Archive for the ‘Advice for Buyers’ Category

Search Brighton Homes for Sale for Your Needs

Friday, May 17th, 2013

Brighton homes for saleBrighton homes for sale could be exactly what you are looking for if you hope to live in the northwestern portion of Boston and want to be within close proximity to virtually everything there is to do in the area.

Homes for Sale in Brighton

You will find a range of property options available in Brighton. This includes single family homes priced between $400,000 up to $600,000, in most cases. You’ll also find a thriving condo community here, with prices ranging significantly more so. You can find a quaint 1-bedroom condo, for example, for $164,000 or a lavish, professional condo in the heart of the city for $700,000. The options are yours to choose from, but many of the modern Brighton homes for sale feature modern amenities and upgrades.

Many who live here are professionals working throughout Boston. You will find some trendy lofts and condos which provide for young generations. On the other hand, the homes are everything from ultra modern to Victorian homes.

What You’ll Find

With its close proximity to the MBTA, it is easy to get into downtown Boston. About half of all those living in the city do drive into the city on a daily commute. A strong education system, ample shops, including an important commercial industry on the eastern portion of the city, and numerous restaurants make this the place to call home.

There’s something here for everyone. To learn more about Brighton homes for sale, give us a call so we can help you to choose the home for you.

Raising Your Family in Brookline Massachusetts

Friday, May 10th, 2013

Brookline real estate for families.Brookline apartments are just what the busy professional parent is looking for. With a surface area of 6.8 square miles with a population of around 60,000 people, Brookline is a bustling community with a lot of personality. The Brookline real estate market offers tremendous value in part thanks to the area’s proximity to Boston, so when you look into buying Brookline condos, you’re also looking into being a stone’s throw away from one of the world’s greatest cities.

Transportation in Brookline is easy. With Massachusetts Route 9 and Huntington Avenue leading you wherever you need to go. There’s a beautiful park on a hill overlooking Boston that features an open air skating rink.

Brookline combines the convenience of big city life with the atmosphere of a smaller community. If you want a great place to raise a family, then you need look no further than Brookline, Massachusetts. Contact us today!

Luxury Living at the Edge in Allston

Friday, April 26th, 2013

By focusing on advanced technology, green living and innovative design the Edge in Allston has created a new standard for luxury living in Boston. Potential residents interested in a state of the art new luxury building can take pride in the incredible amenities and unparalleled services at the Edge.

The creation of the Edge in Allston changed the entire approach developers take to luxury buildings. Through efficient energy use, solar panels, clean living, recycling centers and electric car stations, the Edge is both a huge aid to the environment and healthy living space for residents. There are hydration stations and fitness centers both inside and outdoors. The Edge is also a pet friendly building with beautiful walking spaces and outdoor resting areas.

Inside each Edge condo residents can find gorgeous loft ceilings, advanced HVAC systems and energy efficient appliances. With spacious contemporary kitchens, residents can take pride in entertaining guests. But with Allston’s wide array of culturally diverse restaurants and plenty of music venues, Allston is a fun neighborhood to go out on the town.

Allston offers the perfect combination in Boston for professionals. With immediate access to the heart of the city, beautiful scenery along the Charles River and plenty of lively entertainment, Allston is the right match for residents looking to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.

For more information on available condos at the Edge in Allston or details on the community, please contact us today and speak with an Allston realtor.

Restored Victorian Style Waltham Homes for Sale

Friday, April 19th, 2013

Victorian Waltham Homes for SaleA restored Victorian in Waltham gives home owners the charm and character of original pine flooring and high ceilings without sacrificing the conveniences of modern technology. Beyond the tall windows and stained-glass-embellished front doors lie modern gourmet kitchens and office suites tucked away in upper lofts that once served as bedrooms.

Some restored homes include features such as slate counters and Jacuzzi baths alongside the original butler’s pantry and beautiful maple hardwood floors and custom cabinetry. Most include modern heating and air conditioning systems, large lots with well-established landscaping and private drives. A select few have “mother-in-law” quarters.

Neighborhood homes near the Charles River provide beautiful views and opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Area residents pass their time fishing, jogging and taking leisurely walks in the Charles Riverwalk Park. Many eateries are located on Waltham’s Moody Street. Affectionately called “restaurant row” by visiting tourists, Moody Street offers something tempting for every taste bud. A stroll down Moody Street reveals a wide range of dining options. You will find Thai cuisine restaurants next to casual dine-in or take out barbeque eateries and the upscale dining atmosphere of the Tuscan Grille not far from the family-style setting at Lizzy’s Homemade Ice Cream shop.

Whether you are planning a permanent move to a Waltham home or are looking for a second house, we can help you find the perfect fit. Call today for more information about the Victorian homes currently on the market.

Need-to-know basics when buying your first home

Tuesday, April 9th, 2013

Tips to buying your first Boston home.Making the transition from being a renter to a home owner is one of those rites of passage you’ve probably been looking forward to for a while. You can do whatever you want to make the home your own, without having to worry about a grumpy landlord. Before you start looking at Newton homes for sale, learn a few of the basics about buying your first home.

Getting Finances in Order: Talk to a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know the maximum amount you qualify to borrow. Then consider whether the monthly payments on that mortgage seem reasonable, or if you want to look at Newton property in a lower price range.

Shopping for Homes: Pick out a few neighborhoods that have the amenities you’re most interested in and homes in your price range. Your Newton real estate agent will probably take you to a handful of properties each day you go out, and your reactions to them can help narrow down your search.

Making an Offer: Once you find the right home, get your Newton real estate agent to help you pick an amount to offer. The seller will either accept your offer or send back a counter offer for you to consider and do the same with.

Closing the Deal: After you’ve signed the contract, it’s up to you to schedule your inspection and get your financing in order before the closing date.

Are you ready to start the process of buying a home? Call today to speak with a Newton real estate agent and begin your search for your first home!

Tips on making the leap from renting to buying

Monday, March 25th, 2013

Find Waltham Homes for Sale!If you’ve been looking at Waltham homes for sale wondering how you can ever make the leap from renting to buying we have some encouraging information to share. Becoming a homeowner requires a financial commitment, but also an emotional one. Owning a piece of Waltham real estate is a dream come true for many families. Residents of Waltham enjoy a lifestyle that includes the arts and entertainment, strolling along or sailing down the scenic Charles River and meeting friends on “restaurant row” for an adventurous culinary experience or relaxed family dinner. With a quick exploration of Waltham’s amenities you’ll feel confident in the decision to make it your home.

Now that you’ve found the right community, cutting monthly costs is the next crucial step to transition from renter to homeowner. Shave expenses without impacting your lifestyle with these easy tips:

  • Ask your landlord to make repairs or replace appliances that would increase your apartment’s efficiency and decrease utility bills.
  • Bundle your insurance policies. If you currently have auto, life and renter’s insurance with different companies talk to your agents to learn how much bundling might save.
  • Plan to get your security deposit back. Don’t wait until it’s time to move to make repairs you’re responsible for or complete those big cleaning tasks that will ensure your full deposit is returned.

To find out more about living in Waltham and ways to ease the transition from renter to homeowner contact us today. Trust an experienced Waltham real estate agent to be your guide as you “take the leap” to homeownership.

Longwood Medical Area/ Partners Guaranty Program

Friday, March 1st, 2013

Medical Professionals seeking condos near Longwood Medical Area with Partners Guaranty ProgramLet’s face it – housing prices in Boston can be tough to stomach. Costs are high and availability is scarce, making it difficult for young professionals or college students to justify moving to the city to begin or continue a career. That’s where the Lease Guranty Program, offered by Partners Healthcare, can help. Specifically available for new residents and clinical fellows of the medical world, the Lease Guaranty Program is designed to ease the financial burden of starting a career in the medical field in Boston.

Here’s how it works: The program will provide landlords, such as those that manage LMA apartment rentals and Longwood Medical Area condos, for example, rent payments on the renter’s behalf up to two months in advance under the condition that the resident or clinical professional enters into a lease agreement valued at a $6,000 maximum. The program is specifically designed to ease the up-front expenses for those looking to start a career in the medical industry in the big city, while also helping them find immediate housing. Longwood Medical Area condos and LMA apartment rentals are a few of the housing complexes that have opted in to the Lease Guaranty Program, and more are expected to follow suit.

For more information about the Lease Guaranty Program, whether or not you qualify for this program and the housing units that have opted into this program, contact our real estate professionals today. Metro Realty Corp. is the featured broker in the network and teamed with experts in Boston-area real estate. We’ll be sure to put you in the right home. Call us today for more information and to find out whether or not your qualify for this unique housing benefit.

Artist Communities in Boston

Thursday, January 31st, 2013

Boston has plenty of art communities to choose from.For those considering a move to Boston, the artist communities could be the ideal place. Boston real estate in these communities tends to be popular with those who have an artistic flare or who are young. If you want to live in a trendy area of the city, perhaps in Boston condos overlooking green space or with a fabulous view, then it may be time to find a Boston Realtor specializing in this area.

Where To Consider

There are a few options in artist communities throughout Boston and the surrounding area. Which one you decide upon depends on the type of lifestyle you hope to live.

Think Beacon Hill. It’s a great place for those who want to be in the heart of city living, but want character, too. With beautiful brick style homes and Greek Revival architecture, you’ll also find beautiful artwork. Antique shops on every corner are also prominent. You could simply relax in the open space here.

If art galleries and boutiques are more your style, check out Boston condos in Back Bay. It’s right on the Charles River and has everything from trendy restaurants to fantastic shopping.

If you want luxury mixed with trendy and modern, check out the Waterfront. It is one of the best choices for those who want to live by the water in a modern, upscale space. Though prices are higher, this area is perfect for those who want the finer things in life.

The artist communities in Boston are available to anyone with a passion for living the good life. Where will you live and call home? To get help seeing available Boston real estate, contact our office today. We’ll give you the tour.

Seven Easy Steps to Finding a Home (in Boston)

Thursday, January 24th, 2013

Tips to help you find your next home in Boston.Finding a home in Boston, Massachusetts could be your dream. Are you ready to make it happen? Boston real estate opportunities are there. All you have to do is to jump in and find the one right for you.

  1. Start with discussing your financial situation with a lender. You should go into the process knowing how much of a home you can afford before you look at any Boston real estate.
  2. Find a Realtor. Hands down, this is a critical step in ensuring you get the best possible outcome. You want someone that knows the city well.
  3. Discuss your specific wish list. Be sure to outline “needs” and “wishes” with your Boston Realtor.
  4. Consider the various Boston neighborhoods that could work for your needs. You may want to look at Downtown Boston if you want a trendy loft. On the other hand, some of the suburbs are just minutes outside of the heart of the city and offer plenty of land and square footage.
  5. Begin looking at Boston homes for sale. Take the time to view a few to get an idea of what your options are.
  6. Make a decision and then make an offer. Be sure the Boston neighborhood you select is one perfect for your family. When you work with a Realtor, he or she will ensure you get the best price for the home by negotiating the offer for you.
  7. Agree on the terms, sign the contract and secure the loan. You are a homeowner.

The opportunities in Boston real estate are evident. To get this process started, contact us today so we can begin your search for the perfect Boston home.

Making the leap from renting to buying (what you need to know)

Thursday, January 10th, 2013

Taking the plunge in buying your first home.Owning a home is thought of as the American dream, but it’s not a step to take lightly. In fact, it’s a lot more than a step — it’s a leap! As your Boston realtor, we’re here to walk you through what you need to know as you make that leap.

Choosing the Right Area: Buying a home does not necessarily mean you’ll be in that home for the rest of your life, but it’s certainly more permanent than renting. Therefore, it’s more important than ever to choose the right area. In addition to considering what amenities you are most interested in now, think about what you may want in the future, too. For example, when looking at Boston real estate, consider your proximity to parks and schools if you plan to have kids.

Financing Your Purchase: Qualifying financially to rent a home usually just requires a report of your monthly income, and sometimes a credit check. When you’re buying, you’ll need to go through a lot more to get a mortgage. Therefore, you need to be financially fit before you buy. Lenders want to see savings for a down payment and closing costs, plus enough monthly income to support your mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance.

Picking the Best Home: Attention to detail is key as you look at the available Boston condos and homes. Watch for the features on your list, how well the home has been kept up, and what extra perks you love. Contact us today if you want to meet with a Boston realtor and start looking at homes!