• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • [email protected]
  • (978) 835-8954
Maura Allard Realtor
  • Meet Maura
  • Reviews
  • Buyers
  • Sellers
  • Blog
  • Contact
    • Contact Us
    • Submit a Transaction
  • Ask a Question
  • Menu Menu

Tag Archive for: realtor

Top 5 Real Estate Myths Debunked

August 17, 2021/in Education /by Cara Chatellier

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.

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Top-5-Real-Estate-Myths-Debunked-Maura-Allard.png 950 1142 Cara Chatellier https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Cara Chatellier2021-08-17 19:39:102021-08-17 19:39:10Top 5 Real Estate Myths Debunked

Meet the Team: Connor Hayes

August 9, 2021/in Community /by Cara Chatellier

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.

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Meet-the-Team-Connor-Hayes.png 788 940 Cara Chatellier https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Cara Chatellier2021-08-09 18:33:352021-08-09 18:33:35Meet the Team: Connor Hayes
Chris Carnevale Real Estate Agent Maura Allard and Company

Meet the Team: Chris Carnevale

June 29, 2021/in Resources /by Cara Chatellier

As the real estate market continues to soar throughout the country, for both buyers and sellers alike, so does our group of wonderful Keller Williams realtors ready to assist and collaborate with clients on their next big life season. Whether you’re in the market to buy or sell your home, we are here to help you through it and we want to ensure we always have the right people for the job on our team. 

 

We are proud to welcome our newest realtor, Chris Carnevale. He is a great addition to our Beverly team, bringing with him a wealth of real estate knowledge, a powerful understanding of the local market and a commitment to the client-first mentality that we live and breathe every day. We know that he will do great things for the Maura Allard & Company team and we are excited to watch him grow with us. 

Why did you get into Real Estate? 

Chris has vast experience working in client-facing roles. He always knew he wanted to work with people, but the pandemic solidified a change, for the better, in his career path. When asked why he decided to get into real estate he stated, “I was an assistant restaurant manager when the pandemic hit. I took a leave and decided to try real estate. (It was the) best decision I have ever made along with marrying my beautiful wife and getting lasik surgery.”

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

Chris’s realty advice is simple, but compelling and applies to all aspects of life. He says, “don’t give up on what you want. There’s always a way.” Whether you’re on the verge of a career change, moving across the country, getting married, or in search of your first big home purchase this year, don’t give up. Anything you want in life takes time, but the extra effort and time are worth it in the long run. This advice is especially helpful in a strong seller’s market where competition is kicked into high gear. Don’t get discouraged if your offer isn’t accepted the first time around, your dream house is out there waiting for you and, in the end, you will get exactly what you want. 

Why did you decide to work with Maura?

There are so many great qualities that realtors and clients notice in Maura right away. Chris’s decision to work with Maura was quite simple. He said what he admired most about her is, “her reputation, work ethic, positive attitude, and (the fact that) she is always moving forward.” Great leaders always have a forward-thinking mindset and use it to teach their colleagues how to excel in their respective fields and we believe Maura does just that. 

What does your dream home look like?  

Realtors spend a majority of their days visiting a variety of homes on the market at any given time. From remodeled farmhouse style to clean-lined and sleek townhomes, the variety is quite endless. They explore fixer-uppers and new builds to help clients stumble upon their dream homes and work their magic to secure a deal along the way. When it comes to their own personal idea of a dream home, their personal experiences and style always seem to take center stage. When asked what his dream home included, Chris concluded that it needed three key elements: “Light (lots of windows), warmth (fireplace) and relaxation (jacuzzi bathtub),” and we couldn’t love this balance anymore.  

Give us 3 random fun facts about you.

We love to learn about our people. Here are three fun facts about Chris.

  1. Chris likes the smell of skunk (“from a distance not on my shoe”). He believes it comes from weekend trips to his grandma’s house in rural Wenham when he was growing up.
  2. He met his wife while on vacation in Ireland in 2004. 
  3. He’s ambidextrous.   

We are so excited to welcome Chris to our Keller Williams team. He will work alongside us, assisting clients in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. If you would like to learn more about Chris, or other members of our team, contact us to set up a meeting today. We can’t wait to hear from you!

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Chris-Carnevale-Real-Estate-Agent-Maura-Allard-and-Company.png 788 940 Cara Chatellier https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Cara Chatellier2021-06-29 15:47:202021-06-29 15:47:20Meet the Team: Chris Carnevale

Real Estate in Saugus, Massachusetts

November 17, 2019/in For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

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!

  • Saugus Population: 28,000
  • Time from Saugus to Boston: 30 minutes
  • Things to do in Saugus: Breakheart Reservation, Saugus Iron Works, Square One Mall

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

0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-11-17 11:54:072020-06-23 13:27:57Real Estate in Saugus, Massachusetts

Real Estate and Continuing Education

November 11, 2019/in Education, Housing /by Maura Allard

Why the Two go Hand-in-Hand

I love being a realtor, and am always working to hone my craft and create a great experience for buyers and sellers alike!  Here’s a bit of information about some certificates that I’ve recently completed – they qualify me to work with seniors, veterans, and people who are relocating.

Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
I specialize in working with Seniors, and I’m certified to do so!  My knowledge of aging in place, downsizing, over 55 communities, and assisted living communities is extensive.  My hands-on approach and focus on reducing the stress of moving helps seniors and their families feel more comfortable.

USAA Certification
As a child of a veteran, and a step-mother to an active duty step-daughter, I feel strongly in helping our veterans and military find the home of their dreams. The VA loan is an excellent product that veterans and active duty military have earned. I work closely with mortgage broker Steve Lewis, who is extremely knowledge on VA financing and how to make home buying feasible for our military members.

Cartus Certification
Moving to a new city or town can be overwhelming – let alone a new state or country!  I thoroughly enjoy taking clients who are relocating to this area out to see houses.  I often take them in my car and drive through the North Shore, pointing out all the local hotspots, driving by the ocean, and showing off all the great schools, facilities, and parks in our area.  If we have enough time, I love to grab a bite to eat or a coffee.

My favorite part about being a realtor is the people.  If you’re in the market to buy or sell a home, I would love to talk to you about your plans!

Let’s Talk!

Want to learn more about me and how I work?

About Me • Real Estate for Seniors • Community Contributor Program

0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-11-11 17:15:342020-06-23 13:28:19Real Estate and Continuing Education

Buying a Home in Lynn, Massachusetts

November 5, 2019/in Community, For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

Have you ever thought about living in Lynn, Massachusetts?

It’s close to Boston, the airport, and has great transit connections.

Best of all, Lynn is diverse and has a great downtown.

  • Lynn Population: 94,000
  • Time from Lynn to Boston: 30 minutes
  • Things to do in Lynn: Lynn Shore, Lynn Museum and Historical Society, High Rock Park, Tower, and Observatory

Let’s talk about finding you and your family a home in Hamilton/Wenham! Send me a message below.

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

0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-11-05 11:51:392020-06-23 13:28:23Buying a Home in Lynn, Massachusetts

Real Estate in Hamilton, Massachusetts

October 25, 2019/in Community, For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

Hamilton/Wenham is great for families and nature-lovers. And I think The Musary music instrument lending library is one of the coolest things I’ve ever heard of!

It’s no wonder Hamilton/Wenham has been rated as one of the best places to live in the area.

  • Hamilton/Wenham Population: 13,000
  • Time from Hamilton/Wenham to Boston: 30-40 minutes
  • Things to do in Hamilton/Wenham: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Wenham Museum, Beck Pond

Let’s talk about finding you and your family a home in Hamilton/Wenham!

Get in Touch

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

0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-10-25 15:40:532020-06-23 13:28:27Real Estate in Hamilton, Massachusetts

Buying a Home in Ipswich, Massachusetts

October 8, 2019/in For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

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!

  • Ipswich Population: 12,000
  • Time from Ipswich to Boston: 30 minutes
  • Things to do in Ipswich: Crane Beach, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Wolf Hollow

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

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Senior-Living-Resources-Beverly-MA-13.jpg 531 800 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-10-08 09:41:392020-06-23 13:28:52Buying a Home in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Buying Real Estate in Topsfield, Massachusetts

September 23, 2019/in Community, For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

Topsfield is a beautiful place to live! Located in Boston’s North Shore, Topsfield is just 22 miles to Boston. Topsfield retains its old charm, with an annual fair and lots of outdoor amenities.

If you’re looking for a strong sense of a community and a big backyard, let’s talk about buying a home in Topsfield!

  • Topsfield Population: 7,000
  • Time from Topsfield to Boston: 35 minutes
  • Things to do in Topsfield: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Bradley Palmer State Park, Topsfield Fair

If you’re looking for a realtor in Topsfield, we should 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

Be sure to follow me on Instagram!
0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-09-23 13:25:442020-06-23 13:29:09Buying Real Estate in Topsfield, Massachusetts

Real Estate for Sale in Newburyport, Massachusetts

September 17, 2019/in Community, For Sale, Housing /by Maura Allard

How do you feel about parks?

What about waterfronts? Historic buildings? Great schools?

If you love all of these things -and who doesn’t – we should talk about buying a home in Newburyport, Massachusetts!

  • Newburyport Population: 20,000
  • Time from Newburyport to Boston: 50 minutes
  • Things to do in Newburyport: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Plum Island, Custom House Maritime Museum

Searching for homes for sale in Newburyport, Massachusetts? 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

Be sure to Follow me on Instagram!
0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-09-17 16:56:102020-06-23 13:29:27Real Estate for Sale in Newburyport, Massachusetts
Page 1 of 3123

Recent Posts

  • Getting to Know Your New NeighborhoodDecember 21, 2022 - 2:27 am
  • Ridding Your Home of Negative EnergyDecember 12, 2022 - 9:46 pm
  • How to Prepare Your Home for WinterNovember 22, 2022 - 6:02 pm
  • Feng Shui Your BedroomNovember 21, 2022 - 4:36 pm
  • 5 Ways to Bless Your New HomeOctober 19, 2022 - 2:12 pm

Subscribe To My Newsletter

Get Updates and Learn From the Best

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Association Logos

loader-image
Top Agent
Senior Advocates
Move Safe
Expertise
BNI
Top 300
Northeast Association of Realtors

79 Bridge Street
Beverly, MA 01915

978.835.8954
[email protected]

Quick Links
  • Meet the Team
  • Reviews
  • Buyers
  • Sellers
  • Blog
  • Contact
View this profile on Instagram

Maura Allard | Realtor MA (@mauraallardrealtor) • Instagram photos and videos

Copyright 2022 - Maura Allard Realtor. All Rights Reserved. Photography by Raya on Assignment Website Design by Compete Now.

Ask a Question

Schedule a call with me or send me with any questions you have and I will be in touch shortly!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Scroll to top