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Maine’s residential real estate market fared well in 2020, despite the impacts of COVID.  The Maine Association of Realtors and Maine Listings show a sales increase of 9.82% for all single-family existing homes sold during 2020. Values rose by double digits during the year with a statewide median sales price of $256,000, which is an increase of 13.78%. The year ended with historic highs for the number of reported transactions (19,921) and median sales price. In month of December, sales across the state of Maine were up 31.53% compared to December 2019, and the statewide MSP of $270,00 represents an increase of 15.38% from the previous year. Sustained low mortgage interest rates and Maine’s reputation as a safe place to live relative to the rest of the U.S., combined with the emergence of teleworking has created an unprecedented demand for residential real estate in Maine.

Here are some creative ways to make your house lighter, brighter, and cheerier with more natural light indoors: #1 Take the Screens Off Your Windows You will get 30% more sunlight shining indoors without screens on your windows.   Sunlight warms your room and saves you money on your heating bill. Be sure to store your screens in your garage or basement where they won’t get damaged. In the spring you will want to put them back on so you can keep that 30% of the sun out and run your cooling system less. #2 Hang Outdoor String Lights Indoors Drape string lights around a window or a mantel or hang a string of LED glimmer lights in a tall potted plant. They will add a layer of soft light to your room and remind you of fireflies, flip-flops, and patio parties. #3 Lighten Your Interior Keep interiors pale to reflect and amplify light.   Think white walls, light woods for furniture and floors, and light upholstery.   To get the look without getting rid of your dark furniture and