At a time when everyone needs to practice safe social distancing, business is being done virtually, and all areas of life seem to be altered, buying and selling a home has its “new normals” as well. That is why my new website makeover comes coincidentally at the right time for current and potential homeowners. The website's simplicity and [...]
During these times, it’s tough to know how to help. However, our local ski resort’s owner, Jon Schaefer, found a simple thing that many people and companies can do to help the doctors and medical professionals who are taking care of sick patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, [...]
The Greenfield Farmers’ Market is opening in a different way this year. In order to keep the community safe while still offering local and fresh products, the Market has created important rules and guidelines for market goers. They feel that the measures they have put in place are above and beyond what other shopping [...]
Sales of single family homes in Franklin County were up 33.3% and median price up 7.3% in March 2020 compared to March 2019. The sales were up in Hampshire and Hampden County. Median price was up in both Hampden and Hampshire [...]
Are you thinking of selling within the next 12 months and wondering what type of repairs or renovations you should do before it hits the market? Here are some statistics taken from the 2019 Remodeling Impact Report. These suggestions do make sense based on our local market. However, it is always best to have this conversation with your local [...]
Sugaring season is in full swing in Western Mass and all the sugar houses in Franklin County are busy! The first boil for most sugar houses happens in early February so by now, the local sugar houses have already had a few boils. This year, the Lively Family at Sunrise Farms in Colrain is doing things a little bit [...]
March is the time of year to start planning your garden and to get ready for spring! When planning your garden, it’s a good idea to first select some plants that will thrive in your yard. Check out this list of North American plants for New England gardens, by the Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment at UMass Amherst. If you’re considering planting a vegetable garden this year, the Center also has some great tips here. Another great resource I’ve found, is on gardenia.net, which has a list of perennials for New England gardens based on moisture of soil, amount of sun, and time of year.
For more garden inspiration, check out some local garden shows happening this month in Western Mass. The Western Mass Home & Garden Show will be at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield on March 26-29. View the list of vendors and happenings at the show on their website. This is a great event for families to attend together since there will be a designated Kids’ area with creative activities, a live butterfly display, a koi fish pond, and more!
Smith College will run their annual Spring Bulb Show from March 7-22 at the Lyman Conservatory. View a spectacular array of blossoming crocuses, hyacinths, narcissi, irises, lilies and tulips. The show’s hours are 10 am to 4 pm daily, and until 8 pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Click here for more information.
Mount Holyoke will host their Spring Flower Show as well on March 7. For 49 years, the college has hosted this show which displays thousands of colorful and fragrant blooms. View an assortment of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and more. Plus this year there will be a special art installment by four Mount Holyoke College art studio majors. The show’s hours are 10 am to 4 pm. For more information, click here.
Purchase beautifully handcrafted pottery and art while supporting Artspace’s music and art programs at the same time. Over 30 talented potters and artists will be present, offering incredible unique items for purchase. While you shop, enjoy performances by Strings for Kids students. Also, there will be the opportunity to win door prizes, generously donated by the artists.
The Pottery & More Sale will be held Friday, March 6 from 5 to 8 pm and Saturday, March 7 from 10 am to 3 pm at Greenfield Community College. More information at artspacegreenfield.com.
Artspace’s mission is to encourage and nurture the appreciation of and participation in the arts by offering programs and instruction, and by advocating the importance of the arts in education and in the community.
Sales of single family homes in Franklin County were down 5.3% and median price down 9.1% in January 2020 compared to January 2019. The sales were up in Hampshire and down in Hampden County. Median price was up in both Hampden and Hampshire [...]
Here in Franklin County, we are lucky to have a variety of special restaurants offering delicious food. These restaurants are owned by locals and use locally sourced ingredients, as well. You can expect the vibe at these places to be true to The Valley and that the food will always be fresh and of the season. While the list of wonderful [...]
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