Real Estate & Elegant Maine Living - The Way Life Should Be

Elise Kiely

Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s luxury real estate market, distinctive properties, and the lifestyle that makes this state such a special place to call home. Hosted by Elise Kiely, a top-producing real estate advisor and lifestyle connector with Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty, the podcast features thoughtful conversations with local leaders, creatives, and visionaries who embody the spirit of elegant living in Maine. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply Maine-curious, each episode offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the people and places that define Maine.

  1. 4d ago

    Maine Real Estate & Lifestyle: Reading the Tea Leaves | Why Thoughtful Maine Buyers and Sellers Are Winning in Today's Market

    Send us Fan Mail What is it really like to buy or sell a home in Maine today? In this episode of Elegant Maine Living, Elise Kiely moves beyond the headlines and shares what she's seeing every day with buyers and sellers across Southern and Coastal Maine. While inventory has increased and buyers have more choices than they've had in several years, the best homes continue to attract strong interest—and in many cases, multiple offers.  Rather than focusing only on statistics, Elise explores the conversations happening around kitchen tables: what today's buyers are really looking for, why thoughtful preparation has become more important than ever, and how changing lifestyle priorities—including privacy, wellness, flexibility, multigenerational living, and access to nature—are shaping the future of Maine real estate.  Elise also shares practical advice for first-time buyers, growing families, empty nesters, and luxury buyers, along with a look at her newest waterfront listing on Cumberland Foreside as a real-world example of the lifestyle many people are seeking today. Whether you're buying, selling, relocating to Maine, or simply interested in the Maine real estate market and the lifestyle it offers, this episode provides thoughtful perspective on where the market is today—and where it may be headed. In This Episode  Why some Maine homes still receive multiple offers while others sit on the market  What today's buyers are really looking for beyond bedrooms and square footage  Why preparation, pricing, staging, and presentation matter more than ever  Luxury buyer trends including privacy, wellness, flexibility, and multigenerational living  Why Elise continues to encourage buyers to think long term and "get in the market"  A closer look at Elise's newest waterfront listing at 15 Sturdivant Road, Cumberland ForesideContinue the Conversation 🎙 Why Staging Matters with Elizabeth Carper of The Styled Home Learn why thoughtful preparation and staging help buyers emotionally connect with a home before they ever make an offer. Episode with Elizabeth Carper 🎙 The Great Wealth Transfer & Family Gifting with Amelia Dow, Portland Trust Company Explore how generational wealth transfers are helping families purchase homes and reshaping today's real estate market. Episode with Amelia Dow and the Great Wealth Transfer   🎙 Helping the Next Generation Become Homeowners with Greg Dauphinee, Androscoggin Bank Practical advice for first-time buyers, financing strategies, and building long-term wealth through homeownership. Episode with Greg Dauphinee 🏡 Featured Property: 15 Sturdivant Road, Cumberland Foreside Explore Elise's newest waterfront listing featuring nearly six private acres, over 380 feet of beachfront, a first-floor primary suite, Wright-Ryan craftsmanship, exceptional privacy, and just minutes from Portland. 15 Sturdivant Road Listing I'd Love to Hear From You Questions about today's Maine real estate market or an idea for a future podcast episode? I'd love to hear from you. Please email me at Elise@EliseKiely.com, or visit EliseKiely.com to explore current listings, learn more about the podcast, or connect with me directly. If you enjoyed this episode, I'd be grateful if you would subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who is interested in Maine real estate, relocating to Maine, or simply loves the Maine lifestyle. Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  2. Aug 11

    Maine Real Estate: Reading the Tea Leaves | What the National Housing Market Is Whispering to Maine

    Send us Fan Mail Is the national housing market finally shifting in favor of buyers? And if so, what could those changes mean for Maine real estate? In this episode of Elegant Maine Living, Elise Kiely steps back from the monthly headlines to explore the national trends quietly reshaping today's housing market. From housing supply and affordability to demographic shifts, family gifting, wellness, multigenerational living, and evolving buyer priorities, Elise explains why understanding why the market is changing is often more valuable than simply following the latest statistics. Whether you're a current homeowner, first-time buyer, investor, or simply curious about the future of Maine real estate, this episode offers thoughtful perspective on the forces influencing tomorrow's housing market. Next week, Elise brings the conversation back home, sharing what she's seeing every day with buyers and sellers across Southern and Coastal Maine. Continue the Conversation Family gifting and wealth transfer with Amelia Dow, Portland Trust Company https://www.buzzsprout.com/2468487/episodes/18895231 Helping the next generation become homeowners with Greg Dauphinee, Androscoggin Bank https://www.buzzsprout.com/2468487/episodes/17180489 Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  3. Aug 4

    Designing Extraordinary Homes in Maine: Inside Shooting Rock with Amanda Pratt | Part 2

    Send us Fan Mail Can a home change the way you live? In Part Two of my conversation with interior architect and designer Amanda Pratt, we step inside Shooting Rock, one of Maine's most extraordinary waterfront homes, to explore the vision behind its remarkable transformation. Amanda shares how architecture, art, craftsmanship, and the natural landscape come together to create a home designed for gathering, creativity, wellness, and connection. From opening the home to the ocean views to creating spaces that encourage family traditions, this conversation is about much more than design—it's about creating a place that feels like home.  Hit play to discover why the most unforgettable homes aren't simply beautiful—they're intentionally designed around the lives lived within them. In this episode:  The story behind the transformation of Shooting Rock  Designing for family, entertaining, and waterfront living  Why today's luxury buyers value privacy, wellness, authenticity, and a connection to nature  Creating spaces that inspire awe while feeling deeply personal  Amanda's philosophy for designing homes that truly reflect the people who live in them Learn More AM Collective (Amanda Pratt): https://amcollective.nyc Explore Shooting Rock – 33 Massacre Lane, Scarborough, Maine: https://www.elisekiely.com/33-massacre-lane-scarborough-maine Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  4. Jul 28

    Designing Extraordinary Homes in Maine: Amanda Pratt on Architecture, Art, Reinvention & Living Well | Part 1

    Send us Fan Mail Designing Extraordinary Homes in Maine: Amanda Pratt on Architecture, Art, Reinvention & Living Well | Part 1 What transforms a beautiful house into a home people never forget? In this episode of Elegant Maine Living, I sit down with designer, entrepreneur, and interior architect Amanda Pratt to explore the experiences that shaped her remarkable career—from construction sites and Wall Street to designing extraordinary homes in Maine. Together, we discuss architecture, craftsmanship, creativity, entrepreneurship, and why the best homes are designed around the way people truly live. Hit play to discover how Amanda's journey of reinvention continues to inspire the way we think about home, design, and living well. In this episode: Amanda's path from Wall Street to interior architectureDesigning homes that are both beautiful and deeply personalThe role of art, craftsmanship, and creativity in great designEntrepreneurship, reinvention, and embracing unexpected opportunitiesWhy Maine continues to inspire exceptional architecture and thoughtful livingLearn more about Amanda and AM Collective: AM Collective Coming next: In Part Two, Amanda takes us inside Shooting Rock, one of Maine's most extraordinary waterfront homes, and shares the vision behind creating an iconic coastal retreat. Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  5. Jul 21

    Living Well with Alpha-gal Syndrome with Laura Finney Part 2: What People in Maine Should Know

    Send us Fan Mail What happens after the diagnosis? New Listeners Start Here: New to this conversation? I recommend listening to Part I first, where Laura shares how a single Lone Star tick bite led to her Alpha-gal Syndrome diagnosis, the challenges of getting answers, and why awareness of this growing tick-borne condition matters. In Part Two of my conversation with my lifelong friend, Laura Finney, we move beyond the medical diagnosis of Alpha-gal Syndrome and explore what it really looks like to rebuild a joyful, active life after a Lone Star tick bite changes everything. Laura shares how she transformed her kitchen, reimagined entertaining, adjusted her travel habits, and learned to navigate a world where something as simple as sharing a meal requires thoughtful planning. Rather than allowing Alpha-gal to define her life, Laura has chosen resilience, humor, and community. Her experience also inspired her to launch No Ma'am, a blog and growing online resource dedicated to helping others living with Alpha-gal Syndrome find trustworthy information, practical tips, and a reminder that they are not alone. Whether you live in Maine, spend time outdoors, or simply enjoy hiking, gardening, walking, hunting, fishing, or exploring nature, this episode offers practical awareness about the growing prevalence of tick-borne illnesses while celebrating the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.  In this episode we discuss:  How Alpha-gal Syndrome changed Laura's daily life beyond food  Why she replaced nearly everything in her kitchen  Navigating restaurants, travel, and social gatherings with a serious food allergy  Building community instead of isolation  Practical tick prevention strategies for outdoor enthusiasts  Why awareness—not fear—is the best defense against tick-borne illnesses  Finding humor during life's unexpected detours  The inspiration behind Laura's No Ma'am blog and business  Creating resources for the growing Alpha-gal community  Why it's possible to live a full, active, joyful life after an Alpha-gal diagnosis Resources No Ma'am (Laura Finney's website): https://nomam.net If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Alpha-gal Syndrome—or you're looking for practical information about living with a mammal allergy—Laura's blog is an outstanding resource filled with practical advice, encouragement, and humor. Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  6. Jul 14

    Alpha-gal Syndrome: How One Tick Bite Changed Everything with Laura Finney Part 1 - How a single Lone Star tick bite led to Alpha-gal Syndrome, a life-changing allergy affecting red meat, dairy, medications, and everyday products—and what people in Ma

    Send us Fan Mail What if one tiny tick bite changed your life forever? Most of us know about Lyme disease. But have you heard of Alpha-gal Syndrome, the life-changing allergy that can develop after a single bite from a Lone Star tick? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, I sit down with my oldest and dearest friend, Laura Finney, to share her remarkable story of developing Alpha-gal Syndrome after a tick bite on Martha's Vineyard. What began as mysterious symptoms and frustrating doctor visits ultimately led to a diagnosis that transformed nearly every aspect of her life. Laura explains why Alpha-gal is far more than a "red meat allergy," how it can affect dairy, medications, and everyday products, why it is often difficult to diagnose, and why growing awareness is so important as Lone Star ticks continue expanding throughout the Northeast. Most of all, this is a conversation about resilience, humor, and finding hope in the face of an unexpected challenge. In this episode, we discuss:  What Alpha-gal Syndrome is and how it develops  How a single Lone Star tick bite changed Laura's life  Why Alpha-gal is much more than a red meat allergy  Why diagnosis can be delayed or missed altogether  The growing number of Alpha-gal cases across the United States  Why awareness—not anxiety—is the goal for those of us who enjoy the outdoors in Maine and New England Resources  Laura Finney's No Mam website: NoMam.netComing Up in Part 2 We'll explore how Laura rebuilt her life after her diagnosis—from replacing everything in her kitchen to navigating travel, restaurants, family traditions, and social gatherings—and how she turned an unexpected diagnosis into a mission of education, advocacy, and humor through No Mam. Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  7. Jul 7

    American Mahjong in Maine Part 2: Building Community One Tile at a Time

    Send us Fan Mail Can a centuries-old game help keep your mind sharp while also bringing people together? In Part 2 of my conversation with Melanie Charest, founder of Mainely Mahjong, we explore why American Mahjong is about much more than mastering the tiles. We discuss the growing body of research surrounding Mahjong and cognitive health, the importance of lifelong learning, and why gathering around a table with friends may be one of the healthiest habits we can cultivate. Melanie also shares what keeps drawing her back to Maine each summer, why Peaks Island holds such a special place in her heart, and how Mainely Mahjong has become a vehicle for building friendships and strengthening communities throughout the state. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is reflecting on the Elegant Maine Living Mahjong Nights I've hosted for my clients, podcast guests, and friends. Watching people who have never met leave with new friendships and plans for their next Mahjong game reminds me that some of life's best communities begin with simply pulling up a chair. In this episode, we discuss: The research linking American Mahjong to cognitive engagement and healthy agingWhy lifelong learning is important at every stage of lifeHow Mahjong combines strategy, focus, patience, and social connectionThe power of gathering around a table instead of a screenWhat Melanie loves most about Maine and Peaks IslandWhy community is one of Maine's greatest strengthsIf you've been thinking about learning American Mahjong, or you're simply looking for a new way to connect with others, I hope this conversation inspires you to give it a try. Melanie Charest on Instagram: mainelymahjongElegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

  8. Jun 30

    American Mahjong in Maine: Building Community One Tile at a Time Part 1

    Send us Fan Mail Why is American Mahjong suddenly everywhere in Maine? In this episode of Elegant Maine Living, I sit down with Melanie Charest, founder of Mainely Mahjong, to explore why American Mahjong has become one of the fastest-growing social activities in Maine. What begins as a conversation about colorful tiles quickly becomes a discussion about something much bigger: building community, making new friends, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful opportunities to connect in a world increasingly dominated by screens. Melanie shares how she transformed her passion for American Mahjong into a thriving Maine small business, teaching hundreds of new players and partnering with local restaurants, wineries, clubs, and businesses throughout Greater Portland to introduce people to the game. We also talk about why I began hosting Elegant Maine Living American Mahjong Nights for my real estate clients, podcast guests, and friends of the podcast. One of the most rewarding parts of these gatherings has been watching complete strangers become friends, exchange phone numbers, and continue playing together long after the event ends. That's exactly what Elegant Maine Living is all about—creating connections that enrich our lives and strengthen our communities. Whether you're curious about learning American Mahjong, looking to expand your social circle, or simply enjoy hearing the stories of Maine entrepreneurs who are making a difference, I think you'll enjoy this conversation. In this episode you'll learn: Why American Mahjong is experiencing a remarkable resurgence across MaineHow Mainely Mahjong grew from one idea into a thriving Maine small businessThe differences between American Mahjong and Chinese MahjongWhy so many people are searching for American Mahjong lessons in MaineHow learning a new game can lead to lasting friendships and stronger communitiesWhy supporting local entrepreneurs helps strengthen Maine's economyThe inspiration behind my Elegant Maine Living American Mahjong NightsWhy putting away our phones and gathering around a table matters more than everIf this episode inspires you to learn American Mahjong or join one of my future Elegant Maine Living American Mahjong Nights, I'd love to hear from you. Reach out through the Elegant Maine Living website, and I'll be happy to keep you informed about upcoming lessons and events. Links: Melanie Charest on Instagram: mainelymahjongElegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine. Connect with Elise 🌐 Website & Listings: EliseKiely.com 📸 Follow Elise on Social Media: Instagram: @elisekielyrealestateFacebook: Elise Kiely Real Estate LinkedIn: Elise Kiely Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at  Elise@EliseKiely.com Subscribe, share with a friend, and join Elise every other week to discover what makes Maine not just beautiful—but beautifully lived. Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship.  Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.

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About

Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s luxury real estate market, distinctive properties, and the lifestyle that makes this state such a special place to call home. Hosted by Elise Kiely, a top-producing real estate advisor and lifestyle connector with Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty, the podcast features thoughtful conversations with local leaders, creatives, and visionaries who embody the spirit of elegant living in Maine. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply Maine-curious, each episode offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the people and places that define Maine.

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