Welcome to my blog, your trusted source for real estate insights, local market updates, and lifestyle information throughout Portsmouth, the NH Seacoast, Southern Maine, and the Greater Newburyport area. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a property, relocating to the region, or simply exploring the communities that make this area so special, you'll find valuable information designed to help you make informed decisions.
Drawing on nearly two decades of real estate experience and a deep appreciation for coastal New England living, I share market trends, community spotlights, buyer and seller tips, new construction updates, waterfront living insights, and local events that shape our communities. My goal is to provide practical advice, local expertise, and a genuine perspective on the places I proudly serve.
As of September 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.5%. Most forecasts, including Fannie Mae, expect rates to stay in the mid-6% range through the end of 2025, then gradually ease toward 6.0% or slightly below in 2026.
Here’s what different rates mean for typical 30-year fixed
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One of the most common questions I hear is: “When are all the foreclosures coming?” The reality is, despite headlines and speculation, foreclosure activity remains very low. Why? The answer comes down to one major factor: homeowner equity.
Over the last several years, [...]
Portsmouth's condominium scene is bustling with exciting new condo developments that are shaping the city’s urban fabric and appealing to a diverse range of homebuyers. These developments are bringing fresh energy, modern design, and a new wave of lifestyle-focused [...]
Maine has overhauled its accessory dwelling unit (ADU) framework under Title 30-A, §4364-B, effective January 7, 2025. Under the updated law, any municipality must allow at least one ADU on a lot zoned for a single-family dwelling, in any residential zone, as a permitted use—no conditional-use or variance
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Being a Realtor is an extraordinary journey filled with both rewarding highs and challenging lows. Unlike many traditional careers, working in real estate means operating entirely on commission—there's no guaranteed salary, no paid vacation days, and no company-provided benefits. My success, and livelihood, depends solely on my ability to [...]
Understanding Real Estate Transfer Taxes on the Seacoast
What you need to know in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts—and who picks up the tab
The Fourth of July is one of the best times to enjoy the charm of the New Hampshire Seacoast — and nothing caps off a summer evening like a great fireworks display. Whether you're staying close to home or looking to explore a neighboring town, here’s your 2025 guide to all the best fireworks shows within 15 miles of [...]
Why Living on the New Hampshire Seacoast Is a Lifestyle Upgrade
The New Hampshire Seacoast offers a rare combination of natural beauty, small-town charm, and coastal living that feels both relaxing and revitalizing. From the soft sands of Rye’s beaches to the rocky coastline dotted with historic homes and scenic vistas, life on the [...]
An abatement is a request submitted to the local assessing officials to refund taxes paid based on physical description errors, damaged buildings during a tax year or differences in the opinion of value. If an abatement request is denied by the local assessing officials, the next step may be to file an appeal of the denial with the Board [...]
Listing data is derived in whole or in part from the Maine IDX & is for consumers' personal, non commercial use only. Dimensions are approximate and not guaranteed. All data should be independently verified. ©2026 Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 
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Steve Oates | Realtor® - NH, ME & MA participates in ©2026 Maine Listings Internet Data Exchange program, allowing us to display other Maine IDX Participants' listings. This website does not display complete listings. Certain listings of other real estate brokerage firms have been excluded. Mortgage figures are estimates. Check with your bank or proposed mortgage company for actual interest rates. This product uses the FRED® API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.