Finding your dream home always starts with a simple search and a great agent. The housing market in the Boston area can be tricky to navigate, but with the right tools, you’ll be able to score the house you have always [...]
The arrival of fall means many things, one of which being that we are one season closer to winter. It’s important to enjoy the fall season while it’s here, but it’s also important to get your home ready for winter’s harsh conditions. Here are some things you can do on the weekends in the fall to make sure you and your home are prepared come [...]
There are recent changes and uncertainty happening all over the world and impacting our lives in many ways. This doesn’t mean your need to find a new home or sell a home has disappeared. At Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty, we are still providing valuable resources and services with [...]
It is important to have a good credit score, if you are a home buyer looking to get a mortgage,or if you are a young adult wishing to to be eligible for better loan rates for a car, or first-time home purchase. Here are some of the factors that contribute to your credit score, and suggestions for how to maintain good credit. Take a look at [...]
The home buying process can be scary, especially if you're new to it, or if it's been a few years since you last went through it. Here at Barrett Sotheby's International Realty, we can help. Below, you will find the basic steps of the home buying [...]
The winter season is a great time to plan a move because it’s the off-season for moving companies. In addition to lower moving prices, you’ll find a greater selection of dates and types of services available. Below are some tips to make your winter move as stress free as [...]
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently released the 2019 annual report providing the latest profiles of home buyers and sellers. Here are some key takeaways from this year’s [...]
Here’s an overview of the typical costs associated with selling a home. Some of these expenses are negotiable and will fluctuate with the real estate market, but don’t let these costs catch you off [...]
You’ll find a variety of beautiful homes and condos in the Greater Boston area. How do you know which property type is best for you? The most important things to consider are the actual home itself, the location, and your budget.
For the type of home, would you prefer more privacy over a better chance of interacting with your neighbors? Or would you like to make close connections with your neighbors and have a stronger sense of community? Condo complexes feature common areas, which are great for daily interactions. With a single family home, you’ll have more space between you and your neighbors and some added privacy with landscaping and fences.
As far as location, do you want to be able to walk to restaurants, shops, and community activities? Do you need to be convenient to public transportation for work? Which neighborhoods do you like the best and would you like to be closer to friends and family? Condos are typically located in convenient areas, offering easy access to town attractions. You’ll also find some great onsite amenities like pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, clubhouses, private balconies, and beautiful Boston views. Some of these amenities may not be practical with a single family home.
Condos are also low maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about spending time maintaining the exterior of the property or the common areas because the association fees cover those items. If you’re looking forward to doing some renovations and expansions, a house will provide you with more options.
The sales price of a condo is usually less expensive than a comparable single family home, just remember to factor in the monthly association fees (which can vary greatly) to make sure you are staying within your budget.
Thinking about buying a home or condo in the Boston area? Contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty or start your search.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 87% of buyers used a real estate agent in 2018, which has increased from 69% in 2001. It’s easy to search for homes online, but you’ll never be able to replace the guidance, insight, and local knowledge that a real estate agent provides. Here are some other reasons to use an agent when you buy your next home.
Save Time and Effort. There is an extensive amount of paperwork involved in the home buying process. A real estate agent is familiar with offers, counteroffers, disclosures, addendums, and amendments. Finding the right home also takes time. You can provide a list of criteria and your agent will find homes that match your needs and your budget.
Relax and Stay Calm. A good real estate agent will be able to calm your nerves while you’re making one of the biggest purchases of your life. Realtors manage communications and paperwork throughout the home buying process. This can reduce your stress and give you peace of mind. They will also keep you informed along the way.
Negotiations. Your real estate agent is your middleman and they will negotiate on your behalf. If you have questions or concerns about a home before you put in an offer, your agent will reach out to the seller. They will negotiate repairs, credits, and the best price for you. You won't have to worry about paying too much for a property either. They will pull data for homes currently on the market and properties that have recently sold.
Connections. A local agent can connect you with mortgage lenders, home inspectors, and other professionals.
If you’re planning to buy a home in the Greater Boston area, contact Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty today! We’re happy to share our local expertise with you.