Decorating as the weather gets cooler is all about seeping in the warmth that remains. New colors emerge, nature presents new elements for us to enjoy, the warmth of our friends and family become even more prevalent, and a throw blanket always helps too! Here are the trends we’re observing this autumn that might help bring some festivity to your daily life.

Elements from Nature

As the leaves change colors, we often get the urge to change things, too. Think warm red, orange, and brown around your home. If you’re not DIY inclined, these are easy to incorporate in accent features.  

Looking forward to Thanksgiving, pulling natural elements into your dining room table brings the feel of autumn directly to you. Acorns, pinecones, and even scattered branches can draw a rustic element into your décor. Just be sure to do your research first and preserve your materials so you don’t also add some pests to your home!

Pumpkins

When it comes to fall, pumpkins are everywhere! We can’t emphasize their influence enough… glass pumpkins, painted pumpkins, pumpkins covered in fabric or washi tape, natural pumpkins, the list goes on in the décor category. Not only is this a simple add in to your space, but it also leaves opportunity for you to engage in the creation of your aesthetic. As a bonus for those who like to mix it up each year, if you purchase the right kind, these decorative pieces are even compostable!

Farmhouse

Taking a note from the farmhouse style dried stalks, hay, and wreathes are a great addition to fall decorations that bring the outdoors in yet again. Antiques and rustic pieces are great swaps for daily use or as accent pieces and provide a nice day trip to second hand, consignment, and antique shops to discover your own personal style. Incorporate some marigolds and mums and you’re ready for a fall festival in your own home!

A local favorite for décor and gifts in Concord, MA, called Nestings is featured in the image above.

For more, visit our Fall Decorations board on Pinterest.

Think less is more when it comes to staging your home this fall. You want buyers to focus on your home and its best features, so don’t use too many fall decorations. A couple vases of fall foliage or bowls of seasonal fruit will be enough. Here are some more tips!

Curb Appeal

Rake up leaves and patch any brown spots in the grass to entice buyers to want to look inside your home. Pressure wash the exterior and consider repainting the front door.

Warm Colors

Try adding a fresh coat of paint to your interior walls in warm neutral colors like caramel or cream. Use richer fall colors for any accent walls. Toss a couple of red or orange throw pillows on the couch.

Lighting

Open up your curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Since the fall days are shorter, add extra lamps to any dark rooms or corners to brighten them up.

Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s the focal point of the room. A warm and cozy fireplace is a great feature to highlight in the fall. Rearrange your furniture around the fireplace and accentuate the mantel with a few nice accessories.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the Greater Boston area, contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty. We can help!

 CONCORD, MA

Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Sotheby’s International Realty, is proud to announce the acquisition of local firm Acton Real Estate; the joint entity will operate as Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty.

The merger expands the firm’s presence in the greater Acton-Boxborough area. Laurie E. Cadigan, owner and CEO of Barrett Sotheby's International Realty, will remain at the helm of the operation.  Barrett Sotheby's International Realty now has six offices and 145 independent sales associates across Middlesex County. 

“We are proud to support the continued growth of Barrett Sotheby's International Realty,” said Philip White, president and chief executive officer, Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC.  “Acton is a very desirable historic town that boasts high ranking schools and community services.

“Acton Real Estate is a well-respected company that has been serving its community for over 60 years,” said Cadigan.  “This acquisition strengthens Barrett Sotheby's International Realty’s position in Middlesex County and allows us to better serve our clients in the Acton-Boxborough area.”

With this addition, the Sotheby's International Realty network now has 45 branded offices throughout the state of Massachusetts.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has more than 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 960 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide.  In 2017, the brand achieved a record global sales volume of $108 billion USD.  Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty listings are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website.  In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs.  Each office is independently owned and operated.

About Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty

Since 1977, Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty www.barrettsothebysrealty.com) has grown into one of the most successful independently owned and operated Massachusetts real estate companies. For over 40 years our outstanding reputation and ethical standards have begun with our agents, who join the Barrett team by invitation only. Our excellence in service and dedication to the consumer extends through in-house marketing, technology, and new construction departments, and continues all the way to company president Laurie Cadigan, who is always accessible to agents and clients alike. We specialize in residential home buying and selling in the cities and towns of Greater Boston Massachusetts. Our national and international reach is unmatched with our in-house relocation division and Sotheby's International Realty affiliation. Get to know us better on social media: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BarrettSIR), Twitter and YouTube. Wherever you are and wherever you need to go, Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty is leading the way home.

About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC

Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services.  In February 2004, Realogy entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house.  The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.  © 2018 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty^® and the Sotheby’s International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

The beautiful fall season is just around the corner! With the pleasant cooler temperatures and colorful fall leaves, it’s a great time to be outside and freshen up the exterior of your home. Here is a checklist to get you started in the weeks ahead.

Exterior Paint

• Paint your front door to enhance curb appeal and make your home stand out.
• Paint the exterior if there’s a lot of chipping or faded paint, or if the color is really outdated.
• If the exterior paint is already in good shape, do a little touch up paint and power wash it.

Roof

• Replace or repair any loose, missing, or damaged shingles.
• If the roof is not functionally sound, it’s time to get a new one.

Gutters

• Check your roof’s drainage system.
• Clean, repair, and protect the gutters.
• If you have a problem with blockage, a mesh guard will help keep leaves and debris out.

Driveways & Walkways

• Repair any cracks and gaps so they don’t expand during the winter months.

Doors & Windows

• Replace worn weather stripping on doors and windows.
• Reseal caulk on doors and windows.
• If you have poorly insulated single pane windows, consider replacing them.

Lawn

• Fertilize and cut your lawn one last time before winter.
• Mulch or rake up the leaves.
• Aerate to help the micronutrients get down into the soil and feed the lawn.

Deck

• Replace splintering wood and repair shaky railing.
• Power wash and reseal the deck.
• If your deck is falling apart, call an expert.

Remember to contact Barrett Sotheby's International Realty for all of your Greater Boston real estate needs!

Back to school is a time full of excitement and anticipation! As with any new season, there is also a lot of adjustment. Here are some quick tips to make your back to school season a breeze. 

Create a Homework Caddy

We’re all familiar with the idea of a cut-out space designated for homework and task completion. For those with kids who like to mix it up, a homework caddy provides the perfect middle ground. The materials are the same, but the location can change to add new focus and light to the subject matter. Fill a basket with this year’s requirements and get to work!

Plan Go-To Lunches

We know it’s great to mix it up but having some go-to lunches to pack in a snap helps on those days when time seems to get away from us! Healthy non-perishables that can be quickly added to your reusable containers are perfect. Humus, crackers, cut up veggies, some boiled eggs, and grab-and-go fruit are all quick and easy solutions, too.

Schedule, Schedule, Schedule

Life gets busy fast! To make sure everyone is on the same page, work together and plan how you’ll keep a schedule maintained. There are so many solutions to get this done that you’re sure to find one that works for you, from online calendars, to white boards, to good old physical calendars, there’s a planner for us all.

Take Care of You

Setting a small ritual for yourself can help get each day off to a great start. Quick face mask? Walk the dog before the kids get up? Even a short breathing exercise if you have a couple of minutes can help ease tension and re-focus for the day ahead.

Outsource

When things pile up and you need a second set of hands, you can always outsource! There are automated systems for so much, delivery for everything under the sun, sitters for your kids and pets, and professionals for maintenance and advice on your home.

No matter the task, you’ve got this back to school season covered!

Heading for the home stretch of summer can mean a lot of things, but it should never mean the end of the fun! For car aficionados the summer and fall months are golden, filled with car events all over.

This coming weekend alone there are Chevelle and El Caminos to see in Westford, the Sons of Italy Car Show in Wilmington, the New Marlborough Classic Car Show, the Whitinsville Cars in The Park, and the Road Devils Boston Massacre in East Bridgewater!

When you’re looking to bring your interests home however, finding the right space is key.

If you or a loved one are a tinkerer or a well-skilled craftsman, you are surely aware that not all hobbies are odorless or quiet. That’s where the builder of 15 Charles Street, Bedford, MA one of our recently listed new construction properties, says his garage stands out from the competition. In fact, he highlights this as a selling-point for the garages he built there, “For the car community, a big advantage is having the garage detached from the house.”

For the car community, a big advantage is having the garage detached from the house.

The garage at 15 Charles Street not only allows for car enthusiasts to enjoy their interests, but also provide space that could be used for snowmobiles, boats, or tools for tradesmen. Ample loft space allows for storage of additional tools and items that are necessary for winter or summer hobbies such as skis, snowboards, beach gear, and more. The epoxy floor allows durability for all types of work, and the heated office space just off the garage adds an opportunity for tranquility when the problem just won’t be fixed!

To search all of our listings with garage space click here. For more details on this weekend’s events click here.

Many people want to buy a home after retirement because specific wants and needs change as you get older. There are lots of things you should consider before buying a retirement home. Here are four of the most crucial factors.

Lifestyle

Probably the most important thing to consider is your long term lifestyle desires. As you get older, you’ll want easy access to things that are important to you. Do you like golfing, hiking, playing tennis, going to the beach, skiing, or boating? You don’t want a long commute to get the things you want to do. You want to spend time doing these things!

Location

If you’re considering a move to a different town or state, be sure you’ve spent plenty of time there. Do some research and talk to your realtor about the area and different neighborhoods. If you’ve been living in the same place for a long time, you probably have a large social network of friends, family, and coworkers. Would you miss them too much, or are you ready for a new adventure in a location you’ve always dreamed of?

Think about how easy (or how hard) it will be to get around. Larger cities and suburbs offer a wealth of amenities, public transportation, healthcare, and local attractions while rural areas can be more appealing if you have friends and family nearby.

Layout

Single story homes are ideal for retirees who don’t want to worry about the future aches and pains associated with climbing (or falling down) stairs. If you’re buying a new construction home, popular features like wider doorways, hallways, and walk in showers are great options to consider. If you have a large home, you may want to downsize so your home is easier to manage. Also, keep repairs and maintenance in mind.

Finances

When you make a financial plan, consider your income limitations from no longer working and include pensions and social security. The price of the home, HOA dues, property taxes, insurance, other monthly expenses, and recreational activities should be included. Weigh the pros and cons of putting a large down payment on your home. You may pay it off faster, but it may not be the best financial move for you.

Thinking about buying a retirement home in the Greater Boston area? Contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty today and learn how we can help!

This Thursday, July 12^th is the third annual Free Summer Walkabout and Concert in Bedford, Massachusetts! This year the popular Party Band will play the concert, with the walkabout beginning at 6PM and running until 8:30PM.

The event is sponsored by the Bedford Chamber of Commerce alongside Recreation, Economic Development, and Healthy Bedford.

Barrett | Sotheby’s International Realty is a Bedford Chamber of Commerce partner and will provide the DIY tie-dye!

Take a look at the map for information on the full location of the event, and visit the Bedford, MA site to learn about all of the participating companies.

There are few things we love as much as home, community, and celebrations!

What better way to spend time than to celebrate our history in our communities, then? We’ve compiled our local events in one quick list for you!

Concord, Massachusetts

Join locals for the annual Picnic-in-the-Park on July 4^th at Emerson Field (90 Stow Street). The event starts at 10 am and includes a parade and a concert band.

Lexington, Massachusetts

The Lexington Lion’s Club puts on the annual Fourth of July Carnival at Hastings Park from July 4^th through July 7^th. The celebration includes fireworks on July 5^th at 9:30 pm at the Lexington High School Baseball Field (Worthen Road).

Lincoln, Massachusetts

Lincoln celebrates with a run, bike parade, reading of the Declaration of Independence, grand parade, cook-out, swim, and fireworks! Fireworks occur at 9:45 pm at Codman Field (1 Ballfield Road), but a schedule for all activities can be found here.

Boston, Massachusetts

Independence Day celebrations in Boston begin with Boston Harborfest, an event already in motion! The festival goes through July 4^th and includes historical reenactments, cruises, and food-specific events.

Adjacent to Harborfest is The Boston Pops Firework Spectacular. There is a concert on the evening of July 3^rd to begin the festivities and another on July 4^th, beginning at 8 pm with fireworks to conclude the celebration at 10:30 pm.

If you like the sound of that, but not the commute, many of our own Bedford agents head to Arlington to watch the Firework Spectacular from Robbins Farm Park.

Enjoy the celebrations! 

Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to announce its ranking as the No. 538 real estate firm in the U.S. in sales volume, according to RISMedia’s 30^th Annual Power Broker Report in which the top 1,000 brokerages are recognized. Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty reported a total sales volume of $408,019,006 in 2017, representing 635 closed residential transactions. This ranking has placed Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty 200 spaces above their 2016 ranking.

John Featherson, President and CEO of RISMedia said of the report, "The firms represented are the nation's most elite brokerage firms serving literally millions of consumers with their real estate needs. Even up against extremely scarce supply, Power Brokers posted remarkable sales. With the economy expanding and home prices on a tear, they're charging forward and leveraging the opportunities. We applaud their commitment to homeownership and congratulate them on their Power Broker standing."

The Top 1,000 2018 Power Brokers collectively earned more than $1.3 billion in sales volume and more than 3.7 million transactions in 2017 and encompass more than 478,000 agents and over 8,370 offices.