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4 Hot Reasons to Buy a Home this Summer

Outdoor Deck in Summer

Outdoor Deck in SummerIt’s hard to believe summer is almost here again! Although the nice weather means more competition for home buyers, there are many benefits to buying a home in the summer months. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider buying a home this summer.

More homes on the market. Summer is one of the most popular times to buy a home, and also one of the most popular times to sell a home, so there will be more properties to choose from. The larger inventory gives buyers more opportunity when it comes to selecting specific floor plans, amenities, and locations.

School is out. This means less interruption for the kids. Kids can more easily attend showings, giving each family member an opportunity to weigh in and approve the new home. Plus, they can start the new school year in their new home, rather than trying to uproot them when school is in session. Many parents know that moving and changing schools during the school year can be difficult for kids.

Weather is ideal. It’s easier to go home shopping and explore different neighborhoods when the weather is nice and the days are longer. Communities are typically more active during the summer months, which gives buyers a better perspective about potential neighbors. You’ll also get to see all of the landscaping in full bloom. Enjoy wearing your flip flops and shorts to showings, too!

It’s a great time to meet your neighbors. A wonderful way to get to know your neighbors is to have a summer housewarming party on your new deck or patio. You can fire up the grill, enjoy the sunshine, and play some yard games. The kids will be able to make some friends before the new school year starts.

Ultimately, the best time to buy a home really depends on your particular circumstances and goals. If you’re thinking about buying a home in the Greater Boston area, contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty or start your home search today!

3 Tips on Downsizing in Retirement

House in Greater Boston

House in Greater BostonAre you planning on downsizing your home for retirement? If so, you may some mixed feelings about it. Moving into a smaller home can be an exciting and emotional process. Here are a few tips to make things a little easier.

1. Stay positive. Look forward to all of the good things to come! You’ll be improving your lifestyle and your finances. You won’t have as much home maintenance or housework to do and your utility bills will be lower. You’ll have more time to enjoy the things you want to do, places you want to go, and people you want to see.   

2. Plan ahead. Take the time to carefully assess how much downsizing you really need to do. Visualize your new home, the floor plan, and the amount of space in it. Consider your budget, healthcare needs, and location. Where do you really want to live? Closer to attractions, amenities, family, friends, or all of the above? Planning ahead will make the transition easier for you and your loved ones.

3. Don’t rush. If you try to declutter or get rid of things too quickly, it can be overwhelming. Take your time and go through your home room by room and separate the items you want to keep. If there are things you haven’t worn or used for years, do you really need to keep them? Are you going to have room for these things in your new home? Now, it’s time to purge everything else. You can give the remaining things to family, friends, or charity, have a yard sale, or throw away.

If you would like to learn more about real estate opportunities in the Greater Boston area, contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty. We can help you find the right property for your needs.

Close Up Series: Pinot's Palette in Lexington MA

tech <p>Perfect for a company party, family party, or date night, Pinot’s Palette is the place to be! This colorful paint and sip spot (byob), encourages you to unleash your creativity in a fun group atmosphere, and bring home a finished painting that marks this truly memorable experience. Agent Samita Mandelia and business
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Close Up Series: The Concord Market

The Concord Market is finally here! This one-stop shopping in Concord center is full of fantastic locally-sourced foods containing some of the highest quality ingredients. In episode 9 of our Close Up series, agent Lisa McLean and co-owner Elizabeth Akehurst-Moore show you this new staple in the community. Stop in soon for some delicious holiday items!

Stop into The Concord Market at 77 Lowell Road in Concord, or visit their website 
Check out this episode and all of the archives on our Close Up Series page

Follow along as we release new episodes on our social media pages:
Facebook: Barrett SIR
Twitter: @barrett_sir
Instagram: @barrettsothebys

Easy Ways to Lower Your Heating Bill this Winter

Keeping Warm in Front of Fireplace

It’s hard to believe winter is almost here again! Here are some easy and inexpensive ways to lower your heating bill this season.

Caulking

Caulk around the windows and check for any holes outside your home.

Weather Stripping

Replace weather stripping around the doors. If you can see light or feel a draft, it needs to be replaced.

Drapes & [...]

Diamonds, Champagne and Ol' Blue Eyes

Pearl Earring

2018 has been a brilliant year for gems. Sotheby’s jewelry auction sales this year have totaled a massive $403 million.

Sotheby’s fine jewel auction on December 4, 2018 featured collections with stunningly designed necklaces,  brooches, bracelets, and rings by powerhouse designers Van Cleef and Arpels, Harry  Winston, Cartier, and Bulgari. [...]

Close Up Series: Salon Reyna

At Salon Reyna, everybody loves what they do, and it really shows! In episode 8 of Close Up in Our Community, Barrett Sotheby's International Realty team Laura Ferrara and Sheila Horne speak with Salon Reyna owner Lori Reyna about what makes this Salon stand out. The keys to their success are the quality of the work that goes out, as well as the friendliness and professionalism.

Stop into Salon Reyna at 326 Great Road in Bedford, or visit their website 
Check out this episode and all of the archives on our Close Up Series page

Follow along as we release new episodes on our social media pages:
Facebook: Barrett SIR
Twitter: @barrett_sir
Instagram: @barrettsothebys

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