make sure they are in compliance.

Due to the large financial and health costs associated with a fuel oil leak there are also changes to the insurance laws covering homes with fuel oil heating systems. Coverages for localized leaks (smaller) and for external contamination leaks have been addressed. Due to the expense of these issues it's recommended that homeowners check with their insurance professional to make sure they are properly covered and meet the minimum requirements for coverage.

The state has a great informational page for homeowners to read further on these issues Here. It also has additional resources and links to approved contractors as wel as further links to other items to consider & review.

Major Mortgage Lender Looking to Cut 40K Jobs

2011-09-09T10:32:00.000-04:00

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Bank of America (BoA) is looking to cut up to 40,000 jobs over the next several years to work towards higher profits.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/BofA-discussing-about-40000-rb-1925484752.html?x=0&sec=topStories&pos=2&asset=&ccode=

BoA is one of the largest holders/servicers of US mortgage is reporting considering cutting an additional 40,000 jobs to address loss of profits for the last several financial quaters that resulted in losses. Currently handling aproximately US$1 Trillion of problem mortgages the financial giant is looking to add to the workload that they currently are having problems dealing with.

In my opinion BoA needs to be hiring MORE people to handle the current workload of problem mortgages, enhance their customer service and timeliness of their processing of these mortgages. They made or took on these obligations and need to properly address these difficulties and letting go workers is not the way to improve the current situation which fustrates and maddens current homeowners.

In the current financial situation of BoA the search to return to profitablity is understandable but cutting the workforce that is having to handle all the problem mortgages is not the answer. It'll be interesting to see how the market & public respond to this idea and how it will effect the current mortgage situation.

Massachusetts | US EPA - Water Quality Info & Resources

2011-09-01T12:40:00.000-04:00

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Massachusetts | States | US EPA: Water Quality Info and Resources

(Medford, MA) Water quality is an increasingly important issue for homeowners, sellers and buyers. The EPA and State of Massachusetts has a wealth of information on water quality topics. Especially important for homes using well water or sources that use underground storage sources.

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Medford Lions Club Summer Auto Show - Saturday August 27th, 2011

2011-08-25T17:05:00.000-04:00

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(Medford, MA) Medford Lions Club Summer Auto Show
August 27th, 2011 10am-3pm
Medford City Hall Parking Lot

www.MedfordLions.com

All are invited to come down & see some gorgeous cars, motorcycles and more. The Lions Club Eyemobile will also be here.

Contact Club President Steve Dalrymple at 617-628-6251 to register your vehicle or Club Vice President Sharon Deyeso at 781-572-5130 for furhter details.

Visitors are encouraged to patronize the local Medford Square businesses for food & refreshments. All are welcomed, you can also donate used/old eyeglasses at the event to benefit the less fortunate with the gift of sight.

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Preparing Your Home for Winter Provided By J. Murray and Sons Construction

Preparing Your Home for Winter

1) Furnace Inspection

2) Get the Fireplace Ready

3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows

4) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

5) Service Weather-Specific Equipment

6) Check Foundations

7) Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

8) Prevent Plumbing Freezes

9) Prepare Landscaping & Outdoor Surfaces

Weekly Mortgage Market Update Provided by Virna Brown of Guaranteed Rate

National Fire Prevention Week 2011 - Oct. 9th - 16th

Bedding Drive Against Domestic Violence

Massachusetts Insurance and Heating Laws Changing September 30, 2011

Major Mortgage Lender Looking to Cut 40K Jobs

Massachusetts | US EPA - Water Quality Info & Resources

Medford Lions Club Summer Auto Show - Saturday August 27th, 2011