Robert Thibodeau Realtor®

A Maine Thanksgiving: History, Tradition, and Community Happy Thanksgiving from beautiful Maine! As we gather to celebrate this season of gratitude, let’s take a moment to reflect on the rich history of Thanksgiving and Maine’s unique connection to this beloved holiday. Maine’s Role in Thanksgiving History Before the famous 1621 Thanksgiving feast in Plymouth, explorer George Weymouth held one of the first documented harvest celebrations on the Maine coast in 1605. Weymouth and his crew expressed gratitude for their successful voyage and the abundance of the land, hosting a meal that included seafood, wild game, and native berries—foods still synonymous with Maine today. The indigenous Wabanaki people played an essential role in these early harvest celebrations. They shared their knowledge of sustainable farming, fishing, and foraging with settlers, including how to grow corn and gather cranberries, staples that became part of early Thanksgiving feasts. Maine’s coastline and fertile la...

  Are you considering a move to Maine or know someone who is? Southern Maine is not only a beautiful place to live, but it also offers an incredible variety of homes, communities, and activities for all lifestyles. Whether you're an out-of-state buyer looking for a coastal retreat, a charming small-town property, or a vibrant urban home, I’m here to help—and I welcome your referrals! Why Choose Southern Maine? Southern Maine offers a unique blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and coastal beauty. Here are just a few highlights: Saco and Biddeford: These neighboring towns are full of history and character. Enjoy walks along the Saco River, explore Biddeford’s thriving food scene, or spend a day at Ferry Beach State Park. Scarborough: Known for its stunning beaches, including Higgins Beach and Pine Point, Scarborough offers the perfect mix of relaxation and community living. Old Orchard Beach: Famous for its lively boardwalk, amusement park, and miles of sandy beaches, Ol...

  Maine Real Estate Blog: Should You Hire a Contractor for Snow Removal or Buy a Snow Blower? Winter in Maine is as iconic as its coastline, bringing snow-covered beauty and the challenges of snow removal. As a homeowner, deciding between hiring a snow removal contractor or investing in a snow blower is an important part of preparing for the season. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option, tailored to Maine’s unique winters. Why Snow Removal Matters for Maine Homeowners Regular snow removal isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential for maintaining curb appeal, protecting your property value, and ensuring safety. Whether you’re thinking about selling your home or simply managing winter wear and tear, effective snow management is key. Hiring a Snow Removal Contractor Pros Convenience : Contractors handle the heavy lifting, saving you time and effort—ideal for Maine homeowners with busy schedules. Expertise : Professionals are equipped to handle Maine’s heavy...

When preparing your home for sale, one of the most common questions sellers face is whether to invest in updates like replacing carpets and painting or leave it for the new owners to handle. Both options have their advantages, and the decision depends on your budget, timeline, and the current condition of your home. Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your situation. When You Should Replace Carpets and Paint First Impressions Matter Buyers are often looking for a move-in-ready home. Worn-out carpets and scuffed walls can make a home feel dated, potentially lowering its perceived value. Fresh paint in neutral tones and new flooring can create an inviting atmosphere and help your home stand out in listing photos and showings. Maximizing Sale Price Investing in minor updates can lead to a higher sale price. According to studies, fresh paint and flooring offer some of the best returns on investment in real estate. Buyers might even offer more for a home that feels clean...

As winter approaches, Maine homeowners are no strangers to the reality of power outages. High winds, ice storms, and heavy snow often lead to extended outages, especially in rural and coastal areas. Investing in a home generator can be an excellent way to prepare for Maine’s harsh winters and may even increase your home’s value. But does a generator really add value to your home, and is it worth the investment? Let’s explore the benefits of home generators in Maine’s real estate market. The Reality of Power Outages in Maine Maine experiences frequent power outages, especially in winter when severe weather is common. Snow, ice, and high winds can disrupt power lines, leaving homeowners without heat, light, and essential appliances for days at a time. For many Maine residents, preparing for these outages is essential to staying comfortable—and even safe—through the coldest months. Having a generator means being ready for whatever winter throws your way. It keeps vital systems running, pr...

Welcome to Portland, Maine – a vibrant city filled with coastal charm, rich history, and endless fun activities. Whether you're a visitor or a local, Portland has something for everyone. Here are some top activities to enjoy in this beautiful city! 1. Explore Portland Head Light 📍 Location: Fort Williams Park Portland Head Light is Maine’s oldest lighthouse, and it’s a must-see! The breathtaking ocean views and historic ambiance make it a fantastic spot for photos and relaxation. 2. Wander the Old Port District 📍 Location: Waterfront Walk through Portland's historic Old Port District with its charming cobblestone streets, unique shops, and art galleries. From boutique shopping to delicious restaurants, there's something to enjoy around every corner. 3. Visit the Portland Museum of Art 📍 Location: 7 Congress Square Discover a variety of art pieces from world-renowned artists, including Claude Monet and Andy Warhol, at the Portland Museum of Art. It's a great indoor ac...

Today, we honor the bravery, sacrifice, and commitment of our veterans. Thank you to the men and women who have selflessly served our country, standing strong to protect the freedoms we hold dear. Your courage inspires us all. As we remember and celebrate those who have served, let's take a moment to appreciate the sacrifices that come with such service. Happy Veterans Day to all who have worn the uniform, and to the families who support them. Your dedication and resilience do not go unnoticed. 🇺🇸 Thank you for your service! 🏡 Explore More Southern Maine Real Estate ← Back to Maine Luxury Listings Blog Page Brought to you by Robert Thibodeau, Realtor® with eXp Realty Serving Saco, Biddeford, Scarborough, Old Orchard Beach, and beyond.

Buying a home in another state can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, the process requires a knowledgeable partner to navigate the complexities. With eXp Realty and my expertise, you can feel confident about making the right decision from afar. Here's how the process works and how I can help: 1.  Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment We start with a detailed consultation to understand your needs, preferences, and budget. I'll help you outline your goals, whether you're seeking a family home, a vacation property, or an investment. Through eXp's vast network of real estate professionals, I'll refer you to a trusted local agent in your target state who understands the market and your unique requirements. 2.  Nationwide Network One of the key advantages of eXp Realty is its national reach. With agents across all 50 states, you're not limited by geography. When I refer you to another eXp agent, I en...

Maine’s real estate market is currently facing a significant challenge—low housing inventory. For sellers, this presents a golden opportunity to capitalize on heightened demand. With buyers competing for fewer homes, properties are often selling faster and at higher prices, especially in desirable areas like Portland, Scarborough, and coastal towns. Why is Inventory So Low? The inventory shortage is largely driven by several factors: Limited New Construction : High construction costs and a lack of skilled labor have slowed down new housing developments. Builders are struggling to meet demand, which means existing homes are in the spotlight. Increased Demand for Maine : Remote work and lifestyle changes have led more people to seek properties in Maine, particularly in coastal and rural areas, further straining the already limited housing supply. Homeowners Holding On : Many current homeowners are hesitant to sell due to fears of not finding a new home in this tight market, contributing ...

Navigating the real estate market can be overwhelming, especially when you're faced with unfamiliar terms and jargon. Understanding real estate terminology is key to making informed decisions, whether you're buying or selling a home. Here's a breakdown of some essential terms you may encounter during your real estate journey. 1.  Appraisal An appraisal is a professional assessment of a property's value. It's typically required by lenders to ensure the home is worth the loan amount. If you're selling, an appraisal helps determine a fair price for your home. For buyers, it confirms that you're not overpaying. 2.  Closing Costs These are fees that both buyers and sellers must pay during the closing process. They include costs like title insurance, attorney fees, and loan origination fees. Understanding closing costs helps avoid surprises at the final stage of the transaction. 3.  Contingency A contingency is a condition that must be met for a real estate contra...

Buying a home in another state can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, the process requires a knowledgeable partner to navigate the complexities. With eXp Realty and my expertise, you can feel confident about making the right decision from afar. Here's how the process works and how I can help: 1.  Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment We start with a detailed consultation to understand your needs, preferences, and budget. I'll help you outline your goals, whether you're seeking a family home, a vacation property, or an investment. Through eXp's vast network of real estate professionals, I'll refer you to a trusted local agent in your target state who understands the market and your unique requirements. 2.  Nationwide Network One of the key advantages of eXp Realty is its national reach. With agents across all 50 states, you're not limited by geography. When I refer you to another eXp agent, I en...

In today’s digital age, Instagram has become much more than just a social media platform; it's now a dynamic marketing tool that can significantly impact the real estate market. With over a billion active users, Instagram offers a visual, engaging, and fast-paced way to reach potential buyers, build interest, and sell properties quickly. Here’s how Instagram can help sell your house faster and get your listing noticed. 1.  Visual Appeal: Showcasing Your Property’s Best Features Instagram is all about images and videos, which makes it an ideal platform for real estate marketing. High-quality photos and videos of your property’s best features can captivate potential buyers and highlight unique selling points, such as a spacious kitchen, natural lighting, or a scenic backyard. Visual content grabs attention quickly, encouraging people to stop scrolling and take a closer look at your listing. Pro Tip:  Use professional photography or even drone shots to capture your property in it...

Meet Robert Thibodeau: Your Trusted Real Estate Professional in Southern Maine With eXp Realty Maine Hello, and welcome! I’m Robert Thibodeau, and I’m thrilled to share a bit about myself, my journey, and how I can help you with all your real estate needs here in beautiful Maine. Growing Up Along the Coast I was born and raised in the coastal town of Rockland, Maine , where I developed a deep appreciation for Maine’s natural beauty and close-knit communities. Living in Rockland instilled in me a love for the ocean, a sense of community, and a passion for the coastal lifestyle that makes this state so unique. Education and Career Foundation After high school, I attended Husson University in Bangor, Maine, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Marketing . My studies there helped me build a solid foundation in the principles of marketing, communication, and strategy—skills that I’ve since applied throughout my career to help clients achieve their real estate goals. I learned not only ho...