Statewide Marketing Session for October 2017
Submitted by Louise Norwood
The October Statewide Marketing Session was held on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Keller Williams Training Room at 168 South River Road in Bedford. This month’s breakfast sponsor was Andre Tremblay and Debra Davis Thum of Franklin Savings Bank. Incorporated in 1869, Franklin Savings Bank has been a mainstay in Central New Hampshire for almost 149 years. Throughout the years, the bank has grown from a single employee to five employees in 1913, twelve employees at the 100th anniversary in 1969 and to their current team of over 120 employees.
Christine Burke of Burke Emergency Restoration has all of the tools necessary to conquer the after effects of water, fire and smoke damage both in the residential and commercial venues. They cover all of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and York County, Maine and are always willing to co-ordinate free estimates. This winter promises, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, to be brutal so much ice damage will prevail. Burke Emergency has the ability to rectify any situation of this nature. Recently they have been besieged with numerous mold issues and quickly ascertained what course of action that was needed to remediate. Christine pointed out that their family owned business is now into their fourteenth year of business working closely with some of the top management companies and are also on the preferred vendor list with many insurance companies.
Paul Alfano of Allobar Strategies (Property Tax Consultants) was founded by attorneys, and committed to promoting fairness in taxation among property taxpayers. The goal is to lower any given property’s real estate taxes by reducing the assessed value of the real estate. Appraisers use other methods of arriving at real estate values while Allobar’s team will assist the taxpayer via submitting an abatement application to their municipality objecting to the town’s property assessment along with a written statement of their own estimate of the property value and supplement their application with evidence supporting a reduced or adjusted fair market value. They have valuable experience in reducing the assessed value thus reducing taxes by pointing out antiquated features of a property. Meeting Paul on any given property will reap great rewards. Paul works on a contingency fee basis and will pay a referral fee for new business. He reminded the group that the deadline for filing is March 1, 2018.
Jeff Brown of Cross Insurance (formerly of TD Bank) has recently joined the insurance side of the equation basing the reason for his hiring through his vast book of strong relationships. He will now have a greater ability of reaping significantly more business at his new place of employment. While Jeff looked at other banks, his decision was to make this career change after being sought after by Cross. Their strong presence in the community, quick response time coupled with a quick close and outstanding reputation were key factors in Jeff’s decision.
Aaron Gill of Northway Bank explained that their headquarters are located in Berlin and serves dozens of communities throughout New Hampshire with 17 full-service branches and two loan production offices in Bedford and Portsmouth respectively. Their sphere of influence is north of Boston and the entire state of New Hampshire. He recently assisted an investor with a 2.9 million dollar, multi tenanted building in northern Massachusetts and at the same time the individual was able to pull some equity out to reinvest. Aaron enjoys his role at Northway interfacing with other likeminded professionals in the income property niche and fostering strategic relationships.
Joe Campbell of North Branch Construction explained that they have much history in the construction business being sixty years young. Joe explained that they have developed into a full-service construction management company, design builder and general contractor serving New Hampshire and Northern New England. They have never failed a deadline date and their statistics show that this is a historic fact. They are currently working on the National Guard $10,000,000 project in Hooksett.
Joe Friedman of Brooks Properties are continually searching out properties along the I-93 corridor to Bedford in the realm of 20,000 to 80,000 s.f. Their extensive portfolio includes flex/office with rates as low as $7.00 psf NNN or first class office space in the $17.00 to $23.00 psf NNN. Expenses run at $5.00 psf and utilities at $2.00. Their properties are at or near the border of New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The area is a great locale being so close to metro Boston. Joe wished to let everyone know Brooks has a great event center better known as “Brookstone Event Center at Brookstone Park” which has the capability of hosting any size wedding, holiday events, showers or corporate events conveniently located on Route 111.
Phil Rentz of Service Credit Union is centrally located on Colby Court in Bedford as well as multi satellites locations offering an array of banking services and are backed by several billion dollars in assets. They have the capability of offering fifteen year fixed loans with attractive terms. They continue to be a growing presence in the banking community priding themselves on great customer service.
Don Marshall of Marshall Associates brings together buyers and sellers of businesses. Don touted a business dealing in organic food doing two million dollars annually netting an annual take home of $340,000. The asking price is $925,000. As general business brokers he comes across all types of businesses especially the following enterprise which continually increases its bottom line. This demolition service company that he is marketing touts its gross as $6,000,000 in sales with a net of $1,000,000. Now, by raising their prices are realizing $7,000,000 in sales while adding an additional $800,000 to the bottom line. The asking price is $3.5 million. Sounds like a great going business.
Vince Chestnut of Alpha Locksmith suggests that when a property is leased or sold that an Alpha Locksmith gift certificate would be most appropriate. His tag line is “think of their security”. Vince is so convinced that you can depend and rely on his keys to work that he imprints each one with his business name. And as he operates in a mobile unit, he not only brings his expertise to your door but offers the utmost convenience. While changing up some locks at a local police station, he found that the electronic card strip could be keyed in with a plastic knife so after rectifying that problem the chief asked him if could provide a good locking mechanism for the snacks and soda area! He complied and has won another account.
Bill Jean of Fulcrum Associates explained that their company has been operational for the last thirty years and is headquartered in Amherst. They pride themselves on keeping the projects on budget and on time. Their field of expertise spreads the whole gamut from ground up construction to tenant improvements. He threw out a morsel of good business by letting everyone know that he has a cash buyer in tow wishing to invest in a multi-residential project from Massachusetts to Southern Maine. Should you have a piece of land that warrants taking a look at and that can support a minimum of 100 units, please contact Bill.
Chara Gannett of Building Envelope Specialists offers a full service exterior envelope assessment and remediation of same. They work closely with property managers, commercial brokers, insurance professionals and architects doing forensic research to assess and offer solutions for deficiencies from the outside in. This would be especially important for a new buyer during their due diligence. They currently have a team working on a disaster relief program in Texas. They also are working on a mill project in Manchester and in order to enable them to see tight spots they have been utilizing the drone technology.
Lisa Guerin of ServiceMaster Disaster Associates offers 24 hour services for both residential and commercial areas such as mold, smoke and fire damage issues in New Hampshire and in Massachusetts. Their firm is individually owned and has been in operation for some twenty-eight years having fifteen practitioners in their employ doing all different damage clean ups and all different size jobs. They have two locations one of which is located in Rochester, New Hampshire and the other in Wilmington, Massachusetts.
Rick Mulvee of Tower Realty has some unique cash deals he is seeking. He has investor clients who will take on environmentally challenged properties that have languished on the market for some time. Their target dollar mark is anywhere from 5 million to 20 million dollars. Theirs is a seven year hold plan with an escape to sell the asset or assets for profit. They will hold longer if necessary though are not adverse to risk and consider properties that would be regarded with a respectable return – they love New Hampshire. Rick also has another investor seeking a portfolio of hotels and will consider almost any geographic location. Lastly, Rick is working with a user who is in need of 2,000 to 2,300 s.f. of office in the Manchester or Bedford environs.
Frank Donlan of Merrimack Valley Credit Union operates out of Lawrence, Massachusetts but covers all of New Hampshire. With thirteen branches to their credit and a billion dollars at their disposal, they have 10% of that amount in house to lend. They are currently expanding into Londonderry with a new branch servicing that community and looking for a new book of clients in that area. He has been affiliated with banking for some fifteen years. He reiterated that their institution is growing and is aggressive.
Ben Brown of Fulcrum Associates tells us that they are now 40 plus strong with much capability to take on multimillion dollar projects. They have been working on a number of jobs and to name a few – YWCA in Manchester which is a sanctuary for women; Southern New Hampshire University for student campus housing; a 100,000 s.f. storage facility in Salem and a host of other construction assignments. Ben has a contact to transact a project involving either senior housing or perhaps a 75 bed nursing facility all pre-permitted off DW Highway in Merrimack. There is a deal to be made there.
Steppani Croteau of Allen & Major Associates, Inc. explained that their firm is essentially comprised of civil engineers who deal in structural; due diligence studies; site feasibility studies; master planning as well as site development/re-development and subdivision design along with a host of other multi-disciplinary functions. They are now involved in transportation studies and are happy to give free estimates. Their company is currently working on Silver Square in Dover; Infinity Auto Sales in Nashua; a senior living/dementia center; solar housing and projects in the Newburyport area. Steppani announced that they are holding an open house at their location situated at Airpark Executive Center, 400 Harvey Road in Manchester on Thursday, November 2nd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. All are welcome.
Peter Sandberg of Concord Awning specializes in creating both the canvassing and frame work used for all types of awning applications. They cover all of New Hampshire and an extensive area of Massachusetts. Peter commented that one of their recent projects was the Aspen Dental site on South Willow Street in Manchester known as the controversial sign display! One of their niche markets are creating the weather curtains utilized for porch areas and restaurants to extend their outdoor season of operation. They recently completed a large project for an outdoor pavillion for theme based parties. Quite a feat!
Aaron Bennett of Criterium-Bennett Engineers with headquarters in Portsmouth deal in both commercial and residential with their mode of expertise being in due diligence inspections; cost segregation and all types of cost studies. “ Cost segregation is a means under United States tax laws and accounting rules the process of identifying personal property assets that are grouped with real property assets, and separating out personal assets for tax reporting purposes”. This method allows for a shorter window of time to take depreciation. In addition to all of the normal expected practices of an inspection they are also certified in conducting elevation studies. Their reports are written so that they are understandable spelling out any deficiency and offering advice to owners on how to maintain their property for ten years out and related expectations for that time period.
Leighton White of Leighton A. White Inc. is a family owned and operated business dealing in site work. 95% of their work load is in the commercial/industrial/institutional realm. Leighton is now retired and his son Dale is now at the helm. Their firm has recently purchased the Public Service district office in Milford to accommodate their ever growing needs. Their prior location that being a 1900 building will be placed on the market within the next three to four months. Leighton went on to say that they own a quarry in Wilton and a number of gravel pits which provide all types and sizes of stone that are utilized in erosion control. Their next project just on the horizon will be at the Coldstream Park located at 116 South River Road in Bedford.
Marie Degulis of Secondwind Water Systems finds that her most important role is to educate clients on water in New Hampshire and how to handle water challenges in your home, place of business or public water supply. Marie and her team are happy to help you and your clients in all of their water concerns and needs. Not only can Marie assist in answering questions related to water but is certified to instruct courses related to same. Secondwind has been instrumental in solving problems for a New Hampshire beer brewing company here in New Hampshire successfully allieviating elements in the water which would affect the quality of the beer. Working in tandem, Secondwind implemented systems for the brew company to achieve the best tasting and highest quality product.
Karen Keating of Optima Bank has been involved in the banking industry for many years and is currently based at the Portsmouth location. She is especially astute in assisting professionals in the small business realm. Karen is presently working on four residential investment properties in Massachusetts – she also involves herself in the C & I side of the lending equation for both real estate and equipment lending. Optima works closely with BFA and SBA. She went on to say that Optima was started by a husband and wife team with a long history in the banking field basing their business model on creating relationship longevity and trust. On that premise she still works with many of her same customers looking back some
seventeen years ago. Welcome, Karen, we enjoyed having you attend our Statewide Marketing Session and are hopeful you will join us more often and consider joining New Hampshire CIBOR.
Matt Lefebvre of Elm Gove Realty has a cash buyer looking to purchase during the first quarter of 2018 and is in the market for a single triple net tenant signing for ten years with investment funds of $1.5 million. He is willing to look anywhere in New Hampshire. Matt went on to say that Elm Grove has purchased four buildings on Pleasant Street in Concord with plans for a (40) high end apartment conversion along with 5,000 s.f. of high end office. The property is only a block from downtown main street. In addition Matt has a couple of clients looking in Concord for mixed use type property under $1,000,000 and yet another client looking in Manchester for under $2,000,000 or even a turn key situation.
Robert Cruess of TFM Engineers announced that they now have a team of 75 professionals between their two locations here in Bedford and in Portsmouth. One of their newest undertakings is an engineering project for UNH bringing more dorms into the ever growing university student base. Robert also shared what was published in the Manchester Union Leader regarding the giant Amazon taking under advisement locating one of their regional offices/warehousing/fulfilllment centers at the former Woodmont Orchards in Londonderry. The six hundred acre piece should Amazon build their facility here in New Hampshire would bring some 50,000 high paying jobs. This would be a huge benefit to the State providing new found tax money, jobs and related housing. Robert also has achieved the status of Author Extraordinaire just having come out with his first book penned under his name. Time is All We Have can be purchased on Amazon. Robert is offering discounts for anyone purchasing up to 1,000 copies!!!
Andre Tremblay, Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer of Franklin Savings Bank who provided us with a most elaborate and generous breakfast spread explained that the bank prides itself in offering a simple loan package. Operating throughout the State of New Hampshire and really almost anywhere in New England, this community bank stands out as a prime lender in the development world. Franklin is currently opening another satellite in at Exit 11 in Merrimack adding more experienced loan officers. Andre enjoys interfacing with developers and has five to six current projects he is personally involved with. While the majority of banks dictate a long laundry list of loan covenants taking into account debt ratio coverage, Franklin will work with their customers through defaults to get the loan back on track. Customers appreciate the personal touch. And we appreciate the huge breakfast that Andre and Deb Thum provided. The table was groaning under the weight of this feast. Andre also mentioned that should any member care to write an article of interest as to their particular specialty for the monthly membership newsletter to please do so and submit to Allison Ropes so that The Board of Directors can review. A great way of getting your name out there for future business.
Debra Davis Thum, Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer of Franklin Savings Bank deals primarily in commercial lending; C & I and lines of credit as well as non-for profit agendas. Deb has 33 years of banking experience and prides herself with personalized service. Their streamlined process can turn an application around in short order. Franklin has a huge portfolio of loans along with very satisfied and loyal clients as they have been in the banking community for a very long duration and even with their substantial growth will continue to practice with professionalism administering to a client’s individual needs and requirements.
Kent Buschle of Heartland hails from Windham providing one of the largest credit card clearing houses and is the third largest payroll center in the world. Heartland Payment Systems is a global payment company and provides credit card processing with top card data security and fair rates. They wholesale directly to end users. Some of their more local accounts are the Bedford Village Inn, Puritan Back Room; Shorty’s, LaCaretta, Fratellos’, fifty Patel convenience stores (!), Granite State Breweries and a host of prominent users. We welcome Kent’s first visit to our networking Statewide Marketing Session and hope he will join us again as well as consider joining the ranks of NH CIBOR.
Erik Crisman of Brookstone Builders has thirty years plus in the construction business offering construction management, design/building projects and general contracting. Erik explained that they do a fair amount of owner occupied, build to suit facilities and are heavily involved in the pharmaceutical industry with their related building structures. He urged those attending to Google them to follow the projects they are currently working on and to learn more about Brookstone.
Jeff Boufford of Boyd & Boufford Insurance announced that one week ago he bought his partner out so rather than waiting his expected plan of ten years, he has accomplished this in 8 ½ years. His banner head will still remain Boyd & Boufford for the foreseeable future. As Jeff is an independent broker he represents a host of insurance companies and can source out policies to the best fitting product to the best company handling a specific need. Pollution is now a large piece of the insurance industry and as Jeff deals with this issue on a frequent basis, he is capable of providing clients with the best solution in their particular situation. Jeff went on to say that he and Matt Bacon head up the affiliate membership committee for NH CIBOR and as the marketing session seems to attract many affiliates, he encourages more brokers to take part in this well attended monthly meeting. This is an inexpensive networking event with many benefits derived through professional relationships and ultimately ongoing friendships. Looking ahead toward the annual Christmas party, it will be held at the Manchester Country Club in December. Consult the monthly newsletter for more details – Jeff is also soliciting sponsorship for the evening’s event should you feel so inclined.
Louise Norwood of NAI Norwood Group, Inc. touted three current listings from their office. New to the market are three contiguous business condos of record compised of 5,997 s.f. at Coldstream Park at 116 S. River Road being offered for sale only at $750,000 with fantastic views to the water course behind the Williamsburg styled building situated on six acres in the heart of Bedford’s business/retail district and immediately across the street of the soon to be Market and Main at the former Macy’s site. In addition their firm is marketing a former medical, double unit condo at 80 Palomino Drive in Bedford. This condo is comprised of 2,560 s.f. and is being offered for sale at $275,000 or for lease at $10.00 psf NNN or the units could be purchases on a singular basis. Lastly, two acres of development land is being marketed at the corner of 8 Ridgewood and 4 Atwood Lane in Bedford. These high profile lots just one block from S. River Road have public water, sewer and natural gas at the street. Being offered at $890,000.
Thank you all for attending and to our host and hostess for sponsoring this month’s meeting. We appreciate this fine repast. It was enjoyed by all. Just a few quick notes – we encourage you to bring any paper materials on your particular business, flyers or anything that will tell us more about your individual company. Also, we do get many affiliates with whom we have forged long term relationships with and who attend on a regular basis. It would be great to see more of our commercial competitors join us for this fast paced, informational meeting. You will gain much in a short segment of time – the returns are great.
Have a wonderful fall and see you the day before Thanksgiving.
Statewide Marketing Session for October 2017
Submitted by Louise Norwood
The October Statewide Marketing Session was held on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Keller Williams Training Room at 168 South River Road in Bedford. This month’s breakfast sponsor was Andre Tremblay and Debra Davis Thum of Franklin Savings Bank. Incorporated in 1869, Franklin Savings Bank has been a mainstay in Central New Hampshire for almost 149 years. Throughout the years, the bank has grown from a single employee to five employees in 1913, twelve employees at the 100th anniversary in 1969 and to their current team of over 120 employees.
Christine Burke of Burke Emergency Restoration has all of the tools necessary to conquer the after effects of water, fire and smoke damage both in the residential and commercial venues. They cover all of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and York County, Maine and are always willing to co-ordinate free estimates. This winter promises, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, to be brutal so much ice damage will prevail. Burke Emergency has the ability to rectify any situation of this nature. Recently they have been besieged with numerous mold issues and quickly ascertained what course of action that was needed to remediate. Christine pointed out that their family owned business is now into their fourteenth year of business working closely with some of the top management companies and are also on the preferred vendor list with many insurance companies.
Paul Alfano of Allobar Strategies (Property Tax Consultants) was founded by attorneys, and committed to promoting fairness in taxation among property taxpayers. The goal is to lower any given property’s real estate taxes by reducing the assessed value of the real estate. Appraisers use other methods of arriving at real estate values while Allobar’s team will assist the taxpayer via submitting an abatement application to their municipality objecting to the town’s property assessment along with a written statement of their own estimate of the property value and supplement their application with evidence supporting a reduced or adjusted fair market value. They have valuable experience in reducing the assessed value thus reducing taxes by pointing out antiquated features of a property. Meeting Paul on any given property will reap great rewards. Paul works on a contingency fee basis and will pay a referral fee for new business. He reminded the group that the deadline for filing is March 1, 2018.
Jeff Brown of Cross Insurance (formerly of TD Bank) has recently joined the insurance side of the equation basing the reason for his hiring through his vast book of strong relationships. He will now have a greater ability of reaping significantly more business at his new place of employment. While Jeff looked at other banks, his decision was to make this career change after being sought after by Cross. Their strong presence in the community, quick response time coupled with a quick close and outstanding reputation were key factors in Jeff’s decision.
Aaron Gill of Northway Bank explained that their headquarters are located in Berlin and serves dozens of communities throughout New Hampshire with 17 full-service branches and two loan production offices in Bedford and Portsmouth respectively. Their sphere of influence is north of Boston and the entire state of New Hampshire. He recently assisted an investor with a 2.9 million dollar, multi tenanted building in northern Massachusetts and at the same time the individual was able to pull some equity out to reinvest. Aaron enjoys his role at Northway interfacing with other likeminded professionals in the income property niche and fostering strategic relationships.
Joe Campbell of North Branch Construction explained that they have much history in the construction business being sixty years young. Joe explained that they have developed into a full-service construction management company, design builder and general contractor serving New Hampshire and Northern New England. They have never failed a deadline date and their statistics show that this is a historic fact. They are currently working on the National Guard $10,000,000 project in Hooksett.
Joe Friedman of Brooks Properties are continually searching out properties along the I-93 corridor to Bedford in the realm of 20,000 to 80,000 s.f. Their extensive portfolio includes flex/office with rates as low as $7.00 psf NNN or first class office space in the $17.00 to $23.00 psf NNN. Expenses run at $5.00 psf and utilities at $2.00. Their properties are at or near the border of New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The area is a great locale being so close to metro Boston. Joe wished to let everyone know Brooks has a great event center better known as “Brookstone Event Center at Brookstone Park” which has the capability of hosting any size wedding, holiday events, showers or corporate events conveniently located on Route 111.
Phil Rentz of Service Credit Union is centrally located on Colby Court in Bedford as well as multi satellites locations offering an array of banking services and are backed by several billion dollars in assets. They have the capability of offering fifteen year fixed loans with attractive terms. They continue to be a growing presence in the banking community priding themselves on great customer service.
Don Marshall of Marshall Associates brings together buyers and sellers of businesses. Don touted a business dealing in organic food doing two million dollars annually netting an annual take home of $340,000. The asking price is $925,000. As general business brokers he comes across all types of businesses especially the following enterprise which continually increases its bottom line. This demolition service company that he is marketing touts its gross as $6,000,000 in sales with a net of $1,000,000. Now, by raising their prices are realizing $7,000,000 in sales while adding an additional $800,000 to the bottom line. The asking price is $3.5 million. Sounds like a great going business.
Vince Chestnut of Alpha Locksmith suggests that when a property is leased or sold that an Alpha Locksmith gift certificate would be most appropriate. His tag line is “think of their security”. Vince is so convinced that you can depend and rely on his keys to work that he imprints each one with his business name. And as he operates in a mobile unit, he not only brings his expertise to your door but offers the utmost convenience. While changing up some locks at a local police station, he found that the electronic card strip could be keyed in with a plastic knife so after rectifying that problem the chief asked him if could provide a good locking mechanism for the snacks and soda area! He complied and has won another account.
Bill Jean of Fulcrum Associates explained that their company has been operational for the last thirty years and is headquartered in Amherst. They pride themselves on keeping the projects on budget and on time. Their field of expertise spreads the whole gamut from ground up construction to tenant improvements. He threw out a morsel of good business by letting everyone know that he has a cash buyer in tow wishing to invest in a multi-residential project from Massachusetts to Southern Maine. Should you have a piece of land that warrants taking a look at and that can support a minimum of 100 units, please contact Bill.
Chara Gannett of Building Envelope Specialists offers a full service exterior envelope assessment and remediation of same. They work closely with property managers, commercial brokers, insurance professionals and architects doing forensic research to assess and offer solutions for deficiencies from the outside in. This would be especially important for a new buyer during their due diligence. They currently have a team working on a disaster relief program in Texas. They also are working on a mill project in Manchester and in order to enable them to see tight spots they have been utilizing the drone technology.
Lisa Guerin of ServiceMaster Disaster Associates offers 24 hour services for both residential and commercial areas such as mold, smoke and fire damage issues in New Hampshire and in Massachusetts. Their firm is individually owned and has been in operation for some twenty-eight years having fifteen practitioners in their employ doing all different damage clean ups and all different size jobs. They have two locations one of which is located in Rochester, New Hampshire and the other in Wilmington, Massachusetts.
Rick Mulvee of Tower Realty has some unique cash deals he is seeking. He has investor clients who will take on environmentally challenged properties that have languished on the market for some time. Their target dollar mark is anywhere from 5 million to 20 million dollars. Theirs is a seven year hold plan with an escape to sell the asset or assets for profit. They will hold longer if necessary though are not adverse to risk and consider properties that would be regarded with a respectable return – they love New Hampshire. Rick also has another investor seeking a portfolio of hotels and will consider almost any geographic location. Lastly, Rick is working with a user who is in need of 2,000 to 2,300 s.f. of office in the Manchester or Bedford environs.
Frank Donlan of Merrimack Valley Credit Union operates out of Lawrence, Massachusetts but covers all of New Hampshire. With thirteen branches to their credit and a billion dollars at their disposal, they have 10% of that amount in house to lend. They are currently expanding into Londonderry with a new branch servicing that community and looking for a new book of clients in that area. He has been affiliated with banking for some fifteen years. He reiterated that their institution is growing and is aggressive.
Ben Brown of Fulcrum Associates tells us that they are now 40 plus strong with much capability to take on multimillion dollar projects. They have been working on a number of jobs and to name a few – YWCA in Manchester which is a sanctuary for women; Southern New Hampshire University for student campus housing; a 100,000 s.f. storage facility in Salem and a host of other construction assignments. Ben has a contact to transact a project involving either senior housing or perhaps a 75 bed nursing facility all pre-permitted off DW Highway in Merrimack. There is a deal to be made there.
Steppani Croteau of Allen & Major Associates, Inc. explained that their firm is essentially comprised of civil engineers who deal in structural; due diligence studies; site feasibility studies; master planning as well as site development/re-development and subdivision design along with a host of other multi-disciplinary functions. They are now involved in transportation studies and are happy to give free estimates. Their company is currently working on Silver Square in Dover; Infinity Auto Sales in Nashua; a senior living/dementia center; solar housing and projects in the Newburyport area. Steppani announced that they are holding an open house at their location situated at Airpark Executive Center, 400 Harvey Road in Manchester on Thursday, November 2nd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. All are welcome.
Peter Sandberg of Concord Awning specializes in creating both the canvassing and frame work used for all types of awning applications. They cover all of New Hampshire and an extensive area of Massachusetts. Peter commented that one of their recent projects was the Aspen Dental site on South Willow Street in Manchester known as the controversial sign display! One of their niche markets are creating the weather curtains utilized for porch areas and restaurants to extend their outdoor season of operation. They recently completed a large project for an outdoor pavillion for theme based parties. Quite a feat!
Aaron Bennett of Criterium-Bennett Engineers with headquarters in Portsmouth deal in both commercial and residential with their mode of expertise being in due diligence inspections; cost segregation and all types of cost studies. “ Cost segregation is a means under United States tax laws and accounting rules the process of identifying personal property assets that are grouped with real property assets, and separating out personal assets for tax reporting purposes”. This method allows for a shorter window of time to take depreciation. In addition to all of the normal expected practices of an inspection they are also certified in conducting elevation studies. Their reports are written so that they are understandable spelling out any deficiency and offering advice to owners on how to maintain their property for ten years out and related expectations for that time period.
Leighton White of Leighton A. White Inc. is a family owned and operated business dealing in site work. 95% of their work load is in the commercial/industrial/institutional realm. Leighton is now retired and his son Dale is now at the helm. Their firm has recently purchased the Public Service district office in Milford to accommodate their ever growing needs. Their prior location that being a 1900 building will be placed on the market within the next three to four months. Leighton went on to say that they own a quarry in Wilton and a number of gravel pits which provide all types and sizes of stone that are utilized in erosion control. Their next project just on the horizon will be at the Coldstream Park located at 116 South River Road in Bedford.
Marie Degulis of Secondwind Water Systems finds that her most important role is to educate clients on water in New Hampshire and how to handle water challenges in your home, place of business or public water supply. Marie and her team are happy to help you and your clients in all of their water concerns and needs. Not only can Marie assist in answering questions related to water but is certified to instruct courses related to same. Secondwind has been instrumental in solving problems for a New Hampshire beer brewing company here in New Hampshire successfully allieviating elements in the water which would affect the quality of the beer. Working in tandem, Secondwind implemented systems for the brew company to achieve the best tasting and highest quality product.
Karen Keating of Optima Bank has been involved in the banking industry for many years and is currently based at the Portsmouth location. She is especially astute in assisting professionals in the small business realm. Karen is presently working on four residential investment properties in Massachusetts – she also involves herself in the C & I side of the lending equation for both real estate and equipment lending. Optima works closely with BFA and SBA. She went on to say that Optima was started by a husband and wife team with a long history in the banking field basing their business model on creating relationship longevity and trust. On that premise she still works with many of her same customers looking back some seventeen years ago. Welcome, Karen, we enjoyed having you attend our Statewide Marketing Session and are hopeful you will join us more often and consider joining New Hampshire CIBOR.
Matt Lefebvre of Elm Gove Realty has a cash buyer looking to purchase during the first quarter of 2018 and is in the market for a single triple net tenant signing for ten years with investment funds of $1.5 million. He is willing to look anywhere in New Hampshire. Matt went on to say that Elm Grove has purchased four buildings on Pleasant Street in Concord with plans for a (40) high end apartment conversion along with 5,000 s.f. of high end office. The property is only a block from downtown main street. In addition Matt has a couple of clients looking in Concord for mixed use type property under $1,000,000 and yet another client looking in Manchester for under $2,000,000 or even a turn key situation.
Robert Cruess of TFM Engineers announced that they now have a team of 75 professionals between their two locations here in Bedford and in Portsmouth. One of their newest undertakings is an engineering project for UNH bringing more dorms into the ever growing university student base. Robert also shared what was published in the Manchester Union Leader regarding the giant Amazon taking under advisement locating one of their regional offices/warehousing/fulfilllment centers at the former Woodmont Orchards in Londonderry. The six hundred acre piece should Amazon build their facility here in New Hampshire would bring some 50,000 high paying jobs. This would be a huge benefit to the State providing new found tax money, jobs and related housing. Robert also has achieved the status of Author Extraordinaire just having come out with his first book penned under his name. Time is All We Have can be purchased on Amazon. Robert is offering discounts for anyone purchasing up to 1,000 copies!!!
Andre Tremblay, Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer of Franklin Savings Bank who provided us with a most elaborate and generous breakfast spread explained that the bank prides itself in offering a simple loan package. Operating throughout the State of New Hampshire and really almost anywhere in New England, this community bank stands out as a prime lender in the development world. Franklin is currently opening another satellite in at Exit 11 in Merrimack adding more experienced loan officers. Andre enjoys interfacing with developers and has five to six current projects he is personally involved with. While the majority of banks dictate a long laundry list of loan covenants taking into account debt ratio coverage, Franklin will work with their customers through defaults to get the loan back on track. Customers appreciate the personal touch. And we appreciate the huge breakfast that Andre and Deb Thum provided. The table was groaning under the weight of this feast. Andre also mentioned that should any member care to write an article of interest as to their particular specialty for the monthly membership newsletter to please do so and submit to Allison Ropes so that The Board of Directors can review. A great way of getting your name out there for future business.
Debra Davis Thum, Vice President/Commercial Loan Officer of Franklin Savings Bank deals primarily in commercial lending; C & I and lines of credit as well as non-for profit agendas. Deb has 33 years of banking experience and prides herself with personalized service. Their streamlined process can turn an application around in short order. Franklin has a huge portfolio of loans along with very satisfied and loyal clients as they have been in the banking community for a very long duration and even with their substantial growth will continue to practice with professionalism administering to a client’s individual needs and requirements.
Kent Buschle of Heartland hails from Windham providing one of the largest credit card clearing houses and is the third largest payroll center in the world. Heartland Payment Systems is a global payment company and provides credit card processing with top card data security and fair rates. They wholesale directly to end users. Some of their more local accounts are the Bedford Village Inn, Puritan Back Room; Shorty’s, LaCaretta, Fratellos’, fifty Patel convenience stores (!), Granite State Breweries and a host of prominent users. We welcome Kent’s first visit to our networking Statewide Marketing Session and hope he will join us again as well as consider joining the ranks of NH CIBOR.
Erik Crisman of Brookstone Builders has thirty years plus in the construction business offering construction management, design/building projects and general contracting. Erik explained that they do a fair amount of owner occupied, build to suit facilities and are heavily involved in the pharmaceutical industry with their related building structures. He urged those attending to Google them to follow the projects they are currently working on and to learn more about Brookstone.
Jeff Boufford of Boyd & Boufford Insurance announced that one week ago he bought his partner out so rather than waiting his expected plan of ten years, he has accomplished this in 8 ½ years. His banner head will still remain Boyd & Boufford for the foreseeable future. As Jeff is an independent broker he represents a host of insurance companies and can source out policies to the best fitting product to the best company handling a specific need. Pollution is now a large piece of the insurance industry and as Jeff deals with this issue on a frequent basis, he is capable of providing clients with the best solution in their particular situation. Jeff went on to say that he and Matt Bacon head up the affiliate membership committee for NH CIBOR and as the marketing session seems to attract many affiliates, he encourages more brokers to take part in this well attended monthly meeting. This is an inexpensive networking event with many benefits derived through professional relationships and ultimately ongoing friendships. Looking ahead toward the annual Christmas party, it will be held at the Manchester Country Club in December. Consult the monthly newsletter for more details – Jeff is also soliciting sponsorship for the evening’s event should you feel so inclined.
Louise Norwood of NAI Norwood Group, Inc. touted three current listings from their office. New to the market are three contiguous business condos of record compised of 5,997 s.f. at Coldstream Park at 116 S. River Road being offered for sale only at $750,000 with fantastic views to the water course behind the Williamsburg styled building situated on six acres in the heart of Bedford’s business/retail district and immediately across the street of the soon to be Market and Main at the former Macy’s site. In addition their firm is marketing a former medical, double unit condo at 80 Palomino Drive in Bedford. This condo is comprised of 2,560 s.f. and is being offered for sale at $275,000 or for lease at $10.00 psf NNN or the units could be purchases on a singular basis. Lastly, two acres of development land is being marketed at the corner of 8 Ridgewood and 4 Atwood Lane in Bedford. These high profile lots just one block from S. River Road have public water, sewer and natural gas at the street. Being offered at $890,000.
Thank you all for attending and to our host and hostess for sponsoring this month’s meeting. We appreciate this fine repast. It was enjoyed by all. Just a few quick notes – we encourage you to bring any paper materials on your particular business, flyers or anything that will tell us more about your individual company. Also, we do get many affiliates with whom we have forged long term relationships with and who attend on a regular basis. It would be great to see more of our commercial competitors join us for this fast paced, informational meeting. You will gain much in a short segment of time – the returns are great.
Have a wonderful fall and see you the day before Thanksgiving.