Massachusetts Real Estate News & Opinion by Claudette Millette

Pine Hill Estates - Southborough, Massachusetts

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:45:19 -0600

In a picturesque and wooded area of Southborough is the prestigious community of Pine Hill Estates.

Pine Hill Road leads into Nichols Street, then Joslin Lane and culminates into the circular driveway and cul de sac of Witherbee Lane.

The homes in Pine Hill Estates range in size from 4,000 square feet to over 6,000 square feet; some with regal brick fronts and others with distinctive and elegant designs.

Most of the homes in this coveted neighborhood sit on lots that are over an acre in size and have back yards that offer wooded privacy.

The pride of this community is evident in the stately grounds and meticulous landscaping as well as sidewalks throughout for child safety.

Quality abounds with amenities that include gourmet kitchens, high-end appliances, custom moldings, cathedral ceilings, spacious master suites and finished basements.

It's a short walk from your door to nearby scenic Sudbury Reservoir with surrounding trails for hiking and biking and the convenience of the Mass Pike is only a few minutes away.

Property values at Pine Hill Estates currently range from $800,000 to over a million.

There are currently two properties available in this beautiful development priced at $990,000 and $1,195,000. If you would like to look at these homes or at any homes in the Southborough area, please call my office at 508-881-6230.

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Hearthstone – Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:11:24 -0600

Hearthstone is a popular subdivision in Hopkinton conveniently located off of Ash Street.

Its proximity to the center of town sets it apart as one that is close to Route 135, the heart of Hopkinton within walking distance to shops and restaurants and with easy access to Route 495, the Mass Pike and the MBTA station.

The streets in this community are Hearthstone Road and Carriage Hill Road and together they form a private and child safe cul de sac drive.

Homes in in this subdivision are between 3,000 to over 5,000 square feet in size and sit on lots that are ½ acre to over an acre.

Property values in the neighborhood currently range from $600,000 to $800,000. The ages of these homes are from the 1990s into the early 2000's.

Unlike much of Hopkinton, Hearthstone has the convenience of being serviced by town water and sewer.

The homes in this subdivision are of a superb quality and were built by a local luxury builder. Amenities include two-story foyers, in-home offices, finished basements, crown moldings, wainscoting, exceptional master bedroom suites, some 3-car garages and meticulous landscaping.

Best known for being the start of the annual Boston Marathon site, Hopkinton also enjoys the distinction of having an award-winning public school system that has been consistently ranked highly among schools in the Metrowest area.

Currently, there is a terrific resale available at Hearthstone being offered at $675,000.

For more information on Hearthstone or any of Hopkinton's other fine communities please call my office at 508-881-6230.

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Market Report for Hopkinton, Massachusetts – November 15, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:10:58 -0600

The following is a market recap for the 2^nd week of November in Hopkinton:

One new residential listing:

86 Clinton Street- 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $588,000

Four properties went under agreement:

30 Pleasant Street - 3 bedroom Ranch - List price $319,900

241 W Main Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $349,900

148 Hayward Street - 3 bedroom Cape - List price $449,900

5 Gibbon Road - 4 bedroom Colonial - $639,000

There are currently 69 active listings. The average price is $688,194. The average market time is 126 days.

Click here to see all current single family listings in Hopkinton - All Hopkinton Homes

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Market Report for Ashland, Massachusetts – November 15, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:09:09 -0600

The following is a market recap for the 2^nd week of November in Ashland:

There were no new residential listings:

Two properties went under agreement:

8 Metropolitan Avenue - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $279,900

46 Blue Jay Lane - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $644,900

Three properties closed:

17 Central Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $215,000

260 Front Street - 3 bedroom (other style) - List price $232,000

232 Prospect Street - 3 bedroom Cape - List price $232,000

There are currently 54 active listings. The average price is $382,220. The average market time is 152 days.

Click here to see all current single family listings in Ashland - All Ashland Homes

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Market Report for Holliston, Massachusetts – November 15, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:06:16 -0600

The following is a market recap for the 2^nd week of November in Holliston:

There were no new residential listings:

Five properties went under agreement:

138 Locust Street - 3 bedroom Ranch - List price $225,000

55 Locust Street - 3 bedroom Cape - List price $249,900

209 Mill Street - 3 bedroom Split Entry - List price $337,900

73 Bayberry Lane - 3 bedroom Split Entry - $349,900

65 Alberta Lane - 4 bedroom Colonial - $649,900

Three properties closed:

451 Gorwin Drive - 3 bedroom Ranch - Sold price $286,500

1131 Highland Street - 1 bedroom Cape - Sold price $294,565

427 Prentice Street - 3 bedroom Raised Ranch - Sold price $347,500

There are currently 76 active listings. The average price is $498,156. The average market time is 114 days.

Click here to see all current single family listing in Holliston - All Holliston Homes

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Market Report for Southborough, Massachusetts – November 15, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:04:34 -0600

The following is a market recap for the 2^nd week of November in Southborough:

There were No new residential listings:

One property went under agreement:

38 Presidential Drive - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $1,100,000

Three properties closed:

10 Rock Point Road - 3 bedroom Split Entry - Sold price $318,000

67 Marlborough Road - 3 bedroom Colonial - Sold price $364,000

11 Killam Farm Lane - 4 bedroom Colonial - Sold price $580,000

There are currently 51 active listings. The average price is $908,226. The average market time is 194 days.

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Market Report for Natick, Massachusetts – November 15, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:00:53 -0600

The following is a market recap for the 2^nd week of November in Natick:

There were five new residential listings:

12 Maine Avenue - 3 bedroom Bungalow - List price $289,000

18 Ranger Road - 4 bedroom Cape - List price $407,900

18 Eisenhower Avenue - 4 bedroom Cape - List price $499,000

48 North Main Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $529,000

4 Course Brook Lane - 4 bedroom colonial - List price $755,000

Three properties went under agreement:

72 Hartford Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $339,900

4 Laconia Road - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $479,000

25 Indian Rock - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $750,000

Two properties closed:

59 West Central Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - Sold price $283,000

8 Woodland Street - 3 bedroom Cape - Sold price $480,000

There are currently 90 active listings. The average price is $654,005. The average market time is 119 days.

Click here to see all current single family listings in Natick - All Natick Homes

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Homes Burglaries Decrease - as More People Stay Home

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:11:38 -0600

Forget ADT security systems. If you want to prevent burglaries, just stay home.

Or so recent reports on the decrease in home burglaries would seem to indicate. These reports show a strong connection between the falling number of break-ins and the fact that so many people are now unemployed and spending more time in their homes.

Police departments have recorded a 35 percent decline in burglaries during the first six months of 2009 in some cities. And, the trend is evident in smaller communities as well as bit cities.

In Boston, there were 2199 burglaries reported in the first nine months of this year. That is 335 fewer than in the same period last year. In Minneapolis, the number of break-ins that were reported dropped more than 15 percent compared with the same time last year and more than 25 percent compared with 2007.

Other crimes including robbery, rape and murder have also been on the decline for the past several years. But, the burglary numbers stand out since they had actually been on the rise between 2007 and 2008 and experts had expected that trend to continue as unemployment rose.

Richard Rosenfeld a sociologist at the University of Missouri who has studied crime trends said that crime rates, particular property crimes, typically rise during a recession.

"We've seen that in every single recession in the U.S. since the ‘50s," he said. "I would have expected by now some upward movement in burglary numbers."

The falling price of copper and other scrap materials may have had some effect on this trend and not as many people are stripping copper pipes out of foreclosure properties as they once did. But, this alone does not account for the drop in overall burglaries.

More likely than not, the presence of warm bodies in the home rather than empty residences may be behind this phenomenon.

As we watch with concern over the increase in jobless numbers, could this recent trend be a bright spot in the recession?

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Market Report for Hopkinton, Massachusetts - First Week of November 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:31:14 -0600

The following is a market recap for the first week of November in Hopkinton:

Two new residential listings:

219 Wood Street - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price $364,919

2 Nancy Lane - 4 bedroom Contemporary - List price $509,900

Two properties went under agreement:

5 Gibbon Road - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $639,000

4 David Joseph Road - 5 bedroom Colonial - List price $799,900

One property closed:

18 Glen Road - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price $624,900

There are currently 72 property listings in Hopkinton at an average price of $681,916 with an Average Market Time of 118 days.

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Market Report for Ashland, Massachusetts - First Week of November 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:29:39 -0600

The following is a market recap for the first week of November in Ashland:

One new residential listing:

13 Metropolitan Avenue - 2 bedroom Ranch - List price $225,013

Three properties went under agreement:

26 Dean Road - 3 bedroom Cape - List price $342,500

25 Sherborne Circle - 3 bedroom Contemporary - List price $420,000

42 Ridgewood - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $550,000

One property closed:

45 Prospect Street - 4 bedroom Ranch - Sale price $225,000

There are currently 56 property listings in Ashland at an average price of $380,070 with an Average Market Time of 143 days.

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Market Report for Southborough, Massachusetts – First Week of November 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:28:05 -0600

The following is a market recap for the first week of November in Southborough:

One new residential listing:

24 Walnut Drive - 3 bedroom Multi-level - List price $329,900

Five properties went under agreement:

14 Atwood Road - 3 bedroom Ranch - List price - $199,900

10 Rock Point Road - 3 bedroom Split Entry - List price - $339,900

67 Marlborough Road - 3 bedroom colonial - List price - $389,900

154 Main Street - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $639,900

Two properties closed:

29 Woodland Road - 4 bedroom Colonial - Sold price - $630,000

2 Country Lane - 4 bedroom Colonial - Sold price - $800,000

There are currently 53 property listings in Southborough at an average price of $897,612 with an Average Market Time of 188 days.

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Market Report for Natick, Massachusetts – first week of November 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:26:08 -0600

The following is a market recap for the first week of November in Natick:

Five new residential listings:

25-A Hartford Street - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $432,700

10 Phillips Pond Road U:10 - 3 bedroom Contemporary - List price - $949,000

Lot 7 Walnut Hill Drive - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $999,000

Lot 8 Walnut Hill Drive - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $1,075,000

Lot 10 Walnut Hill Drive - 4 bedroom Colonial - List price - $1,099,000

Two properties went under agreement:

78 Maccarthur Road - 4 bedroom Cape - List price - $424,900

62 Pleasant Street - 5 bedroom Colonial - List price - $799,000

Two properties closed:

3 Bunker Lane - 3 bedroom Cape - Sold price - $335,000

25 Kelsey Road - 3 bedroom Cape - Sold price - $352,500

There are currently 88 property listings in Natick at an average price of $654,594 with an Average Market Time of 120 days.

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Market Report for Holliston, Massachusetts – First Week of November 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:24:17 -0600

The following is a market recap for the first week of November in Holliston:

One new residential listing:

65 Arch Street- 4 bedroom Cape - List price - $479,900

Three properties went under agreement:

1131 Highland Street - 4 bedroom Cape - List price - $319,900

29 Cedar Street - 2 bedroom Ranch - List price - $319,900

135 Overlook Drive - 3 bedroom Colonial - List price - $539,000

One property closed:

5 Sabrina Drive - 3 bedroom Colonial - Sold price - $505,500

There are currently 64 property listings in Holliston at an average price of $517,388 with an Average Market Time of 115 days.

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Blossom Estates - Ashland, Massachusetts

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:12:54 -0600

Blossom Estates is one of the top neighborhoods in Ashland. The neighborhood is made of the streets Blue Jay Lane, Primrose Lane, Rossi Lane and Magnolia Pointe.

Homes in this development were built in the late 1990'sand many feature brick fronts, private wooded lots, Palladian windows, two-story foyers, finished basements and meticulous landscaping.

Home sizes range from 2500 square feet to over 4500 square feet. The sizes of lots in this community start at ¾ of an acre with some homes sitting on acre plus lots.

Property values in Blossom Estates are currently $600,000 to $650,000.

This lovely neighborhood is close to Ashland's new high school as well as Route 135leading through the center of town and to all major roadways. It is also convenient to the MBTA train station.

Ashland, the original site of the Boston Marathon, is one of the area's premium residential New England towns. Rooted in tradition, the town holds its famous "Ashland Day" every year in the fall. Ashland is considered by many to have an ideal location - halfway between the cities of Boston and Worcester.

If you are interested in Blossom Estates or any of Ashland's other fine neighborhoods, please call me at 508-881-6230.

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Radon and Your Home Purchase

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:34:29 -0600

Most people have an awareness that radon is something to be concerned about. But do you have all of the facts you need to know before buying a home?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas produced by the decay of uranium in soil, rock and water. It is much more prevalent in granite areas but all potential home buyers need to be concerned with the actual level of radon in the home.

Numerous studies have been conducted worldwide on the effects of radon which have concluded that it is the second leading contributor to lung cancer. The first is smoking. The danger occurs when radon gas breaks down to form radioactive particles called "progeny." When you breathe these particles into your lungs they can cause cellular damage.

The World Health Organization recently completed a new study which confirmed these original findings. They also came out with a new recommendation for acceptable levels of radon in a home which is 2.7 picocuries per liter. However, the action level suggested by the EPA is 4.0 picocuries per liter and they have stated that this will not be changing this recommendation.

Myths dispelled about Radon:

Homes without basements are at the same risk of radon contamination as homes with basements.
There are no average radon levels available for specific states or areas.
A neighbor's high or low test is not a guideline for whether or not you will have high radon.

Testing for Radon:

Prior to your home purchase you should have the property tested for the presence of radon gas. This can usually be done at the same time as your regular home inspection. There are two types of radon tests, passive and active.

The passive test is typically a charcoal canister that is exposed to the air in the home for 48 hours, and then sent to a lab for analysis. It is recommended to have two canisters testing the property simultaneously to account for any possible error in the device.

An active test is performed by a radon testing machine. The machine will continuously measure and record radon in the air and analyze the quality.

Both methods when conducted properly are considered to be reliable.

Solving a Radon Problem:

When a radon test produces a reading of 4 picocuries or higher corrective measures should be put into effect. A contractor who specializes in radon reduction can best determine the appropriate method for the home you are buying. Most of the systems that can be put into place range in cost from $900 to $1,500.

Since you have caught this problem prior to signing your purchase and sale agreement, the seller can be forced to pay for the radon mitigation system. This is another great reason for doing all of your tests and inspections as early as possible.

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Charlesview Estates - Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:33:33 -0600

Just off of Route 85 in Hopkinton is the neighborhood of Charlesview Estates. Teresa Road takes you into this development and to the streets of Alexander Road, Ursla Road, Nicholas Road, Daniel Road, Joseph Road, Nancy Lane, Marie Lane, Colella Farm Road and Angelo Drive.

Charlesview Estates is well established community with a variety of home styles. Here you will find split levels, contemporaries, capes as well as the standard New England colonial.

You cannot beat the location with close proximity to Hopkinton's top-rated schools and easy access into the center of town and all of its conveniences.

This is one of the larger communities in town with the original section having been built in the 1970's and 1980's. Homes here sit on lots that are ¾ of an acre to over an acre in size. Homes in the newer section on Colella Farm Road and Angelo Drive were built in the 1990's and up.

During the summer months in this development, you can easily walk into town to shop, enjoy the Sunday concerts in the common or stroll to the nearby tennis courts for a game.

There are some excellent values right now at Charlesview with two resale properties available priced at $509,900 and $479,900. These homes are in the original section of the community and enjoy the privacy of wooded lots, excellent floor plans and a number of upgrades. Each of these properties is beautifully set on an acre lot.

If you are interested in looking at this lovely community please call me at 508-881-6230 and I be more than happy to help.

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me any time or E-mail me.

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In Appreciation of Those Who Protect Us – Veteran’s Day

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:09:09 -0600

In the wake of events that took place at Ft. Hood, Texas, last week, an even greater significance has been placed on the day that honors our soldiers.

Last Thursday, 13 people, mostly military, were killed and 30 were injured when a gunman opened fire at a soldier's readiness center. The alleged shooter, an army psychiatrist, is believed to have been severely troubled. This tragedy is a reminder of the danger and constant stress that our service men and women are exposed to even when they are stationed on our own soil.

Contrary to what some may believe, military service is not merely an answer for those who have no choices in life. As evidenced by Pat Tillman, some people are guided by a belief system that guides them into service to their country.

Tillman, who had "everything going him", was an up-and-coming football superstar playing for the Arizona Cardinals, first as a linebacker and later as a safety. In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, he turned down a $3.6 million contract from the Cardinals to enlist in the Army to defend his country.

After serving multiple tours of combat Tillman's life was ended by friendly fire in the mountains of Afghanistan.

It was to honor the bravery of soldiers like Pat Tillman as well as thousands of others, that Veteran's Day was originally enacted.

Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first such celebration on November 11, 1919 with the first commemoration of the official end of World War I. The original concept was for a day to be observed by parades and public gatherings.

On May 3, 1938, an Act was approved to make the 11^th of November into a legal holiday to be dedicated to the cause of world peace. The day was to be known as "Armistice Day" and was primarily to honor the veterans of World War I. In 1954 when World War II caused the largest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in history, the 83^rd Congress amended the Act of 1938, striking out the word "Armistice" and putting in its place the word, "Veterans." And, finally, on June 1, 1954, November 11^th became the official day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Most of us will never have to realize the kind of bravery it takes to put oneself in harm's way in order to defend a nation, but on this day we can show our appreciation by honoring those who do.

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The Truth about Massachusetts Seller Disclosures

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:15:21 -0600

In Massachusetts, a seller disclosure is not mandatory. While a real estate broker has an obligation to disclose any known material defects about a property, a seller is only obliged to disclose the presence of lead paint.

Although sellers of properties cannot misrepresent the facts to a buyer, they have no duty to openly relay any information that they are not directly asked and often attorneys representing home sellers will recommend that their clients do not, in fact, fill out a seller disclosure statement since it may open them up to unnecessary liability.

As a home buyer, you will sometimes see seller disclosure statements filled out when the seller is represented by a Realtor® since many real estate companies have their own policies regarding disclosures. These pre-printed forms have three sections with questions that property sellers need to address.

Section I - Title, Zoning and Building Information

This section asks questions regarding title problems, easements and zoning classifications. It also covers variances, special permits and any work that has been done on the property. These questions are pretty straightforward and a property owner should be able to answer them clearly.

Section I also asks whether or not the owner "has been informed" that any part of the property is in a designated flood zone or wetlands. Even if the answer to question is no, it does not necessarily mean that the property is not in one of these areas. Sometimes a seller may not be completely aware on these points. I have witnessed sellers claim that their property was not in a flood zone, only to discover that it actually was. More due diligence should always be a requirement in determining whether or not a property is located in a flood zone or if it has a wetlands issue.

Section II - System Utilities Information

Section two covers underground fuel tanks, which are illegal in Massachusetts, and the owner of a home should be aware if there was a tank at any time. If so, it needs to have been properly removed and there should be available a certificate stating this from the DEP (Department of Environmental Protection.)

Also included in this section are questions regarding the water and sewerage system. If there is a private septic system on the property, the seller must have the septic inspected and Title V Certification issued prior to closing. If the drinking water source is a well, you should have the water quality tested along with regular home inspection.

As a part of this section, the seller will also list the appliances that are included with the home purchase as well as information regarding any security systems or air conditioning.

Section III - Building/Structural Improvements

In this section, questions regarding asbestos, lead paint, radon and insects should be carefully scrutinized. Often these questions are answered with an "unknown," particularly with lead paint. A seller may not want to commit to answering these questions or may be uncertain. Further investigation is always warranted in these areas. A test for radon and insects can be conducted along with your regular home inspection. A lead paint specialist can also be brought in to test for the presence of lead paint if this is a concern.

The main thing to keep in mind about property disclosures is that they are voluntary. Yes, sellers must answer the questions on these forms to the "best of their knowledge"; however, that can sometimes be vague or contain a degree of uncertainty.

If you have specific concerns about anything associated with a home, it is best to ask a direct question. When asked a specific question about a property issue, a seller is legally bound to provide you with the correct answer.

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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Highland Park - Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:40:03 -0600

Highland Park is one of Hopkinton's premiere neighborhoods and one of the more popular in town. Located just off of picturesque Saddle Hill Road, Highland Park is situated next to the Hopkinton Country Club.

The entrance to this lovely development begins with the streets Edgehill Road, Stoneybrook Road, and Bridgeton Way, then leading into Wedgewood Drive, Singletary Way and Riverbend Road.

In this subdivision, you will find much more than just traditional New England colonials. The homes in Highland Park are of a variety of styles, including French provincial, Tudor and some large capes.

Unlike many subdivisions which are built by one primary builder, a number of builders were involved in the original project, resulting in a diversification of plans and individual styles.

The homes in this community range in age from the 1980's up into the 2000's with lot sizes at a minimum of 60,000 square feet. Home sizes are 2800 square feet to over 4500 square feet. Amenities are numerous and varied and with superior quality evident in every part of the neighborhood.

Current property values range from $640,000 to over $1,000,000.

Highland Park is easily accessible to major routes 495 and the Mass Pike as well as close proximity the to MBTA train station.

The scenic and convenient location, as well as the unique styles of homes, make Highland Park an attractive community to anyone seeking to relocate into Hopkinton.

Best known for being the start of the annual Boston Marathon site, Hopkinton also enjoys the distinction of having an award-winning public school system that has been consistently ranked highly among schools in the Metrowest area.

For more information on Highland Park or any of Hopkinton's other fine communities please call my office at 508-881-6230.

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The New and Improved Home Buyer Tax Credit

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:59:01 -0600

The much-anticipated extension to the home buyer tax credit has finally been approved. The Senate's vote yesterday resulted in a 98-0 win and today it was passed in the house. The bill now moves to the President's desk for a final signature.

First-time home buyers have been eligible for tax credits of up to $8,000 since last January as part of this year's economic stimulus package. The newly backed program will expand the credit to include existing home owners.

Under the revised program, those who have owned a home for at least five years will be able to apply for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase their next home. To qualify, buyers will have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30.

The maximum purchase price on a home will be $800,000 with vacation homes not eligible. Income limitations are $125,000 for single tax payers and $225,000 for joint filers.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) have been lobbying hard for the extension and expansion of the tax credit. NAR claims that so far, about 1.4 million first-time homebuyers have qualified for the program and they estimated that 350,000 of these buyers would not have otherwise purchased.

The tax credit is also set to be extended for another year for military personnel serving outside of the United States until June 30, 2011.

Senator Johnny Isakson, who heavily pushed for the extension, along with his own version that would have increased the credit to $15,000 stated, "This is probably the last extension."

But, is this really true? When April 2010 comes around and the housing market is still not in full recovery mode, will the politicians be able to let this go and actually come to an end, or could it possibly become a more permanent subsidy?

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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Weston Nurseries - A Gardening Mecca in Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:52:45 -0600

Weston Nurseries in Hopkinton, Massachusetts is a local landmark. It is located on a scenic country road,Route 135 which is most noted for the beginning route of the Boston Marathon.

Now in its 86^th year of business, the nursery is noted for its exceptional plants and award-winning azaleas and rhododendrons. This is the place where locals as well as plant lovers from all over the area come to find a huge selection of trees, shrubs and perennials.

Advice on planting and landscaping is highly sought from the knowledgeable staff of experts on all matters of horticulture. Local homeowners as well as trade professionals come to Weston Nurseries for their variety of plantings and their ability to help create beautiful and exceptional outdoor living spaces.

Their best known flower is the PJM Rhododendron which was named after the late founder Peter John Mezitt.

Weston Nurseries is located at 93 E. Main Street in Hopkinton and serves a wide area of loyal and devoted clients who always return to this fountain of beauty and wisdom in the area gardening.

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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How Can a CMA Help You in Your Home Purchase?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:32:36 -0600

What is a CMA?

1. A Comparative Market Analysis

2. A Competitive Market Analysis

Actually, both of these definitions apply.

A CMA is a report prepared by a real estate agent to determine the value of a home.

When you sell your home, a listing broker will do a CMA to establish what the current value is and what the list price should be. This is done by looking at homes that have sold recently and weighing them against your home to arrive at a competitive price.

By the same token, the CMA is extremely valuable to your buyer broker when you are looking at homes to purchase. It is a highly effective tool that can help you decide on the right price to offer on a property.

The way a Comparative Market Analysis works is really quite simple. Your buyer broker takes the subject home, or the home you intend to make an offer on, and pulls up three or more recently sold properties in the same neighborhood with as many of the same characteristics as possible. Through an examination of the home's style, square footage, number of bathrooms, type of setting, i.e., cul de sac vs. a main street, comparisons are made to the subject property.

Adjustments are then made for the differences between the subject property and the comparable sales. If a home that sold has one more bedroom and more square footage than the subject, a deduction in price is made to the larger home. If the subject has a better setting than the sold home, you would add the price difference of that setting to the home that sold. A continuation of this process will arrive at a reasonable value and, eventually, to a suggested offer price.

Depending on the amount of inventory available and the size of the town, the comparable sale should be no more than 90 days to six months old and as close to the subject property as possible. Ideally, the home should be in the same neighborhood; however, that is not always possible.

Upgrades such as new kitchens, granite counters, finished basements, decks, in-ground pools should all be part of the equation.

A Comparative Market Analysis is an important step in the purchase of any home. Be sure the buyer broker you are working with knows how to do one. It can make all the difference in your home purchase.

Home Warranties, Are They Worthwhile?

Assessing the Value of a Home

Property Disclosure - Who Has the Burden of Proof?

The Importance of Being Pre-approved

What is Included in a Home Purchase?

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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Learn More about Home Buyer Representation - Greater Boston and MetroWest Massachusetts - Serving Massachusetts Home Buyers Since 1992

Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Newton, Northborough, Framingham, Shrewsbury, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Westborough

Hopkinton Highlands - Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:31:32 -0600

Just off of the picturesque country road, Saddle Hill is the community of Hopkinton Highlands. The long, winding and very scenic Greenwood Road and the cul-de-sac that is Everett Circle make up this community of more than 50 distinctive homes.

The homes were built by the luxury home builder, Toll Brothers from 1999 to 2005. They range in size from 3,000 square feet to over 6,000 square feet and most feature distinctive brick fronts and estate like settings.

Each of the residences sits on a lot of an acre or more and many have amenities such as gourmet kitchens, luxurious master suites, solariums, libraries with built-ins, multiple staircases, family rooms with cathedral ceilings, finished lower levels and au pair suites.

Hopkinton Highlands has a reputation for distinction and elegance and is one of the top choices for relocation buyers entering into the area. Along with the meticulous neighborhood landscaping and proximity to conservation land, the neighborhood has the convenience of being located close to major Route 495 and the Mass Pike and as well as the MBTA train station.

Over the past year, the home sales in Hopkinton Highlands have ranged in price from $800,000 to $845,000.

If you would like further information on Hopkinton Highlands or any of Hopkinton's other fine communities, please feel free to contact my office.

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Indoor Tennis Clubs - Metrowest Massachusetts

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:29:38 -0600

It is the time of year when tennis must be brought indoors and, if you live in the Metrowest Massachusetts area there are a number of great tennis clubs to choose from.

The Westboro Tennis & Swim Club was voted "Club of the Year" in 2002. Located at 35 Chauncy Street in Westborough, the club is right off of Route 9 and is convenient to route 495 and the Mass Pike. Membership at Westborough draws players primarily from the towns of Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Marlborough, Holliston, Grafton, Worcester, Framingham and Sudbury. With over 90,000 square feet of indoor space, the club is equipped with indoor hard courts, clay courts as well as a full tennis pro shop.

An owner operated facility; it offers a full pro staff, lessons, clinics and a host a number of monthly tennis and swim events for adults and children alike.

The Natick Racquet Club is completely devoted to tennis. Nine plexi-pave courts - five in a permanent structure and four in an air type bubble which become outdoor courts in the summer serve all tennis needs. The club is located on 16 Michigan Avenue in Natick and offers a complete range of tennis instruction and tennis play for every age and ability level.

Now, celebrating its 39^thyear, The Natick Racquet Club offers a myriad of programs for adults, including open court play, adult clinics, drill sessions, weekly Grand prix doubles play, a singles flex league and mixed doubles.

The Wayside Racquet Club is located on the edge of the Sudbury Reservoir in the southeast corner of Marlborough at 80 Broadmeadow Street. It serves the towns of Marlborough, Southborough, Westborough, Sudbury, Framingham and Hopkinton.

In operation since 1979, the club has a reputation for excellence and offers a variety of sport type memberships. Their offerings include tennis, racquetball, aquatics and socializing. The facility includes six all-season tennis courts, four racquet ball courts as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

The Longfellow Club is located at 524 Boston Post Road in Wayland. Established in 1972, this facility was originally all tennis. It has been expanded to include squash, swimming, Nautilus and women's basketball. The club is equipped with 7 hard tennis courts (2 indoor), 2 squash courts, a competition size swimming, free weights and Nautilus.

Thanks to the many indoor clubs this area has to offer, we can enjoy our tennis - rain or shine!

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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Landlords Agree to Lower Rents for Struggling Tenants

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:40:01 -0600

In another sign of the times, a new survey done by The National Association of Independent Landlords shows that 69 percent of landlords are now willing to lower the rent for struggling tenants when asked.

With money tight many renters are having a tough time making their monthly payments. Some property owners who are also in difficult situations have a preference for working out deals with otherwise good tenants to avoid the trouble and expense of finding new renters.

Since landlords are equal victims of the recession, nearly 32% report that they have lowered rents over the past 18 months. They too are struggling to pay their mortgages and cover overhead and feel that as long as they have tenants who will pay on time, they are willing to work out arrangements to hold onto to them.

Of the landlords who are willing to negotiate, 61% have said they would drop their rents up to 5%. Anther 29% claim they would deduct up to 10% and the rest may even consider deeper discounts.

This information came from a poll conducted by the association's members from October 7 to October 10, 2009. From the survey, 496 landlords, mostly residential, responded from various parts of the country.

Often renters who cannot afford to pay all of their rent simply skip it entirely with the hopes that it will just go away. That approach only compounds their problems and ends up hurting their credit rating. From the side of the property owner - he does not want to run the risk of having an empty building when he can, instead, have rents coming in.

This is a time for everyone to be creative. Negotiating a lower monthly payment is one possible solution.

Another is to look among the many foreclosure properties on the market and perhaps pick up a deal with a monthly payment that may be the same or less than your current rent.

If your credit is intact you should speak to a foreclosure expert or a seasoned buyer broker who can help you find that diamond in the rough which may, indeed, be the perfect solution to the high cost of rent.

Do you have questions about buying a home in the Metrowest area? I would love to talk with you. Please feel free to call me at 508-881-6230 - any time or E-mail me.

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Learn More about Home Buyer Representation - Greater Boston and MetroWest Massachusetts - Serving Massachusetts Home Buyers Since 1992

Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Newton, Northborough, Framingham, Shrewsbury, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Westborough