Harsch Associates Launches Interactive Web Site

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WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Harsch Associates has completed the launch of a third-generation Web site featuring user-friendly features such as Google mapping, free registration to access all listings, a separate rental section, a blog on current topics of interest and its latest innovation, live videos and slideshows.

The www.harschrealestate.com has been receiving more than 4,000 hits a month, said Paul Harsch.

"We've had tremendous response from our newest venture, the live videos," said Harsch. "Our sellers are really pleased and we have had other inquiries from potential sellers who have heard about our new program. People realize the tremendous impact the Internet has had on our lives in every respect and real estate has been a chief beneficiary."

There are four properties currently featured with videos; a fifth sold within the first few weeks and more are in process.

"We now have almost 300 registered members to our site who receive instant notification of new listings meeting their search criteria," said Harsch. "And our first four live videos have had over 500 viewings in just the first two months of being live."

He continued, "Sellers want and need their properties marketed in the most effective, comprehensive and creative means possible and that's precisely why we invested so much into upgrading and maintaining what some have told us is the best Web site they have seen in the Berkshires and in many other regions too.” 

The Harsch Associates says the site is easy to use and the agency has a firm no-contact policy for those who register unless they request a contact.

"Our desire and goal is to be there with vital information useful to the public," said Harsch. "In this day and age of information offered conveniently and quickly, we hope to have added some valuable pieces of the puzzle for our real estate clients and friends." 

Besides the Web site, Harsch Associates has added a new billboard at the entrance to Stop & Shop and launched a direct-mail campaign.

Carolyn Umlauf, a top associate with Harsch said, "We believe that in this very challenging market, a proactive Realtor has a duty to his or her clients to use all reasonable means possible to effectively draw traffic and interest to their inventory."

That will lead to quicker sales at better prices, said Umlauf. "I am grateful to be associated with the Harsch firm because of the commitment here to spare no expense in doing the best we can for our clients." 

For further information, contact Harsch Associates at 1-413-458-5000.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Williamstown Board Opts to Negotiate with College on Water St. Lot

By Stephen DravisiBerkshires Staff

Newly elected board member Nate Budington, far left, participates in his first in-person meeting along with, from left, Matt Neely, Stephanie Boyd, Peter Beck, Shana Dixon and Town Manager Robert Menicocci.
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Select Board on Monday decided to enter into negotiations with Williams College on the sale of the vacant town-owned lot at 59 Water St.
 
But the board members made it clear that the college's proposal to acquire the lot is a starting point, not a final deal that the elected officials would accept.
 
"For the sake of continued conversation, I'm in favor of [awarding Williams the site], but if this process wasn't continued with the opportunity for further negotiation, I wouldn't vote to continue this," Peter Beck said. "I think that next step is necessary for us to get to a yes on this."
 
"I think there's wide agreement on that," Matthew Neely said just before the 5-0 vote to enter talks with the college.
 
Williams was the sole respondent to a town-issued request for proposals to develop the former town garage site, currently a dirt lot.
 
The college's stated intent is to build a new Facilities office and create up to 170 parking spaces at 59 Water Street. That use will allow the college to redevelop the current Facilities building site and parking lot as part of a reconception of the school's indoor athletic and recreation facilities.
 
Under the terms of the RFP, the college's proposal was subjected to review by an ad hoc advisory committee to the town manager, who brought the question to the Select Board. That board will have the final say on any purchase and sales agreement.
 
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