Thinking about moving to Maine and want to explore what’s just a quick drive from Portland? In this episode, I’m taking you on a tour of the best day trips within 30 minutes of Portland, Maine. These are local gems that make living in Southern Maine feel like you’re always on vacation—whether it's hidden beaches, cozy downtowns, epic nature trails, or coastal bites.

This episode is perfect for anyone planning to buy a home in Maine in the next 3 months—you’ll not only get lifestyle insight but also see what makes Greater Portland so desirable...

Thinking about buying a house in Southern Maine? In this episode, Doug Schauf from The Make Maine Your Home Team at RE/MAX Oceanside explores what it's really like to live in Cumberland, Maine—one of the Portland area’s most peaceful, upscale communities.

We cover the data from 2024 real estate trends, what day-to-day life looks like, local hot spots like Twin Brook and Dara, and why Cumberland might be the perfect balance of nature, convenience, and community. Whether you're actively house hunting or just curious, this guide is packed with value!

👉 Reach out to Doug an...

What’s It Like To Live In Kennebunk Maine  

Thinking about buying a home in Kennebunk, Maine in 2025?

In this episode of Make Maine Your Home, Realtor Doug Schauf gives you the real scoop on what it’s like to live in Kennebunk—backed by 2024 market data, local insight, and buyer-focused tips.

🏡 Get the pros and cons of life in this charming coastal town

📊 See updated stats on the 2024 real estate market

💸 Understand the true cost of living

📍 Tour local highlights like downtown, Gooch’s Beach, and Salt & Honey

💡...

Low Tourist Areas Near Portland, Maine – Hidden Gems Within 45 Minutes
Looking to buy a home in Maine without the crowds? In this episode of Make Maine Your Home, Doug Schauf reveals the best low-tourist towns near Portland, Maine that offer peace, space, and strong home value—all within a 45-minute drive of the city.

Whether you're relocating, looking for a second home, or buying your first property in Maine, these towns provide the perfect blend of quiet charm and commuter convenience. From wooded retreats in Gray to lake access in Standish, you’ll find the ide...

5 Towns To Move To In Maine Thinking about Making Maine Your Home? These 5 Southern Maine towns offer everything from coastal beauty and top-rated schools to thriving downtowns and peaceful neighborhoods. Whether you're planning to buy your first home, relocate, or find your dream vacation spot, this video is your go-to guide. 🏡 Featured Towns: Cape Elizabeth – Iconic coastlines & community spirit Kennebunk – Historic charm meets modern convenience Yarmouth – A quiet village vibe with easy city access Wells – Relaxed, scenic, and ideal for beach lovers Scarborough – A perfect blend of beach and suburbia 📊 We include 2024 median home prices, population stats, and lifestyle highlights for e...

Sailing in Maine : Know before you go.  

Welcome to Make Maine Your Home!

In this episode, we're diving into sailing in Maine — a luxurious lifestyle choice that offers not just breathtaking coastal views but access to elite yacht clubs, vibrant communities, and second-home opportunities that bring the dream to life.

⛵ From Portland to Camden, Maine’s sailing culture is unmatched. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just dreaming of that waterfront life, we'll show you the best programs, clubs, and real estate opportunities along the coast.

🏡 Thinki...

Best Little-Known Places to Buy a Vacation House in Southern Maine Looking for a peaceful spot to buy a vacation home in Maine? Skip the crowds and discover Southern Maine’s best hidden gems — from quiet beach villages to pristine lakeside towns. In this episode, I’m sharing six little-known towns that are perfect for second homes, rental investments, or weekend getaways. Whether you’re into kayaking, ocean views, or small-town charm — these places deliver! 🏡 Towns featured: Limerick Acton Biddeford Pool Cape Neddick Goose Rocks Beach Shapleigh 👉 Thinking about buying a vacation home in Maine? Contact us today — If you Make Maine You...

What to Worry About When Buying a Home in Maine (And How to Fix It!) Thinking about buying a home in Maine? 🏡 Great decision — but there are some things you need to know before you make an offer. From rodents in the attic to radon in your water, Maine has some unique housing quirks… but don’t worry — we’ve got solutions! In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 5 concerns for Maine homebuyers — and exactly how to deal with them: ✅ Rodents & Wildlife Intrusion ✅ Septic Systems vs Public Sewer ✅ Proximity to Amenities (grocery, schools, internet) ✅ Radon in Air & Water ✅ Weather Wear and...

Will houses in Maine finally become more affordable in 2025? In this episode of Make Maine Your Home, Realtor Doug Schauf breaks down everything you need to know about the Maine housing market right now. From rising inventory to interest rate forecasts and buyer demand, we use up-to-date sources like Zillow, MaineHousing, and Keeping Current Matters to bring you real value.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or someone looking to sell, this video covers what to expect for home prices this year. Doug also shares expert tips on how to navigate the market and offers a 15-minute strategy...

🎥 5 Secrets Locals Know About Living in Southern Maine | Make Maine Your Home

Thinking about Making Maine Your Home? In this episode, Doug Schauf—Realtor and lifelong Mainer—reveals five hidden gems that only locals truly know and love about living in Southern Maine. From serene saltwater marshes to off-the-radar beaches and smart traffic tips, you’ll walk away with insider knowledge that most tourists never hear about.

✨ What You’ll Discover:  

✅ The real magic of Scarborough Marsh and how locals explore it

✅ Why the Back Cove Trail is Portland’s best-kept outdoor s...

🛡️ What to Look for When Buying Home Insurance in Maine 🛡️ Thinking about buying a home in Maine? Don’t skip the homeowners insurance details—especially here in the Pine Tree State, where coastal storms, heavy snowfall, and unique property types come into play. In this episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about buying home insurance in Maine. From understanding what’s actually covered in a standard policy, to why flood insurance might be a smart add-on, we’ll cover the essential facts to help you protect your investment. 👋 I’m Doug Schauf, Realtor with RE/MAX Oceanside and team le...

How to Generate Income in Maine from Owning Land | Smart Strategies for Landowners

Own land in Maine or thinking about buying some? In this episode, we’re diving into the many ways you can turn your property into a source of real income. From farming and forestry to solar leases, subdividing, and even agritourism, Maine offers a ton of creative (and profitable) options for landowners.

📍 Here's what we cover:

How Is Living in Maine Different Than Visiting?

Maine is one of the most beautiful states in the country—and if you’ve ever visited, you probably already know that. The rocky coastline, charming lobster shacks, peaceful lighthouses, and fresh ocean air make it an unforgettable vacation spot.

But what’s it really like to live in Maine?

As a local Realtor who helps people Make Maine Your Home, I’ve had this conversation with countless clients—many of whom fell in love with Maine during a visit and are now wondering if they shoul...

Is There Anything to Do in Saco, Maine? 🎥 Is There Anything to Do in Saco, Maine? | Things to Do, Eat, and Explore in Saco! Hey everyone—welcome back to Make Maine Your Home! In this episode, we're answering a question I hear all the time: Is there anything to do in Saco, Maine? Spoiler alert—YES, there’s plenty to do! Whether you're into outdoor adventures, great food, family fun, or a little shopping, Saco has something for everyone. In this video, we’ll highlight the best activities, places to eat, and spots you just have to stop by while you'r...

Where to Move After Falling in Love with Maine 🏡🌊 | Best Places to Live in Southern Maine Have you visited Maine and thought, "I could totally live here"? You're not alone! But with so many great towns and cities to choose from, finding the perfect place can be overwhelming. In this video, we're breaking down some of the best places to live in Southern Maine—covering their pros, cons, and what makes each one unique! 🏙 Portland – City vibes with coastal charm 🌅 South Portland – Suburban comfort with convenience 🏖 Scarborough – A dream spot for beach lovers 🌊 Cape Elizabeth – A quiet coastal retreat ⚓ Falmouth – Affluent living wit...

Five Questions To Ask Before Moving To Maine | Living in Maine Thinking About Moving to Maine? Ask Yourself These 10 Questions First! 🏡🌲 Maine is beautiful, but is it the right place for YOU? Before making the big move, here are 5 critical questions to ask yourself. From winter weather and job opportunities to home prices, healthcare, and the famous “Mainer Mentality,” we’re covering everything you need to know—the pros, cons, and surprises along the way! 🔹 Topics We Cover: ✅ Can you handle Maine winters? ❄️ ✅ Is the slower pace of life a good fit? 🐢 ✅ What’s the job market REALLY like? 💼 ✅ Are Maine’s home prices and property...

How Has Living In Maine Changed? Maine has changed A LOT over the past decade! 🏡💻🌊 If you're thinking about moving here or already call it home, you NEED to know what’s different. In this video, we’re diving into Maine’s skyrocketing housing prices, the remote work boom, job market shifts, climate changes, and how these factors are impacting everything from lobster hauls to traffic congestion. 🚗🦞 📌 Key Topics Covered: ✔️ Maine's housing market—prices have doubled! 📈 ✔️ The rise of remote work & broadband expansion 💻 ✔️ Worker shortages in healthcare, construction, and hospitality 👷‍♀️ ✔️ How climate change is affecting Maine’s weather & lobster industry 🌡️🦞 ✔️ Population growth—Maine isn’t as “empty” as...

When people think of major sports hubs in the United States, places like Boston, New York, or Los Angeles come to mind. Maine, on the other hand, might not immediately be thought of as a sports state, but the reality is quite the opposite. Maine has a rich and exciting sports scene, with professional teams, college athletics, and thriving local leagues that provide fans and athletes alike with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the game. Whether you love hockey, baseball, basketball, soccer, or even “old guy hockey” as I like to call it, Maine has something for you. If you...

Best Places to Live in the Maine Lakes Region 🏡🌊 | Where to Buy a Home in 2025 Thinking about moving to Maine’s Lakes Region? Whether you’re searching for a lakefront retreat, a cozy cabin, or a year-round home, this video is your ultimate guide! In this episode, I break down the best places to live in the Lakes Region, covering everything from home prices and market trends to outdoor activities, commute times, and the pros & cons of lakeside living. The Maine Lakes Region is a hidden gem, offering stunning scenery, small-town charm, and year-round recreation. Whether you love boating, fishing, h...

Can You Buy a House Without a Realtor in Maine? 📍 Thinking about buying a home in Maine? Wondering if you really need a Realtor or if you can save money by going it alone? In this video, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about buying a house in Maine without an agent—including the risks, legal protections, and what you might lose by skipping a Realtor. 🚨 Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make—don’t go in blind! We’ll cover: ✅ What a real estate agent actually does for buyers ✅ The risks of buying a...

📍 Finding the Perfect Home in Maine 🏡🌲 Hello, and welcome back to the Make Maine Your Home channel! I’m Doug Schauf, your trusted Maine Realtor and team leader for The Make Maine Your Home Team with RE/MAX Oceanside. Today, we’re diving into How to Find the Perfect Home in Maine—a step-by-step guide to making your dream home a reality in the Pine Tree State! ✅ Step 1: Understand Your Needs Finding your perfect home starts with identifying what “perfect” means to you! We’ll assess your lifestyle, must-haves, and location preferences—whether it’s oceanfront living, access to hiking trails, or a home of...

"Why Live in Durham, Maine? 🏡🌲 | Make Maine Your Home"

Are you considering a move to Maine but unsure where to settle? Let me introduce you to Durham—a small town that offers big advantages! From affordable homes and top-rated schools to incredible outdoor adventures and a tight-knit community, Durham is a hidden gem worth exploring.

In this video, we cover everything you need to know about life in Durham, Maine, including: ✅ Proximity to Portland and Lewiston/Auburn 🗺️

✅ Affordable housing options 🏠

✅ Excellent schools 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

✅ Outdoor recreation at its best 🌳

✅ Rich history and ties to...

🌲 Why Maine May Not Be the Best Place for You 🌨️

In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about why Maine might not be the best place for everyone. Hi, I’m Doug Schauf with Make Maine Your Home! While I love showcasing all the reasons why Maine is an incredible place to live, it’s important to keep it real. From brutal winters to geographic isolation, this video dives into the challenges that come with life in Vacationland.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

1️⃣ The reality of Maine winters: snow, heating costs, and ic...

The Real Reason There Are No Homes For Sale in Maine 🎥 Why are there no homes for sale in Maine? In this video, I’m breaking down the real reasons behind Maine’s low housing inventory, from soaring demand and aging housing stock to community pushback against new developments. Whether you're thinking about moving to Maine or just curious, this is the ultimate guide to understanding our real estate market! 🏡 What You’ll Learn in This Video: ✔️ Why housing inventory has dropped 40% in Maine (Source: Redfin) ✔️ How pandemic migration added 15,000+ new residents (Source: Maine.gov) ✔️ Why locals veto new housing developments ove...

5 Reasons to Sell Your Home in Maine NOW | Make Maine Your Home Thinking about selling your home in Maine? Whether you’re dreaming of a fresh start, cashing in on your investment, or just done with Maine winters (looking at you, snowbanks), this video is for you. I’ll walk you through 5 compelling reasons why now is the perfect time to sell your home—with a dash of humor and the facts you need to make a confident decision. 🏡 Here’s what we’ll cover: Home Prices Are at Record Highs: Cash in on that equity you’ve built! Out-of-State Bu...

Is the restaurant industry in Maine on the decline? With beloved establishments like Local 188, Slab Sicilian Street Food, and Tiqa closing their doors, it’s hard not to wonder what’s happening. In this video, we dive into the challenges Maine’s restaurants are facing—labor shortages, rising costs, and changing consumer habits—and what that means for our local communities. We’ll explore the impact these closures have not only on our dining options but also on jobs and the vibrancy of our neighborhoods. Plus, I’ll share ways we can all support local restaurants, from choosing to dine locally t...

Will Maine Get Snow This Year? 🌨️❄️ Maine without snow? That’s like a whoopie pie without the filling—just plain wrong! In this video, we dive into the big question on every Mainer’s mind: Will we get snow this year? From historical snowfall averages to recent unpredictable winters, we’re breaking down what you can expect. We’ll cover: ✔️ Why snow matters to Maine’s economy, tourism, and jobs (spoiler: it’s a big deal). ✔️ Expert predictions from the Farmers’ Almanac and NOAA, plus some classic Maine humor—because if squirrels are prepping like it’s Black Friday, you know something’s coming! ✔️ Tips...

Should I Buy A House In Maine In 2025 🏡 Is 2025 the Year to Buy a House in Maine? 🦞 Are you tired of endlessly scrolling through Zillow, analyzing market reports, and dreaming of owning your Maine home? In this video, we’ll dive into the key factors that could make 2025 the perfect year to buy a house in Maine. ✔️ What We Cover: Maine’s 2025 housing market trends: Inventory updates, interest rates, and more. How rising rents and tax benefits make homeownership a smart move. Tips for first-time buyers and procrastinators who’ve been putting it off for too long. Why Maine’s serene lifestyle...

🎄 Happy Holidays from Portland, Maine! ❄️ In this special holiday episode, we’re soaking up the festive vibes in Portland, Maine! From sparkling decorations to delicious treats and fun winter activities, we’re showing you everything that makes this season magical in our beautiful state ✨ Here’s what we cover: Portland’s stunning holiday decorations, including the iconic Christmas tree and the charming Old Port turned into a winter wonderland. Can’t-miss local holiday events like tree lighting ceremonies, festive markets, and even farm events in South Portland, Biddeford, and beyond. The best winter activities to enjoy in Maine, whether you're a fan of out...

Where to Give This Thanksgiving in Maine | Make Maine Your Home

Looking for ways to give back this Thanksgiving? In this video, we’re sharing some amazing places to donate and volunteer right here in Maine! From supporting kids at the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital and the Children's Miracle Network to helping local families through the South Portland Food Cupboard (partnered with the Rotary Club) and organizations like Maine Needs, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll also talk about smaller community-based charities, food pantries, and ways to make a big impact this holiday season. Whether...

People Sell Their Homes in the Winter in Maine? Hi, I’m Doug Schauf from Make Maine Your Home, where we say, “If you Make Maine Your Home, you don’t have to do it alone!” 🏡 Wondering if people sell their homes in the winter here in Maine? Yes, they do — and it could be a great time for you too! Here’s why: Why Sell in Winter? ❄️ Less Competition: Fewer listings mean your home stands out. Motivated Buyers: Serious buyers in winter often need to move quickly. Cozy Appeal: Think fireplaces and warm spaces — perfect for showing off that cozy vibe. Chall...

How to find a Doctor in Maine Finding a Good Doctor in Maine: Tips, Challenges, and a Few Laughs In today’s video, we’re diving into one of the biggest challenges of living in Maine—finding a good doctor! If you’ve recently moved here (or are planning to), you might be surprised by how tricky it can be to get an appointment with a primary care provider or specialist. I’m sharing tips, a bit of humor, and my own experiences to help you navigate the healthcare scene in the Pine Tree State. We’ll cover: 🩺 Why it’s so hard to...

Why Are People Leaving Maine? Maine is known for its rugged beauty, but it’s not all lobsters and lighthouses. Today, let’s dive into why some people pack up and leave this beautiful state—and why others are more than happy to stay! From the long, snowy winters to job opportunities and rural living, Maine has its unique quirks. As a Maine Realtor, I’ve helped people move both in and out of the state, so I’ve seen firsthand why folks love it here and why some decide to move on. [🔔] If you love all things Maine—even the reason...

Looking for the perfect small town to retire in Southern Maine? You’ve come to the right place! In this video, I’ll break down the top small towns that offer everything from peaceful coastal living to vibrant community life. Whether you’re dreaming of serene beaches, charming villages, or a place to call home in your golden years, Southern Maine has it all! In This Video: 🏖️ Kennebunk – The Best of Both Worlds 🌾 Wells – Small Town with Big Appeal 🌊 York – Coastal Living at Its Finest 🎨 Ogunquit – Artsy and Scenic 🌅 Cape Elizabeth – Serene Coastal Retreat Don’t forget to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to the cha...

What $500K Buys You in Maine: Exploring Your Real Estate Options

If you’ve got $500,000 to spend on a home and are wondering what you can get in Maine, you’re in the right place! In this blog post, we’ll take you on a tour of what your budget can buy in different parts of Maine. From coastal towns to peaceful country retreats, suburban neighborhoods to quaint New England villages, and even the city life in Portland—there’s something for everyone. Let’s break it down!

The Seaside Dream: Coastal Homes for $500K

If you...

Best Halloween Activities in Maine 2024 🎃👻 | Spooky Fun for Everyone!

Welcome to another episode of Make Maine Your Home! This time, we're taking you on a tour of the best Halloween activities happening in Maine this year! Whether you're into zombie paintball, haunted forts, or family-friendly corn mazes, we've got something for everyone. Check out the spookiest events across the state, from Fright at the Fort in Prospect to the Bangor Zombie Walk and everything in between. 🎃

Here's what we cover:

Pineland Farms Halloween Spooktacular - Family fun with wagon r...

Today, we're talking all about reupholstery – the perfect way to give your old furniture a fresh look. It’s an affordable, sustainable choice that preserves quality craftsmanship you just can’t find in mass-produced pieces. We'll cover what to look for in a reupholstery shop, from the quality of materials and craftsmanship to customization options and reputation. Plus, we’ll spotlight three of the best reupholstery shops in Southern Maine: Coastal Upholstery in Gray, Atlantic Furniture & Reupholstery in Westbrook, and Bayside Furniture Repair & Upholstery in Portland. They each bring something unique, whether it’s quick turnarounds, specialty services, or local expe...

Folk Art in Maine Hey there, art lovers and future Mainers! Today, we’re diving into the colorful, quirky, and utterly unique world of Folk Art in Maine. From whimsical wood carvings to handcrafted textiles and nautical-themed paintings, Maine's folk art is a true visual love letter to everything that makes this state special. In this video, we'll explore: 🎨 The history and roots of Maine's folk art scene 🪚 Key types of folk art—woodcarving, quilting, painting, weathervanes, and more 🏞️ Where to find some of the best folk art in Maine, like the Maine Maritime Museum and antique barns along Route 1 🎭 Notab...

Explore Portland, Maine’s most exclusive clubs! From fine dining at The Cumberland Club to sailing adventures at the Portland Yacht Club, Doug gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s top private clubs. Find out what makes these spots so special and stick around for a surprise at the end! Whether you're curious about Portland’s hidden gems or looking to join the elite social scene, this video is for you. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insider tips about living in Maine! #PortlandMaine #ExclusiveClubs #MaineLifestyle #MaineRealEstate Check out the blog: 🏘️ To Search for Propertie...

Welcome to Maine! Whether you’re moving here for the beautiful scenery, the friendly communities, or just looking for a fresh start, there’s one thing you can't avoid—registering your car. It may not be the most exciting part of relocating, but it's essential to make sure you’re road-ready in your new home state. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about car registration in Maine, step-by-step!

Who Needs to Register Their Car in Maine?

If you’re new to Maine, you’re required to register your vehicle within...