Tag Archive for: real estate

Fall Market Forecast

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Between the interest rates and low inventory, it has been a very strong housing market in the Northeast recently! But what can we expect as we enter the fall? Areas like New York City and Boston are experiencing a housing shortage with the high demand for homes since the pandemic, but not enough land to strengthen the inventory. Many people are interested in buying in the Northshore of Massachusetts due to our access to Boston, as well as the state’s access to healthcare, technology, and great education. Luckily, the economy has been going well and many experts are not anticipating a recession or housing market crash in the near future. Let’s look into what this means for both buyers and sellers in late 2022. 

For Buyers

Things are looking up for home buyers as we enter the fall of 2022. Though the pandemic has brought on strong competition and high interest rates, we are now experiencing a healthier market overall. With fewer bidding wars and appraisal waivers, and an increase in home inspections, homebuyers are no longer taking the risks that were common in 2020 and 2021. Perhaps the best tip I have for buyers in this current market is to make sure you can see yourself staying in the home for a while. You will still be paying a lot for the property, so ensure that you will be able to build equity and make the home a strong investment. Ask yourself if you can picture living there for the next five years before you commit. Is it in a good location? Can you improve upon it? Do you enjoy being in the space? If you are comfortable with these things, you are most likely making a very good investment! 

Navigating a seller’s market can feel overwhelming, but it’s possible to score the home you love, within your budget, when you want it. You have to be mindful of some top tips that can assist you in your home buying process. My advice for buyers falls within simple guidelines: prepare your wants and needs ahead of time, determine what you are okay to settle on, figure out your budget and work with a realtor who understands your ideal area. As a first-time homebuyer, or even a seasoned purchaser in the real estate market, knowing when the right time to buy is quite simple: buy when you’re ready. Focus less on the changes in the market and more on when is a good time for you, your family, and your finances.

For Sellers

Though things are looking up for buyers, you can still expect to sell a house fairly easily in this market. If you are pricing your home correctly, you should expect strong offers coming in! I recently read that the median home price in Beverly this summer has been around 600 thousand dollars, which is incredibly high. Even if you are not seeing bidding wars and high over-asking offers on your home, all it takes is one strong offer to make a sale! Be sure that you are putting your best foot forward to ensure the best offer. If you want to increase your chances of selling your home quickly and profitably, preparation is key. Before you decide on listing your home and posting the “For Sale” sign on your front lawn, consider these tips for how to maximize exposure and increase buyer interest. Once this is done, meet with your realtor to be certain that you are pricing your home correctly and competitively for the current market!  

Bottom Line

The best time to buy or sell a house is going to depend on the best time for you! Although these tips are based on research and my personal experience as a realtor, we don’t know what interest rates will be next year, and we don’t know how inflation is going to impact this market. It is impossible to predict the housing market’s future with 100% accuracy, so it’s most important to base your decisions on your own financial state and needs. 

Whether you are looking to buy or sell, getting in contact with a professional is a great first step. Please reach out with any questions you may have on the housing market, I’m happy to answer them to the best of my ability.

Tips for New Real Estate Agents

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How can a new real estate agent set themselves apart from others and grow their business and reputation? Maura Allard provides some of her best tips for new real estate agents based on her many years of experience in the field! 

Join a Team

As is the case with many professions, it’s easy to gain experience from watching the pros! If you work with a team, you will have an opportunity to work with experienced Realtors to better understand how they operate and why they have been successful. Typically, teams have proven systems in place that help you receive the support and answers you need to grow your career.  

Don’t be afraid to work with renters (tenants and landlords) 

Although many realtors and real estate agents primarily sell houses, working with rentals can be a great way to make connections and gain experience in the industry. Many renters may be looking to buy a home or condo in the future, and they will likely want to work with you again! Similarly, if the tenants have a positive experience with you, they may recommend you to their friends and family who are looking to rent or buy. Forming a relationship with the landlords of these buildings is also a great idea, as they may want to sell or purchase more investment properties. 

Don’t Shy Away from Leads With a Referral Fee

If an agent or broker would like to pass a client along to you, don’t be discouraged by the referral fee they take out! These fees are typically only due once. If you do a phenomenal job and keep in touch with the client, they may refer you to friends and family, and you probably will list their home if they sell! This tip goes hand in hand with many others- with the overall goal of establishing strong relationships with your clients. Taking on clients through a referral does not have to become a regular practice, but as a new agent, you should definitely consider them on a case-by-case basis.

Find Your Niche

Though you may be working in a small geographical area, there is probably still a lot of variety between the properties and types of people buying, selling, or renting. Personally, I received my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation and marketed myself to seniors and downsizers. Gaining experience in a specific type of real estate will help potential clients find you, and provide them with more comfort that you are the best agent for the job. 

Don’t Forget About Your Clients!

The best way to gain a positive reputation is to make yourself memorable in your relationships with clients. Setting yourself apart from everyone else can inspire clients to recommend your services to others, write positive reviews, or hire you again in the future. Call then, email, or text just to see how they are doing. Buying a home is a very personal process for your clients- make sure they know how much you care! 

 

Click here for more information on Maura and her team, or contact us today if you are interested in buying or selling your home! 

Meet the Team: Joanna Payne

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Behind every great team is a passionate and driven operations manager who goes the extra mile to ensure all processes and procedures are in working order for a successful day, week, month, and year ahead.

We are thrilled to welcome our newest team member, Joanna Payne as our Real Estate Operations Manager. With years of experience, she will be an asset to our office, realtors, and clients for years to come. She will be our go-to person for clerical and administrative tasks while also being part of our hands-on and collaborative team meetings and plans.

We want you to get to know Joanna a bit more. So here are some interesting details we thought you should know. 

What does an Operations Manager role entail with Maura Allard and Company?

An operations manager is responsible for supporting the day-to-day functions and assisting the manager and other team members with tasks to ensure the company functions efficiently. 

Tell us a bit about your background.

Joanna has a long and prosperous history in operations.

She says, “I started working in an office setting when I was 13-years-old for my family’s business. I had an amazing mentor who taught me the ins and outs of how to manage and run an office, as well as all the best bookkeeping practices. I have always worked in some capacity as an assistant. I enjoy working with people and helping others.”

We couldn’t think of better experience to have around our clients and team.

Why were you drawn to the real estate industry?

The real estate industry is one of the most complex, yet prosperous markets in the world. Filled with people of different backgrounds, styles, and goals, there is so much to discover through a career in the field. 

When asked why Joanna decided on the real estate industry, there is one word to describe it: intrigue.

She says, “Before I even worked in real estate, I always enjoyed researching the market or looking up a house that had a “For Sale” sign out front to see what it looked like inside. I liked to see a fixer-upper and imagine the possibilities or see an antique home and dive into all of its character.”

Being part of the real estate industry is to be part of a life-changing season in a person’s life. Joanna agrees and says, “When I started working in a real estate office, I enjoyed being a part of one of the biggest and most exciting transactions of a client’s life!”

Why did you decide to work with Maura?

Although Joanna has been working as an assistant for years, she found something special in Maura when she decided to look for a new job. So what made her make the switch? For her, it was simple. She says, “I really like Maura’s positive energy. She seems eager and excited for new possibilities, and I feel like I can learn a lot from her.”

To us, there may be nothing better than working in a space where you can share your skills and abilities while learning new and exciting things from others around you. 

What does your dream home look like?

When we ask our clients what they’d love most in their dream home, we are often given a list of their must-haves that can, sometimes, fill an entire page (or two!). From the number of bedrooms and ideal square footage to location and features, there are so many things that they want to see come to fruition in their next real estate purchase. Rightfully so!

On the other hand, Joanna keeps it simple when she imagines her dream home. She simply states, “my dream home would be rustic, warm, cozy, and inviting!” Of course, we couldn’t think of anything more New England than that!

Give us 3 random fun facts about you.

We love to share fun and interesting facts about the people on our team. Here are three fun facts about Joanna:

  1. She loves the snow and looks forward to a good snowstorm!
  2. She likes to cook.
  3. She can always be found listening to music and especially enjoys the 80’s.

We are so excited to welcome Joanna to our team. If you would like to learn more about Joanna, or other team members in the Massachusetts or New Hampshire market, contact us to set up a consultation today. We can’t wait to hear from you and help you turn your home dreams into reality. 

How to Design a Beautiful Guest Bedroom in Your Home

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One of the best things about owning your own home is sharing it with the people you love most. From family and friends to neighbors and guests, creating a place that you consider your sanctuary to host in is a beautiful thing. 

Are you one who loves to have guests over? Or maybe you’re just in the perfect location for your house to be unofficially deemed the home of the holidays. Whether you consider yourself the hostess with the mostest or like to keep it more low-key while guests visit, having an intentionally curated space in your home for guests is essential, any time of year.

No matter how you decide to decorate your spare or guest, bedroom make sure that it’s clean, comfortable, and uncluttered. The space should exude warmth for a welcoming vibe while being a place of relaxation to lay your head after a long day of travel and connection. 

Here are my top tips for designing a beautiful guest bedroom. 

1. Pick a theme.

Often, people believe that a guest room is a free-for-all space when it comes to shedding some design inspiration. Although this is true, to some extent, the theme of your guest space should match the aesthetic of the rest of your home. It should be a complimentary room to the main living spaces and not stick out like a sore thumb. A mismatch can cause it to feel too isolated or unwelcoming. 

Picking a theme is a great idea, but make sure it aligns with your full home’s design goals. Great options for themed guest rooms include natural, farmhouse, modern, hotel-chic. Whatever theme you decide on, make sure that each piece of furniture and accessories works within your theme effortlessly. 

2. Keep it cozy.

Coziness is the name of the game when it comes to designing a guest room. For your guests, whether they’re traveling from across the country or across the city, a guest room acts as an oasis space, allowing them to relax and unwind in comfort. 

Include cozy items like oversized pillows, plush blankets, and soft throw rugs. Consider going a step further by adding deluxe bathrobes and extra large towels. If possible, make the thermostat in the guest room a separate entity from the rest of your home so that your guests can choose their most comfortable setting. Finally, don’t forget staple comfort items such as books, a television, or ample lighting. 

3. Take advantage of natural accents in the room.

Many New England homes are filled with old-world charm. From natural hardwood floors to vintage fireplaces, there is a lot of beauty to be found in natural home elements. If your guest room is graced with a piece of history, don’t be afraid to show it off. Place your furnishings around the accent pieces to showcase them. Decorate mantels and shine hardwood floors. Add an oversized pillow to a bay window bench seat to instantly transform it into a reading nook. All of these small elements make the room feel personalized and worldly. 

4. Keep the clutter out.

Don’t ever treat your guest room like a storage closet. Do your best to keep clutter out at all costs, even in the guest closet. Consider this an active living space and use it as a study or relaxation room when guests are not visiting. This will allow you to recognize it as a living space instead of a storage bin. Before guests arrive, clean up any clutter throughout the area to ensure they walk into a freshly cleaned room. 

5. Don’t skimp on furniture.

Don’t leave your guest room feeling extra sparse if you have the extra space. Lack of furniture can lead to a lack of feeling cozy and comfortable. Instead, consider adding intentional elements in the space, like a desk, small dresser, and corner reading chair to make it functional without feeling cluttered. 

6. Update for each season.

When decorating for the season throughout your home, don’t forget the guest room. Decorate with fresh flowers in a vase in spring. Brighten up the space with light linens in the summer. Add a bit of fall warmth in the autumn. Bring in all that’s merry and bright in the winter months. A fun way to tie the guest room into the other rooms of your house is to include it with each seasonal change. Your guests will feel inspired and at home there with a few extra seasonal decor pieces.

7. Consider your guest list.

Your guest room is only as good as the guests who stay in it. If it’s not suited for your type of people, then it’s not going to feel comfortable for them. Know what they like, what makes them happy and comfortable, and opt to include those elements in the space. Whether it’s extra pillows, weighted blankets, or more natural light, make it a space that’s welcoming to the people you care most about while also functioning as a happy place for you too. 

8. Don’t forget to stock it with essentials.

Traveling is hard enough. Most of the time, guests forget something. Whether it’s a toothbrush, body soap, or their favorite hair dryer, stocking up on the essentials just in case helps alleviate any added stress on their plate. If you have a guest bathroom, fill it with travel-sized items that they can quickly grab during their stay with you. Think of hotel front desk offerings and go from there. Make sure the room is well-stocked with towels, blankets, pillows, a change of sheets, and maybe even a welcome basket. Guests appreciate you taking care of the small stuff. 

 

Designing a guest room shouldn’t feel like an added chore on your laundry list of to-dos for your home. Instead, make it a fun experience by choosing a design you love, finding items that make it feel extra cozy, and turning it into a home away from home for both you and your guests. Do you love the idea of a guest room, but haven’t found your dream home yet? Let us help! Contact us today to get started on your journey to homeownership- guest room included. 

Fall style flowers in a vase with folded clothes

My Top 5 Fall Home Decor Trends of 2021

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Fall is synonymous with cozy. So when it comes to enjoying the brisk season that brings so many people together, there may be no better time to redecorate your home with all the feels of the season. From chunky knits to warm and inviting colors, fall home decor trends play a pivotal role in defining your space to all who enter, including you. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank or complete an entire room remodel to bring in the vibes of the season. Instead, focus on a few staple fall decor trends that have taken off this year and infuse them into your home as you see fit.

Although there are hundreds of different trends and design ideas floating around for fall, I prefer to stick to the classics that make me feel warm and welcome year in and year out. 

Here are my top 5 fall home decor trends for 2021:

 

1. Chunky Knits

Whether you’re outfitting the linens on your bed or changing out the throw blankets on your living room sofas, there are so many ways to incorporate chunky knits into your fall decorating. They double as a great relaxation cover when you’re cozying up to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate and a holiday movie on a cool fall night. Varying in options from classic neutrals to bright and vibrant multi-colored knits, you can add pizazz and comfort to any space. Think outside the box a bit with this option by adding chunky knit pillows to your outdoor seating area around the fire pit or filling an outdoor blanket bin with chunky throws to use on a cold night cuddling with your loved ones after a fun night of making s’mores together. The possibilities for this design option are quite endless. 

2. Lantern Lighting

Nothing sets the mood like lighting. From Christmas lights in the winter to flamingo-themed lights in the summer months, lighting is integral to your overall home design and decor. The perfect way to set the mood for the fall season is by using lantern lighting. The ambiance of the deeper hues against the stark and distressed lantern designs is a combination that can’t be beat. Lanterns are versatile options for both indoor and outdoor use, allowing you to outfit them with real candles or faux battery-operated options. Add a lantern to your dining table decor, on top of your tv stand, or as an accent to your front porch seating. The mood will quickly change from dark to warm and inviting.

3. Fall Leaves and Flowers

Nothing says fall quite literally like the falling leaves that hit the ground and crunch under our boots as we stroll down a sidewalk on a crisp autumn morning. So when decorating your home this season, consider adding fall leaves and flowers throughout your home. Whether faux or natural, they add a level of nature and comfort that can only be found from their beauty. When choosing flowers, pick muted and deep colors, such as browns, dark oranges, deep yellows, and maroons. My favorite place to add them? To dining tables, entry tables, and bathroom counters. The subtle touch of the outdoors brings an instant feeling of the season. 

4. Modern Farmhouse 

A trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, modern farmhouse is the ideal home decor option for those looking to make a significant impact in their home this season. Whether you’re just moving into your place or hoping to change up the look of an entire room or floor of your home, modern farmhouse is an ideal and timeless option that will last long beyond the current season. Modern farmhouse can pair well with many home styles by mixing rustic chic with cozy hints of industrial elements. First, start small by changing some of your mantle, bookcase, or shelving accents with modern farmhouse options. Then, if you love the feel, go bigger and replace staple furniture pieces. 

5. Woven Baskets and Distressed Trays

Remember all the rage that the photo accent wall brought to the design industry for years? Well, it’s back for fall with a cozy twist. Instead of designing a wall around your favorite portraits, frames and paintings, consider outfitting a wall with woven baskets and trays. Bringing in intricate dimensions warms up any space while providing a visually appealing look. 

 

Although pumpkins and scarecrows are great added touches to your outdoor decor, especially with Halloween on our heels, there are various other ways to decorate your home for the season. Whatever you decide on, your goal for the season should be a home that exudes warmth, comfort, and peace. So tap into fall colors and comforts and enjoy the nostalgic season we are in. 

5 Favorite Fall Activities in New England

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With summer making her glorious exit and the autumn season upon us like a golden ray of happiness, it is time to embrace all the beautiful things the season has to offer us, especially in New England. As the temperature lowers, it is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the crisper mornings and cozier nights. From apple picking and corn mazes to pumpkin patches and football games, the fall season is all about cozying up with the ones you love and relishing in the change of season. 

Whether you’re a native New Englander or new to the area, it is the perfect time to enjoy all that our area has to offer in the autumn. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy the season. 

 

1. Take in the fall foliage

Whether by foot, bike, or car, leaf-peeping is a must in New England. Spend an afternoon, or an entire day, finding the best and brightest yellows, reds, and oranges that grace the treetops of trees large and small. Hike your favorite local mountain or enjoy all that’s changing in the comfort of your backyard. As a bonus, we highly recommend picking up your favorite leaves that have fallen to the ground and building a fun leaf crown or adding them to your fall decor. We can just hear the sound of crunching leaves beneath our feet already and are so excited to enjoy leaf-peeping ourselves. Check out this foliage calendar to see when it’s at its peak throughout New England.

2. Go apple picking

Nothing says fall quite like warm apple pie and the smell of crisp apples in the air. We can’t think of a better smell synonymous with fall than apples. With orchards throughout the New England area, it is the perfect way to support local growers and enjoy the fruits of your labor… literally. With over 200 varieties of apples in the area, you’re sure to find an orchard that has the kind your heart (and belly) desires. We suggest using honey crisp or granny smith apples for apple pie, but all varieties are delicious to eat straight from the bag. Take a weekend day and make it a fun family adventure. Afterward, enjoy a night of baking and indulging.

3. Tailgate at a football game

There may be no more dedicated fan base than New England sports fans. With love and pride for our hometown greats, we believe in the teams that encompass our area. With a football team that covers the entirety of New England, who wouldn’t love a good day of tailgating and football? The New England Patriots are six-time Superbowl Champions and no stranger to reigning in a good rivalry. If you’ve never been to a football game, the fall is the perfect time to start a new tradition. So pack up your favorite snacks and drinks, some easy-set-up seating, warm blankets, and your most valued Patriots gear, and head to a game at Gilette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, this fall to cheer on our local dynasty. 

4. Visit Salem

Salem, the city famous for the 1692 Witch Trials, has become a tourist destination in the fall months. With hair-raising haunted houses, fall-themed drinks at local breweries, ghost and cemetery tours, and all the Halloween-themed merchandise you can dream of, Salem is the perfect destination for the lover of all things spooky. Providing events suitable for all ages, Salem is the ideal place to day-trip to get into the spirit of the season. 

5. Decorate your home for a cozy and warm feel

One of the best things about a change in season is a fresh update in home decor. Whether big or small, changes in decor can bring a new feel to a space and keep it fresh and new. Some of my favorite ways to decorate your home for the fall include:

  • Add pops of buffalo plaid throughout your living space—my favorite areas, including the living and dining rooms.
  • Pull out the cozy throw blankets and pillows and pile them throughout your favorite seating areas to increase the warmth in the space.
  • Add a fall wreath or welcome sign to your front door.
  • Place a few mums on your front walkway or porch.

Whatever you decide to do this fall season, we encourage you to get out and enjoy all that New England has to offer you and your family. If you’re new to the area or hoping to move to the New England area soon, we can help! Send us a message today to learn more about the area and find the ideal spot to lay your head and build your future. 

Making the Most of Local Getaways

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Whether you consider yourself a tried and true New Englander or have recently relocated to the glorious Northeast, enjoying the sights and sounds of the area should not be taken lightly. Everyone loves a good vacation now and then, and we encourage you to take one at least once a year to relax, unwind, and most importantly, recharge. But, now, more than ever, we could all use a little de-stressing. We understand that with the pandemic still taking a toll on the country, island getaways and tropical drinks may be out of the question right now, but don’t fret! There is so much to explore and enjoy right here at home. 

Local getaways, or staycations, are the perfect way to unplug close to home. Forget the airport hustle and take a closer look at all available to you right in your backyard. From mouth-watering seafood and historical appeal to an unyielding sports culture and refreshing weather, New England has so much to offer you. 

Here are my top 5 favorite local getaways:

1. Boston, Massachusetts

The largest city in New England and the capital of Massachusetts, Boston is an immensely quaint area filled with American history and culture. Combining the best of New England roots with the modernizations of a bustling city, Boston is a great spot to visit any time of year with anyone on your list. With options for families, couples, and singles alike, Boston is the perfect place to embrace all that New England is. From the delicious seafood on the Seaport and harbor cruise to view the city from the water to the historic Freedom Trail or the country’s oldest tavern, there is something for everyone. Families especially love spending a day at the aquarium, science museum, or LegoLand. One of our favorite spots? Faneuil Hall. It’s the ideal spot to feel the culmination of past and present Boston come together. 

2. Portland, Maine

Featuring the most photographed lighthouse in the United States, the Portland Headlight, this pinnacle city in Maine is the ideal place to enjoy a week away from home, close to home. From award-winning restaurants filled with all the delicious seafood you can eat to museums, art galleries, and small-town style boutiques, Portland is sure to check off all the boxes on your must-have vacation list. To top it off, Portland has some of the best ocean views. Enjoy this spot in the summertime for all the beach and lobster you can handle, or head that way during the fall months to watch the leaves change color to the most glorious fire-inspired hues. 

3. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

Located 8 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, this popular tourist destination for New Englander and elite visitors alike is a perfect spot to get away from the busy nature of the city. It has been known as a secluded summer destination for celebrities and politicians for years. When you enter the island, you’ll soon realize how everyone runs on island time with a laid-back vibe and demeanor. Whether you decide to fly in or take the ferry from the Cape, we encourage you to dig your toes in the sand on one of the many beaches or explore the six small towns throughout the island. Before you depart, don’t forget to snap some photos in Oak Bluff with the gingerbread-style cottages as your backdrop and snag a Black Dog shirt for memories. 

4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

When we think local vacation, we think Cape Cod. This classic Massachusetts peninsula is the perfect place to indulge in the laid-back vibe of vacation any time of year. Boasting over 40 miles of coastline, this is the perfect place for the beach lover to soak up the sea. With nightlife, restaurants, art galleries, and museums sprinkled amongst the small towns, there is sure to be something for everyone in your group. Our don’t-miss summer option? Go on a whale watch to explore the ocean. For fall we encourage you to immerse yourself in the local art that can be found at many art galleries throughout the area.

5. The White Mountains

Classified as a protected national forest, the White Mountain range extends through parts of both New Hampshire and Maine. The perfect destination for fall-time leaf-peeping or winter sports, it is a great place to get away and not too far from other major cities or neighboring states. In the summer, the hiking trails in the White Mountains are plentiful and robust. In the winter, you can shred some slopes on the best mountains in New England. Our suggestion? Make it to the summit of Mount Washington by car in the fall to enjoy some of the most scenic views you will ever capture. 

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a week’s long vacation close to home, there are a multitude of options in the area. From family-friendly day trips to the perfect spot for a girl’s trip or a local honeymoon, New England has a little of something for everyone that can accommodate the changes of the season. If you’re new to the area and hoping to find out more about the best local spots, or in search of the perfect home in one of these glorious destinations, we can help. Send us a message or give us a call today.

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.

Massachusetts Home

10 Reasons to Buy a Home in Massachusetts

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10 reasons to buy your next home in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, the good old Bay State. The place where you can eat lobster right off the boat on the Cape, park your car in Harvard Yard (Boston accent optional), or enjoy foliage drive through the Berkshires during the fall months. There is so much to indulge in throughout the year as the season’s change and the activities never end. Once you become a local, no matter what city or town, a piece of who you are is always part of the beautiful and historic state. Both visitors and locals agree that there is something for everyone and so many reasons to buy in Massachusetts this year. Here’s why your next home should reside in the bay state:

The schools are rated amongst the top in the country.

Whether you are looking for public schools or top-tier universities, Massachusetts has it all. From legendary names like Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the college-level education you can receive here is second to none. Massachusetts took to the top spot for 2020, coming in at #1, for the best education system in the country according to US News and World Report. That trend continues as we, again, take the cake for the best education system in the country. Massachusetts has the highest math and reading scores in the nation with the lowest bullying incident rates. Other highlights include safety, security, and technology advancements. Aside from having the best schools, Massachusetts is also ranked as the most educated state. 

 

The state is full of history.

From the Mayflower and Boston Tea Party to the Salem Witch Trials, Massachusetts is the perfect spot for the history enthusiast. Leading the way as one of the first 13 colonies, Massachusetts’ historic endeavors are showcased throughout each large and small town, embracing its roots with respect and admiration. Enjoy the sites and plan fun day trips around traveling to local historical sites throughout the year.

 

Medical care is world-renowned. 

Massachusetts ranks 5th in the nation for best healthcare overall, while coming in 1st for best access to healthcare and 4th overall in public health options. With some of the best medical facilities in the world, located within the state, there is no question that you and your family would be in great hands. Some of the most well-known options include Boston Children’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital (with affiliate locations throughout the state) and Brigham and Women’s. 

 

The mix of small-town charm and big-city vibes is unprecedented.

Whether you’re looking to be in the heart of a big city or nestled away in the country vibes of a small town, Massachusetts offers it all. Bigger cities have often been known to give off a small-town feel with endless big-city options, from shopping centers and museums to world-famous restaurants, no box is left unchecked in Boston and its surrounding cities out east. With easy and quick access to the Atlantic Ocean, the beaches are sure to entice as well. If you’re more into the small-town charm, central and western parts of the state offer a country setting with convenient amenities. Each town and city have their own unique personality while tying into the overall vibe of the state. 

The seasons are lavish.

There is nothing quite like living somewhere that is immersed in all four seasons. From warm and sunny summers to crisp falls and snow-filled winters, Massachusetts has it all. While the winters can be long and cold there is a joy to be found in snow-based activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on local mountains and trails, or even in neighboring states such as Vermont or New Hampshire. The summertime is the perfect contract to the cold winters, offering seasonal average temperatures around 80 degrees with lots of sunshine-filled days. The reigning champ in the season’s contest always goes to autumn. There is nothing quite like a New England autumn. Fall foliage is vast and glorious throughout the season adding a pleasant backdrop to the cool days. Locals often spend time each year venturing out for leaf-peeping, taking in the sights of the season through a road trip, photography, or painting.

 

The seafood is out of this world.

Massachusetts is famous for its seafood offerings. From shellfish to lobster, you can indulge in all things seafood from the inland to the coast. There is no shortage of seafood restaurants throughout towns like East Dennis, Duxbury, Plymouth and Salem. Whether you’re visiting or planning to stay here for the long haul, we encourage you to indulge in all things seafood and make sure to order the oysters!

 

The sports culture is something to be experienced. 

It’s tough to find another state that loves their sports team as much as Massachusetts. From the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics to the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins, Massachusetts is filled with diehard fans who love their teams. Our championship-winning teams are something we pride our small state on and celebrate with each win just as hard as we did during the first one. Aside from the professional sports teams, there are also many collegiate level teams for various sports that are cherished here too. 

 

The location on the East Coast is wonderful for those who love to travel.

Located in the heart of the Northeast, Massachusetts is the perfect location to settle in for those who want to be within an arm’s reach of adventure. Depending on your city of choice, you are literally within an hours drive to states like Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, Connecticut, and New York. Whether you want to take a weekend trip to the Big Apple or hit the slopes in Killington, Vermont, you don’t have to drive too far.

Winter sports and activities are all the rage.

From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and snowmobiling, the options for winter sports are endless in Massachusetts. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned pro or a novice who is curious about what snow sports have to offer, you can try it all. 

The median salary boasts well for home costs.

Although the cost of living in Massachusetts can seem a bit steeper when compared to other states across the country, the median salary meets its mark. Overall, the state’s economy is top in the country, with a large potential to keep growing and succeeding. Massachusetts has diversity within industries too, including niches like high-tech to farming and agriculture. You will feel comfortable with your salary to home cost ratio across the state, which is a huge plus in itself.

Making a move to a new place can feel overwhelming. Staying informed and up-to-date on the latest trends and behind-the-scenes details is important in making the right choice for you. From education to adventure, Massachusetts checks all boxes when it comes to a state that delivers a growth mindset alongside a fun approach. As a state that is always transforming, it is sure to bring you happiness for years to come.

If you’ve decided to make the leap and buy in Massachusetts, contact us, we would love to help you with your new home purchase journey in the bay state!

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79 Bridge Street
Beverly, MA 01915

978.835.8954
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