Federal Reserve drops interest rate .25 percent finally

By Matthew Trudel

The Federal Reserve lowered the benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percent (.25 percent) last week. This is the first rate cut this year, and they seemed to signal there will be a series of cuts to follow suit.

This is meant to lower interest rates and provide some relief to consumers. This does mean mortgage rates will go down slightly, but it is not immediate. This takes a little time for the market and banking industry to adjust.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers in today’s market?

For buyers it means several things. The first one is obvious that hopefully they can lock in a lower interest rate when they find the property that they want to purchase.

Rates are currently fluctuating right around 6.5 percent with good credit. I can see the rates being in the 6.25 percent to 6 percent range in the near future. This change in rate also helps buyers in another way that many people don’t think about.

The lower rate now gives the buyers more purchasing power.

Buyers gain more purchasing power with a lower interest rate because the loan amount can be higher than the previous loan amount and still keep the payment the same.

For example, let’s just say a buyer has a loan amount of $400,000 with an interest rate of 6.5 percent and the payment is $2,528. Now if the interest rate drops to 6 percent the buyer can keep the same payment of $2,528 and can increase their loan amount to $421,695. This translates to them being able to look at homes $20,000 to $25,000 higher in price or compete against other buyers for a property and offer is higher price.

This is also good news for all of you sellers out there.

The lower rate will help sellers out when they decide to put their property on the market if it isn’t already listed and on the market. The lower rate gave buyers more purchasing power as we just discussed. This means more buyers can afford to purchase the seller’s property. So now the seller has a larger pool of buyers and potentially more competition from those buyers.

With the Federal Reserve signaling another lowering of the rate may be coming, should buyers wait to purchase a property?

That is more of a personal decision that should be made about what your current situation is. Everyone has different reasons and motivations for purchasing a property. I personally think buyers should not wait in hopes of a lower interest rate.

The old saying is “You marry the property, but date the rate.” This just reminds buyers that if the rate does go down significantly that they can refinance in the future.

Speaking of refinancing a property, current property owners can benefit from the Federal Reserve lowering the interest rate as well.

Current property owners who may have purchased their home in the last year or so should keep an eye on what the Federal Reserve does in their next few sessions. It appears they plan to make another rate cut in the next session and maybe a couple more rate cuts.

So, when is it a good time to refinance or how much of a change in your rate makes it worth it to refinance?

The general rule is you need to be getting at lease a rate 1 percent lower than your current rate. I usually say at least 1.25 percent lower. There are other factors as well to take into consideration like closing costs and the term of the loan. You should also calculate how long it will take you recoup those closing cost from the amount you will be saving with this lower rate.

All in all, we are heading in the right direction with this rate drop and hopefully the Federal Reserve follows through in the next session with another rate cut.

This article was written by Matthew Trudel, Owner/Broker of Five Star Realty, Windham, 207-939-6971. <

Embracing autumn in Windham: A season of beauty and opportunity for homeowners

By Theresa Bouchard

As the air turns crisp and the leaves blaze into shades of amber, crimson, and gold, fall in Windham is nothing short of spectacular. The familiar rhythm of back-to-school routines, Friday night football games, and cozy weekend traditions sets in as the landscape transforms. Autumn has a way of slowing us down, reminding us to enjoy the little things: the crunch of leaves underfoot, the scent of wood smoke in the air, and the comfort of a home that shelters us from the brisk winds.

But fall isn’t just a season for apple-picking and hayrides. It’s also a season that holds unique opportunities for homeowners, sellers, and buyers in our community. In real estate, timing can be everything, and autumn offers a chance to see homes – and the housing market – from a fresh perspective.

The Warmth of Fall at Home

There’s something about autumn that makes a house feel like a home. Whether it’s the golden light streaming through kitchen windows in the late afternoon, or the sight of a harvest wreath on a front door, fall naturally enhances a property’s appeal. A home in Windham surrounded by vibrant foliage can feel like something straight from a New England postcard.

Inside, the season highlights comfort. Crackling fireplaces, rustic wood accents, and cozy nooks seem all the more inviting this time of year. For sellers, this is an opportunity to lean into fall staging—using natural elements like pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal flowers to make a property feel warm and welcoming. Even simple touches, like a plaid throw on the sofa or the scent of apple cider simmering on the stove, can help buyers imagine themselves settling in.

Why Fall Can Be a Smart Time to Buy or Sell

Spring is often seen as the traditional “busy season” in real estate but fall has its own advantages. Buyers who are active at this time of year tend to be more serious. They may be relocating for work, seeking a new home before the holidays, or motivated to move before the snow arrives. This often means fewer casual “lookers” and more qualified buyers ready to make offers.

For sellers, this creates a more efficient process. Your home might not see the same level of foot traffic as in the spring but those who do visit are typically highly motivated. And let’s not overlook how stunning a home can look in the fall—curb appeal soars when framed by trees dressed in fiery hues, and that visual advantage can make a listing stand out in online searches.

Buyers, meanwhile, may benefit from slightly less competition compared to the spring market. With fewer multiple-offer situations, there’s often more room for negotiation on price or terms. Some sellers are also eager to close before the year ends, which can create opportunities for flexible deals. For those willing to move during the cooler months, fall can be a very strategic time to purchase.

Preparing Your Home for the Season

Fall is also a natural time for homeowners to think about maintenance and improvements. Preparing a house for winter is not just about comfort – it’s about preserving value. Cleaning gutters, checking heating systems, sealing drafts, and winterizing outdoor spaces are important tasks that help protect an investment.

For those thinking of selling, a little preparation goes a long way. A well-kept yard with fallen leaves cleared, fresh seasonal décor on the porch, and a clean, cozy interior communicates care to potential buyers. Even small updates – like a fresh coat of paint or updated light fixtures – can pay off when showing a home in autumn.

A Season for Reflection and Future Plans

Beyond the immediate opportunities of buying or selling, autumn invites reflection. Just as we prepare our homes for winter, we can also step back and consider whether our current space still fits our needs. Do we want more room for growing families and holiday gatherings? Or perhaps it’s time to downsize to a simpler, more manageable home?

The fall season naturally pairs with these kinds of decisions. As the year winds down, many people set goals for the coming one, and housing is often part of that reflection. Real estate isn’t just about square footage or market values—it’s about aligning your home with the life you want to live.

Windham’s Unique Autumn Charm

Here in Windham, we are fortunate to experience fall in its full glory. Our community blends the tranquility of natural surroundings with the convenience of nearby amenities, making it a desirable place to live year-round. The local lakes and trails take on a new beauty in the fall, drawing residents outdoors even as temperatures cool. For buyers considering a move to Windham, the season offers a glimpse of what makes our town special: the small-town feel, the connection to nature, and the sense of community that thrives no matter what the weather.

For longtime residents, autumn is a chance to take pride in what we already have. Whether it’s decorating the front porch with mums from a local farm stand or gathering firewood for the months ahead, this season reminds us of the deep connection between home and community.

Turning Over a New Leaf

As we sip cider, stack firewood, and admire Windham’s autumn beauty, let’s remember that fall is more than just a scenic backdrop. It is a season of opportunity—both in how we enjoy our homes and in how we approach the real estate market. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply making your home more comfortable for the winter ahead, Fall is a perfect time to take action.

If you’re preparing to sell your home or simply planning a refresh, TS Staging and Design is here to help. This year’s Eagle Choice Award winner for Interior Design/Home Staging, TS Staging and Design is located at 630 Roosevelt Trail, Unit 2, in Windham. Its local home staging and interior design team would be delighted to assist with any project that comes your way. We welcome the opportunity to bring out the best in your home and help you take the next step with confidence. Contact Theresa @ 207-400-9393.

Supplemental Electronic Device Coverage

By Jonathan Priest

We've all been there. Scheduling our days down to the hours and minutes. We're busier than ever, with life pulling us in dozens of directions at any given time. Appointments, practices, hitting the gym, meetings, work, meals, family time are all jockeying for our attention.

Regardless of our personal thoughts on the pluses and minuses of technology, our devices keep us connected, productive, and entertained. When something goes wrong, you need coverage that goes beyond the basics. Electronic Device Protection offers peace of mind by protecting your essential tech from unexpected mishaps and breakdowns.

When it comes to the devices you depend on, you need to shop for a plan that offers comprehensive security against accidental damage, power surges, theft and more.

Electronic Device Protection can provide coverage on phones as well as multiple laptops, tablets, TVs, gaming systems, wearables, and more.

Coverage Highlights:
• Accidental Damage – Drops, spills, and everyday accidents
• Mechanical & Electrical Failures – Internal malfunctions not covered by warranties
• Power Surges & Short Circuits – Protection from electrical damage

• Theft & Loss Protection – Add coverage for stolen or misplaced devices

Eligible Devices include:
• Smartphones, tablets, and laptops
• Desktop computers and accessories
• Smartwatches and fitness trackers
• TVs, gaming consoles, and audio systems
• Home networking equipment

Why Choose Supplemental Coverage?
Standard home and renter's insurance policies often offer limited protection for electronics and usually have high deductibles! A supplemental plan fills the gaps – so whether your phone slips from your hand or your laptop suddenly stops working, you’re covered.

Without a Supplemental Coverage Plan for electronics, a power surge to your new cell phone and your laptop during an electrical storm could end up costing you close to $1,000, if not more, but your home insurance might limit coverage on electrical devices to a lower amount, and if your home deductible is $1,000 it might not even make sense to file a claim!

With a stand-alone Supplemental Coverage Plan for electronics, your deductible could be much lower or even waived entirely! Reach out to your trusted insurance professional today to learn more about your options and protect yourself against life's little mishaps! Remember, not all plans are the same, so do your homework to find a plan that covers your devices the way you want it to. There's no worse feeling than to think you're covered when you're not!

This article was brought to you courtesy of Farmers Insurance agent Jonathan Priest, with an office at 57 Tandberg Trail, Suite 7, Windham and StaySafe.org. Call him at 207-893-8184 or send him an email at jpriest1@farmersagent.com <

Preparing Your Home for Fall: Essential Checklist

By Carrie Colby

Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for colder weather. Taking care of small maintenance tasks now can save you costly repairs later and keep your home safe, warm, and efficient all season long.

1. Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof, siding, and even your basement. They’re also more prone to rust and corrosion when filled with debris.
-Clear out leaves and debris.
-Install mesh gutter guards to keep them clean longer.
-Ensure downspouts direct water at least 3 to 4 feet away from your foundation.

2. Seal Up Air Leaks
Drafts drive up heating costs and make your home uncomfortable. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing air leaks can save up to 20 percent on heating bills.
-Inspect and replace worn weatherstripping on doors and windows.
-Test with the “paper test” (close a door/window on a sheet of paper – if it slides easily, the seal is weak).
-Use a lit candle to detect drafts near frames (watch the flame flicker).
-Re-caulk gaps around windows, doors, and utility entry points.
-Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows if drafts persist.

3. Inspect Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first defense against the elements.
-Scan shingles for cracks, curling, or missing pieces.
-Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys for damage.
-Look for excessive shingle granules in gutters (a sign of wear).
-Make sure gutters and downspouts are flowing freely.

4. Protect Outdoor Faucets
Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage.
-Shut off water to exterior faucets and drain the lines.
-Use styrofoam faucet covers if your faucets aren’t freeze-proof.

5. Give Your Furnace a Checkup
Prevent breakdowns during the coldest months.
-Schedule a professional inspection before winter.
-Replace the furnace filter (do this every 1 to 3 months in season).
-Listen for strange noises or uneven heating—signs that service may be needed sooner.

6. Ready Your Fireplace
Even occasional use requires annual maintenance.
-Have your chimney inspected for creosote buildup (a major fire hazard).
-Hire a certified chimney sweep if necessary.
-Check the flue for cracks, blockages, or nests.

7. Inspect Wood Stoves
Wood-burning stoves provide great warmth but require vigilance.
-Examine stovepipes for cracks, corrosion, or loose joints.
-Clean the stovepipe regularly during heating season.
-Inspect the stove body and legs for rust or cracks.

8. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fall is a great reminder to refresh these life-saving devices.
-Replace batteries and vacuum detectors with a soft brush.
-Test units using the test button or a smoke source (like a blown-out candle).- Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement.
-Ensure you have at least one CO detector near sleeping areas.

Pro Tip: Do a quick walk-around of your property as well – look for cracks in walkways, loose handrails, and overhanging branches that could break under heavy snow or ice.

Carrie Colby is a Broker with Allied Real Estate, 909 Roosevelt Trail in Windham. She can be reached at 207-232-5497. <