Resources ... Let Us Know How Can Help
If you plan to purchase your first or tenth home, start here. Buying property in Massachusetts is not difficult, but it's helpful to understand and be aware of the local customs before you start your search. Our goal is to help guide you toward the best decision for your unique situation. To do this, we believe that a well-informed client will ultimately be the most satisfied, too. We look forward to discussing the current market conditions and trends with you - most important, we can't wait to help you discover your dream home!
Check out our on demand home buyer video seminar here! After registering, you'll have instant access to our on demand buyer consultation and we'll immediately mail (USPS) your home Massachusetts Home Buyer Booklet. It include everything you need to buy a home in Massachusetts - even sample forms. Click here to get access now!
Selling your home is a big decision. It's not just about moving, it's about identifying a proven seamless process that will help maximize the value of current property within a timeline that meets your specific needs.
There's no doubt that this can be a stressful process, but after successfully selling 100s of homes, we've identified the smoothest processes, most effective marketing strategies and negotiation techniques to ensure the highest sale price with the least amount of hassle. Contact us today for a no obligation consultation.
Senior Options
Connect with experts to discuss senior living options. Knowing where to begin is the hardest part, so we've included a few helpful resources below:
Home Hazards
Asbestos - Asbestos.com provides a Guide to Asbestos in The Home ... it outlines common asbestos locations, related heath concerns and how to deal with asbestos when it's found. Tips on how to hire an asbestos remover can also be found at asbestos.com.
Lead Paint - Slowly phased out in the 1960s and 1970s, lead paint was ultimately outlawed in residential use in 1978. Consequently, all homes older than 1978 are suspect; however, there are many ways to mitigate lead paint and costs can vary. In recent years, the government has eased mitigation requirements to encourage lead compliance. The below sites provide additional information about lead paint safety ... you can even search property to see if it's been tested for lead paint.
Mass.gov - Search property testing history
Massachusetts Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program’s Lead Safe Homes 1.0 database
New England Lead Prevention - Information for home buyers, tenants, landlords, etc.
Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home
Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home
If you’re looking to break into homeownership but the price of single-family homes has you second-guessing, you might want to consider a condominium (condo) or townhome. These types of homes often come with a lower barrier to entry – and that can help you start to build equity and enjoy the benefits of owning a home sooner.
Since they're usually smaller than single-family homes, they can be easier on your wallet. While it’s not always the case, smaller square footage usually comes with a smaller price tag too. As a result, according to the latest data from Realtor.com, condos typically have a lower asking price than single-family homes (see graph below):
And here’s some exciting news: builders are focusing more on homes like these. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says:
“The share of townhomes being built is at an all-time high.”
That means there’s a good number of options to add to your home search if you broaden it to include condos and townhomes. And you may even find something that works better for your budget.
So, if you're comfortable with a smaller space and want to buy your first home before the spring rush, adding these types of homes to your search might be your answer.
The Perks of a Condo Lifestyle
Living in a condo has a bunch of other perks, too. Let’s look closer at why condos are appealing for first-time buyers:
They help you start building equity. When you buy a condo or townhome, you build equity and your net worth as you make your mortgage payments and as your condo’s value goes up over time.
They can be low maintenance. Condos are great if you want to own your place but don't want to mow the lawn, shovel snow, or fix the roof. Your real estate agent can help explain any associated fees and details for the condos you’re interested in.
They usually come with a range of amenities. Your condo might come with access to a pool, dog park, or parking. And the best part? You don’t have to take care of any of them.
They create a sense of community. Buying a condo means you'll be living close to other people, which is nice if you want a more close-knit feel. Many communities like these hold fun events such as barbecues and parties to help create that sense of connection among residents.
Remember, your first home doesn't have to be the one you stay in forever. The important thing is to get your foot in the door as a homeowner so you can start to gain home equity. Later on, that equity can help you buy another place if you want something different.
Ultimately, owning and living in a condo or townhome is a lifestyle choice. If you want to see if it makes sense for you, talk to a local real estate agent.
Bottom Line
Ready to find a home that suits your goals? A condo might be the perfect fit for your first home purchase. Let’s connect today to start your search.
Other Useful Tools
Financing ... everyone's budget and cash flow is different. Whether you you get paid on a salary, hourly, bonus or commission basis, understanding your monthly obligation is critical when buying a home.
Here is a link to a mortgage calculator to help you start your planning.
Explore A Career in Real Estate!
Real estate can be a very rewarding career ... each day we have the opportunity to meet and help new people! Being able to help someone start a new stage of life is an extremely gratifying experience.
It's relatively easy to get started, but knowing where and how to start is the biggest challenge. Unfortunately, the state licensing exam doesn't cover any marketing or business planning ... so new agents are often left to sink or swim! In 2023, the National Association of Realtors estimates 10,000 agents are being forced to leave the business each month!
After being in business for 20+ years, I've been able to help many buyers, sellers AND agents succeed. Getting started the right way with the right company can make or break an new agent. eXp Realty is now selling more homes than any other brokerage, so we have tools and training to help you succeed. Moreover, it would be my pleasure to introduce you to the company's tools, answer any questions that you have about the business and share my systems and training so that you are able to quickly launch your new business. Let's connect!