Monday, December 22, 2008

Seasons Greetings

Seasons Greetings


I hope this finds you well and enjoying the festive season.

Best wishes and good luck for 2009

Regards

Stella

In an attempt to keep "Green" this year, I have decided that I will send my Season's Greetings via email and my blog.






- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Pictures speak a thousand words!



This is a board that Euan has made.

The top Chinese characters mean Father and Son and the bottom is the Chinese character for Marriage.

Thanks Melissa for taking a great photo!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

An interesting article from the NY Times for First Time Buyers

Click here to see the article or just keep reading!

It May Be Time to Think About Buying a House
Five or 10 years from now, when the financial crisis has ended and housing prices are up smartly once more, we will look in the rearview mirror and realize that we missed a golden age for first-time home buyers.
Then, everyone who sat on their down payment savings accounts for a few years too long will kick themselves for not taking advantage of what may turn out to be the buying opportunity of a lifetime for those who can qualify for a mortgage.
Unfortunately, we do not know when this golden age will begin, because we will be able to identify a bottom to the housing market only with the benefit of hindsight. But as it does with the stock market, the moment will probably arrive when everyone is feeling the most pessimistic.
That moment is certainly getting closer. Housing prices have fallen drastically from their peak levels in many areas of the country. Rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages are already close to 5.5 percent, and this week there were suggestions that the federal government might try to drive them down to 4.5 percent, a truly incredible figure to be able to lock in for three decades.
Meanwhile, first-time home buyers have the same advantage they have always had, which is that they do not have to sell their old place before buying a new one. That is an added advantage in areas where many available houses simply are not moving, because the people trying to sell them will not be bidding against you.
If you’re hoping for a recovery in the housing market, you ought to be cheering on the first-time home buyers. When they purchase homes, their sellers are free to move on or move up, stimulating further sales.
But if you are a potential first-time buyer yourself, or lending or giving the down payment to one, you are probably as frightened as you are tempted by all the “For Sale” signs that have become “On Sale” signs. So let’s quickly review some of the still-grim pricing data in certain areas — and consider the reasoning offered up by first-time buyers who have forged ahead anyhow.
As is always the case with real estate, much depends on location. One study, “The Changing Prospects for Building Home Equity,” tries to predict where today’s first-time buyers in the 100 biggest metropolitan areas may actually have less home equity by 2012 as a result of continued price declines. The verdict was that buyers in 33 of the markets could see a decline by 2012, including potential six-figure drops on an average home in the New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle metropolitan areas.
This is obviously scary. (I’ve linked to the study, a joint effort of the Center for Economic and Policy Research and the National Low Income Housing Coalition, from the version of this article at nytimes.com/yourmoney.) It’s worth noting, however, that these predictions came before the government made its most recent move to reduce borrowing costs.
Also, the price projections in the study are based, in part, on the fact that the ratio of purchase prices to annual rents is still higher in many areas than the historical average, which is roughly 15 times rents. While past figures may well have some predictive value, I have never been convinced that first-time buyers compare a home that they could own and one that they would rent in purely or even primarily economic terms.
When Jaime and Michael Proman moved this fall to Minneapolis, his hometown, from New York City, they craved a different sort of life after two years together in a 450-square-foot studio apartment. “We didn’t want a sterile apartment feel,” said Mr. Proman, who is 28 (his wife is 26). “We wanted something that was permanent and very much a reflection of us.”
The fact is, in many parts of the country there are few if any attractive rentals for people looking to put down roots and enjoy the sort of amenities they may spot on cable television home improvement shows. Comparing a rental with a place that you may own seems almost pointless in these situations, especially for those who are now grown up enough to want to make their own decisions about décor without consulting the landlord.
Still, for anyone feeling the urge to buy, a number of practical considerations have changed in the last year or two. The basics are back, like spending no more than 28 percent of your pretax income on mortgage payments, taxes and insurance. Even if a lender does not hold you to this when you go in for preapproval, you should hold yourself to it.
You will also want to start now on any project to improve your credit score because it may take several months to get it above the 720 level that qualifies you for many of the best mortgage rates.



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, December 5, 2008

the Cascades AT WINOOSKI FALLS

WOW! Vermont, Urban and a hard hat!

I had a tour around the Cascades AT WINOOSKI FALLS yesterday. What a fantastic project.

Brian Boardman has several different listings in this project and there is one that is ready for occupancy in just a few months.

Interestingly, one of the model properties was recently decorated by the JDK Colour and Trend Team. It was nice to see that in these economic times, super style can be achieved on a budget. No doubt IKEA was involved in some way!

The unveiling of the model property was even talked about on www.Reuters.com

Click here to see a virtual tour.

If anyone is interested in seeing the properties or having a real life tour then please contact me on 802 399 4502. I would be happy to don the hard hat and show you around!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Thanksgiving, a trip to CT and NYC!

What a fantastic weekend! We spent Thanksgiving with friends in CT and it was a great break away! The highlight of the trip was of course giving thanks! We also went to NYC and managed to squeeze in the American Museum of Natural History, delicious lunch in Chinatown at Wing Wong's , a little shopping, a trip to FAO Shwartz and then dinner at a delicious Mexican restaurant Dos Caminos. I must say that I do miss city living!

Back to life in Vermont! I am having a Broker Open House this Tuesday from 11.30 - 2pm at 161 Austin Drive, Burlington, Unit 7. Please feel free to drop by!


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

20 Irene Avenue Video Walkthrough





- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Interest Rates Down!

I just received this announcement from Nick Parent and Chad Gray of The Mortgage Guys

The current 30 year fixed is at 5.375% with 0 points with the option of floating down!

"The mortgage industry received some big news this morning that will likely overshadow the Gross Domestic Product and Consumer Confidence reports today.
One of the biggest news items is the Fed's announcement that it will purchase $600 Billion worth of Mortgage-Backed Securities backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae. This should help increase the availability of credit, while also lowering fixed mortgage rates. In addition, the Fed will allocate $200 Billion to create liquidity in the auto, student, and small business loan markets.
News of these plans is already helping push mortgage rates lower, as Mortgage Bonds have had a strong rally and appear headed for their price highs of 2008

BUY, BUY, BUY - especially if you live in Burlington where rental prices are not low!



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, November 24, 2008

First Day on the Mountain!

It was opening weekend at Stowe Mountain Resort this weekend. We decided that as it was going to be the terrain that Callum would probably not have much initial confidence, we decided to wait until after Thanksgiving when the rest of the mountain opens.

Euan and I went this morning for our first runs and it does feel so good to get out there. It was not that cold today and the view was spectacular. Amazing how you get oblivious to the beautiful scenery by the end of the season!

So we had a few runs and had our usual lunchtime special at Piecasso!

Then back to work, Euan loving what he does and I, even in this market, loving what I do!

I have a new listing - details to come tomorrow!



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, November 20, 2008

A little tooting my own horn – but this year in particular I have a lot to be thankful for…...thank you

Let's be honest it has been a tough year to get back in to the business of Real Estate.

With recently relocating to Burlington, not knowing a lot of people and the downturn in the economic market, I am often confronted with the question "Why did you get back in to this career now?"

I just want to say that I thoroughly enjoy selling and buying property. I absolutely love what I do in the hard times and the good times. I believe that if you work hard, stay positive and persevere then success will come.

I have been recognised for the 3rd time as a Top Realtor of the Month at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman. I feel privileged to be awarded this title with Realtors Geri Reilly, Debby Hanley and Nancy Desany. All of these women are extremely successful agents who have been in the business for years.

Thank you to all of my past and present clients, the team at Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman, my new Vermont friends who have used me as a Realtor or recommended me to others. Most importantly I want to thank Euan and Callum who have stuck by me and supported the late night phone calls and commitment to others!

Thanks everyone.



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

New Price for my Redrock listing $268,000

This stunning condominium is architecturally designed with wood ceilings, wood beams, and beautiful hardwood floors.

There are superb floor to ceiling windows with views on to the woods which give you the feeling of living in serenity.

There are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a study area. An enclosed porch as well as a deck to relax and take in this natural setting in an extremely convenient location.




- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, November 17, 2008

Healthiest City!

I was recently sent this CNN link by an old school friend from Facebook who is probably still chuckling about the fact that after all those years of growing up in Hong Kong, I now live in Vermont!

So Burlington and it's 40,000 residents enjoy the healthiest of environments. Still no Target though! That would make me feel a lot healthier!



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, November 13, 2008

6 degrees of seperation - what a small world?!

When I first bought a house in Essex, Vermont, I knew that one of the advantages to moving to Vermont would be the upbringing it would offer Callum as a child. He would be able to bike to the local Founders Middle school, bike to the Sandhill pool, snowboard at Stowe and Bolton all winter and even have a regular ice cream van drive past his house all summer.

The first summer we moved here we waited with baited breath to hear the music of the ice cream van...it arrived. The smile on Callum's little face was indescribable! You could see that he was thinking 'A van brings me some ice cream once a week!?'

One day when we were buying ice cream the lady noticed that Callum was wearing a Liverpool football shirt. She told us that she had a 2nd cousin that lived in Liverpool. That night I giggled with Euan about how even in a small state like Vermont people claim to have long lost relatives back in England.

About 2 months ago I received a phone call from one of my very best friends Diane who used to live in San Francisco whilst we were there. She now lived in England and said that she would be coming to visit. She did say that she was also coming for a family wedding but that we would get to hang out a lot and it would be good for me as I wasn't from here for me to meet some more people.

So she arrived last week and I was introduced to her family that were having the wedding who also live here in Chittenden County. We all went out one night and one of the relatives walks up to me and says "Stella, do you remember me?" I racked my brain for a while, in this business I am pretty good with remembering people but also do meet a lot of folk at Open Houses. Then she told me that she was the lady who had the ice cream van. "Do you remember I told you I had cousins in Liverpool?" That smile on Callum's face and even the giggling about the claim that everyone has a long lost cousin from England with Euan came back to me. She then tells me that in fact Diane, my best friend from California is the cousin she was talking about.

Wow - what a small world. Lessons learnt? That even in a small state like Vermont the theory of 6 degrees of separation can often be blown out of the water! And next time somebody says that they have a cousin from England. I will be asking their name........I might very well know them!




- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

A beautiful house with beautiful gardens reminded me of Britain!



The sellers have recently reduced the price to $595,000

My colleague Debbie Hanley has listed this home.

It was recently featured on the Flynn House and Garden Tour, and once you walk around, you'll see why.
The completely refurbished interior and open spaces make this home warmth, full of character and style.

The neighborhood offers swimming on the western side of Shelburne Point & a mooring area in Shelburne Bay and there is also have a community tennis court.

If you or someone you may know would be interested in this property then please let me know.



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, November 10, 2008

Stella Featured In A Video For Seven Days

I am featured in a video created by Seven Days for a promotion between Seven Days and Hickok and Boardman. Click here for more details.



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Free Home Buying Made Easy Seminar Hosted By Seven Days

"Find out everything you need to know before buying a home — from loan pre-approval to closing."

I am going to be a special guest speaker in a home buying seminar hosted by Seven Days. The seminar will be held at 6-8pm on Thursday November 6th at the Echo Center.

Space is limited so please RSVP here by noon on Thursday, November 6. For more info click here.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

37 Hillside Circle Video Walkthrough



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

The Power of Positive Thinking

Anything is possible!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, November 3, 2008

The night before...........

Wow, what a day!

I had an extremely busy Broker Open House at my new listing at 26 Oak Creek Drive, South Burlington. I switched it up a little and served Dim Sum for lunch. It was a good choice as over 35 Realtors came! That is some brilliant exposure for the house. The Realtors had some great feedback and it is always nice to see familiar faces. Thanks you for coming everybody!

With all the success today though, I think the highlight of my day was the chat I had with my 5 year old little boy Callum when I picked him up this evening.

As usual, I asked how his day was and he said "it was good" - standard answer! We then had a chat about tomorrow and the fact that there was half day at school and that he would be going to a friend's for a play date in the afternoon. He said that he knew that as his teacher was telling him why there was only half day tmorrow. He proceeded to tell me that his teacher was going to choose the 'Captain of America' tomorrow. I had to smile! I told him that it was an election and that his teacher would be voting.

His closing comment was "I know, I want Mr Marino (his principal) to be the Captain of America"

I just love 5 year olds!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Burlington VT makes the news!

The New York Times to be precise!

A good little write up about things to do in Burlington and they have highlighted some great places!

There is even a photo of my friend Rachel who owns Sweet Lady Jane - take a look at the slideshow.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Saturday, November 1, 2008

$80,000

Hickok and Boardman raised $80,000 for United Way - what a result!

Thanks to all who donated!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

SPA NIGHT AT CHILL

It is the time of giving!

CHILL (Burton's non profit foundation to get under privileged children snowboarding) held it's 3rd Spa Night.

So I spent the evening with girlfriends, chatting, nibbling on appetizers, sipping on some wine and having spa treatments!

There was even a big raffle with lots of donated prizes.

H - what a result?!, A - a little golf?! L - another jacket and trousers - now you have to learn to ride!

Thanks to all of the donations and here's to raising some money for the program and the children!

Tomorrow is the life auction for United Way - remember there are some great prizes! If you need to call me to bid then do - 802 399 4502

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Greasy Rider: Two Dudes, One Fry-Oil-Powered Car, and a Cross-Country Search for a Greener Future

What a brilliant hour and a half!

I went to hear Greg Melville talk about his book Greasy Rider at St Michael's College.

He was extremely entertaining, thought provoking and made me LOL!

I am off to buy the book today - your plug worked Greg!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

United Way Hickok and Boardman Auction List

Here is a final list of the auction items for the United Way Auction hosted by Hickok and Boardman. If you would like to donate to the United Way Campaign and bid on one or more of these items please call me 802-399-4502.


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, October 27, 2008

United Way Soup Drive!

We had a very successful fundraiser lunch today, a lot of people brought ion there favourite soups and we sold tickets for an all you can eat soup lunch. All in all we raised over $500 for the United Way Campaign.

I brought in my favourite recipe which is called Mulligatawny Soup which is an Anglo-Indian chunky spicy soup. Look out for my recipe in a future post.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Oak Creek Drive Video Walkthrough



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Support the United Way Campaign and get a "Great British Escape"

Come and support the United Way Campaign with a live auction hosted by Hickok & Boardman Realty.
For one of the auction lots, I will be providing a night away for 2 in Stowe for a Great British Escape! It will include High Tea, a 3 course dinner, a suite in the Bluff House and Engligh Breakfast all at the Ye Olde England Inne in Stowe.
The live auction will be the finale of a week packed full of fundraising lead by Hickok & Boardman. The auction will be held on Thursday Oct 30th, 4-6pm at the Sunset Ballroom at the Holiday Inn on Shelburne Road.

I hope you can attend and support a great cause. If you are unable to attend but really want to bid on thsi item or any other item please call me on 802-399-4502. A full list of auction items has been posted in the foyer at Hickok & Boardman, click here for a map.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, October 23, 2008

$429,900 - 26 Oak Creek Drive, South Burlington




A Contemporary house situated in this great neighborhood. This home offers 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. There is a master suite with an indoor balcony that offers mountain views. Stunning vaulted ceilings. Heated in-ground swimming pool.

$429,900




- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Women's Rape Crisis Center and Zonta



After being involved with the spelling bee a while back, I recently joined the local 
Zonta club and we had a really interesting speaker last night.  Catherine Slocum spoke from the Women's Rape Crisis Center.  I know it is not the most joyful of topics to blog about but they really could do with some volunteer help.  

They are having a clothes swap on the 8th of November at Avenue Bistro at 1127 North Avenue, Burlington 10am - 3pm

Email Catherine for more details or call 864 0555 x 25

Teach our girls and boys to know their strengths.
Help them to be independent.
Tell them the truth.
Arm them with knowledge.
Encourage, advise, empower ad listen.
Be thoughtful, kind and...generous



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, October 17, 2008

Beautiful leaf colours remind me of a superb talent!


I am not sure if everyone knows about this gentleman. He is extrememly talented! All of the colours around Vermont at the moment remind me of him. He is so creative and best of all, his work is all created with natural materials - Andy Goldsworthy has some beautiful books and an extrememly interesting DVD.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Sunday, October 12, 2008

A beautiful Vermont Weekend

What a beautiful weekend it has been here in Vermont. Absolutely perfect!

I have not listened to the radio all weekend and have spent alot of time outside!

Charlie (my 80lbs of chocolate lab) and I spent Saturdy morning in the hollow in front of our house. We went for a yomp (british slang for a bloody good walk!) for a couple of hours and the colours were absolutely spectalcular. The sky was blue and it was just perfect yomping weather!

I then watched Callum at his football jamboree. He is such a grown up little boy now; running around the pitch chasing the ball! Euan has spent the past 6 weeks being the coach and it was superb to see them out there together doing what they like to do best! Funny to see them together like that as they are such peas in a pod!

We then spent the afternoon doing jobs and tinkering around the house. It was nice to spend some time at home with my boys. The one negative of my job is that weekends are often spent with clients!

Today started with another yomp for Charlie and I; another perfect morning in the hollow. We then spent the afternoon with my friend Melissa Brott who took some pictures. For Euan's Birthday in July, Callum and I gave him a certificate for a family photo session at Indian Brook which has been one of our favourite finds here in Essex. I am looking forward to seeing the pictures. We then had our first walk through a corn maze at Lang Farms - not a typical English past time!

To top off a perfect weekend, we stopped off to get ingredients for Callum's favourite - a sushi dinner. Euan made me my favourite Hiyayakko and we had quite a feast!

Icing on the cake, I had someone who would like to see one of my listings this week so all in all a perfect weekend!

Here's to a good week..............

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, October 10, 2008

Fallen in Love!

Yes, I am a Realtor and I will admit that even in the higher price range, not every house I see on the Multiple Listing Service is the house for me. That is why this business is so fantastic; there are houses for everyone.

When I am looking with buyers, I always tell them that there will never be the perfect house - no matter what the budget! When you are looking for a house you have to have a list of what you want and what you need. You then need to know that the house you end up buying will not have everything you want but will hopefully have most that you need.

I have seen lots of beautiful houses since I started working in property in 1998. Since I have been in Vermont, I have not really seen a house that I would buy and not need to alter in some way. Until now! I have now found a home that I could just move in and plonk my suitcase. I have found a home that has most things that I want and more than I need!

Stella's perfect house


My colleague Brian Boardman has just listed this spectacular home. This home is a perfect fit for "The Abraham Family"! There is very little that Euan and I would do to this house if we were to buy it. The attention to detail is spot on! There is even a child's size toilet in one of the bathrooms for Callum. Even the walk in closet is my favourite colour purple! I could walk to work and so could Euan!

So why are we not going to buy it?.....not in our budget!......another reason not to ever look at houses that you can not afford!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Banksy is in NY!

I am sure everyone has heard of Banksy the English Street artist......well he has opened a pet shop in NY city....there have even been people going in to the pet shop to buy pet toys!

Click here to read more about it!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Overseas Wives Club

As many of you know, I am a member of an Overseas Wives Club. It is a club that meets once a month. We meet for a couple of hours and have tea and biscuits. There are about 16 members and the majority of the ladies have been members of the club since the 1950's. Most of the women are British and came to VT after the war having married men in the Service. They have been friends for a long time and this little group keeps them in touch with each other and helps them to not feel too home sick.

The ladies are all very sweet and most are over 55 - it is like having 16 grandmas!

Last night was a meeting at my good friend Victoria's house. There was a really good turn out with 14 women attending. We had a tipple of wine - very unusual as it is normally tea and biscuits!

We also had a silent auction last night to raise some money for charity and we managed to raise $154 so that was a pretty good showing.

We then all had alot of chocolate cake, some biscuits and of course tea!

I have taken on the duty of finding a location for the annual Christmas banquet this year so I shall be busy this month trying to find somewhere locally that will host our dinner. Last year we ate at the Vermont National. It seems a lot of the women are a little concerned that with the current financial situation that there will not be anywhere prepared to host a dinner on a Wednesday evening for 30 people. If anyone knows of anywhere then let me know!

Also if anyone knows of any older ladies who are not from here who are in need of a little companionship then let me know. We would love to have some new members!



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Wow – what a week we are having!

Wow – what a week we are having! I know that lots of us don’t want to listen to the radio at all……even opting to listen to “Musical High School”

If you would like to hear the news in a different accent and maybe even a different take on things then click here and listen to the BBC…..the accent might sound familiar!!

BBC iPlayer

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, October 6, 2008

A superb blog that I stumbled across!

I have been following this blog for the past few weeks. I absolutely love it’s intention, taste and style. I know that for some of you, the style is a little modern but it has definitely got a theme that we all must appreciate and that is the fact that they are trying to be as green as can be!

Take a quick look!

http://www.greenhousevt.blogspot.com/

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, September 26, 2008

21st Annual Art Exhibition & Sale at the Shelburne Farms

I went to an opening of the 21st Annual Art Exhibition & Sale at the Shelburne Farms www.shelburnefarms.org It was a perfect Vermont September evening, the weather was perfect, the art was interesting and as always the food was delicious.

I particularly liked work of the artist & environmentalist Clyde Butcher www.clydebutcher.com He had some amazing photos. There were some absolutely stunning photos of Yosemite and it did make me miss California.

I ate dinner at the Inn a few months back and knew that the food would be fantastic. The cheese was to die for. I really enjoy cheese that has some flavour! There was ham that was addictive! They even had sausage rolls (pigs in blankets to the locals!) Here is a recipe that I use but they will never be as yummy as the ones that Shelburne Farms made! (Click on it to enlarge)


We are having a bout of beautiful weather here in Vermont and I am really looking forward to the change in leaves. It really is a pretty time. I have recently found this website which has some great photos, www.vtweb.com/foliage/guestphoto.html

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, August 29, 2008

370 Farrell Street - Price Reduction

New Price $154,000

This property offers carefree living at its best. It is a modern and sleek condominium which has fantastic 9 foot ceilings.

There is an onsite workout facility as well as a washer and dryer in the unit.

It is a one bedroom condominium with a separate den area which is used as an office.

It is located behind the Shaws and Creative Habitat and is therefore walking distance to the shops, walks and bike paths. It is only minutes to downtown Burlington.

Please click here to see a tour of the property.



Please contact me if you think this property might interest you or you know of someone who this would be just perfect for.



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, August 25, 2008

Mr Pickwicks Pub, Stowe























Click on the picture to enlarge.

We had a great dinner last night at Mr Pickwicks Pub in the Olde England Inne at Stowe.  We met the owner, Chris Francis, a Brit who's been in the area for over 20 years.  We'd thoroughly recommend dropping in for a quick pint or some good British food. For more details visit  www.englandinn.com

Chris is also responsible for running the British Invasion, a fantastic classic car show celebrating all things British, held in Stowe every September. For more information see www.britishinvasion.com


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, August 21, 2008

1 Juniper Ridge Road Video Walkthrough



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Saturday, August 2, 2008

What $250K Can Get You in Vermont?

I was looking at the latest Seven Days and there was an interesting read about 'A sampling of "affordable" housing around the area' based on the $250,000 price range.

Click on the link below to read the article.
 
Seven Days Article

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

14 Fieldstone Drive Video Walkthrough



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, July 31, 2008

161 Austin Drive Video Walk Through



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

4 Elm Street Video Walk through



- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

A Lake Champlain Point and a Dinosaur

As you can imagine I see lots of property and I could never find the time to blog about every property I see but this one also has a story to it!

Chris Von Trapp (yes! he is actually related to the Von Trapp family!) is also a Realtor with my company Coldwell Banker Hickok and Boardman. He has this fantastic listing in North Hero. It is a Lake Champlain Point! The property consists of 17 acres on Green Point Road. There is a three bedroom home as well as a two bedroom that the owners currently lease out for holidays. Click here to see the details of the property………………http://www.vreinmls.com/ver/maildoc/a004851206.html

Here is where the story comes in! There was an Broker Open House held last week and to stay green we filled a car with 5 agents and drove to North Hero. The cottage was extremely unique. The owners had decorated it with charm and flair!

Whilst driving up to the Islands somebody mentioned that there was a dinosaur in a garden of a house. Obviously with Callum being 5, he is just getting interested in dinosaurs. So my ears perked up and I inquired some more. I was told that there was a Brontosaurus in a field looking out on to the water. Well that would be a sight! So we all had visions of this large and obvious dinosaur and decided on the way back to take a quick detour to see the dinosaur. Below is a picture! It does exist but with all the growth it isn’t particularly obvious and definitely isn’t large! Now having seen it and showing Callum we have decided that it is probably in honour of Champ the Lake Monster. Callum was far more impressed than 5 realtors!



















- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, July 28, 2008

Veuve Clicquot - my favourite champagne!

A priceless bottle of 115-year-old champagne has been found in a sideboard at a Scottish castle.

The 1893 bottle of Veuve Clicquot had been locked away in Torosay Castle, Isle of Mull, for more than a century.

The owner of the bottle contacted Veuve Clicquot, who said the bottle was the oldest in existence. The company now has it on display at its visitor centre in Reims, France.

If you want to read more then take a look at the link

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7528691.stm

What a fantastic closing gift eh?!

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

New Listing - 161 Austin Drive, Burlington

Not your run of the mill condominium - designed in the 70's with style!
This architecturally designed condominium is absolutely superb and was built in 1978. When you walk in to the property you are greeted with a wall of glass that looks out on to the beautiful forest. The stunning wood ceilings and wood floors are just beautiful. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms as well as a study area and an enclosed porch. The deck offers a perfect place to unwind after a long day. Never would you think that you were 5 minutes drive to Burlington downtown and a 5 minute bike ride to Lake Champlain.

If you want a condominium that his different, striking and not the same as everyone else's then you must see this place.

It is on the market for $279,900 and the sellers are looking for a perfect closing date of the end of October 2008.


















- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, July 21, 2008

370 Farrell Street - Price Reduction

New Price $155,900

This property offers carefree living at its best. It is a modern and sleek condominium which has fantastic 9 foot ceilings.

There is an onsite workout facility as well as a washer and dryer in the unit.

It is a one bedroom condominium with a separate den area which is used as an office.

It is located behind the Shaws and Creative Habitat and is therefore walking distance to the shops, walks and bike paths. It is only minutes to downtown Burlington.

Please click here to see a tour of the property.



Please contact me if you think this property might interest you or you know of someone who this would be just perfect for.




- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Melissa Brott Photography

Something to add to my new favourite things, Melissa Brott Photography. Here's a photographer that I've recently met who takes fantastic photos, her blog & portfolio website speak for themselves.

Click here for her Blog

I have booked the Abrahams for a family photo session in the Autumn and I'm really looking forward to it.

Here's a snapshot she took of Callum.
















- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, July 14, 2008

Family things to do website

I found this great website for discovering things to do in the Champlain Valley area for family's with kids. It's pretty well organized and there's lots of good info there.

www.findandgoseek.net

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Monday, July 7, 2008

Cricket In Vermont!!

I saw a fantastic article in the latest Seven Days on the great British pastime of Cricket.  It turns out that there's been a Cricket Club in the area for over 25 years!  The Chittenden County Cricket Club, or CCCC as they're better know play on the field at Officers Row, near Route 15 at Fort Ethan Allen.

Read the article here for more background on the club and the game itself or head over to the clubs website, www.cricketvermont.com













- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

VPR Article on Vermont Real Estate

Here's an interesting article I heard on VPR about the current Real Estate market in Vermont.

Click here for Audio

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, May 30, 2008

Kickball, The 3 F’s - Fun, Fitness and Food?!

A few weeks ago Euan announced that he was going to play KICKBALL this summer.

Being a NETBALL player I was a little concerned that there might be another sport that was about to take over Burlington! So I did some research and felt that KICKBALL is basically a version of ROUNDERS!!

So I rocked up at Oakledge park last night with Callum and Charlie to watch Euan.

I was gobsmacked!

Every thursday at 6.30pm kickballers literally descend on Oakledge park. They all have their different coloured t shirts printed with team names and teams consist of the young and the old! There are 5 fields marked out were 10 teams play. The beauty of the event is that there is an 11th team who works the BBQ providing burgers and hot dogs for the hungry kickballers. Each team has their week of playing “chef”!

As one can imagine, the emphasis is on fun. Which is very refreshing! It was so well organised and to top the evening off, the weather was perfect and the sunset was typically stunning.

Last night was the second week of “kickball” season, they will be there all summer so please come and support those kickballers on a Thursday night at Oakledge park.

More info on the KIDS (Kickball in da Summer) league can be found on their Blog http://kidskickballog.blogspot.com/


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Burlington Marathon

Sunday was the local marathon. I had a couple of friends who were running in it and all did really well. It was a hot day which was great for the supporters of which there were heaps but not so good for the runners! There were some folks on North Avenue who set up a sprinkler shower for the runners which was very thoughtful!

Congratulations to all of those who took part!

http://www.runvermont.org/


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Stella's Appearence On The WCAX News Housing Market Report

I gave an interview to WCAX this afternoon for my opinions on the Vermont housing market and had the opportunity to showcase my listing on 370 Farrell Street, South Burlington. Hit the link and take a look at the article and video on the WCAX website.

Click here to read the article










- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Friday, May 16, 2008

Zonta Club of Burlington Annual Celebrity Spelling Bee

Last night, I experienced my first American Spelling Bee

If you went to a British School - even as far away as Hong Kong, you did your homework from a spelling book on a Monday but you normally started learning on a Thursday night and had your spelling test on a Friday morning - never did you have to walk up to a MICROPHONE, say the word, spell it and then say it again!

Hickok and Boardman Realty were again, after 9 years of participating, spellers at the 12th Annual Celebrity Spelling Bee of the Zonta Club of Burlington. MC for the night was Tom Brennan who was the former UVM basketball coach and is now a TV commentator for ESPN.

Last night I learnt a lot abut the Zonta club - it is a fabulous organisation that supports single parents and their studies - it gets them back to school!

FYI the winners of the spelling bee were Timberlane Pediatrics and we got out in the 5th round on the word COMMISSIONAIRE - spelled correctly!


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Thursday, May 15, 2008

370 Farrell Street Visual Tour

Click the link below for a visual tour of my Farrell Street listing.




- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

My Farrell Street Listing VHFA scenario

Here's a rundown of the VHFA financing scenario for my Farrell Street Listing, click here to view.
  • Current Rate 6.25%
  • Purchase Price $159900
  • 3% Down payment, financed MI
  • Total Loan of $155,103.00
  • Principal and Interest: $979.44
  • South Burlington Taxes $208
  • HOA Dues- $192
  • Total Housing obligation: $1380 a month.

This would be ideal for the professional making low to mid 40K range with little or no debit.

Total estimated cost to purchase:$8700

- Rates are subject to change daily. Subject to credit approval.

Figures courtesy of Jay Vallieres, Mortgage Financial.


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

I-89 Smart Work Zone - Richmond Traffic Update

For those of your traveling on the I-89 through Richmond, this website has been setup by VT Trans to jump straight to the Google maps traffic status view of the Richmond works. It’ll give you current traffic speeds & webcams etc.

www.511I89.com

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Paul Frank Cruiser Bikes in Burlington, VT

I was visiting a client at Burton today and I saw a rack of cool Paul Frank cruiser bikes in the lobby. Burton Snowboards have set up an environmental committee called EPIC, that have purchased 5 Paul Frank Cruisers for employees to use during the day, encouraging everyone to get on a bike rather than drive for their lunch and errands.

What a cool way to decrease your carbon footprint.


- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401

Welcome to my new Blog

Welcome to my new Blog, I hope you enjoy my updates.

- Stella Abraham, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty
346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401