Comparing Gilford and Meredith

CateP · 01-26-2011, 01:40 PM

Hi Everybody
I wanted to ask the forum members about how you would compare the towns of Gilford and Meredith. We are moving up to the area and have found some nice houses in Meredith in our price range, but also like Gilford. Any opinions on both towns are greatly appreciated.

Here are some of my thoughts for starters.

Gilford
Pros

Great boat launch
Close to lots of services and stores
Less summer traffic than other nearby towns
Beans and Greens Farm Stand
Close-knit, welcoming community
Town beach

Cons

Higher taxes than other nearby towns
Not a great inventory of post and beam houses with acreage in our price range (uninspiring architecture)

Meredith

Pros

Low taxes compared to other nearby towns
Several nice homes with acreage and ponds and nice architecture
Restaurants

Cons

Summer traffic in town
Not all areas have high speed internet (MetroCast)

ishoot308 · 01-26-2011, 02:46 PM

I can add a couple things about Gilford...

#1. Friendly police department that want to serve you.

#2. Excellent fire department.

#3. Friendly and helpful town office people that know what they are doing. Comes in handy when registering autos, boats, trailerers, atv's etc, etc.

#4. Little or no weekend traffic. Compared to Meredith Gilford is a ghost town!

#5. Great restaurants such as, William Tell Inn (is that Alton or Gilford??), Lyons Den, Elacoya Barn & Grill to name just a few.

Good Luck!

Dan

hilltopper · 01-26-2011, 03:25 PM

Not much to add other than all of the Pros you list for Gilford I feel are true of Meredith also, except for the traffic issue. One of the first things we did when we moved to Meredith was learn how to deal with and get around the traffic. Good luck!

WeirsBeachBoater · 01-26-2011, 03:28 PM

Couple of Pro's you missed. Two town boat ramps, Moulton's Farmstand, Great Town facilities. Good Police Dept, Town DPW does a great job on the roads. Traffic is only an issue if you don't know the shortcuts

donnamatrix · 01-26-2011, 03:44 PM

Lower tax rate, good school system (although our kids are grown), close to good restaurants, good boat launches, quieter part of the lake, great wildlife (look at the eagles), great dentist... we've lived in Laconia, and still - probably for everyone on the forum who doesn't live near the bigger stores - we still go to Shaws/Hannaford in Gilford, my hair stylist is in Laconia -another great find:Che Bella on Union Avenue! I am sure whichever town you choose will live up to your hopes and expectations - we all just have favorites.

Lakesrider · 01-26-2011, 04:10 PM

If I had my druthers...I'd still pick Gilford or Alton over Meredith.
Simply because they are on the South end of the Lake. Closer to civilization. I am in Moultonborough, which don't get wrong, is very nice. But I like being able to go to the theater, or the city. Which is quite a ride from Moultonborough.

As far as houses...A house is what you make it. Anything is doable. As far as interesting architecture I would go to places like Sandwich, which has nice old homes at good prices.

I love post and beam. My wife and I are planning to get a piece of land and build one for our next home if we cannot find the one we are looking for.
Right now builders, foundation guys, and tree cutters, are dying for work, so now is the time to build. however I am not one to cut down trees for a house if I can find one already waiting. That said there are many lots up for sale right now due to the economy.

Just Sold · 01-26-2011, 04:18 PM

First welcome to the forum and to your eventual move to the lakes region.

A plus for Gilford, since you like to sail, is Fay's Boat Yard which is a big place for sailors giving you the possiblity of meeting many who own sail boats. And there is the new Sailing School being proposed for Ellacoya, State Park nearby.

Yes, the lake is more crowded on the weekends and that is true everywhere on it but when you live on or near the lake you can get out on the lake after work on the weekdays when it is much quieter. I have seen many people taking their boats out late in the day during the week and even seen some guy's still in their suit pants and shirt (tie off) driving off for a little after work cruise.

In Gilford there is Lincoln Park right on the lake if you want to sit and read a book, have a picnic or just gaze out over the lake and it is very close to Glendale and the town docks.

Leaving from Gilford for a boat trip on the lake is great and it puts you in a good starting location to go everywhere else on the lake. That is where I boat from.

Gilford affords you to take a short drive to Alton or over to Laconia or the Weirs. If you are in Meredith you are starting from the NW end of the lake to get anywhere else. The occasional commute to the work place will be longer from Meredith too.

Do not get me wrong I love Meredith and around to Center Harbor and Moultonboro too but Gilford would be my preference.

jrc · 01-26-2011, 05:07 PM

I've spent every summer weekend in Gilford for the last ten years:

Pros:
No traffic in Gilford(except bike week)
Good restaurants
Two Beaches and a boat launch
Great place to boat from, right in the middle of the lake
Easy access to all the chain stores, close to Tilton and Laconia
Meadowbrook concerts

Cons:
Weekend traffic to/from I-93 (shouldn't bother a resident)
A lot of weekend guests, like me (boats slips, camps and condos)
Beaches do close for high bacteria once in a while
Easy access to all the chain stores, doesn't feel as rural
Airport can be loud, especially if Romney becomes President

Slickcraft · 01-26-2011, 05:19 PM

I agree with Dan and Just Sold on all their points about Gilford. We keep our Island boat at Fay's and can attest to it being a sailing friendly place. Many of the J/80 boats get set-up there. Also the races require a crew of 4 and on occasion there is need for experienced crew to fill-in.
http://www.lwsa.org/racing/index.php

The Gilford town docks are the best this side of the lake; a resource that we often use.

We live in West Alton near the Gilford town line and do most of our shopping in the Gilford/Laconia area. We might have originally bought in Gilford except for the tax rate. Alton has a long history of frugality and it shows in the low tax rate. Gilford has a long history of spending as their tax rate shows. So don't overlook Alton with the low taxes and a lot of great folk.

While we know most of the shortcuts in Meredith, we still avoid the area on Summer weekends.

SteveA · 01-26-2011, 06:40 PM

Another plus for Gilford, IMHO is the Gilford Community Church. Great people and a very welcoming attitude.

http://www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org/gcc/mission.asp

CateP · 01-26-2011, 06:58 PM

I just want to thank everyone who has replied so far.
I think there are many positive things about most of the towns in the lakes region, but since we are trying to narrow things down a bit, I was wondering about aspects of Gilford and Meredith that we may not know about.

Thanks again for your insights.

BTW-What church has the services out on Squam? We're not very religious people, but a service on an island on Squam Lake must be something special.

lawn psycho · 01-26-2011, 07:10 PM

Bike week alone would make me take Meredith off the list (same for Laconia).

I don't even slip my boat in Meredith because of traffic and I come from the East......

Slickcraft · 01-26-2011, 08:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lawn psycho

Bike week alone would make me take Meredith off the list (same for Laconia).

I don't even slip my boat in Meredith because of traffic and I come from the East......

Well one of the few times we really enjoy Meredith is bike week, normally get up to the Harley dealer twice during the week. One just needs to get themselves a ride and join the fun.
Another time that Meredith is fun is during the ice fishing derby.

dragonfly03246 · 01-26-2011, 09:53 PM

Check out
http://www.churchisland.org/

They are the one's who hold the church services in the summer.

BTW, we live in the Weirs and I would definitely chose Gilford over Meredith to live in. The traffic is so much better and if you like motorcycles, then around Route 11B would be a great place to live. It's really quiet in the Fall, Winter and Spring here.

lawn psycho · 01-26-2011, 11:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slickcraft

Well one of the few times we really enjoy Meredith is bike week, normally get up to the Harley dealer twice during the week. One just needs to get themselves a ride and join the fun.
Another time that Meredith is fun is during the ice fishing derby.

Buying a motorcycle to then go hang out at the dealer doesn't sound like fun to me. To each there own but H-D won't ever see $0.01 from me.

ronc4424 · 01-27-2011, 08:24 AM

Hi Cate, here is a picture of a couple heading out to services last summer.

VitaBene · 01-27-2011, 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ronc4424

Hi Cate, here is a picture of a couple heading out to services last summer.

Ron, Is that the river between Little and Big Squam? We used to keep our boat at Squam Boats and that boathouse looks familiar (but it was 20 years ago!)

ronc4424 · 01-27-2011, 09:57 AM

Yes, it runs between little and big Squam. After this past month, that picture is really starting to look inviting.....

VtSteve · 01-27-2011, 01:31 PM

I think it depends greatly on the when and where of your travels. For coming up on weekends, I'd never go near Meredith again. The traffic was pretty bad 20 years ago, and has only gotten worse. Yes, there have always been shortcuts, but they only help so much.

Obviously it's a lot different living there rather than visiting on peak days. Gilford provides for great access to many venues. I'd much prefer to be there from a boating standpoint, and the mountains are also close by. My vote is towards the Gilford end of things.

Shore Driver · 01-27-2011, 01:56 PM

Meredith has the smaller lakes also, Waukewan and Wicwas, don't know how much small lakes affects price or whether you want water access, but the lake views around Waukewan are gorgeous from what I've seen. Quite a bit of older architecture if that's what you seek. The tremendous dining options...Hesky Park for concerts, etc. Imagine being able to walk to all that. Lots of people in summer, but me, I like people.

Tough to say no to all that.

Gilford Village though, is delightful, and very peaceful. The whole town has a ton to offer. You picked 2 winners in my book.

Good luck!

Winnisquamguy · 01-27-2011, 11:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CateP

BTW-What church has the services out on Squam? We're not very religious people, but a service on an island on Squam Lake must be something special.

Every week it is a different denomination, you can dock your boat and tour the island anytime there is always someone there.

As far of which town I would choose Meridith, and don't worry about the traffic you will find your way around so enough. The taxes will make up for that alone. And the access to 93 can be a lot easier from Meredith depending where you are.

Mink Islander · 01-28-2011, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CateP

I just want to thank everyone who has replied so far.
I think there are many positive things about most of the towns in the lakes region, but since we are trying to narrow things down a bit, I was wondering about aspects of Gilford and Meredith that we may not know about.

Thanks again for your insights.

BTW-What church has the services out on Squam? We're not very religious people, but a service on an island on Squam Lake must be something special.

Well, if you want church services on an island in Winnipesaukee, check out Saint Johns on the Lake on Bear Island -- public dock available too. The church steeple was an old fire tower. Has services all summer with a variety of guest Pastors of many denominations.

gravy boat · 01-28-2011, 08:12 AM

Having lived in Gilford for 13 years there are reasons I've not moved. Meredith is a lovely town and has friendly people and helpful, knowledgable tone employees as well.

We are active all seasons and Gilford offers us free launch, convenient location to trailer out boat, Gunstock (season pass holders), hiking and.biking trails galore in our backyard throughout the Belknaps, abundant dining and shopping, only a 15 minute drive to Market Basket in Tilton, which is SUBSTANTIALLY lower priced than anything in Gilford or Meredith. We are
5 minutes from civilization, yet in the country/mountains. For us it offers the best of everything we want.
The only traffic is during the Timberman Triathlon in late August....Bike Week is noisy everywhere in the region.

Good luck!

GB

LIforrelaxin · 01-28-2011, 01:10 PM

Some reflections on Meredith and Gilford...

Which one to chose is not an easy decision to make. It really comes down to what you want to be able to access. While as pointed out by others, getting from Gilford to civilization might be quicker, I don't feel it is that much quicker. If being able to get to other destinations is a prime concern, then I think you need to look at where you need to get to... Meredith offers great access to the 93 corridor for getting up into the mountains of NH, or to head south and get to places like Waltham Ma. On the other side if you think you are more inclined to go to places like the Coast, the Mountains of Maine, or the North Shore of Massachusetts then the Gilford/Alton area is ideal, while still maintaining your life in the heart of the lakes region.

All towns In the lakes regions have traffic drawbacks in the busy season. It is really a matter of getting to know the back roads. Once you know two or three of the beaten path ways of getting to where you need to, the traffic stops being an issue. Although many of use will keep our secret routes around traffic a secret... Once you get to know some of us, the secrets will come out..... I have to get to Moultonborough every Friday night, and I never, never sit in traffic, once I am north of Tilton.

The bottom line is I don't think that advantages to either town are all that much different. I also don't believe you will find anything more convenient in one location vs the other. The only thing you will find, is depending on your destination, it might take 10 or so mins traveling time, depending on where you settle down.

Having moved several times in my life my recommendation is this. Make sure you like your house. Don't worry as much about location. Worry about knowing that you will come home everyday and be inspired by your property. Inspired, to sit back and relax, to get out and plant a garden, to get out and mow, to sit back and watch the snow fall, to sit back and read a good book, tucked into a chair in the corner. Or my favorite inspiration, which is to be inspired to all the previously mentioned things, and not know which one to start with.

ishoot308 · 01-28-2011, 01:25 PM

Cate;

Having traveled daily from Gilford to my business in Manchester I can tell you that it takes 45 minutes to the Manchester line from Fays boat yard. This is by taking Route 11 to Route 106 South to 4/202/393 West to 93 South.

Leaving fays at 7:00 A.M. I have never hit any bad traffic southbound. This is the best and fastest way if your heading South into Mass. The only time you need to stay off route 106 is when they have a race which I believe is twice a year and normally that is only on weekends.

Dan

jmen24 · 01-28-2011, 01:50 PM

Cate, I have noticed a few times now that you have mentioned uninspired Architecture in the area, but at the same time, are looking at older homes.

Unlike some of our other NE states, the northern NE states history is staged around agriculture that has remained in place far longer than the southern half. That puts most of the older homes in the "function over form" group rather than the modern preferred "form over function".

The colonial style homes of this area, are in themselves "plain" to say the least. Whether it be a two-story colonial, a 1/2, 3/4 or full cape or a saltbox. For anyone that is wondering, those are the only reconized styles of colonial architecture, the full dormered cape or dormered cape were not practical in Colonial times to build and thus came about at the same time as the Arts and Crafts style homes (the both were the working man's way to keep up with those Victorian folks on a DYI or budget standpoint).

The New England style farm house was an addition to this area, after Colonial times for the farmer that had a little more time on their hands to sit on the porch and watch the kids work. Again an adaptation of a two-story colonial.

Most of the original colonial architecture in the southern NE states was more to show your neighbors how much money or influence you had, up here, not so much. It was a roof and a place to feed.

I am just curious what your looking for in the way of inspired Architecture? No right or wrong answer, just curious.

CateP · 01-28-2011, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmen24

Cate, I have noticed a few times now that you have mentioned uninspired Architecture in the area, but at the same time, are looking at older homes.

Unlike some of our other NE states, the northern NE states history is staged around agriculture that has remained in place far longer than the southern half. That puts most of the older homes in the "function over form" group rather than the modern preferred "form over function".

The colonial style homes of this area, are in themselves "plain" to say the least. Whether it be a two-story colonial, a 1/2, 3/4 or full cape or a saltbox. For anyone that is wondering, those are the only reconized styles of colonial architecture, the full dormered cape or dormered cape were not practical in Colonial times to build and thus came about at the same time as the Arts and Crafts style homes (the both were the working man's way to keep up with those Victorian folks on a DYI or budget standpoint).

The New England style farm house was an addition to this area, after Colonial times for the farmer that had a little more time on their hands to sit on the porch and watch the kids work. Again an adaptation of a two-story colonial.

Most of the original colonial architecture in the southern NE states was more to show your neighbors how much money or influence you had, up here, not so much. It was a roof and a place to feed.

I am just curious what your looking for in the way of inspired Architecture? No right or wrong answer, just curious.

This was such an interesting post and clearly I am out of my league when discussing architecture. My somewhat ignorant comment about "uninspired architecture" refers to a lot of the houses I have seen online that were built after 2000. They seem to have porches on the front and flat backs with tiny windows. Vinyl siding. Inside, the ceilings seem pretty high and there is an "open concept." Kitchen , dining room, living room all flow into one another. No cozy dens. Bedrooms seem huge. Older houses seem to have smaller rooms (cozy, easy to heat). The antique houses often have unique spaces (nooks).

I certainly didn't mean to insult anybody's house, and I know on our budget we won't be looking at any Adirondack style cedar-sided houses,(Mark Island) but we are hoping for something that has a little character. (anything that isn't just a square or rectangle with no distinguishing features) The property itself could also have some character too. (Stone walls, woods, view)

Rose · 01-28-2011, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Make sure you like your house. Don't worry as much about location. Worry about knowing that you will come home everyday and be inspired by your property. Inspired, to sit back and relax, to get out and plant a garden, to get out and mow, to sit back and watch the snow fall, to sit back and read a good book, tucked into a chair in the corner. Or my favorite inspiration, which is to be inspired to all the previously mentioned things, and not know which one to start with.

I definitely have to agree with LIforrelaxin on this one. Gilford and Meredith both have their pluses and minuses. I'm more familiar with Gilford (Ames Farm Inn has a wonderful breakfast in season), but having been in or stayed in homes around the entire big lake, after taking commute time into account, they really are all very wonderful towns. That leaves it at the actual home which you're interested in. So if Meredith has the type of home which speaks to you, then by all means, buy in Meredith.

songkrai · 01-28-2011, 03:02 PM

It is good that you are asking questions. And also good you found this forum.

My opinion you have three basic questions.

1. That actual home - the structure.

2. How far from the coast/Route 95 or how close to Route 93.

3. If you have school age children pick a town that has a private school. Such as Holderness, New Hampton, Wolfeboro, etc.

If you are seeking an antique farmhouse with lots of space and charm be prepared to set aside some good money. Either for purchase price or for maintenance. If you plan to upgrade some quaint farmhouse then lots of extra money is needed. If you seek an already upgraded farmhouse then be sure to have it checked out completely. If there are any water issues - and they are not fixed by now - then they may never be fixed. Many of these antique homes need much maintenace. If you are seeking a newer modern type home then do also have this checked out for issues. And if you build expect about some cost over runs. Unless you are darn specific in your archetect plans. And if you do sign any contracts for new construction hire an attorney to read it. There will be cost over runs and that piece of paper will state how much YOU have to pay for any cost over runs.

If your desire is to travel to the coast then pick towns on the east side of lake. If your needs are getting to Route 93 then pick towns on that side.

Finding the right house on the right street with the right view is to me the most important to some. And do stay off of private roads or gravel roads. Stick to paved town roads. Although the nice looking gravel road may seem appealing you will have a dusty automobile all of the time. Never mind the wear and tear on said automobile.

And if you have school age children then send them to a private school.

Good Luck.

CateP · 01-28-2011, 04:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by songkrai

And if you have school age children then send them to a private school.

No school age children. All grown and on their own. If we DID have school age children I would start a thread specifically addressing area schools.

As a graduate of New Hampton school I am partial to that institution.

Go Huskies!!!

CateP · 01-28-2011, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Some reflections on Meredith and Gilford...
Having moved several times in my life my recommendation is this. Make sure you like your house. Don't worry as much about location. Worry about knowing that you will come home everyday and be inspired by your property. Inspired, to sit back and relax, to get out and plant a garden, to get out and mow, to sit back and watch the snow fall, to sit back and read a good book, tucked into a chair in the corner. Or my favorite inspiration, which is to be inspired to all the previously mentioned things, and not know which one to start with.

This is a most profound comment and one that I'm going to share with my partner. We often talk about coming home from work and how the first thing we want to feel when seeing our house and property is..."ahhh, I'm so happy to be home." When we look at houses online we imagine ourselves looking out windows and working in the yard. Of course we'll have to go see houses in person to get a good feel for things.

BUT one thing we are also thinking about is community. What happens once we step OUTSIDE of our house? Of course being the new kids on the block we'll have to make the effort to join things and reach out to people. We plan on being involved and volunteering for things. Hangin' at the resident-only beach is kinda cool too.

I guess what I was hoping this thread would do is help us decide where we should live. But thinking about it now, that seems kind of silly. We really need to get our butts up there and spend some time looking around more and talking to people in person. Heck, it may be that we are better off renting for a bit to get a better sense of where we should be.

So thanks to all who have opined here. Definitely some good info worth saving.

LIforrelaxin · 01-28-2011, 08:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CateP

Heck, it may be that we are better off renting for a bit to get a better sense of where we should be.

This is not a bad idea... I moved to an area, and was so glad that I rented for awhile.... not because it was a bad place to live, but because the immediate community around me, was not really where I wanted to live. I thought leaving in a real neighborhood setting was going to be nice. But really what I found was that I was much happier, living in a more remote location.

Unfortunately work brought me back to Massachusetts, and unfortunately I can't seem to get to get remote enough here.

I would think if you looked around you could easily find some places to rent, especially if you ended up making the move during a non-peak season...... you might even be able to find some places that would be willing give you a six month or 9 month lease, as long as it was going to be durring the fall winter and spring....

Argie's Wife · 01-28-2011, 11:22 PM

In my opinion, ANY town near Lake Winni is the BEST TOWN in NH.

But consider Alton... low taxes. Put your money into the equity of your home and not the coffer (property tax).

songkrai · 01-30-2011, 10:18 AM

Renting is the better choice to obtain the atmosphere of any area or community. And it provides much more time to look at homes.

Some communities are much more user friendly.

Get a chance to view what the comunity has already built and what the community wants to build. This all affects real estate taxes.

Just for an example take Moultonborough. This quaint little town is divided quite distinctly over building or not building a very expensive community center. Meredith as another example has already built a new fire house, new police station, and new community center.

If Route 93 is important then check out the towns close to 93 from Canterbury to Campton and all in between. Shopping can be a hassle if far away from stores. If you enjoy cultural events - those are quite lacking up here - then find a town near Plymouth State College (now calling themselves a university). Cultural events are much more prevalent near a college.

If you have pets it may be much more difficult to rent.

01-26-2011, 04:18 PM	#7
Just Sold Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Suncook, NH, but at The Lake at Heart Posts: 2,615 Thanks: 1,083 Thanked 434 Times in 210 Posts	First welcome to the forum and to your eventual move to the lakes region. A plus for Gilford, since you like to sail, is Fay's Boat Yard which is a big place for sailors giving you the possiblity of meeting many who own sail boats. And there is the new Sailing School being proposed for Ellacoya, State Park nearby. Yes, the lake is more crowded on the weekends and that is true everywhere on it but when you live on or near the lake you can get out on the lake after work on the weekdays when it is much quieter. I have seen many people taking their boats out late in the day during the week and even seen some guy's still in their suit pants and shirt (tie off) driving off for a little after work cruise. In Gilford there is Lincoln Park right on the lake if you want to sit and read a book, have a picnic or just gaze out over the lake and it is very close to Glendale and the town docks. Leaving from Gilford for a boat trip on the lake is great and it puts you in a good starting location to go everywhere else on the lake. That is where I boat from. Gilford affords you to take a short drive to Alton or over to Laconia or the Weirs. If you are in Meredith you are starting from the NW end of the lake to get anywhere else. The occasional commute to the work place will be longer from Meredith too. Do not get me wrong I love Meredith and around to Center Harbor and Moultonboro too but Gilford would be my preference. __________________ Just Sold At the lake the stress of daily life just melts away. Pro Re Nata

01-26-2011, 06:40 PM	#10
SteveA Deceased Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gilford, NH Posts: 2,311 Thanks: 1,070 Thanked 2,054 Times in 497 Posts	Gilford Another plus for Gilford, IMHO is the Gilford Community Church. Great people and a very welcoming attitude. http://www.gilfordcommunitychurch.org/gcc/mission.asp __________________ "Before you criticize someone, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, if he gets angry he'll be a mile away and barefoot!" unknown

01-26-2011, 09:53 PM	#14
dragonfly03246 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Posts: 83 Thanks: 7 Thanked 29 Times in 15 Posts	Church Check out http://www.churchisland.org/ They are the one's who hold the church services in the summer. BTW, we live in the Weirs and I would definitely chose Gilford over Meredith to live in. The traffic is so much better and if you like motorcycles, then around Route 11B would be a great place to live. It's really quiet in the Fall, Winter and Spring here.

01-27-2011, 08:24 AM	#16
ronc4424 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Danvers,Ma & Ashland,Nh Posts: 71 Thanks: 151 Thanked 18 Times in 11 Posts	Hi Cate, here is a picture of a couple heading out to services last summer. Attached Images __________________ “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”

01-27-2011, 09:57 AM	#18
ronc4424 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Danvers,Ma & Ashland,Nh Posts: 71 Thanks: 151 Thanked 18 Times in 11 Posts	Yes, it runs between little and big Squam. After this past month, that picture is really starting to look inviting..... __________________ “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”

01-26-2011, 01:40 PM	#1
CateP Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Wolfeboro Posts: 868 Thanks: 584 Thanked 540 Times in 210 Posts	Comparing Gilford and Meredith Hi Everybody I wanted to ask the forum members about how you would compare the towns of Gilford and Meredith. We are moving up to the area and have found some nice houses in Meredith in our price range, but also like Gilford. Any opinions on both towns are greatly appreciated. Here are some of my thoughts for starters. Gilford Pros Great boat launch Close to lots of services and stores Less summer traffic than other nearby towns Beans and Greens Farm Stand Close-knit, welcoming community Town beach Cons Higher taxes than other nearby towns Not a great inventory of post and beam houses with acreage in our price range (uninspiring architecture) Meredith Pros Low taxes compared to other nearby towns Several nice homes with acreage and ponds and nice architecture Restaurants Cons Summer traffic in town Not all areas have high speed internet (MetroCast)

01-26-2011, 02:46 PM	#2
ishoot308 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Gilford, NH / Welch Island Posts: 6,304 Thanks: 2,405 Thanked 5,308 Times in 2,069 Posts	I can add a couple things about Gilford... #1. Friendly police department that want to serve you. #2. Excellent fire department. #3. Friendly and helpful town office people that know what they are doing. Comes in handy when registering autos, boats, trailerers, atv's etc, etc. #4. Little or no weekend traffic. Compared to Meredith Gilford is a ghost town! #5. Great restaurants such as, William Tell Inn (is that Alton or Gilford??), Lyons Den, Elacoya Barn & Grill to name just a few. Good Luck! Dan

01-26-2011, 03:25 PM	#3
hilltopper Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Meredith Posts: 727 Thanks: 25 Thanked 109 Times in 70 Posts	Not much to add other than all of the Pros you list for Gilford I feel are true of Meredith also, except for the traffic issue. One of the first things we did when we moved to Meredith was learn how to deal with and get around the traffic. Good luck!

01-26-2011, 03:28 PM	#4
WeirsBeachBoater Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 709 Blog Entries: 9 Thanks: 39 Thanked 148 Times in 65 Posts	I'm a big fan of Meredith Couple of Pro's you missed. Two town boat ramps, Moulton's Farmstand, Great Town facilities. Good Police Dept, Town DPW does a great job on the roads. Traffic is only an issue if you don't know the shortcuts

01-26-2011, 03:44 PM	#5
donnamatrix Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Moultonboro Posts: 833 Thanks: 24 Thanked 258 Times in 120 Posts	I vote for Moultonboro Lower tax rate, good school system (although our kids are grown), close to good restaurants, good boat launches, quieter part of the lake, great wildlife (look at the eagles), great dentist... we've lived in Laconia, and still - probably for everyone on the forum who doesn't live near the bigger stores - we still go to Shaws/Hannaford in Gilford, my hair stylist is in Laconia -another great find:Che Bella on Union Avenue! I am sure whichever town you choose will live up to your hopes and expectations - we all just have favorites.

01-26-2011, 04:10 PM	#6
Lakesrider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 2,129 Thanks: 380 Thanked 1,016 Times in 345 Posts	If I had my druthers...I'd still pick Gilford or Alton over Meredith. Simply because they are on the South end of the Lake. Closer to civilization. I am in Moultonborough, which don't get wrong, is very nice. But I like being able to go to the theater, or the city. Which is quite a ride from Moultonborough. As far as houses...A house is what you make it. Anything is doable. As far as interesting architecture I would go to places like Sandwich, which has nice old homes at good prices. I love post and beam. My wife and I are planning to get a piece of land and build one for our next home if we cannot find the one we are looking for. Right now builders, foundation guys, and tree cutters, are dying for work, so now is the time to build. however I am not one to cut down trees for a house if I can find one already waiting. That said there are many lots up for sale right now due to the economy.

01-26-2011, 05:07 PM	#8
jrc Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: NH Posts: 2,689 Thanks: 33 Thanked 439 Times in 249 Posts	I've spent every summer weekend in Gilford for the last ten years: Pros: No traffic in Gilford(except bike week) Good restaurants Two Beaches and a boat launch Great place to boat from, right in the middle of the lake Easy access to all the chain stores, close to Tilton and Laconia Meadowbrook concerts Cons: Weekend traffic to/from I-93 (shouldn't bother a resident) A lot of weekend guests, like me (boats slips, camps and condos) Beaches do close for high bacteria once in a while Easy access to all the chain stores, doesn't feel as rural Airport can be loud, especially if Romney becomes President

01-26-2011, 05:19 PM	#9
Slickcraft Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Welch Island and The Taylor Community Posts: 3,314 Thanks: 1,232 Thanked 2,103 Times in 960 Posts	I agree with Dan and Just Sold on all their points about Gilford. We keep our Island boat at Fay's and can attest to it being a sailing friendly place. Many of the J/80 boats get set-up there. Also the races require a crew of 4 and on occasion there is need for experienced crew to fill-in. http://www.lwsa.org/racing/index.php The Gilford town docks are the best this side of the lake; a resource that we often use. We live in West Alton near the Gilford town line and do most of our shopping in the Gilford/Laconia area. We might have originally bought in Gilford except for the tax rate. Alton has a long history of frugality and it shows in the low tax rate. Gilford has a long history of spending as their tax rate shows. So don't overlook Alton with the low taxes and a lot of great folk. While we know most of the shortcuts in Meredith, we still avoid the area on Summer weekends.

01-26-2011, 06:58 PM	#11
CateP Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Wolfeboro Posts: 868 Thanks: 584 Thanked 540 Times in 210 Posts	I just want to thank everyone who has replied so far. I think there are many positive things about most of the towns in the lakes region, but since we are trying to narrow things down a bit, I was wondering about aspects of Gilford and Meredith that we may not know about. Thanks again for your insights. BTW-What church has the services out on Squam? We're not very religious people, but a service on an island on Squam Lake must be something special.

01-26-2011, 07:10 PM	#12
lawn psycho Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: On the move... Posts: 987 Thanks: 113 Thanked 248 Times in 133 Posts	Bike week alone would make me take Meredith off the list (same for Laconia). I don't even slip my boat in Meredith because of traffic and I come from the East......

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01-27-2011, 01:31 PM	#19
VtSteve Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Posts: 1,320 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 230 Thanked 361 Times in 169 Posts	I think it depends greatly on the when and where of your travels. For coming up on weekends, I'd never go near Meredith again. The traffic was pretty bad 20 years ago, and has only gotten worse. Yes, there have always been shortcuts, but they only help so much. Obviously it's a lot different living there rather than visiting on peak days. Gilford provides for great access to many venues. I'd much prefer to be there from a boating standpoint, and the mountains are also close by. My vote is towards the Gilford end of things.

01-27-2011, 01:56 PM	#20
Shore Driver Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Tolland CT Posts: 194 Thanks: 20 Thanked 31 Times in 25 Posts	Meredith has the smaller lakes also, Waukewan and Wicwas, don't know how much small lakes affects price or whether you want water access, but the lake views around Waukewan are gorgeous from what I've seen. Quite a bit of older architecture if that's what you seek. The tremendous dining options...Hesky Park for concerts, etc. Imagine being able to walk to all that. Lots of people in summer, but me, I like people. Tough to say no to all that. Gilford Village though, is delightful, and very peaceful. The whole town has a ton to offer. You picked 2 winners in my book. Good luck!

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01-28-2011, 08:12 AM	#23
gravy boat Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Gilford year round, West Alton summers Posts: 593 Thanks: 601 Thanked 203 Times in 102 Posts	Gilford v Meredith Having lived in Gilford for 13 years there are reasons I've not moved. Meredith is a lovely town and has friendly people and helpful, knowledgable tone employees as well. We are active all seasons and Gilford offers us free launch, convenient location to trailer out boat, Gunstock (season pass holders), hiking and.biking trails galore in our backyard throughout the Belknaps, abundant dining and shopping, only a 15 minute drive to Market Basket in Tilton, which is SUBSTANTIALLY lower priced than anything in Gilford or Meredith. We are 5 minutes from civilization, yet in the country/mountains. For us it offers the best of everything we want. The only traffic is during the Timberman Triathlon in late August....Bike Week is noisy everywhere in the region. Good luck! GB

01-28-2011, 01:10 PM	#24
LIforrelaxin Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Texas, Lake Ray Hubbard and NH, Long Island Winnipesaukee Posts: 2,876 Thanks: 1,037 Thanked 892 Times in 524 Posts	Some reflections on Meredith and Gilford... Which one to chose is not an easy decision to make. It really comes down to what you want to be able to access. While as pointed out by others, getting from Gilford to civilization might be quicker, I don't feel it is that much quicker. If being able to get to other destinations is a prime concern, then I think you need to look at where you need to get to... Meredith offers great access to the 93 corridor for getting up into the mountains of NH, or to head south and get to places like Waltham Ma. On the other side if you think you are more inclined to go to places like the Coast, the Mountains of Maine, or the North Shore of Massachusetts then the Gilford/Alton area is ideal, while still maintaining your life in the heart of the lakes region. All towns In the lakes regions have traffic drawbacks in the busy season. It is really a matter of getting to know the back roads. Once you know two or three of the beaten path ways of getting to where you need to, the traffic stops being an issue. Although many of use will keep our secret routes around traffic a secret... Once you get to know some of us, the secrets will come out..... I have to get to Moultonborough every Friday night, and I never, never sit in traffic, once I am north of Tilton. The bottom line is I don't think that advantages to either town are all that much different. I also don't believe you will find anything more convenient in one location vs the other. The only thing you will find, is depending on your destination, it might take 10 or so mins traveling time, depending on where you settle down. Having moved several times in my life my recommendation is this. Make sure you like your house. Don't worry as much about location. Worry about knowing that you will come home everyday and be inspired by your property. Inspired, to sit back and relax, to get out and plant a garden, to get out and mow, to sit back and watch the snow fall, to sit back and read a good book, tucked into a chair in the corner. Or my favorite inspiration, which is to be inspired to all the previously mentioned things, and not know which one to start with. __________________ Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....

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01-28-2011, 01:25 PM	#25
ishoot308 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Gilford, NH / Welch Island Posts: 6,304 Thanks: 2,405 Thanked 5,308 Times in 2,069 Posts	Cate; Having traveled daily from Gilford to my business in Manchester I can tell you that it takes 45 minutes to the Manchester line from Fays boat yard. This is by taking Route 11 to Route 106 South to 4/202/393 West to 93 South. Leaving fays at 7:00 A.M. I have never hit any bad traffic southbound. This is the best and fastest way if your heading South into Mass. The only time you need to stay off route 106 is when they have a race which I believe is twice a year and normally that is only on weekends. Dan

01-28-2011, 01:50 PM	#26
jmen24 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 1,139 Thanks: 223 Thanked 319 Times in 181 Posts	About the Architecture Cate, I have noticed a few times now that you have mentioned uninspired Architecture in the area, but at the same time, are looking at older homes. Unlike some of our other NE states, the northern NE states history is staged around agriculture that has remained in place far longer than the southern half. That puts most of the older homes in the "function over form" group rather than the modern preferred "form over function". The colonial style homes of this area, are in themselves "plain" to say the least. Whether it be a two-story colonial, a 1/2, 3/4 or full cape or a saltbox. For anyone that is wondering, those are the only reconized styles of colonial architecture, the full dormered cape or dormered cape were not practical in Colonial times to build and thus came about at the same time as the Arts and Crafts style homes (the both were the working man's way to keep up with those Victorian folks on a DYI or budget standpoint). The New England style farm house was an addition to this area, after Colonial times for the farmer that had a little more time on their hands to sit on the porch and watch the kids work. Again an adaptation of a two-story colonial. Most of the original colonial architecture in the southern NE states was more to show your neighbors how much money or influence you had, up here, not so much. It was a roof and a place to feed. I am just curious what your looking for in the way of inspired Architecture? No right or wrong answer, just curious.

01-28-2011, 03:02 PM	#29
songkrai Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Posts: 733 Thanks: 35 Thanked 147 Times in 99 Posts	It is good that you are asking questions. And also good you found this forum. My opinion you have three basic questions. 1. That actual home - the structure. 2. How far from the coast/Route 95 or how close to Route 93. 3. If you have school age children pick a town that has a private school. Such as Holderness, New Hampton, Wolfeboro, etc. If you are seeking an antique farmhouse with lots of space and charm be prepared to set aside some good money. Either for purchase price or for maintenance. If you plan to upgrade some quaint farmhouse then lots of extra money is needed. If you seek an already upgraded farmhouse then be sure to have it checked out completely. If there are any water issues - and they are not fixed by now - then they may never be fixed. Many of these antique homes need much maintenace. If you are seeking a newer modern type home then do also have this checked out for issues. And if you build expect about some cost over runs. Unless you are darn specific in your archetect plans. And if you do sign any contracts for new construction hire an attorney to read it. There will be cost over runs and that piece of paper will state how much YOU have to pay for any cost over runs. If your desire is to travel to the coast then pick towns on the east side of lake. If your needs are getting to Route 93 then pick towns on that side. Finding the right house on the right street with the right view is to me the most important to some. And do stay off of private roads or gravel roads. Stick to paved town roads. Although the nice looking gravel road may seem appealing you will have a dusty automobile all of the time. Never mind the wear and tear on said automobile. And if you have school age children then send them to a private school. Good Luck.

01-28-2011, 11:22 PM	#33
Argie's Wife Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Alton Posts: 1,908 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 533 Thanked 579 Times in 260 Posts	In my opinion, ANY town near Lake Winni is the BEST TOWN in NH. But consider Alton... low taxes. Put your money into the equity of your home and not the coffer (property tax).

01-30-2011, 10:18 AM	#34
songkrai Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Posts: 733 Thanks: 35 Thanked 147 Times in 99 Posts	Renting is the better choice to obtain the atmosphere of any area or community. And it provides much more time to look at homes. Some communities are much more user friendly. Get a chance to view what the comunity has already built and what the community wants to build. This all affects real estate taxes. Just for an example take Moultonborough. This quaint little town is divided quite distinctly over building or not building a very expensive community center. Meredith as another example has already built a new fire house, new police station, and new community center. If Route 93 is important then check out the towns close to 93 from Canterbury to Campton and all in between. Shopping can be a hassle if far away from stores. If you enjoy cultural events - those are quite lacking up here - then find a town near Plymouth State College (now calling themselves a university). Cultural events are much more prevalent near a college. If you have pets it may be much more difficult to rent.