New Hampshire's storied Fourth of July and booming real estate market

The summer season is off and running, and it’s time to break out those fireworks. New Hampshire's Fourth of July celebrations date back to 1777, just a year after the Declaration of Independence was adopted. The state's inaugural Independence Day was marked with enthusiasm and patriotism, featuring public readings of the Declaration, parades, military drills by local militias, bonfires, cannon salutes, and the ringing of church bells.

Portsmouth, being a major port and one of the largest cities in New Hampshire, served as a focal point for these early festivities. These initial celebrations set the tone for future Independence Day observances in New Hampshire, blending solemn reflection on the sacrifices made for freedom with joyous celebrations of the nation's birth.

Over the years, New Hampshire's Fourth of July festivities have evolved but continue to embody the pride and unity that characterize the state's commitment to honoring the spirit of independence. From traditional parades winding through historic streets to vibrant fireworks displays lighting up the summer sky, these celebrations remain steeped in tradition.

The state's unique contributions to the American Revolution, including the notable involvement of figures such as Gen. John Stark, who coined the phrase "Live Free or Die," our state motto, and Nicholas Gilman, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, lend a distinct historical significance to the celebrations.

Additionally, John Langdon, a Founding Father and the first president pro tempore of the U.S. Senate played a key role in the state’s early governance and independence efforts. New Hampshire's enduring tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July reflects its deep-rooted patriotism and dedication to the ideals of liberty and freedom.

With Its rich history and vibrant community, it’s no wonder so many are attracted to New Hampshire. Over the past few years, buying a home here in the Lake’s Region has been challenging, to say the least. But there is some great news. We’re seeing a trend of new listings coming on the market, and this year, we are seeing far more available homes on the market than in the past few years around this same time. Below is a breakdown of available single-family homes and condos in many of the towns that comprise the Lakes Region.

Alton

Single-family home: 25

Condo: 0

Range: $280,000 – $3,299,000

Median price: $595,000

Belmont

Single-family home: 18

Condo: 2

Range: $250,000 – $2,000,000

Median price: $621,950

Center Harbor

Single-family home: 6

Condo: 0

Range: $825,000 - $2,995,000

Median price: $995,000

Gilford

Single-family home: 28

Condo: 12

Range: $135,000 - $7,500,000

Median price: $884,999

Hebron

Single-family home: 5

Condo: 0

Range: $349,900 - $4,950,000

Median price: $770,000

Laconia

Single-family home: 70

Condo: 31

Range: $160,000 – $6,000,000

Median price: $549,900

Meredith

Single-family home: 23

Condo: 6

Range: $285,000 - $3,745,000

Median price: $747,750

Moultonborough

Single-family home: 29

Condo: 3

Range: $329,000 - $4,650,000

Median price: $799,000

New Hampton

Single-family home: 7

Condo: 0

Range: $350,000 - $990,999

Median price: $550,000

Sanbornton

Single-family home: 8

Condo: 0

Range: $635,000 - $1,615,000

Median price: $1,171,500

Tuftonboro

Single-family home: 18

Condo: 2

Range: $389,000 - $12,250,000

Median price: 799,000

Wolfeboro

Single-family home: 19

Condo: 2

Range: $329,900 - $10,950,000

Median price: $959,900

This article was written by Randy Miller. Randy is a Realtor® at Roche Realty Group located in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.