MetroWest Real Estate and Community News

April 5, 2024

America is Running Out of Homeowners Insurance.

 

 

It’s becoming harder and insanely expensive to insure a home in America. With once-typical weather events growing more destructive, insurance giants have continued to increase their policy premiums. Some have even abandoned entire states, leaving residents fewer and costlier choices to protect against catastrophes.

 

On average (nationwide) premiums increased 21% from May 2022 to May 2023, according to a study by online insurance marketplace Policygenius. That eclipsed the already staggering 12% rise from the previous year.

 

This surge in expense is adding to the strain on the housing market, which is already grappling with elevated interest rates, soaring prices, and escalating construction costs.

 

Why insurance costs are surging?

 

Insurance companies insist they're just playing catch-up, after two years of big losses. For every dollar in home and auto premiums they collected last year, insurance companies paid an average of $1.10 in claims and expenses, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

 

As your real estate agent, my goal is not only to help you find your dream home but also to guide you through the process of homeownership and all that entails. If you are one of the many, struggling with escalating premiums, here are three things you can do about it.

 

 

1. Shop Around and Bundle Policies

 

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, have prompted insurance providers to reassess their risk exposure. As a result, you may find yourself grappling with higher premiums, making the cost of protecting your investment a significant concern.

 

To combat escalating premiums, actively shop around for insurance providers. Obtaining quotes from multiple companies allows for a comprehensive comparison of coverage and pricing. Additionally, bundling homeowners insurance with other policies, such as auto insurance, can often lead to discounted rates, providing a cost-effective solution.

 

2. Understand Your Policy and Advocate for Amendments

 

Another common challenge is the discovery of coverage gaps or unexpected exclusions in your policies. Insurance policies are laden with fine print, and you may not fully understand the limitations until you need to file a claim. This can lead to unwelcome surprises and financial strain in the event of property damage.

 

To avoid this challenge, invest time in thoroughly understanding your insurance policies. It is crucial to identify potential coverage gaps and exclusions and discuss them with the insurance provider. In some cases, policyholders may be able to negotiate amendments to better suit your needs, ensuring a more comprehensive and tailored coverage.

 

3. High-Risk Areas: Explore Specialized Insurance Options and Mitigation Measures

 

If you are considering buying a home in a high-risk area, such as a flood-prone zone or a region prone to natural disasters, you may face difficulties securing affordable homeowners insurance. Insurance providers could be hesitant to offer coverage or may impose exorbitant premiums, leaving you in a difficult position.

 

For high-risk areas, seeking specialized insurance options tailored to your specific needs is essential. Additionally, you can take proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as implementing flood-resistant home improvements or installing security systems, which may lead to reduced premiums and increased eligibility for coverage.

 

While challenges in obtaining homeowners insurance persist, proactive measures can help you navigate these difficulties and secure the protection you need for your home. By staying informed, advocating for tailored coverage, and exploring available options, homeowners can protect themselves against the uncertainties of the insurance landscape and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-protected property. Want to get connected to an insurance agent who can help? Contact our team and we’d be glad to make an introduction.


Posted in Real Estate News
Nov. 30, 2023

Holiday Home Safety Tips

 

 

The holiday season is here! While this is a time for joy and celebration, it's also important that your home stays safe and secure. Whether you're planning a holiday getaway or simply enjoying festivities at home, safeguarding your property should be a top priority.

That’s why Vesta Real Estate Group is here to share some tips to help you keep your home safe during the holidays.


1. Lock All Entry Points

Locking your doors and windows may sound like common sense, but it's often overlooked during the holiday hustle and bustle. Make sure all entry points are securely locked before leaving your home or heading to bed. Deadbolt locks provide an added layer of security.

 

2. Invest in Smart Home Security

Modern technology makes securing your home more convenient than ever. Consider installing a smart home security system—complete with cameras, alarms, and doorbell footage—to mitigate porch pirates. You can also monitor your property remotely and receive alerts in case of any suspicious activity. This definitely comes in handy with all that holiday traveling.

 

3. Don't Advertise Your Absence

While it's natural to share your holiday plans with friends and family, avoid publicizing your absence on social media. Burglars often scout for vacant homes online. Save the vacation pics and updates for after your return.

 

4. Adequate Lighting

Keep your home well-lit, especially during the evenings. Motion-activated lights on entryways and pathways deter potential intruders. You can also use timers for indoor lights to give the illusion of an occupied home.

 

5. Secure Your Mail and Deliveries

A pile of mail or packages on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one's home. Request mail holds from your local post office during your absence or ask a neighbor to collect your packages. Alternatively, you can use a package locker or a parcel drop box for added security.

 

6. Hide Valuables

Stow away your valuable items, like jewelry and electronics, in a secure location. Consider investing in a home safe for added protection, and don't leave tempting items in plain sight from windows or doors.

 

7. Ask a Trusted Neighbor for Help

Good neighbors look out for one another. Talk with a trustworthy neighbor about your travel plans. They can keep an eye on your property, collect your mail, and even park their car in your driveway to create the appearance of an occupied home.

 

8. Keep Your Home and Yard Maintained

An unkept home and yard can signal that nobody is home. Make sure to maintain your property—even in your absence. Arrange for snow removal or lawn care to uphold the façade that someone is home.

 

By following these tips, you can enjoy the holiday festivities with some peace of mind. Also, reach out to our team for more real estate tips and tricks. Vesta Real Estate Group is always happy to be your guide to the MetroWest real estate market. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season!

 

Posted in Community News
Oct. 28, 2023

8 Ways to Practice Daily Gratitude

 

 

In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily errands and the 9-5 grind. However, amidst the chaos, there's an invaluable element that can enhance your day-to-day life—gratitude. Today, The Vesta Real Estate Group will explore how gratitude can transform your daily life.

 

1. A Mindful Start to Your Day

Start your day by spending 60 seconds to appreciate the simple things in life: the warmth of the sun, the sound of your healthy kids laughing, or the comfort of your home. By appreciating these small moments, you set a positive tone for the day ahead and cultivate a deeper connection with the world around you.

 

2. Boosting Mental Well-Being

Gratitude isn't just a feeling; it's a practice that can actively enhance your mental well-being. Start by keeping a gratitude journal, jotting down three things you're thankful for each day. This simple exercise trains your mind to focus on the positive aspects of life, reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, consider practicing mindfulness meditation, where you intentionally pay attention to the present moment without judgment. This can help you become more aware of the many blessings in your life, both big and small, and foster a deep sense of gratitude.

 

3. Creating a Supportive Network

Express gratitude to the people who make up your social and professional circles. Whether it's a colleague who supports your career or a friend who offers a listening ear, these relationships are vital to your livelihood. All it takes is a simple appreciation text or a quick check-in call. This will extend the livelihood of your relationships.

 

4. Enhancing Personal Growth

Gratitude isn't just about the present; it extends to the past and future as well. Reflect on the lessons learned from past experiences, both positive and negative. Be grateful for the opportunities that lie ahead, as they will contribute to your personal growth and development.

 

5. Financial Appreciation

Take a moment to appreciate your financial stability and the opportunities it affords. Gratitude for your income and resources can help you make informed financial decisions and work towards your long-term goals. This also includes homeownership and the wise decision to invest in real estate.

 

6. Community Engagement

Show gratitude for the community you're a part of—whether it's your neighborhood, workplace, or online networks. Engage with others and contribute positively to your community. Your active involvement can lead to personal and professional growth, as well as uplifting someone else’s spirit.

 

7. Lifelong Learning and Skills

Gratitude can be applied to your quest for knowledge and skills. Embrace learning with a thankful heart, knowing that every lesson and skill acquired enriches your life and livelihood. This is often helpful when receiving feedback and critique—this is a moment dedicated to bettering your skills. Take the time to let the information settle and appreciate the growth to come.

 

8. Paying It Forward

As you experience the benefits of gratitude in your life, consider how you can extend this positivity to others. Acts of kindness, mentorship, or volunteering can have a ripple effect. Or, consider donating household items to a local shelter or even offering your time to help elderly loved ones with a physical project.


In a nutshell, gratitude is the key to unlocking a more meaningful and fulfilling life, both personally and professionally. By practicing gratitude daily, you can improve your mental well-being, nurture relationships, and open doors to new opportunities. So, take a moment each day to be thankful for the beauty of life, your home, and the world around you—it's the foundation for a happier and more enriched existence.

 

Posted in Community News
Sept. 26, 2023

10 Home Staging Tips Every Seller Should Know

Are you planning to put your Metro West home on the market? First impressions matter!

While it’s important to clean and declutter your home, staging can highlight its best features, maximize space, and create an inviting atmosphere that potential buyers will love. As your local listing experts, The Vesta Real Estate Group has put together a list of 10 expert tips for staging your home to help you sell quickly and for top dollar.

 

1. Declutter and depersonalize.

Before you start staging your home, it's essential to declutter and depersonalize the space. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that might distract buyers from envisioning themselves in the home. A clean and tidy space allows buyers to focus on the property's potential.

 

2. Enhance curb appeal.

First impressions start at the curb. Enhance your home's curb appeal by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding fresh flowers or potted plants. A welcoming exterior can set a positive tone for the rest of the showing.

 

3. Light it up.

Maximize the natural light in your home by opening curtains and blinds during showings. For rooms that lack natural light, strategically place lamps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Adequate lighting can make spaces feel larger and more appealing.

 

4. Neutral colors.

Neutral colors are universally appealing and make it easier for buyers to imagine their furniture and belongings in the space. Consider repainting bold-colored walls with neutral tones to create a blank canvas for buyers.

 

5. Rearrange and optimize space with furniture.

Rearranging furniture can make a room feel more spacious and functional. Try to create inviting conversation areas and ensure that the furniture placement boosts the room's best features— such as a beautiful view or a cozy fireplace.

 

6. Add greenery.

Plants and flowers can breathe life into a space and make it feel more vibrant. Consider adding some indoor plants or fresh flowers in strategic locations to add a touch of nature and freshness to your home.

 

7. Create a cozy atmosphere.

Create a warm and cozy atmosphere by adding soft and textured elements, such as throw pillows, blankets, and area rugs. A comfortable setting can make potential buyers feel at home.

 

8. Focus on kitchens and bathrooms.

Kitchens and bathrooms are crucial selling points in any home. Ensure they are spotless and organized—and consider adding a bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers to the kitchen island to add a pop of color.

 

9. Highlight outdoor spaces.

If your home has outdoor spaces like a patio, balcony, or garden, make sure they are well-maintained and staged to showcase their potential. Add outdoor furniture and accessories to help buyers visualize how they can use the space for relaxation and entertainment.

 

10. Appeal to the senses.

Lastly, don't forget to appeal to the senses. Use plug-in air fresheners or neutral-scented candles. However, always be careful not to overdo it when it comes to scents. Not all noses are the same, and a powerful plug-in could potentially ruin a buyers opinion during their showing.

 

Staging your home may require a bit of effort, but the results can be truly transformative. By following these 10 expert tips, you can make your home stand out in our competitive real estate market and increase your chances of attracting serious buyers.

Remember, a well-staged home paired with an expert real estate agent are the best combination to get your home sold for the perfect price in no time. So, make sure to reach out to our team to talk with an agent about listing your home today!

 

Posted in Selling Your Home
Aug. 25, 2023

Tips For Getting Back to Business After Summer Break

 

Ah, summer—the season of sandy toes, tan lines, and lazy afternoons. However, it’s time to say farewell to go-with-the-flow schedules now that fall has arrived and school is back in session. While summertime offers a much-needed break, it can be difficult stepping back into a productive routine.

Not to worry! Vesta Real Estate Group is happy to act as your guide to lead you back to the world of productivity. We’re here to help you accomplish your big goals and finish out the year stronger than ever!

So, here are our tips for getting back to a productive schedule:

 

1. Reflect on the Good Times

As you reluctantly wave goodbye to your summer schedule, take a moment to reminisce about the amazing memories you've made. Remember the family camping trips and neighborhood barbecues and all the nostalgic summer moments in between. Cherish these moments—they are the fuel that will light your productivity fire.

 

2. Create a Mindful Schedule

Now that you're back to the grind, it's essential to set yourself up for success. Grab your calendar (or your trusty digital assistant) and start planning your days. Remember, a well-organized schedule is the key to unlocking your productivity superpowers—but don't forget to leave some room for spontaneity. Life is too short to be color-coded all the time!

 

3. Set Realistic Goals

The only thing more refreshing than an ice-cold lemonade on a scorching day is setting achievable goals. While it's tempting to reach for the stars, start small and work your way up. You will feel more productive as you stack-up accomplishments that eventually add-up to that massive goal that used to be intimidating. 

 

4. Embrace the Early Bird Life

We know, dragging yourself out of bed can be a struggle. But trust us, the early bird catches the productivity worm! Wake up a half-hour earlier than usual and savor the quiet moments before the world awakens. Make yourself a cup of coffee, watch the sunrise, and tackle your most important tasks. You'll feel accomplished by breakfast.

 

5. Sprinkle Fun Breaks Throughout the Day

Productivity doesn't mean locking yourself in a room with endless to-do lists. It’s important to establish the work-life balance that suits your needs. If your mind is stuck in the nitty-gritty details of your day’s projects, it will eventually deplete your motivation to return tomorrow morning. So, make sure to pencil-in moments of fun and spontaneity to make the most of every day.

 

6. Avoid the Procrastination Trap

Ah, procrastination—the true thief of time. Everyone battles with procrastination one way or another, but do you know how to combat it? Vesta has a secret weapon for you: the Pomodoro Technique. Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break. Rinse and repeat until your tasks are complete. It's a productivity game-changer!

 

7. Harness the Power of Accountability

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a team to keep you accountable. Find a productivity buddy or join a group that shares your goals. Together, you'll tackle your to-do lists, cheer each other on, and exchange virtual high-fives. With accountability on your side, nothing can stop you—not even that relentless urge to binge-watch your favorite series.

 

8. Celebrate Victories, Big and Small

As you progress on your productivity journey, take a moment to acknowledge your achievements. It’s so tempting to brush aside your accomplishments and move onto the next project, but it’s important to remember why you set these goals in the first place. Don’t forget that life is meant to be celebrated, and each step closer to your goals deserves a standing ovation!

 

Summer may have come to an end, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. With a pinch of reflection, a dash of planning, and a whole lot of enthusiasm, you can seamlessly transition into a productive end-of-year routine. If you still have a 2023 real estate goal you want to achieve, make sure to reach out to Vesta Real Estate Group. We would be honored to help you tackle your goals and guide you through your next move.

Posted in Community News
June 26, 2023

Avoid These Biggest Home Purchase Regrets

Avoid These Biggest Home Purchase Regrets

Buying a home is often the biggest purchase someone will make in their life. However, the housing market can be an intimidating place—especially with low inventory and bidding wars. As your real estate agent, it’s our job to guide you through the market and help you make informed decisions. Just like with any purchase, there's a possibility of buyer’s remorse—but we’re here to help you steer clear of any regrets and make your real estate transaction as smooth as possible. Take a look at these top home purchase regrets from 2021 to 2022 if you’re thinking about buying a home in the near future. 

 

1. Spending Too Much

The biggest regret most people feel when buying is spending too much. People often set a budget before starting their house-hunting journey, but it’s easy to be influenced by the heat of the market and bid higher than your established budget. To avoid this problem in the future, don’t think about the final price tag, but rather what the monthly payments will look like. Consider if it will be something you can afford? If not, it’s best to walk away. There's no sense in regretting your decision later. Also, if you find yourself torn in a bidding war, make sure to consult with your real estate agent to discuss your options. 

 

2. Rushing Into a Purchase

When the market is hot and competition is fierce, the process of buying a home might feel like getting caught in a flash flood. Twenty-six percent of people regret buying a home too quickly. While it’s easy to get swept up in a fast-paced market, make sure to take time to think over your decisions. This is a big purchase, and it’s okay to “sleep on it” before moving forward.

 

3. High Maintenance

While a pool or a sprawling lawn may seem like a good idea at the time, you may regret those choices later when it comes to maintenance they require. Understand the responsibilities of home ownership and try your best not to bite off more than you can chew. Often, being a homeowner can be overwhelming when the unexpected happens and you may not be prepared. Do your best to set up an emergency fund and gauge how much you can handle when it comes to home maintenance.

 

4. Fixer-Uppers

All this room needs is a new coat of paint—right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case for 24% of people. Purchasing a home in need of work with the intent of fixing it completely may sound like a fun project for many homeowners, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed with it comes to renovations. Often, homeowners discover even more problems with a home during this process of renovation which drives their budgets higher. So when it comes to fixer-uppers, do your research and make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into.

 

5. Buying Sight-Unseen

Many out-of-state buyers will consider making an offer on a home they’ve never seen in person, but 17% of people consider that a poor decision. Sure, it might save time upfront, but it could completely set you back if it turns out you're unhappy with your choice. Oftentimes pictures and digital tours can be deceiving when it comes to space, layout, color, and much more. But if worse comes to worse and you are unable to tour a home before making an offer, make sure to send someone you trust to give an honest opinion on the property.

 

6. Poor Location

Sometimes when purchasing a house, a buyer can get distracted by the look and aesthetic of the home. Make sure to investigate the location and neighborhood before signing the dotted line. The design of a home can easily be changed, but the location and neighborhood cannot. Make sure to keep these important factors in mind when purchasing a new home.

 

It’s easy to get swept-up in the excitement of buying a home. Make sure to work with a real estate expert to help you make informed decisions when it comes to the housing market. If you’re a buyer ready to start looking for your dream home, Vesta Real Estate Group would be happy to assist you!

 

(Source: Anytime Estimate with a survey of over 1,000 people.)

Posted in Selling Your Home
Jan. 2, 2018

Holliston Real Estate: A Year in Review, FAQ

Holliston Real Estate: A Year in Review, FAQ

The story in Holliston real estate for 2017 is an interesting one.  Compared to last year,

 

How many homes were sold, and were they on the market a long time?

There was an increase in the number of home sold, and the average home spent less time on the market! 

How much did home values like mine appreciate in 2017?

The average Holliston home sold for 10% more this year than 2016.

 

 

Did mortgage rate increases in 2017 affect you? 

Not if you had a fixed rate mortgage!  But, if you are moving, that same $400,000 mortgage that you would have received early in 2017 would have cost you ~$230 more per month if you waited until December. Many forecast project three additional rate hikes may be in store for 2018, so sooner is better! 

 

Where do buyers shop for house options when ready to move? 

A national report states that 90% of home buyers start their search on the internet.   All homes listing on the Multiple Listing Service can be found on most Realtor websites, like www.VestaMA.com, or on the national sites like www.Zillow.com.

 

 

Nov. 21, 2017

Homeownership: Key to Building Personal Wealth

Is home ownership still all it’s cracked up to be? The resounding answer? Yes!

Regardless of the fiscal, economic or political environment, owning a home is a key element of building personal wealth. Prior generations aspired to home ownership as a symbol of stability, accomplishment and whether intentional or not, a form of savings. History has proved that those who have purchased a home gained wealth at a rate that far outpaced those who rented.

Five key reasons why homeownership builds wealth:

1. Homeownership is a form of forced savings – Paying your mortgage each month allows you to build equity in your home that you can tap into later in life for renovations, to pay off high-interest credit card debt, or even send a child to college. As a renter, you guarantee that your landlord is the person with that equity.

2. Homeownership provides tax savings – One way to save on taxes is to own your own home. You may be able to deduct your mortgage interest, property taxes, and profits from selling your home, but make sure to always check with your accountant first to find out which tax advantages apply to you in your area.

3. Homeownership allows you to lock in your monthly housing cost – When you purchase your home with a fixed-rate mortgage, you lock in your monthly housing cost for the next 5, 15, or 30 years. Interest rates have remained around 4% all year, marking some of the lowest rates in history. The value of your home will continue to rise with inflation, but your monthly costs will not.

4. Buying a home is cheaper than renting – According to the latest report from Trulia, it is now 37.4% less expensive to buy a home of your own than to rent in the US. That number varies throughout the country but ranges from 6% cheaper in San Jose, CA to 57% cheaper in Detroit, MI.

5. No other investment lets you live inside of it – You can choose to invest your money in gold or the stock market, but you will still need somewhere to live. In a home that you own, you can wake up every morning knowing that your investment is gaining value while providing you a safe place to live.

Posted in Buying a Home
Sept. 20, 2017

To Stage or Not to Stage, That is the Question.

If you ask Vesta Real Estate Group, the unequivocal answer is: Stage!

With over 30 years of combined experience in helping clients buy and sell homes, we firmly recommend staging “to present the house in the best light,” says Liz Kelly, a listing specialist at Vesta. “We believe prepared homes show better and sell faster,” she adds. Vesta feels so strongly about the power of staging, that they pay for a consultation in their clients’ homes to prepare for listing each house. Vesta discussed best practices with Michelle Dalton-Roche, owner and principal designer at Citron Staging and Design, to gain expert insight on the staging process.

Michelle believes the primary goal in staging a home is to appeal to the broadest audience of buyers. In order to accomplish this, the homeowner must remove “distractions” from the house. “Homes are vessels of our travels, memories, images of past and present. Things that resonate with us may not appeal to all buyers,” shares Michelle. Dalton-Roche adds that our personal effects may distract buyers from important home details, such as woodwork or a nice window view. One way Michelle believes you can help potential buyers focus on purchasing your home, is to take down all family photos.

The first step in preparing a home to be staged: decluttering. Removing all distractions, excess furniture and accessories is essential. Michelle explains that it is helpful to take emotion out of the process. “When we say ‘move that out’ it is not a commentary on your personal taste – the goal is to appeal to the broadest number of buyers.” Make no mistake, a staged home looks very different from the appearance of a house in day-to-day living. The idea is to make the home appear homey and spacious but not sparse. For example, countertops should be clear of appliances, but not bare. “An accent piece can tie color or themes from another room, and make the decor cohesive,” says Dalton-Roche.

In preparing your home for sale, Citron Staging and Design advises that the presentation not only has to appeal to an in-person visitor, but items should be placed with a view toward good photographs. “The online picture gallery is the first showing in today’s marketplace, and what prompts a buyer to visit the house,” explains Liz Kelly of Vesta, “We hire professional photographers and videographers because your home’s online first impression is so important.”

Staging your house can be an onerous process, but there is no doubt that your hard work ahead of time, will pay off with a faster, more successful sale!

Posted in Selling Your Home
Feb. 8, 2017

What is “Spring Market?”

In Real Estate, Spring is Here!

If you have ever bought or sold a house, peruse the listings, or just surf on Zillow from time to time, you are familiar with the term “spring market” in real estate. If you google it, scores of articles appear, mostly about the predictions for the upcoming season. This article attempts to help clarify – what is the spring market and is it the right time for you to sell your house, or look to buy one? The answer is very individual, and the factors to consider are several. Whatever your preference, the first decision to make is choosing a qualified and experienced realtor to help you navigate all aspects of the marketplace.

Spring Market – What Does That Mean?

Spring market, also known in real estate circles as “selling season” is the period in the year where the bulk of home sales are transacted. Since this period is not marked by the calendar, the term “spring” market is a bit of a misnomer. There are many variables that go into it: the economy, the region, the setting – urban, suburban, rural – and of course the most unpredictable one, the weather. For simplicity’s sake, this article will discuss what is meant by selling season in the Metrowest region, presuming a relatively stable economy, and weather that is not marked by historical highs and lows.

What Defines “Spring Market?”

The spring market is loosely defined as when things heat up – that is, when listings start coming onto Multiple Listing Service, commonly known as “MLS”, and when buyers start to look in earnest for their next home. It’s a symbiosis of sorts – listings need looking buyers, and home searchers can’t look if there is no inventory. It’s a chicken and egg proposition; which needs to come first, or which is more important? The simple answer is that it can go either way. In a seller’s market – more people are looking to buy than people selling their homes. In a buyer’s market, the reverse is true – there are more listings available than there are buyers, putting those looking to purchase in the position of power or leverage. At the end of the day, it takes both sides of the equation, buyers and sellers, to act for a “market” to occur.

When Does It Start?

As mentioned above, weather is the big unknown, and a significant factor in when the market sees increasing activity. If there is a particularly cold winter, or when the Metrowest is “blessed” with a lot of snow and ice – remember 2014/15’s snowmageddon? – the season may start when the weather lets up and is more mild. People simply do not have the desire to trudge through snow mounds and over black ice to look at houses. Sellers are also less than interested in struggling with snow and concerns of buyers safety on their property during poor weather conditions. The mild winter weather of 2016 brought buyers out early, and activity started in late January and early February. Weather aside, the launch of selling season is a delicate dance of sorts – when buyers start looking, overall activity picks up, and listings can start to sprout up in early February. Typically – as though anything in New England can be categorized that way! – in Metrowest Boston, the spring market heats up after February school vacation.

When Does It End?

Curiously, the ending of selling season is more consistent across regions than the beginning of spring market. Activity seems to slow down around Mother’s Day, and the unofficial “finish line” is Memorial Day. This phenomenon has its outliers: in 2016, for example, the market continued on a steady hum through July. Of course, sellers sell homes every day, and buyers in turn buy them. Why a bulk of the activity ends in May is a curious trend. One theory is that a significant number of home transactions occur in the months leading up to the summer is directly related to people’s desire to move during that season. This school of thought is related to, well, school. Parents like to plan this way to minimize the interruption of the school year, particularly when the move involves a change in school district for their children. These moves are intentionally timed to have the move occur when the children are not in school and the family will be ensconced in their new home and community when school starts in the fall. Others who prefer a summer move may be based on a preference to not move in inclement weather; moving and blizzards just don’t mix. Another contributing factor is that late spring is a busy time for many people, their attentions are turned to the flurry of things happening: graduations, recitals, weddings, summer plans.

In our next article, we will discuss strategies for buying a home in the spring market, and how to best prepare your home – and yourself! – to sell during this busy time in real estate. Regardless of when you sell your home, or buy a new one, the wisest first step is to find an experienced Realtor to guide you every step of the way.

Posted in Selling Your Home