Quincy, MA Looking For Host Families For Spanish Students - 08/31/10 07:57 AM
Quincy and North Quincy high schools are seeking families to host Spanish exchange students from Sept. 8 to 23.
The students, from a high school in Vila Real, Spain, need a safe place to sleep and to practice English with their host families. The host families must have a student at one of the city’s high schools and would be responsible for providing all meals and planning weekend activities.
People who don’t have a child in one of the city’s high schools can host a teacher from Spain. For more information, call Jane Scorza at 617-281-4545.
This is a great way … (0 comments)

Stambry's Crescent Moon Soap Company Opens in Quincy, MA - 08/31/10 07:53 AM
Stambry’s Crescent Moon Soap Company has opened a store at 1359 Hancock Street.
The shop sells bath and beauty products, aromatherapy products made by co-cowner Pamela Tand, arts and crafts item, aprons, jewelry, paintings, photos, note cards and baby gifts.
For more information, call 978-973-4155 or visit the company's websitee at www.scmsoaps.com.
Welcome to Quincy!

… (0 comments)

Milton, MA Public Schools Receive Funding For More Teachers - 08/29/10 09:20 AM
Via Adam Roberts ~ Just months after the Milton Public Schools were forced to eliminate 17 non-teaching positions due to budget constants, an increase of $327,683 of funding from the federal Education Jobs Funds bill will allow the district to address staffing needs.
Governor Deval Patrick announced the state would be receiving $204 million from the bill earlier this week. The bill allocates at least $25 per students to every school district. Patrick said the funds, which are designated for salary and benefits, will keep classroom sizes manageable across the Commonwealth and "take the edge off" for districts struggling with cuts.
… (0 comments)

Quincy, MA 10K Road Race Sept. 12 - 08/29/10 09:15 AM
Signup for the third annual Officer Jamie Cochrane Memorial Road Race in Quincy, MA is under way.
The race, which raises money for scholarships, is held in the memory of Cochrane, who was a lifelong Quincy resident and a Quincy police officer for eight years. He was killed in a motorcycle crash on Sept. 10, 2006, while off duty.
Race proceeds go annually toward six $1,000 scholarships for high school students living in Quincy. The recipients are chosen for academic achievement and service to the community. In addition, donations have been made to charitable groups including Toys for Tots, Dove Inc., … (0 comments)

How to Select the Best Realtor Possible? - 08/28/10 07:50 AM

Via Gabriel Duque (Virtual Florida Tours):
Recently I wrote an article with suggestions for those owners that will like to sale their house themselves. I receive a comment from a colleague that  in reality what they should do is hire the best realtor so they could sell their house.
I started thinking on what he said and the following questions came to me:
•1.     First by hiring a realtor the seller will agree to pay him a part of the sell value of his house that could cost him a big amount of money.
•2.     How can you know you have hired … (1 comments)

Spruce Up Your Home For Dog Safety - 08/28/10 07:45 AM
Via Sam Sutter ~
A home is rife with dangers for dogs. Some are obvious, but the hazards are hidden in many other cases. Here are some potential hazards in each area of a home and safety precautions a pet parent can take. Kitchen Get a trash barrel with a secure lid or put the barrel inside a cabinet. Curious dogs - especially puppies - love to poke through trash containers. And a kitchen barrel is loaded with potential hazards. It may contain scraps of dangerous food, cartoons or paper that pose a choking hazard and sharp objects that may cause a cut.
Beware … (3 comments)

Home Inventory the Easy Way!! This is a must read and must share post!!! - 08/27/10 06:54 AM

Via Paige Walker, Broker and Owner - Your Louisiana Real Estate Connection (Century 21 Millennium):
In the last few years we have seen it happen, the unforeseen events that lead to your home being destroyed. Whether by natural disaster, fire, burgularly or an accident....you could lose everything.  Some items in your home could never be replaced, for all the rest hopefully you have insurance.
If you lost everything would you be able to sit down AFTER the FACT and make a list of EVERYTHING in your home. Try as we might, I just don't think it's possible. Not to mention you will not be … (3 comments)

Marshfield, MA Habitat For Humanity Duck Derby - 08/27/10 06:53 AM
One Thousand rubber ducks will be raced on the South River on Saturday, Sept. 11.  You can buy a duck, or a group of ducks, each with a number on the bottom, and watch them race, all to benefit Marshfield's Habit For Humanity.
The prizes include $1,000 worth of free groceries at Roche Brothers, $500 worth of merchandise at Taylor Lumber, $500 worth of gas at local gas stations, and gift certificates.  The festivities will begin at 11 a.m. in the Rexhame Beach parking lot and continue until 2 p.m. The Duck Derby begins at noon.  Games, food and family activities … (2 comments)

Realtors® Don't Know Everything....But The Good Ones Find The Answers - 08/26/10 03:40 PM

Via Karen Fiddler Broker/Realtor (Great Western Realty Group/eVantage Real Estate):
I've been a Realtor® for a while now...but I am still surprised by the day-to-day issues which arise during transactions. In the current environment, it seems that every new escrow has it's own novelties. It's really keeping us all on our toes. And that's OK.....this is how we learn!
I have never felt uncomfortable saying "I don't know" but that's because it's always followed by "but I'll find out."
It doesn't diminish me by admitting that a situation is new to me....or challenging. The qualities that define a professional include honesty, follow-up … (1 comments)

Dear Sellers Letter From Buyers - 08/26/10 03:39 PM
Via Sam Schneiderman ~
Dear Sellers:
We are serious buyers.
We’ve been watching the market for a year. We’ve spent hundreds of hours online researching how to buy and finance a home. We’ve had advice from parents and friends. We know that there are lots of little details that could cost us big money if we miss them, so we researched and interviewed several buyers’ agents and signed with one we trust. A reputable lender has approved us. We’re eager to buy and can close whenever because we’re now month-to-month tenants so that we can be flexible buyers without lease restrictions.
As … (0 comments)

The Most Efficient Way To Market Your Listings - 08/25/10 09:17 AM

Via Kelle Sparta, Real Estate Trainer and Coach (Sparta Success Systems):
The Market You Don't Think AboutDid you know that most transactions in this country (better than 65% in most MLSs) are co-broked?  That's right! Almost two thirds of your business comes from other agents.  So while everyone else is focused on combing the internet for the next lead they will have to chase down, the smart listing agents of the world will be courting not the buyers themselves, but the busiest buyers agents instead. 
Higher Return on InvestmentThink about it.  Getting into relationship with a single buyer's agent takes significantly less … (1 comments)

Buyers Still Have the Upper Hand in Massachusetts - 08/25/10 09:14 AM
The Massachusetts Association of Realtors yesterday released a report that said 3,212 single-family homes were sold in July, down 28 percent from a year ago.
However buyers still have the upper hand.  This is due to historically low interest rates, increasing inventory and more affordable pricing.  
Melissa A. Juarez
For more information, visit: www.massachusettsbuyersbrokeragency.com
 
 
 
… (1 comments)

Rise in Celiac Disease Prompts New Randolph, MA Gluten-free Bakery - 08/25/10 09:02 AM
All Can Eat, a Randolph, MA bakery and cafe opened this month to cater to people with food allergies.
The cakes, brownies and muffins lining the shelves of the bakery are free of gluten, nut, soy, sesame and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and many products are also free of dairy, sugar, egg, and yeast.
The owner, George Moufarrej, said the rise in celiac disease prompted him to open his unique bakery.  Those with a gluten allergy or intolerance,  often in the form of celiac, cannot eat the protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. 
The bakery has so far been a success. … (1 comments)

La Paloma Comes to Kingston, MA - 08/24/10 07:44 AM
Via Shaunna Gately ~ After nearly 30 years of offering Mexican cuisine to hungry diners in Quincy, the owners of La Paloma are expanding with a second location on Route 3A in Kingston, MA.
More than 300 people received free food at a grand opening celebration on Aug. 10 at the Kingston restaurant. Owners Stephen Dwyer of Plymouth and Michael Walsh of Halifax said they were exhausted but thrilled with the turnout.
In fewer than four months, the restaurateurs transformed a former Italian restaurant into a cozy Latin-inspired restaurant complete with Spanish arches and Mexican flair.
Kathleen Walsh of Pembroke and … (1 comments)

Do Research Before Buying A Mattress - 08/24/10 07:40 AM
 
Via Ashlee Fairey ~ We spend one third of our lives sleeping, so having a good mattress is important.
Mattresses can come with interlocked innersprings or individually pocketed springs, which restricts the transfer of movement. If you have a sleeping partner who tosses and turns, you won’t be bounced around.
You can also buy a memory foam mattress, which limits motion transfer and prevents pressure.
Tempur-Pedic mattresses, perhaps the best-known brand for memory foam, contour to your body to provide customized support.
If you are a warm sleeper, however, Tempur-Pedics can get very hot.  Latex mattresses also conform to your … (1 comments)

7 things you can do to protect your home and yourself - 08/23/10 09:59 AM
Great tips Connie!
Via Connie Harvey Realtor Nashville TN Real Estate (Prudential Woodmont Realty):
7 things you can do to protect your home and yourself! 1. When you're out of town have your newspapers and mail canceled or held. If you have a neighbor that you trust, ask them to keep an eye out for fliers left on the front door, or weekly papers thrown on the driveway. If it snows while you're away, ask them to walk from the front door to the mailbox and back. Need to show fresh tracks in the snow.
2. Burglars check all the drawers. Don't think … (1 comments)

Boston, MA Federal Reserve Study Says Few Foresaw Housing Crisis - 08/23/10 09:57 AM
Economists had big trouble spotting the recent housing bubble - and will probably miss the next one, too, a new Boston Federal Reserve study predicts.
Fed researchers recently reviewed dozens of economic papers from the years leading up to housing’s collapse and found that only a handful correctly saw the bubble forming.
Most took no position, while a few went so far as to try to prove a bubble wasn’t emerging, Fed economists Kristopher Gerardi, Christopher Foote and Paul Willen found.
“From our review of the pre-crisis housing literature from the early-to-mid-2000s, it is apparent that well-trained and well-respected economists with … (0 comments)

Marshfield, MA Fair This Week - 08/23/10 09:52 AM
The 143rd annual Marshfield Fair opened at noon on Friday with a sheep show, ox-pulling and “veggie creature contest.” The old-fashioned country fair lasts until Aug. 29 and features entertainment, a midway with amusement park rides like a ferris wheel and tilt-a-whirl, animal shows, arts and crafts, musical acts almost daily, and a food court with plenty of fair food.
SCHEDULE
Fair opens at 10 a.m., midway at 11 a.m.
North River Blues Festival: noon to 8 p.m.
Open Rabbit Show: 9:30 a.m.
Poultry Achievement: 10 a.m.
Dahlia Show: noon
Dairy Cattle Show: noon
Dahlia Show Q and A: 2 p.m.
Truck Pulling gas 6800 lbs, diesel … (1 comments)

Massachusetts Contractor Complaint Office Works to Solve Disputes - 08/22/10 09:38 AM
Barbara Anthony, the undersecretary of the state Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, has made reducing the backlog of 1,200 contractor complaint cases a top priority in her office.
Anthony says her agency hired two hearing officers last fall who helped bring down that backlog significantly. She says the agency closed at least 680 dockets, and had 600 remaining as of June 30 (there were nearly 100 new dockets opened since last fall). 
The program allows consumers to file a written complaint about a contractor – and then gives the consumer an opportunity to present the case and a contractor … (0 comments)

Hingham, MA Sees Surge in Sales of Over $1Million Dollar Homes - 08/22/10 09:28 AM
Sales of homes priced at $1 million and up have accelerated this year in Massachusetts despite widespread uncertainty about the economic recovery.  On the South Shore, Hingham, MA has been the epicenter of the high-end revival, with 28 homes priced above $1 million changing hands this year.
Between Jan. 1 and mid-August, sales of million-plus homes increased 37 percent statewide compared with the same period last year, according to the MLS Property Information Network.
A variety of factors are contributing to the market recovery: corporate restructuring has brought more relocated executives to the area; and international buyers are a bigger factor. … (0 comments)

Do We Rely Too Much on Technology? - 08/21/10 09:32 AM
A great post.
Via Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel):
Do We Rely Too Much on Technology? 
I remember a time, not too long ago, when I seemed to have a grasp on the English language, managed to do math calculations reasonably well and could find my way around town without benefit of a GPS system.  I was reminded today that those days could be going by the wayside. 
After doing several home previews for a relocation client who is coming in next week, I set my GPS on what I thought was "home" to bring me to the easiest … (4 comments)

Pinkberry Comes to Hingham, MA - 08/21/10 09:30 AM
Pinkberry, a low-cal frozen yogurt chain that has been popular among celebrities, has opened its doors in the Derby Street shoppes in Hingham, and is the first and only location in Massachusetts.

 
The first store opened in January 2005 by Korean Americans Shelly Hwang and Young Lee.  The tart, frozen dessert has a groupie-like following who sometimes refer to it as "Crackberry".  The company acknowledges its cult-like following by maintaining a "groupie corner" on its website.
… (0 comments)

Ten Things First Time Home Buyers Should Do Shortly Before or Right After Closing - 08/18/10 07:38 AM

Via Wayne Johnson Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper Realtors (San Antonio Area Real Estate):
Ten Things First Time Home Buyers Should Do Shortly Before or Right After Closing First time home buyers have lots of things to consider as they take the journey into home ownership. Here are ten things I believe should be included shortly before or soon after Closing:
Get Home Warranty coverage from a reputable provider. Compare coverages and check their customer satisfaction ratings as best you can. I know some companies have poor reputations in this area, but a good policy with reputable business people is worth its weight … (0 comments)

Boston, MA Greenfest at City Hall Plaza - 08/18/10 07:37 AM
Tomorrow, step right up to see Alexanderia the Great, a female Houdini, escape from a recycle bin submerged in water while shackled and padlocked. This daredevil attraction is part of Boston GreenFest, a three-day, multicultural environmental festival celebrating the ways we can create a better world by greening our lives and our communities. Events include live performances, speakers, exhibits, and a fashion show.
It will be held August 19. Activities feature a Native American Drum and Dance Ceremony at 5 p.m. Rain or shine. Free. City Hall Plaza, Government Center, Boston. 617-477-4840.
… (0 comments)

Flipping Houses - It's Not For The Faint Of Heart - 08/17/10 09:15 AM

Via Jenny Kotulak Oakville Real Estate (Broker RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp. Oakville, Ontario):
I read a great post today from fellow blogger Karen Fiddler from Viejo, California on the topic of flipping houses and whether house flippers deserve a profit.  Karen works in a marketplace in the United States that is quite different from here in Ontario.  Short sales is not a term used here and we rarely see foreclosures.  Properties here that end up back in the hands of a lending institution due to mortgage default are deemed to be Power of Sales.
I wrote the following post on Power of Sales to explain how they … (0 comments)

Google’s Just Not That Into You - 08/17/10 09:11 AM

Via W. Darrell Walters - Integrity Mortgage Funding:
Today’s Tech Tip is for those that are looking to grow their internet presence online but need guidance in getting your started. This webinar by Social Media Expert John Driscoll will explain just how you can begin to take advantage of internet traffic. In this webinar John teaches:
- How to “optimize” your website for success
- What steps you need to take to make money online
- Free tools that all online businesses must have
- How to balance Social Media and Search Engines
- How to DRIVE TRAFFIC NOW!
- And much, … (0 comments)

Important Stuff Happening in Real Estate - 08/17/10 09:04 AM

Via Mark Brian (Silver Star Real Estate LLC):
Today, the Obama administration is staging the Conference on the Future of Housing Finance at the Treasury Department. It is going to be moderated by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan in Washington, D.C., is billed as a first step toward housing finance reform. I have my doubts and would bill it as "How Can We Screw Up an Already Screwed Up Housing Market". Geithner has said the Obama administration plans to offer “a comprehensive reform proposal” for the housing finance system including mortgage giants Freddie Mac and … (0 comments)

FHA 203(k) REHAB LOAN- WHO DOES IT REALLY BENEFIT???? - 08/15/10 11:29 AM

Via Suzanne Peterson (Commonwealth Realty):
Well lets see, besides the obvious buyers, sellers, etc. I say... us AGENTS!!!!!! It gives us a tool to make our clients home search a little bit more flexible and fun, or to make our seller feel a little more confident that we can get their home sold even though its not in the greatest condition. What could be better?
What a marketing tool!!!
What better way to advertise that listing you have that is, lets just say, " not even close to being turnkey"! Get that home sold for your seller by recommending FHA the 203(k) loan. "The loan … (1 comments)

"Pre-moving" - the most important thing you can do to prepare to sell. - 08/15/10 11:27 AM

Via Coral Gundlach (McEnearney Associates, Arlington Virginia):
Sellers, if you are thinking about selling your Arlington, Virginia house or condo, the #1 most important thing you must do is de-clutter, or what I like to call "pre-move".   Let's face it, you have a move in your future if you are trying to sell your house, or at least that is the end result.  If you sell your house you will be moving.  So why not just move a bit early?   Take anything you don't use on a daily basis and pack it in boxes and move it to storage.   … (0 comments)

Weymouth, MA Elks Fundraiser BBQ - 08/14/10 05:57 PM
Members of the Weymouth Elks 2232 will be serving up some finger-licking competition at a BBQ square-off to benefit charity.
Twelve teams of Elks members and their friends and families will be battling each other for bragging rights as they grill steaks, spareribs and chicken at the Aug. 28 event. Three judges, including Mayor Sue Kay, will decide the winners, who will get trophies and plaques.
The public will get to taste the results of the competition, and there will also be hot dogs, hamburgers and sides available. There will be a band, and a meat raffle to benefit scholarships for … (1 comments)

Do You Plant Seeds Or Dig For Gold ??? - 08/14/10 05:55 PM

Via Barbara Todaro (RE/MAX Executive Realty in Franklin, Ma):
Prospecting versus farming is a topic that should to be touched upon in this horrendous real estate market.  Farming is a task that requires "time" to see results.  Usually the results are not immediate.  It's a process whereby one plants a seed and nurtures that seed caringly and eventually one would hope to see some positive results from that nurturing.  Just as a farmer plants his crop from a seed, so, too, will a real estate agent get his big toe in the door of a potential future client by farming an area.  … (3 comments)

What goes up may not come down! As in this case! - 08/14/10 05:55 PM

Via Wanda Kubat-Nerdin (Prado & Kramer Real Estate, St. George, UT 435.632.9374):
What goes up may not come down! As in this case!
A beautiful, custom-built 3,000 square foot home was scheduled for auction in several weeks, the starting bid set at $25,000.00. The interior boasted granite countertops, gas fireplaces, city-scape kitchen cabinetry, jetted tub and ceramic tile.
Now that being noted, I received a phone call from an interested party asking, "Do you think the bank will accept $25K if the bid goes no higher than that?" My answer was simply "No". I was then asked my opinion on how much it would sell for. I replied, be prepared … (1 comments)

Have you checked your Better Business Bureau rating? - 08/13/10 09:18 AM

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):
I know most of us have checked our credit scores and checked our reports to make sure there isn't anything that should not be there.
But, have you checked with the BBB or other similar entities to make sure you score is where is should be.
I did.  The Minnesota BBB score A-F and not rated.  This is a very complicated scoring system and one that need to be looked at closely.  I checked mine and found that I am an A-.   I called to see why.
The person on the other … (0 comments)

Free Quincy, MA Concert - 08/13/10 09:13 AM
The Boston Landmarks Orchestra's "Classical Gems" neighborhood concert series will come to Quincy on Thursday, Aug. 26.
The orchestra, led by conductor Charles Ansbacher, will give a free performance at 7 p.m. at Adams National Historic Park, 135 Adams St. The concert will feature music written by Beethoven, Haydn and Prokofiev.
In the event of rain, the concert will be held at North Quincy High School, 316 Hancock Street. The concert is one of three free neighborhood concerts the orchestra is giving this year.
For more information, call 617-520-2200 or visit www.LandmarksOrchestra.org.
… (0 comments)

Proceed With Caution On New Zero-Down Mortgages - 08/12/10 12:48 PM
Is a little common sense too much to ask?  That's what Scott Van Voorhis, of Boston.com's Rel Estate Now asks us as the government announces a new zero-down mortgage program:
""With foreclosure rates spiraling out of control, it would seem an odd time for the federal government and various state housing authorities to be promoting zero-down mortgages.
But that's apparently what state officials in Massachusetts, Wisconsin and Idaho are preparing to do as they team up with Fannie Mae to offer so called "Affordable Advantage" Mortgages.
The new initiative lets qualified, lower-income buyers with good credit get a mortgage without even having to … (0 comments)

Massachusetts Mold Removal Company Uses 100% Organic Made in New England Product - 08/11/10 09:12 AM
Here is a great profile of Bob Bowen, owner of Indoor Environmental, a new Massachusetts company that uses a 100% organic product produced in New England to remove mold from homes:
"Bob Bowen is a stickler for turning on his bathroom fan before stepping into the shower. He also keeps a dehumidifier running in his basement, all to avoid mold.
Bowen began a mold inspection and remediation company called Indoor Environmental earlier this year with his brother Jim that he runs out of his home in Marshfield.
Before turning to mold removal, Bowen was a corporate executive with a now-defunct Scituate … (0 comments)

Risky Home Improvement Projects - 08/11/10 09:02 AM
With many homeowners hoping to add value to their homes that lost value in the recession, here's a list of "upgrades" that just simply aren't worth it:
Pool/Hot Tub
Monster Garage
Overdecorating the Interior
DIY Electrical and or Structural Repairs
So what type of renovations are actually worth your money? Angie's List recommends a proper remodel of a kitchen or a bathroom, which costs around $20,000. It will net you an 85% and 84% return on the investment, respectively, thereby increasing the value of your home.

Beyond that, decks are favorably received projects that recoup about 80% of the money you … (2 comments)

Bill H.R. 5981 passes - FHA Mortgages to increase it's annual mortgage insurance premium - 08/10/10 07:35 AM

Via Jeff Belonger-The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans ( - FHA Home Loans - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):

FHA first proposed the monthly mortgage insurance changes in the beginning of 2010. Bill H.R. 5981 was first passed by the House in the spring and was just passed by the Senate the other day.  What does this bill do for FHA mortgages? They have projected that it will yield approximately $300 million per month to the FHA insurance fund.
So what are the new FHA changes? - For terms greater than … (2 comments)

Credit Report - How long will information remain on the report? - 08/10/10 07:34 AM

Via Diane Osowiecki Greater Nashville Real Estate (Diane O and Friends - Benchmark Realty):
HOW LONG WILL INFORMATION STAY ON A CREDIT REPORT?  With so many questions about credit and credit reports here is some helpful information.  The best answer, ask your lender.
BANKRUPTCY CHAPTER 13: (Often called a debt reorganization. A Chapter 13 Bankruptcy is generally appropriate for those individuals who have non-exempt property they wish to retain and who have enough income to reasonably pay the reorganized debt after covering reasonable living expenses.) 10 years from the date filed. If discharged it is reportable for 7 years from the date … (1 comments)

Report Says Fewer Homeowners Are Underwater - 08/10/10 07:33 AM
The percentage of homeowners who owe more than their properties are worth declined in the second quarter, according to a report released yesterday by Zillow.com.
The Seattle firm found that 21.5 percent of homeowners were "underwater'' on their mortgages, down from 23.3 percent in the first quarter and 23 percent a year earlier.
However, foreclosures are still high overall, with more than one of every 1,000 homes taken over by lenders, Zillow said.
The number of properties receiving a notice of default, auction, or bank seizure climbed in three-quarters of US metropolitan areas in the first half of 2010.
… (0 comments)

Milton, MA Last Free Concert at the Gazebo - 08/09/10 04:11 PM
The last in a series of free concerts at the Milton Gazebo, 525 Canton Avenue, will be held on Tuesday, August 17, 2010.  The concert will feature Ken Lodge and the Baron Hugo Orchestra at 6:30 p.m.  I hope everyone takes advantage of this fun and entertaining event.
Directions:
From Points South:*Take I-93 (Expressway) North to exit 9 (East Milton Square) *Merge onto Granite Ave. and follow through 2 sets of traffic lights. (Lights are very close together, and Fire Station is on the right.) *Stay in the left lane and bear left at blinking light (Cross over Expressway) *Immediately after … (0 comments)

New Carpet or Carpet Allowance? - 08/07/10 09:15 AM
What a difference replacing the hot pink carpet makes in this example - take a look:
Via Shar Sitter; Home Staging in Minneapolis, MN (Rooms With Style; Home Staging in Minneapolis, St. Paul ):
New Carpet or Carpet Allowance? This is a question I face when I meet with clients to do a home staging consultation or any home staging service for their home. I find that most clients do not want to spend the money up front to buy new carpet much less have the hassle of moving all the furniture. It is easier for them to give a carpet allowance or … (5 comments)

Boston, MA's First Food Truck Festival - 08/07/10 09:04 AM
Boston, MA's first Food Truck Festival is this Sunday, August 8.  Food trucks are not as abundant as they are in other cities, such as Austin, Texas, but Boston wants to promote the ones we do have and let people know they are available around town.  Food trucks are cheap and convenient: great for students, quick lunches and tourists.
Citysearch is hosting the Festival at SoWa Market (thanks in part to a micro-grant from Feast). Speed's Hot Dogs, M&M Ribs, Cupcakory, South End Pita, and Grillo's Pickles are just a few of the vendors that will be at Sunday's chowdown. 10 a.m.-4 … (1 comments)

15-Year Mortgage Rate Sinks to Below 4% - 08/06/10 08:26 AM
Wow! A plunge in mortgage rates is giving homeowners a rare opportunity to lock in a 15-year, fixed-rate loan for less than 4 percent.
Rates haven't dipped this low in decades. For those who can qualify, it's the chance to pay off a home in half the time while saving tens of thousands of dollars - if not more.
The average rate on the 15-year fixed loan dropped to 3.95 percent last week, according to mortgage company Freddie Mac. That's the lowest on records the company has kept since 1991. The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan fell to 4.49 … (3 comments)

Milton, MA Fruit Center Friday Lunchtime BBQ - 08/05/10 09:56 AM
Join Milton, MA's Fruit Center tomorrow when they host Friday Lunchtime BBQ.  The weather will be mostly sunny tomorrow so no need to worry.  The Fruit Center is located at 10 Bassett St, Milton, MA 02186.  The event will take place from 11:30pm-2:00pm.  Payment is cash only.  More details can be found here: http://www.fruitcentermarketplace.com/month.asp.  This is a fun event and is a great opportunity  to meet new friends and neighbors.
 
… (1 comments)

Want More Money For Your House? Lower Your Price. - 08/05/10 09:38 AM

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
Every so often, I have a listing celebrate an anniversary. I hate anniversaries. No broker wants to have a listing that doesn't sell for a year. Every year-old listing has a story of old offers they regret not accepting and a journey of chasing the market. Recently, I had a year-old client dismiss my recommendation of a price reduction with the words "you just want to make a sale." Well, duh. That's what you hired me for, isn't it? The rub here, is that the house has an offer on it, but … (0 comments)

Quincy, MA's Marina Bay Art Fair - 08/05/10 09:28 AM
The 15th annual Quincy, MA's Marina Bay Art Fair will be held this weekend, August 7-8.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 10 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Corporate Park, 500 Victory Road.
Works on display will come from 15 regional art associations.
Parking and admission will be free.  Make it an afternoon affair by stopping by one of Marina Bay's famed restaurants for lunch or dinner.
For more information, call 781-961-2378 or visit www.artsaffair.org.
Melissa A. Juarez ~ Owner
MBBA, LLC
617-633-1686 ~ majesq82@yahoo.com
www.massachusettsbuyersbrokeragency.com
 
… (0 comments)

8 Things Holding Buyers Back? - 08/04/10 08:34 AM
 
Via Anita Clark (ColdwellBanker SSK):
According to 2010 REBAC members (Today's Buyer Rep, July 2010)...
What's Holding Buyers Back?
1.  Difficulties in obtaining financing
My note: I agree.  Banks have been skiddish and any minor credit blemish is over-inflated.
2. Problems selling their current home
My note: over/under-improving, buyers market, unrealistic pricing, item #1, etc. all play a factor
3.  Holding out for lower prices
My note: Offering $40K less may be the norm where you came from, but in my area, it won't even get a counter offer.  If it truly is your dream house, make a legitimate offer, and be … (2 comments)

Meeting For Quincy, MA Water Meter Replacement - 08/04/10 08:28 AM
I previously wrote about Quincy, MA's two-year plan to replace every residential water meter.  As part of the initiative, the city will hold a community meeting at 7 p.m. Aug. 19.  The meeting will take place in the second-floor conference room at city hall.
The public works department, city consultants and project contractors will give a presentation on how the replacement project will work and the need for public cooperation.
Replacing meters will require contractors to enter homes. Workers will be in pairs, wearing badges and traveling in marked vehicles.
Photos of authorized personnel will be available on the city's website, … (1 comments)

Fundraiser for Scituate, MA Quadriplegic - 08/04/10 08:24 AM
There will be a fundraiser at the House of Blues in downtown Boston for Eric Donovan, a Scituate, MA quadriplegic who was injured diving into a Scituate beach in 2009.
The fundraiser will inclusde dinner, dancing, celebrity appearances and live music from the Boston band The Gathering.  The event will be held on Friday, August 5, and tickets are $50.00.
Donovan was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma at the age of 15 and had a 30 percent chance of survival.  In the summer of 2009 he was declared cancer free.
Five weeks later, Donovan dove into the water at a Scituate beach … (1 comments)

Don't Miss Your Chance to Ride the Swan Boats in Boston, MA - 08/03/10 01:02 PM
It is a Boston, MA tradition since 1877.  Go on the Swan Boats and cruise around the Public Garden lagoon for a 15-minute, peaceful cruise. Animals, except seeing eye dogs, are not permitted. Hours: June 21-Labor Day: daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  A great family activity!
… (1 comments)

How Changes in Appraisal Methods Have Changed The Process - 08/03/10 12:57 PM
Here is another great article by Sam Schneiderman, of Boston.com's Real Estate Now:
Regardless of what a buyer or seller thinks about a property's value, in the end, the only opinion that probably matters is the appraiser's.
When mortgage financing is involved, the lender sends an appraiser to the property to make sure that it is habitable, marketable, and worth at least what the buyer intends to pay for it. The appraiser's job is to do a brief walk-through of the property (not a home inspection) and develop his or her opinion of value based on an analysis of recent sales … (1 comments)

Overpricing your home? I can't help you... - 08/03/10 12:48 PM
Well said.
Via Jim Gatos (Keller Williams Realty):
About a year ago, I was talking to a fellow agent about how we run our businesses.  Probably, that was my first mistake right then and there. (Just Kidding)...
However, I told that agent, no matter what I tell sellers when I look at their property, I could hit them in the head with the "TRUTH Sledgeahammer" all day long, a lot of them STILL opt to list with yet another agent, who agrees to list their home for "a little overpriced" and they wind up for the most part, either NOT selling their home, … (1 comments)

I Am A Local Real Estate Expert - Zillow Is Not - 08/02/10 09:42 AM

Via Leesa L. Finley, REALTOR®/RE Strategist Wake Forest NC Real Estate & Wake County (Circa Properties - Your Wake Forest NC Homes Specialist):
I Am A Local Real Estate Expert - Zillow is Not Whether you are thinking of buying a home or possibly selling your home you more than likely have stumbled upon Zillow and thought you hit the mother-load of real estate information!  It's a fancy site with Zestimates, has homes marked on a map that are either currently listed or have recently sold, and you can spy on your best friends home on the other side of town to … (1 comments)

Attn: Distressed Homeowners & Listing Agents: BEWARE OF THE NEGOTIATOR/INVESTOR! - 08/02/10 09:26 AM
A great article to read. Be careful out there!
Via Bob Hertzog (Summit Home Consultants):
Attn:  Distressed Homeowners & Listing Agents:  BEWARE OF THE NEGOTIATOR/INVESTOR!
If you are a Real Estate Agent who specializes in helping homeowners avoid foreclosure through short-selling their home, you've undoubtedly received phone calls from investors.  Usually, the conversation starts off with the caller asking for details about the home (i.e. price, any offers yet, etc.).  Eventually, they get to what I call their "punch-line", and it goes something like this...
"I'd like to make an offer on your listing, but, I must tell you that it will be … (1 comments)

Can Green Homes Be Affordable? - 08/02/10 09:24 AM
In an effort to stand out in today's market, builders are offering average-priced, high-efficiency homes.
For example, in Gilbert, AZ, a southeast Phoenix suburb, Meritage Homes unveiled a new development called Lyon's Gate.  Lyon's Gate aims to be 80% more efficient than regular, code-compliant homes.
Included in the $174,900 base price are nine-inch thick exterior walls, a thermostat that can be remotely programmed using an iPhone and an ECHO solar electric/thermal system that can produce up to 10 kilowatts of power annually -- about half the amount consumed by a regular house.
"If customers respond to this, this will become the way we … (0 comments)

 
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Melissa Juarez

Quincy, MA

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Massachusetts Buyers Broker Agency, LLC

Address: 2 Hancock Street, Suite 215, Quincy, MA, 02171

Office Phone: (617) 633-1686

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