As we continue into November, the New Hampshire housing market continues to show some shifts. In Belknap County 76 single-family homes sold in October, with a median sales price of $585,000, up 5.9% from last year. In Grafton County, covering much of the White Mountains region, 104 homes sold, a 25.3% increase over October 2025, with a median sales price of $439,000.
While prices remain strong, buyers are beginning to see a little more breathing room, with homes taking an average of 43 days to sell in Belknap County and 38 days in Grafton County.
🍂 November's Homeowner Tips - A Little Prep Goes A Long Way!
Now is a great time to tackle a few things before winter really settles in. Here are a few reminders to help protect your home and avoid some common cold weather headaches.
Check Your Attic: Look for signs of moisture, roof leaks, or frost buildup. Proper ventilation and insulation can help prevent winter damage. Hopefully you don't find evidence of mice, like I did- gotta love cabin life!
Know Where Your Water Shutoff Is: If a pipe freezes or bursts, knowing how to quickly shut off your home's main water supply can save you a lot of trouble.
Test Your Generator: If you have a standby or portable generator, make sure it's working properly before you need it. Always operate portable generators outdoors, away from windows and doors. If possible, consdier a standby whole home generator for ease and peace of mind. It's an investment for sure, but I've been very happy to have mine over the past year!
K9 Fall / Winter Safety Tips 🐾
Watch Out for Ice Melt: Many sidewalk and driveway deicers can irritate paws or be harmful if licked. Look for pet-safe products and wipe paws after walks. I highly recommend Musher's Secret paw salve to keep paws safe and moisturized throughout the winter months.
Keep Winter Gear Dry: Wet collars, harnesses, and coats can cause discomfort and skin irritation. Give gear time to dry between training sessions.
Be Mindful of Frozen Water: Lakes, ponds, and rivers can be tempting places for curious dogs. Never assume ice is thick enough to support your dog.
Don't Forget Senior Dogs: Cold weather can be especially hard on older dogs. Shorter outings and warm resting spots can make a big difference- I'm noticing this with my senior girl Baya, who's slowed down at 13 years old, but still wants to go out and play in the fallen leaves! She has been enjoying her prime spot by the woodstove too, of course.
Make Indoor Time Enriching: When the weather keeps you inside- try scent games, interactive toys, and shorter training sessions to keep your dog's mind busy.
Tuukka's Tip: Winter is no excuse to skip adventure! Just remember to be prepared, and make sure your dog is still getting their exercise and mental stimulation so they're able to rest and relax by the fire at night. 🐾
Hunting Season in New Hampshire
Deer – Regular Firearms: Opens November 11 and runs through December 6 (November 29 in WMU A)
Deer – Archery: Continues through December 15
(December 8 in WMU A).
Ruffed Grouse: Open through December 31
Gray Squirrel: Open through January 31, 2027
Snowshoe Hare: Open through March 31, 2027
Waterfowl: Seasons vary by zone. Northern Zone duck season runs through November 30, while other zones have different dates and split seasons.
Keep in mind that season dates, bag limits, and regulations can vary by Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) and species.
Wear Blaze Orange: NH Fish & Game encourages all outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers and dog owners, to wear blaze orange during hunting season.
Dress Your Dog for Visibility: Consider a bright orange vest, bandana, or leash so your dog is easy to spot.
Stay Alert: Be especially mindful during early morning and evening hours when hunting activity is common.
Respect Posted Land: Know whether you're on public or private property and respect landowner boundaries. I like to use onX Hunt to check!
Keep Dogs Close: A leash or reliable recall is especially important.
Tuukka's Take Home Review ~ 34 Kristen Drive Laconia, NH 03246
Now offered at $459,000
Yard quality: great for small dogs, ok for large dogs
Neighborhood walkability/Trail access nearby: great neighborhood and scenery for walks
Swimming opportunities: lots of lake access spots to put your paws in the water
*Newly renovated, turnkey property with lots of amenities, and close to local restaurants, shops, marinas, and more! Enjoy this prime location in the Lakes Region.
Local Events & Things To Do in November
November 20-22, 28-29: Christmas at the Castle, Moultonborough
November 21: Craft Fair at the Rocks, Bethlehem
November 27: Alpine Advent, Waterville Valley
November 28: Celebrate Laconia Lights Festival
Late November: Gift of Lights, Loudon
November 27-December 30: Gingerbread House Exhibition, Portsmouth
Lonesome Lake Trail Review
I hiked Lonesome Lake Trail in the White Mountains for the first time in October, with my dog Joker and a couple of good friends. Let's start at the beginning- the parking lot is small, and we waited a solid 45 minutes for parking to become available, so plan ahead!
This is a great trail to a beautiful mountain lake, and is nice if you don't want to commit to an all day hike. The trail winds through the forest, before climbing a series of switchbacks to the lake. This hike admittedly got my heart pumping, especially on the steeper sections- but as you probably know, the destination is always worth it! There is a loop around the shoreline, and the Appalachian Mountain Club's Lonesome Lake Hut is nearby.
This hike is just over 3 miles round trip, with 1000ft of elevation gain.
