First steps to buying a home

When you start to think about buying a home, it can seem a bit overwhelming, particularly if this is your first time. It is OK to feel that way. Just break it down into bite sized pieces (read more)

What to do today if you plan to buy a home in the next year?

Dreaming of owning a home? Here are few things you could do to get started! Improve your Credit Score. Generally the higher your credit score, the more favorable mortgage terms…. (read more)

Do I have to compromise when buying a home?

You have made the decision to start looking for a home! The fun of searching and find a home begins, however it also can be a bit stressful while you figure out your priorities and what is really required in your next home. (read more)

How to buy a home in a super-competitive Real Estate Market?

The 2021 real estate market is more competitive for home buyers According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Economist’s Blog, there were 4 Offers for Every Home Sold in February 2021. So what options are available for home buyers? What are some creative ideas for getting an offer on a home accepted? (read more)

How to choose a community when buying a home?

How do you choose where to live? How can you compare towns? Which town or neighborhood is better than the other? Is it safe to live here? How are the schools? Is the town well managed? (read more)

What are property taxes?

Property Taxes or Real Estate Taxes are calculated by taking a properties assessed value * tax rate / 1000. The town tax assessor determines the market value of a home based on public record facts. (read more)

Where can I find the property tax rate for each town in Massachusetts?

The most current information can be found on each municipal website. Or for your convenience, you can find a list of tax rates for all Massachusetts towns here.

What is an “As-Is” Sale?

Generally this means the home seller will not be making any needed repairs prior to the property being sold. It does not necessarily mean there are problems, but the seller wants all prospective buyers to know they aren’t going to make any improvements if asked. (read more)

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems of a home or condo. (read more for these answers)

• How to choose a Home Inspector?

• Who pays for the home inspection and how much does it cost?

• Your role during the home inspection?

• What happens when problems are found?

• Should I waive the home inspection?

• I have a friend in the building trades, can they inspect the home?

• What other inspections might be recommended?

What is a Smart Home?

The industry defines a Smart Home as having Internet connectivity, either home temperature controls or security and 2 additional smart connected devices. As a Realtor, I’d refine that only devices stay when the home sells. (read more)

How to figure out if a home is still for sale? Let’s talk about Property Listing statuses

There are a number of reasons why your real estate agent tells you a home you were interested in seeing/buying is no longer for sale. Part of this is logistical, but also part of this is learning to understand the Property Listing Statuses used in the industry. (read more)

About Septic Systems and Massachusetts Title 5 Inspections

If you are looking to purchase a home in a more rural area or suburban area, you may start to see homes that have a "septic system" and, if that home is in Massachusetts, you will references to “Title V inspection” or “Title 5 inspection” in the property descriptions. Before putting in an offer on a home with a septic system, you should become familiar with how septic systems work, your costs responsibilities as a homeowner and what a Title 5 Inspection tells you. (read more)