Tag Archive for: houses for sale near me

Getting to Know Your New Neighborhood

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You’ve just closed on the home of your dreams, and after moving in, you want to get to know your neighborhood. There are a lot of reasons you chose the location of your new home, like the incredible school district and short commute to work, but you haven’t had the chance to explore. Here are my suggestions for getting acquainted with your new community!

 

Get outside

Walking around your block is a great way to experience your new neighborhood. Take this as an opportunity to turn down a street you’ve never been on before, explore local architecture, and make a mental note of places that pique your interest. You can do this more than once and it’s a great activity for the whole family. Plan trips around the neighborhood so that everyone can become familiar with the area. 

On the Northshore, there are some great walking neighborhoods, especially near the water. A few of my favorites include –

  • Lothrop Street, Beverly 
  • Pickering Wharf, Salem
  • Bearskin Neck, Rockport
  • Harborwalk, Gloucester, MA

 

Stroll downtown

Depending on the neighborhood, your designated downtown may look different. In a town like Salem, the businesses are densely populated, while in Marblehead there are two downtown areas. Before you head out, consider doing some online research and making a list of must-visit spots. 

This is your opportunity to get to know local businesses and hotspots. 

Explore historic sites, art murals, and outdoor spaces like parks. Be a tourist for the day and really check out the places you might normally overlook. New England is rich in history, and you might learn something new about your town.

 Here are some neighborhoods with my favorite downtown areas – 

Attend events & join groups

Many local communities have their own websites, online calendars, and other digital resources that can be accessed with a quick Google search. Free events hosted by your town are a great way to meet people that live in the area and foster a sense of community. Events like local farmers’ markets, block parties, and parades can be enjoyed by family members of all ages. Local spaces like public libraries often host events for children & teens.

 The Northshore Moms is a local network with great resources for anyone in the area – find event calendars, read interviews with local moms, get coupons, and more.

Here are examples of community groups to join – 

  • Community theater
  • Local government & town meetings
  • Volunteering with local organizations i.e. Food pantries, animal shelters
  • Public library

Joining a new community should be fun! It’s a time for fresh starts, new friends, and creating memories. Don’t let the excitement of moving prevent you from exploring everything your town has to offer. Whether you’ve been considering a move, or are just curious about moving, contact me today.

North Shore, Massachusetts Relocation Guide

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When it comes to finding a spot on the map with picturesque beach views, cozy snowed-in winters, a small-town vibe near a big city, and a community that provides support, togetherness, and an old-town feel, we couldn’t think of a better location than Massachusetts’ North Shore. 

Whether you’re a native New Englander, current Massachusetts resident, or someone hoping to get their feet wet on the North Shore and are preparing for the big move across country, state, or town lines, our personalized relocation guide is sure to provide you with the inside scoop on exactly what makes this little, yet robust area of Massachusetts so wonderful.

Let’s explore all that the North Shore has to offer everyone. 

First, what towns are part of the North Shore?

As prideful and experienced Bay Staters, we understand how hard it is to figure out precisely what towns and cities make up different regions of our small but mighty state. But, in short, the North Shore is considered the coastal region north of Boston and the New Hampshire border. 

The North Shore is comprised of the following towns and cities in Massachusetts:

  • Amesbury
  • Andover
  • Beverly
  • Boxford
  • Danvers
  • Essex
  • Georgetown
  • Gloucester
  • Groveland
  • Hamilton
  • Haverhill
  • Ipswich
  • Lawrence
  • Lynn
  • Lynnfield
  • Manchester-by-the-Sea
  • Marblehead
  • Merrimac
  • Methuen
  • Middleton
  • Nahant
  • Newbury 
  • Newburyport
  • North Andover
  • Peabody
  • Rockport
  • Rowley
  • Salem
  • Salisbury
  • Swampscott
  • Topsfield

What makes the North Shore so special?

Although there is so much to gush about when it comes to the beautiful North Shore region of Massachusetts, some of our favorite things include:

  • Location to the ocean
  • Proximity and commute time to Boston
  • The small-town family-friendly feel
  • Good schools 
  • A plethora of activities for all ages year-round

A Bird’s Eye View Overview of Our Most Notable North Shore Towns 

Beverly, Massachusetts

Boasting a top-rated school system, the most amazing options for dining, shopping, and activities for all tastes and styles, and a thriving downtown, Beverly is the perfect place to raise a family and plant your roots. 

Just 26 miles north of Boston, it’s the ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city while still being close enough to enjoy all it has to offer whenever you feel like it. Close to route 128 and housing its own airport, it’s great to travel to and from with ease. 

Labeled the “Garden City,” Beverly has miles of glorious coastline, pristine public parks, and plenty of open space to enjoy all that the four seasons have to offer. 

Salem, Massachusetts

Once considered one of the most important seaports in America, during the Puritan era, Salem has a wealth of history and stories to boot. 

Most famous for the Salem Witch Trials and the endless amounts of Halloween-themed events and experiences, Same is a great place to enjoy various entertainment for all ages. 

A coastal city where the U.S. National Guard was born, it boasts beautiful beaches and ocean views from what feels like all angles. A great spot to indulge in big-city experiences with small-town vibes. 

Danvers, Massachusetts

Located on the Danvers River and a short ride to Boston, Danvers, Massachusetts, is the ultimate New England small town. With a sea of history and ties to the Salem Witch Trials, Danvers played an integral role in building on America.

Aside from its deep history, Danvers boasts top-notch public schools, delicious dining options, and quaint shopping choices in its downtown area.

If you’re a nature lover, Danvers is your oasis. With many open space and recreation opportunities, including a marina, Endicott Park, and a 4.3-mile rail trail that connects schools, downtown Danvers, parks, neighborhoods, and trails in the neighboring towns, there is no shortage of things to enjoy here.

Peabody, Massachusetts

In its early years, Peabody was known as the “leather capital of the world” due to the 91 facilities used to produce and process leather throughout the city. Like all North Shore cities, Peabody has a rich history tied primarily to the Puritan and Pilgrim eras. It also played a role in the Salem Witch Trials linked to neighboring towns.

Just a 30-minute drive from Boston, Peabody is the perfect place to plant your roots outside the city limits while feeling close enough to the action. This is especially important for those who plan to work or attend college in the city. 

With around 55,000 residents, Peabody exudes a sense of community for all who live there.

Essential Resources for Relocating

Housing-Specific

Realtors:

If you’re hoping to secure your next home purchase on the North Shore, we’d be happy to help. With over 100+ 5 star reviews and thousands of homes sold over our long and rooted tenure in Massachusetts, we would love to help you find the home of your dreams in a neighborhood you love. 

New Developments

Hoping to score a new build in the lovely city of Beverly? Stay up-to-date on the latest builds in our community before you plan your next move. Learn more here. 

Moving Companies: 

Although it would be great to grab your best friends and offer up some pizza and beer in exchange for a day or two of moving, we know from experience that moving companies make the process of packing and heading from one location to another a lot easier.

Some of our favorite local moving companies are:

  • Trowt Movers, in Beverly, MA, serving all of the New England area
  • Roy’s Moving, in Boston, MA, helping those throughout the Boston area pack and move their belongings with ease.

Lenders: 

Without a solid lender, your dreams of owning a home in the North Shore are, well, just a dream. Don’t just opt for anyone. Instead, invest in a team with years of experience lending and helping families plant roots in the North Shore.

Our favorite team of lenders is located at Ross Mortgage & Drew Mortgage

Contact them today to start the process toward homeownership. 

Interior Designers: 

If you’re hoping to stage your current home to sell it for top-dollar or need assistance with interior design, Sheek Interiors is the answer you’ve been looking for. 

Dining

Nothing makes a move easier than knowing you’ll be arriving at a spot with delicious eats, right? When it comes to dining on the North Shore, there are hundreds of mouth-watering options to choose from.

Check out some of my favorite local eats:

Crave – Located in Beverly, they pride themselves on offering “great food to go.” From breakfast sandwiches to cupcakes and coffee, there is something to satisfy everyone.  

Tartine Kitchen & Eatery – Also located in Beverly, they create everything from breakfast to dinner items and specialize in tartines, open-faced sandwiches served on artisan bread. 

Frank – Located on Rantoul Street in Beverly, this is the idealistic “farm to table” restaurant. They believe in sourcing their ingredients from local, sustainable farmers whenever possible. 

Joe’s on a Roll When craving the best lobster in town, Joe’s, on Federal Street in Beverly, is the spot of choice. Their lobster roll paired with a bowl of their delicious chowda’ will lift your spirits and give you a taste of your favorite summer nights. 

Wrapture if you’re looking for freshly made wraps or a bit of Mexican flair (think made-for-you burritos or tacos), then this is the place! Located on Cabot Street in Beverly, Wrapture uses fresh ingredients to please your palate. 

Taste Buds Kitchen – If you’re looking for some variety in your meals, the new cooking club that Taste Buds just launched is perfect! They post new cooking videos every Tuesday and Thursday and are great for your entire family to participate in. 

Pet options 

A move is not complete without including our furry best friends, our pets.

Here are some of my favorite pet-friendly options to consider using after you move to the North Shore:

Shopping

Whether you’re a self-proclaimed fashionista or just hoping to be close to good shopping options, the North Shore is not short on local businesses and unique shops. 

Although my list could take up an entire page, some of my favorite local shops include:

  • Unpacked Living in Beverly is a sustainable market with options for home, beauty, baby, and pet is one-of-a-kind.
  • Copper Dog Books in Beverly is an independent bookstore that boasts many readworthy options for people of all ages. So unleash your inner bookworm in the heart of downtown.
  • Worthy Girl in Beverly is a feel-good way of shopping without breaking the budget while reducing your eco-footprint. This consignment shop is loaded with labels from various designs at an affordable price. 
  • Oak and Moss is located in historic downtown Salem and perfectly combines home, plant, and gifting options for you or someone you love. 

Entertainment

After a long week at the office, everyone deserves to relax and unwind with some good-heartedentertainment. Some of our favorite North Shore entertainment spots include:

Parks & Beaches

Although there is a lot to brag about when it comes to North Shore living, we can’t say enough about the glorious beaches, expansive green space, and coastal elements of living with the Atlantic Ocean at your back door.

Some of our favorite beaches and parks include:

  • Castle Rock Park in Marblehead
  • Forest River Park in Salem
  • Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester
  • Independence Park in Beverly
  • Long Hill in Beverly
  • Lynch Park in Beverly
  • Millbrook Meadow in Rockport
  • Patton Park in Wenham
  • Plum Island in Newburyport
  • Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea
  • West Beach in Beverly

Not to mention all of the beautiful nature trails winding throughout the wonderful landscape all around us. We encourage you to check out:

  • Appleton Farms in Ipswich 
  • Beverly Common Trail
  • Salem Rail Trail 
  • Walk along Lothrop Street for beautiful ocean views and magazine-worthy homes
  • Walking by Endicott College for a dive into history alongside roaring ocean views

If you’re hoping to make the North Shore home, we want to be the first to offer you a warm welcome. We know that the journey to get here may feel long, but the joy of planting roots in such a vibrant and wholesome environment and community is worth everything. We can’t wait to help you acclimate to the world around you on the North Shore.

If you’re relocating to the North Shore and have questions, contact us directly, or join one of our groups:

NextDoor: Relocating to Beverly

Facebook: Relocate Beverly, MA

10 Common Homebuying Questions Answered

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Whether you’re in the market for your first home or your tenth, buying a house is an exciting and sometimes, overwhelming time in your life. From your dream must-have lists to the ideal locations, school ratings, neighborhood amenities, and budget, there is a lot involved in the homebuying process. As you continue to navigate through your personal journey of purchasing your next home, many questions may arise throughout the process. 

Today, we want to answer the ten most common questions that realtors get asked in the homebuying process. We hope our answers will give you some insight into the process and ease any anxiety about all that home buying entails. One thing’s for sure: buying a home may be a lot of work, but it is worth every list, question, and step in the process to get you into the home of your dreams to enjoy for years to come. 

Here are the ten most common questions about buying a home. 

1. What’s the first step in the home buying process?

Before you begin touring homes and popping into open houses, the first step is to obtain a mortgage pre-approval from a loan officer. This document outlines how much you can afford and how much you’ll get pre-approved for once finalizing your mortgage. This allows you to work directly with a realtor to search for homes within your budget and wishlist. Without it, you don’t have much ground to stand on or a solid number to work with on determining the best homes in your budget. The mortgage officer will run a thorough credit check, verify income, and review other financial documents to determine a max approval amount during the pre-approval process. You may also discuss what type of loan is best for you, downpayment requirements, and overall timeline. 

2. How long does it take to buy a home from start to finish?

The timeline for buying a home varies by person and is mainly driven by how quickly you find a home you want to put an offer on. Some people go through 20 or more homes before finding their dream home, while others just visit a handful before submitting an offer. Once your offer is accepted, the standard timeline from approval to keys in hand ranges from 30 to 60 days based on the terms of the closing agreement. 

3. How does a realtor help me?

Realtors are your go-to industry expert in the search for your next home. They help you schedule showing, provide detailed information on the neighborhood and home specifications, and are often well-versed in the area you are shopping in, giving you the insider scoop on what area, home size, neighborhood, and amenities are right for you and your family. Realtors also work with your mortgage company and other realtors to finalize documents once you’ve closed on a home. In short, realtors are your eyes and ears in the market during the buying process and your go-to expert throughout the entirety of the purchase transaction. 

4. How much does a realtor cost?

In most instances, a realtor does not cost the buyer anything. During the home selling process, the sellers pay a fee to their realtor, which is typically split between the selling agent and buying agent at the time of closing. Buyers may opt into compensating their realtor as part of their realtor agreement. 

5. Do I need to meet a minimum credit score?

Yes, you must meet and maintain a healthy financial status to qualify for a home purchase. Although different loans vary when it comes to credit score requirements, most require a score of at least 620 or higher. In rare instances, a score as low as 580 may work. During your preapproval process, speak with your mortgage specialist about your unique credit situation. If you do not currently meet credit score requirements, your mortgage lender will often provide you with a path to improve your score and qualify for the loan you need over a period of time. 

6. How much does my down payment cost?

Down payment cost depends on the type of mortgage loan you use. However, in most cases, you can expect a down payment to range from 3% to 5% of the total cost of the home. 

7. Besides the down payment, what else should I plan to pay for?

Planning out your financial path during the homebuying process is an essential part of setting yourself up for success. Although a down payment is typically the biggest chunk of the out of pocket expense you’ll face, there are other fees you should know about and save up to cover including:

  • Closing costs
  • Homeowners insurance
  • HOA fees (if applicable)
  • Property taxes
  • Home repair and maintenance

8. Are there any programs I could qualify for?

Yes, in some instances, you may qualify for special home buying programs such as:

  • VA Loans
  • USDA Loans
  • FHA Loans

Speak with your real estate agent and mortgage lender to determine what loans you qualify for. 

9. What advice would you give first-time homebuyers?

Buying a home for the first time is a big feat, albeit exciting. There are plenty of things to consider before taking the leap on submitting an offer for your first home. Our advice is this:

  • Make sure you have a strong financial cushion to help pay for all costs associated with a down payment, closing costs, and other costs that may arise during the home buying process.
  • Keep an eye on your credit score and work with your mortgage officer to follow recommended steps to keep your finances in tip-top shape.
  • Use a realtor who understands the area and has experience working with first-time home buyers.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
  • Prepare to compromise on your dream wishlist.
  • Enjoy the journey!

10. Why buy a home in New England?

We may be biased, but New England has our heart. From the picturesque winters and crisp falls to the blooming springs and warm and welcoming summers, we couldn’t think of a better place to call home. There is nothing like experiencing all four seasons in the glory of your backyard. Not to mention, the schools are top-rated, the seafood is out-of-this-world and the history is all-encompassing. So whether you’re new to the area or have called New England home for a while, we couldn’t think of any reason not to consider calling this lovely side of the United States home. 

If you’re in the market for a home this year, it’s always important to stay up-to-date on the latest market trends, understand the entirety of the buying process, and connect with professionals who are willing to travel the entirety of the home buying process with you to make all aspects of this next chapter easier on everyone. To learn more about buying a home, or to begin the process contact us today. We would love to help you get into the home of your dreams this year.

Top 5 Real Estate Myths Debunked

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Whether you’re in the market for your first home purchase or consider yourself a seasoned professional when it comes to house hunting and closing on properties that make your heart sing, you may have come across some common real estate myths in the process. Buying a home can be complicated for anyone. From a pre-home search checklist to a comprehensive closing guide, it can be overwhelming to ensure you’ve nailed everything down before move-in day. So don’t let common misconceptions about the real estate world send you into a tizzy. 

Read on to learn about the 5 most common real estate myths- debunked.

1. Myth: You should pick out a house you love, then get a pre-approval.

Although the ultimate goal in any home search is to secure the home you love and live there for countless years after a seamless real estate transaction process, you must follow specific steps to get there first. It is beyond tempting to jump onto a home buying site in search of the perfect home that fits your criteria, but how can you know exactly what you can afford without a pre-approval? You can’t. It is always best to speak with a real estate professional and lender first, then proceed to home searching after you’ve received a pre-approval letter. 

2. Myth: Open houses are a waste of time when you’re trying to sell.

There is no such thing as a waste of time when it comes to finding creative ways to sell your home. Open houses are the perfect opportunity to reach a broader group of potential buyers in the current seller’s market. Without requiring showing appointments, the amount of foot traffic you could receive on your home increases astronomically, which will ultimately turn into more offers on your property. Nix the worry that comes with hosting an open house and let your realtor take care of the details to increase the demand on your property.

3. Myth: Home inspections don’t matter.

Although it sounds incredible to save a couple hundred bucks after you’ve spent a lot of money securing your new home, don’t skip the home inspection. During this process, a specialized home inspector reviews your home from top to bottom, looking for over 1,500 things throughout it. From electrical and plumbing to the home’s foundation and ventilation system, a thorough inspection is completed that is worth its weight in gold. It is much better to know the ins and outs of your potential home upfront rather than discovering issues down the road post-purchase. 

4. Myth: You’ll save money when you sell your home without a realtor.

It’s tempting to try and take on the sale of your home on your own. Unfortunately, many first-time sellers believe that a “for sale by owner” option is the best way to make the most bang for your buck. Although this may be true to an extent, having a real estate professional on your side to help you sell your home is invaluable. In these scenarios, buyers often overpay, or sellers undersell their property because they do not have a complete picture of the market. Realtors are trained to understand the full extent of the industry better than anyone else; trust them with your purchase or sale. 

5. Myth: The only cost of buying a home is the down payment amount. 

Often, when first-time homebuyers decide on buying a home, they don’t realize the costs associated with the large purchase outside of the price of the actual property. Along with the down payment cost, buyers often incur other costs such as a home inspection fee, termite inspection, and closing costs which typically range from 3% to 5% of the total purchase price. Make sure that you are in a healthy financial state with substantial savings to cover all costs associated with a home purchase. If you are unsure of what other fees may be involved, don’t hesitate to talk with your lender or realtor to learn more.

 

We understand that navigating the real estate market can feel like driving for the first time. A lot of uncertainty comes with diving headfirst into a home purchase, whether it’s your first or tenth time. We are here to help you understand the process from start to finish and guide you through the entire journey, allowing you to make informed decisions and secure the home of your dreams. Contact us today if you’re in the market to sell your home or want to take the next step in your homebuying journey. We can’t wait to help you.

Meet the Team: Connor Hayes

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With record low mortgage rates and inventory at a staggering low, the real estate market is maintaining quite a boom as we head through the latter part of 2021 and into 2022. Growth is a beautiful thing when it comes to securing a new home for you and your family. We understand that this will most likely be one of the biggest commitments of  your life and we want to ensure we provide you with ample assistance and direct care throughout your buying or selling journey. Your real estate venture is important to us. We care deeply about creating a long-term client-realtor relationship with you. Because of the increase in demand, our team is rapidly expanding and we are so excited to welcome new faces to the Keller Williams crew to help our amazing clients’ dreams come true. 

We are thrilled to welcome our newest Massachusetts realtor, Connor Hayes. He is a wonderful addition to our Keller Williams team, bringing with him a plethora of real estate industry knowledge, a deep understanding of the local market and a commitment to our client-first approach. We know that he will do great things for the Maura Allard & Company real estate team.

Why did you get into Real Estate? 

The world of real estate is unique, exhilarating and, sometimes, challenging. We believe it takes a certain type of person to excel within the industry. To be a successful real estate agent you need heart, commitment, strong customer service skills and a deep knowledge of both the home buying and selling processes. We are proud to say that Connor has all of that. He decided to become a realtor because he always loved the idea of having control over his career. He proudly states, “I get to plan every move and succeed in ways I never imagined with previous jobs.” He enjoys digging into new opportunities and discovering ways to capitalize on them through various means with a client-first mentality. Previously, Connor worked in the retail and sales field for over nine years which translated well when he decided to pivot to the real estate sector. 

If you had to give someone one piece of realty advice what would it be?

When it comes to real estate advice, Connor’s is simple: “never, ever stop learning.” He wholeheartedly believes that every day presents itself with new opportunities to learn from both wins and mistakes that ultimately make you a better person and real estate agent in the long run. 

Why did you decide to work with Maura?

Connor decided to work with Maura because their ideals aligned when it came to focus, passion and client care. He loves the way she, and her team of realtors, cares deeply about each client’s individual goals and wishes when it comes to both home buying and selling. He admires her deep industry knowledge and her solid roots in the Massachusetts and New Hampshire communities she works in. When asked his biggest reason to work alongside Maura he said, “I can see someone who is determined and focused. She has a hunger for real estate, much like myself, and I try to work with people that share the same passion and hunger as I do.”

What does your dream home look like?  

Location, location, location. When it comes to Connor’s dream home, his choice is clear. He would love to live in Greece one day. There is definitely something to be said about the Greek coastline, the sunshine and all of the beautiful architecture there. 

Give us 3 random fun facts about you.

We love to share fun facts about the people who mean so much to us. Here are three fun facts about Connor:

  1. He is an identical twin.
  2. He loves to travel around the world.
  3. Family and friends are very important to him. He is constantly surrounded by both. 

We are so delighted to welcome Connor to our team. He will work alongside us, assisting clients throughout Massachusetts. If you would like to learn more about Connor, or other members of our team in the Massachusetts or New Hampshire market, contact us to set up a consultation today. We are excited to meet you.

Understanding the Closing Process on Your New Home

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If you are looking into details on what exactly the closing process entails on your new home, you’re likely in the final stages of the process to homeownership, so, congratulations! Although the journey may feel like a long one, each step in the process is imperative to protect you, the sellers, and your new property. Your offer was just accepted and now closing is upon you. Typically closings take anywhere between 30 and 60 days, but in some instances, they can be longer or shorter depending on the terms set forth in your original offer as discussed with your agent. 

When it comes to closing on a home, whether your first or tenth, there are various steps that you will need to take to ensure full confidence and satisfaction in your purchase. These 10 steps are the exact route you need to take to reach your final destination as a homeowner.

1. Choose your escrow agent

The escrow, or closing, agent will be your primary point of contact when it comes to closing on your new property. They verify that all documents are completed and signed by both parties, all terms and conditions of the offer and loan are met and that closing happens in a timely manner. The escrow agent works closely with your realtor to coordinate all required paperwork throughout the process. Typically the escrow agent is a neutral third party in the transaction, acting on behalf of both parties to ensure a smooth transition of ownership for the home. 

2. Purchase homeowners insurance

Homeowner’s insurance is required for the purchase of any home. The insurance must be purchased prior to closing and proof of coverage must be presented during the closing stage. You can usually work with your current insurance company to provide a new quote on your property. Homeowners insurance, just like car insurance, varies greatly based on location, size of property, your insurance history and other factors. The average cost of homeowners insurance in the US is about $1,200 a year. 

3. Invest in title insurance

Title insurance is a one-time expense that you pay prior to closing on your home. Title insurance, although not required in every state, is added protection for you and your home. Title insurance protects you in the event that someone, at any time in the future, stakes a claim on your property claiming it as theirs. If you opt-out of a title insurance policy for you, you could potentially lose your home to a random claim on it in the future. The average cost for title insurance, to the buyer, is about $1,000. 

4. Meet all conditions

Before you can officially close on a home, all conditions of the loan must be met by you, the buyer. All conditions of your loan are clearly stated in your loan document, but typically they include things like income verification, proof of obtained homeowner’s insurance, down payment details, final appraisal that is at or below the amount of the loan and any other specifically negotiated terms. If you have any questions or concerns about meeting all of your loan condition requirements talk to your lender and realtor as soon as possible to avoid any snags in the process. 

5. Get ready for your move

Whether you currently own your home or are living in a rental property, now is the time to get ready for your move. Schedule movers, sort through rooms and storage spaces and plan out exactly how you plan to move your things from one spot to another. If you’re downsizing you may want to consider holding a yard sale to get rid of extra items you no longer need or donating any excess to a local charity. If you’re moving to a bigger place, consider planning out your furniture and appliances purchases now so that they are ready to go on move-in day. Don’t forget to schedule time off from work, if needed, to get your place in order.

6. Obtain the ever-important closing disclosure

This nationally recognized form is the most critical and comprehensive form in your closing process. Within this disclosure, the loan requirements are outlined in their entirety, including an itemized list of closing costs by party. This form should be delivered to you at least three business days before the closing date to ensure you have enough time to review it. If the details within are mismatched from the original loan agreement, talk to your lender as soon as possible to reconcile in an efficient manner.

7. Complete a final walkthrough of your new place

The final walkthrough is an important final step in your closing process. It is typically scheduled about 12-24 hours before your final closing timeline. This in-person review gives you, the buyer, the opportunity to walk throughout the property and ensure that the seller left the home in the condition that you agreed to at the time of offer acceptance. This is also a time to review any repairs that were requested of the seller and to make sure they are fully moved out in time for you to move in. If things don’t look as they should, your realtor will work with the sellers to ensure things are aligned promptly. If major repairs need to be made, the closing can be delayed.

8. Finalize your documents

At closing, the escrow agent will request a list of documents that they require of you and your co-borrower. Organize your documents ahead of time so that you are fully prepared for the meeting. Typically they require documents such as photo identification, income verification, a list of home addresses over the last 5-10 years and a money order or bank certified check to cover the closing costs for “cash at close” requirements. Verify required documents with your realtor and lender prior to meeting with them. 

9. Legally obtain your home and your new set of keys

The last step in the process between you and the seller is to legally transfer the property from their name to yours. At this step final signatures are obtained and cash, if applicable, is exchanged. Once this is completed the home belongs to you and you get the keys to your new home! A best practice is to change out the locks on your home once you have keys in hand to maintain the highest level of security at your new property. 

10. File a declaration of homestead

A declaration of homestead varies by state, but is a good idea to obtain based on protections it can provide at both state and federal levels. In some states throughout the country, a declaration of homestead is automatically added at the time of home purchase, but some states require that you obtain one on your own. In short, a declaration of homestead can protect you in the case of bankruptcy filing, loss of a spouse or exempt you from certain taxes based on residence. A declaration of homestead registers you at state and federal levels, showing exactly where your primary residence is located. Check with your state government, lender or realtor to verify how your state handles this declaration.

Getting an accepted offer on a home you love is a great feeling, but it is only the first step in the home buying process. Once both the seller and buyer agree to all terms and conditions of the offer, the closing stage begins. It is important to stay on top of the steps required to successfully close on a home so that you are as prepared as possible during this new season in your life. If you are in search of a new home or considering putting your home on the market, contact me, we would love to help you through the realty process, no matter what side you find yourself on.

Real Estate in Saugus, Massachusetts

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Why we Love Living Here!

Do you love the beach and nature? In Saugus, you can get away from it all, but still enjoy easy access and short commutes. If could be the right place for you and your family!

But it’s a popular place to live, and the real estate market is very competitive – so make sure you work with a realtor who knows (and loves) the area!

Let’s talk about Saugus!

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE GREAT PLACES TO LIVE IN BOSTON’S NORTH SHORE

Buying a Home in Peabody • Living in Beverly • Homes for sale in Danvers

Buying a Home in Essex, Massachusetts

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If you’re looking for a small town close to big city amenities, Essex, Massachusetts may be just the place for you!

If you love seafood, beaches, and a strong sense of community, let’s talk about Essex!

Let’s talk about moving to Essex!

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE GREAT PLACES TO LIVE IN BOSTON’S NORTH SHORE

Buying a Home in Peabody • Living in Beverly • Homes for sale in Danvers

Buying a Home in Ipswich, Massachusetts

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The town of Ipswich, Massachusetts, in Boston’s North Shore, is so beautiful! If you love history, nature, beaches, and clams, Ipswich is a good choice for you and your family. It even has a wolf sanctuary!

Let’s talk about Ipswich!

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE GREAT PLACES TO LIVE IN BOSTON’S NORTH SHORE

Buying a Home in Peabody • Living in Beverly • Homes for sale in Danvers

Homes for Sale in Atkinson, New Hampshire

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Ahhh, Atkinson! It’s sometimes called the best suburb to live in New Hampshire, and with good cause! Atkinson is well situated, with access to several major cities, the beach, and world-class hiking.

Watch the video to learn more!

Interested in finding real estate for sale in Atkinson, New Hampshire? Let’s Talk!

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE GREAT PLACES TO LIVE IN BOSTON’S NORTH SHORE

Buying a Home in Peabody • Living in Beverly • Homes for sale in Danvers

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