HOOKSETT – Derek and Sarah Paquette’s story began as one rooted in the past but firmly focused on the future. Where Derek’s grandfather, Gerry Handley, once transformed the landscape by developing neighborhoods like Farmer Road, Heritage Estates, and Presidential Estates, the young couple has reclaimed a piece of family history.
The Paquettes, newly married, recently bought and renovated the farmhouse at 25 Auburn Road—a property that once belonged to Derek’s grandfather and carries with it generations of memories, hard work and community spirit.
Originally, Gerry had purchased the farmhouse along with the surrounding land, later subdividing and selling portions of it, including the farmhouse itself. Eventually, it passed to Madeline Gagnon, a longtime resident, and then to a man named Cory, an older gentleman known to everyone in the neighborhood.
After Cory’s passing, his son inherited the farmhouse. Living in Connecticut, he and his wife would travel to Hooksett on weekends to tend to the property and sort through belongings.
Derek’s parents, living nearby, were quick to lend a hand, helping with upkeep, mowing, and even hauling away items as the family decided what to do with the house. Conversation commenced and an agreement was made.
“We made a fair offer,” Derek said, knowing that the property needed considerable investment to make it livable. After a bit of negotiation, the couple’s offer was accepted, and they became the new owners of the farmhouse. Over the next nine to ten months, they threw themselves into a full-scale renovation. Gutting the house nearly to the studs, they replaced the plumbing, electrical systems and insulation, and rebuilt nearly every interior wall. It was a true labor of love, and Derek and Sarah did much of the work themselves, learning as they went and asking for all the favors from family friends in the trades Derek says.
Derek remembers growing up hearing about his grandfather’s vision for the area, about how Gerry had scouted land in Hooksett and saw potential others might have overlooked. His grandfather had built homes that weren’t just places to live but spaces that fostered quality living.
This journey has been one of dedication, grit, and love for their roots. Derek and Sarah’s story is not just about bringing a home back into the family; it’s a testament to the power of community and the strength of family ties. In today’s world, where so many young people are drawn away from their hometowns, the Paquettes are an inspiring example of how it’s possible to stay close to home and make a life there, even if it means rolling up your sleeves and putting in the hard work and building some sweat equity.
In this current real estate market, it is a great opportunity to create that “starter home” for yourself as a young person.It is possible to buy as a young person in this market. Derek is only 29 years old.
For anyone wondering if it’s still possible to achieve the American dream here in Hooksett, Derek and Sarah’s journey says it all. With determination, a commitment to community, and a willingness to tackle challenges head on, they have reclaimed a piece of their heritage and, in doing so, have shown that the dream is still very much alive.
Their story is a powerful reminder that Hooksett still holds a place for those who are willing to dream, invest, and carry forward the values of family and community. Derek and Sarah Paquette have done just that, proving that sometimes, coming home is the greatest adventure of all.
