Seaport Real Estate Group Blog - Tim Bray

Ethical Real Estate Practices: Lessons from the MV Realty Lawsuit and the Importance of Due Diligence

In real estate, the ethical standards we uphold not only define our business practices but also cultivate the trust we establish with our clients. The recent legal challenges faced by MV Realty in Florida highlight crucial aspects of transparency and fairness in real estate transactions. This blog post explores the implications of the MV Realty lawsuit for the industry and underscores the critical role of due diligence in protecting both agents and homeowners.

The MV Realty Case: An Overview MV Realty, known for its unique homeowner benefit agreements, is embroiled in a lawsuit filed by the Florida Attorney General. The company is accused of deceptive practices by securing 40-year contracts with homeowners that require a 3% commission from any…

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Community Redevelopment: How Seaport Commercial Agents are Revitalizing the City of Norwich

Original article from Claire Bessette of The Day | January 16, 2024 7:02 pm • Last Updated: January 16, 2024 9:49 pm Norwich ― New York-based real estate developers Ernest and Alfred Tollja learned about Norwich in 2018 from a persistent Norwich comedian who drove to their comedy theater nearly every night and pressured them to buy a building in his hometown. Six years later, the two brothers, originally from Albania, own more than a dozen apartment buildings in Norwich, with a total of 117 apartments. That comedian, however, has moved to upstate New York, the pair said Tuesday. On Thursday, they completed the purchase of three prominent lower Broadway buildings that are part of a larger revitalization…

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Are AVMs Sabotaging Property Valuations?

Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) have become increasingly popular in recent years as a tool for estimating property values in the real estate industry. These models employ algorithms and vast amounts of data to generate property valuations quickly and efficiently. While AVMs may offer several benefits, including reduced costs and faster processing times, they are not without their drawbacks. 

Limited Data and Data Quality

One of the primary reasons AVMs can be prone to errors is the quality and availability of data used in the valuation process. AVMs rely on historical sales data, property characteristics, and local market trends to generate valuations. However, the data available may not always be accurate, complete, or up-to-date.…

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Noank Ranked # 5 best places to Live in CT.

Congratulations, Noank! As if we needed more proof that this coastal village is nothing short of spectacular, it has now been ranked the #5 best place to live in Connecticut by Niche.com. As a haven for work, play, and relaxation, Noank truly has it all. In this blog, we'll delve into the irresistible charm of Noank and discover why it's the perfect place to create a life you'll love. #NoankCT #BestPlaceToLive

A Work-Life Balance Like No Other

In today's fast-paced world, finding the ideal work-life balance can seem like a Herculean task. But in Noank, it's not only achievable – it's practically a way of life. With its quaint village charm and easy access to larger cities like New London and Groton, Noank offers the best of both worlds. The…

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It's NOT ALWAYS a good time to buy and sell real estate

In the world of real estate, there's a pervasive belief that it's always a good time to buy and sell property. However, the truth is that's not always the case. In fact, sometimes, it's in a client's best interest to hold off on buying or selling real estate altogether.

Now, I know this might sound counterintuitive coming from a real estate professional, but hear me out. As someone who's been in the industry for years, I've seen firsthand the consequences of clients making hasty decisions based solely on the belief that they need to be in the market.

The reality is that the market is constantly changing, and sometimes it's not in a client's favor. While there may be an overall trend toward buying or selling, it's important to take a closer…

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Mastering the Art of Real Estate: A Journey of Discovery and Profit!

Looking to navigate the complex world of real estate transactions? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide outlines the entire residential real estate process from start to finish, including deal flow and purchase and sales contracts. With our video presentation and downloadable flowchart, you'll have all the insider knowledge you need to succeed in the real estate industry. Check it out now!

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Real Estate Regrets: Why 75% of Buyers are Second-Guessing Their Purchases

It's not uncommon for buyers to experience feelings of regret and remorse after purchasing a property, and there are various reasons why this may occur. Suppose you are part of the 75%. In that case, you should find peace in knowing that many people just like you did not ask the right questions of their advisors, including real estate professionals and lenders, who should have supplied you with enough information to make a good decision. 

One potential cause of remorse is overpaying for a property. In today's competitive market, buyers may feel pressured to offer more than they can afford to secure their dream home. It's understandable to feel regretful if they realize later that they overpaid for the property.

Another reason why buyers may…

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Why Stonington, CT should be your next move

Located in the southeastern part of Connecticut, Stonington is a charming coastal town that has gained a reputation as a desirable place to relocate for both work and play. With its picturesque setting, quaint village center, and a range of outdoor recreational activities, it's no wonder that more and more people are flocking to this small town in search of a slower, more fulfilling lifestyle.

Here are just a few of the reasons why Stonington, CT, is such a great place to live:

Natural Beauty

Nestled along the shores of the Long Island Sound, Stonington is surrounded by natural beauty. The town features a variety of parks and nature preserves, including Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, Napatree Point Conservation Area, and DuBois Beach,…

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Things to consider when adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

If you're a homeowner considering adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property, here are some things to consider:

1.    Local regulations: Be sure to research the local regulations and zoning requirements in your area to ensure that you are allowed to add an ADU to your property. Some towns may have restrictions on the size, location, or appearance of ADUs.

2.    Building codes: ADUs must meet the same building codes and safety standards as other residential units. It's important to hire a licensed and experienced contractor who can ensure that your ADU is built to code and is safe for occupants.

3.    Financing: Adding an ADU to your property can be a significant investment. Consider the cost of construction and any…

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Which towns in CT allow Accessory dwelling units (ADUs)?

While Connecticut state law requires all towns and cities to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) either by right or by special permit, individual towns and cities have the ability to create their own regulations and restrictions related to ADUs. As a result, some towns may not allow ADUs or may impose stricter regulations on them.

There are a variety of reasons why a town may not allow ADUs. One common concern is related to the potential impact on the character of a neighborhood or community. Some residents may worry that the addition of an ADU will change the nature of their community or that it will have a negative impact on property values. Other concerns may be related to traffic, parking, or overcrowding.

In addition, some towns may…

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