Internet/Social Media – Advertising has moved online and advertising your home is no exception. By working with an experienced real estate agent you’ll be able to have your home listed online for hundreds of potential buyers to see.

Differentiation – In today’s market it’s all about distinguishing your house from others. An increasingly popular way of doing so is providing incentives for potential buyers to come look at your home. For instance, for an open house, offer a raffle for attendants to win a pair of Red Sox tickets. There is obviously an upfront cost to offering incentives, however the possibility of having someone become interested in buying your home as a result could be worth it!

Leasing – Although leasing your home may not be realistic for everyone, it may be a practical temporary solution if you’re having trouble selling. There are definitely advantages to leasing your home for a year or longer – leasing extends your home sales window and when the lease is up the real estate market may be in a better state for you to sell your home more easily.

Price Drop – Again, this may not be the best solution for everyone, but in some situations it may make sense to drop the price of your home. However, before doing so make sure to consult your real estate agent as well as an attorney who is knowledgeable about the real estate market in the area.

To start the process of selling your home on the right foot contact an experienced Warren Residential real estate agent today!

The spaces in 42 Chauncey are filled with, well, space!  With ceilings from 10-20 feet, these lofts offer massive cubic square footage.  The lofts’ location, Boston’s Midtown District, means that residents have easy access to the Boston Common, the Financial District, amazing restaurants, and Boston’s best night life.  If that isn’t enough, the Green, Orange, or Red T Lines can take you just about anywhere else you will ever need to go in Boston.

The Edison Electric Building Lofts at 42 Chauncey also feature hardwood floors and in-unit laundry.  Each kitchen is fully loaded with stainless steel appliances as well as marble or granite counter-tops.   Residents also enjoy large windows, custom build-outs, walk-in closets, and wine closets.  42 Chauncey certainly earns its luxury loft building status.

If you are interested in Boston luxury condo information or living at The Edison Electric Building Lofts, contact Warren Residential Group today!

We often forget that there is tourism right here in our own town; and sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist at home! Below are four ideas for summer activities that do not require a vacation but do involve fun for the whole family:

Boston Museum of Science

With over 700 interactive, hands-on exhibits as well as a beautiful planetarium and OMNI MAX Theater (Better than IMAX) with shows running all day, the Museum of Science makes for many hours of educational fun.  While much of the museum is kid-centric, there is certainly plenty to keep adults entertained and engaged as well.  The museum is located on an easily accessible plot of land spanning the Charles River between Cambridge and Downtown Boston, and has plenty of parking.

Fenway Park Tour

Tour the historic ballpark with the whole family!  Learn about the history of Fenway Park, the Red Sox, and Boston in a behind the scenes tour of the stadium.  Make sure not to wear Yankees gear if you have any, because you’ll be the butt of every joke on the whole tour.  If you didn’t already know where it is, the park is located in the Fenway/Kenmore area.   Any Bostonian will happily give you directions.

High-Speed Catamaran Whale Watch

Hop aboard a fun and fast catamaran and get to the whales quickly.  It’s always nice to spend a day on the water, and adding family and whale-watching makes it even better.  The boats feature three decks so everyone on board gets the best view possible.  There is also a spacious, indoor, climate-controlled cabin with cushioned seats, tables, and available snacks and drinks.  Take the Blue Line “T” to the Aquarium stop.  Tickets for whale-watching are available at Long Wharf in Boston’s hip Seaport District.

The Franklin Park Zoo

Take the family to see some exotic animals up close.  The Franklin Park Zoo features the most intimate gorilla exhibit in the whole world where you can see the famous baby gorilla Kambiri!  Zoo guests also love the Lion exhibit and the recreated savannah with giraffes and zebras.  Located in Franklin Park next to Dorchester, the zoo is easy to get to by car or mass transit.

So enjoy your summer with the whole family!  Does your family need a bigger place or are you interested in buying or selling a home? Contact Warren Residential today!

How your home looks on the exterior can make or break a purchasing decision for prospective buyers. Many realtors will tell you that potential homebuyers subconsciously decide whether or not they will buy within the first 15-30 seconds of seeing the home. Here are a few tips on how you can make your home stand out to homebuyers in a positive way:

Exterior Color – If the paint is beginning to peel on the siding of your home you should definitely consider sprucing it up with a fresh coat of paint. Depending on your neighborhood, it might be a good idea to take a look at other houses in the area to get a sense of the general aesthetic of the area. You don’t have to paint your house the same color as your neighbor, but homebuyers typically like to see consistency in the neighborhood where they’re looking to purchase a home.

Entryways – Making sure that the entryways to your home meet standards is essential. Remove any potential obstacles blocking the walkway to ensure easy access to your home. It would also be a good idea to clean up the driveway and/or pathway to your home – sweep away leaves and other debris and maybe even pressure wash the area to make it shine.

Landscaping – The state of your front yard is another thing that potential homebuyers notice immediately upon arriving at your house. While you should be sure to maintain a freshly cut lawn, you need to make sure that the rest of the landscaping in your yard is nicely manicured. You may even consider hiring a professional landscaping crew to make your front yard look as nice as possible.

Welcoming Elements – Smaller, seemingly insignificant, details that prospective buyers tend to notice are “welcoming” elements on the exterior of your home. For instance, buyers take note of the state of your mailbox, welcome mat, doorbell, house numbers, and doorknob. If these elements of your home appear a bit outdated, consider replacing them with new ones. This is a fairly inexpensive way to give a positive first impression of your home.

These small changes can make a huge difference in the appearance of your home and ultimately might sway someone’s decision of whether or not to buy. To help improve your home’s chances of leaving a good, lasting impression make an investment to the exterior of your Boston home for sale. For further help in the process of selling your property contact a Warren Residential real estate agent today!

Curb Appeal. The first and most important impression that potential buyers have of your home is their walk to the front door. It’s difficult in Boston real estate to add “curb appeal” to your apartment door within your building. A lot of this first impression is out of your control. However, if you own a home in Allston or a brownstone in the Back Bay, it’s easy to spruce up the front of your home. Just by sweeping the front steps, adding a door mat, trimming the hedges, or cutting the front lawn, you can immediately improve the odds for a positive first impression.

De-clutter. Your friends might know you as the “kooky” one who has a bunch of knick-knacks on every surface of your home. While this is a great way for you to personalize your living space, it’s not a good way to help potential buyers imagine their own things filling up this space. Try storing all those little trinkets covering your mantle in a drawer or basket off to the side temporarily to give your space a more open feel.

Keep in “showing condition.” Give your Boston home a facelift (and keep it uplifted!). You might have already done the typical scrubbing, dusting, and vacuuming in preparation for the warmer weather this spring. However, potential home buyers are less likely to appreciate the sparkling windows when they’re tripping over your kids’ toys scattered around the house. Try to keep your place clean by putting all clothes away, making beds, and keeping the kitchen free of dirty dishes. A little bit goes a long way!

Big and Bright. There are several ways to make your space seem bigger and brighter. These do not include keeping your shades drawn during the day. Obviously you can get great light by placing several lamps throughout your home, but also try to let some natural light into your space. Also, you can make your home appear more spacious by using neutral colors on the walls and ceilings. This can also help by giving potential buyers a “blank slate” to imagine their style on. Finally, the placement of mirrors can do wonders in making your living space seem larger than it is.

Contact Warren Residential today to speak with a real estate agent who can help you sell your Boston home.

But don’t let this news get you down.  Here are six rules of thumb that will help you maximize your return on your home improvement investment.

Rule #1: Biggest returns come from repairs

The smartest way to put your money to work is to put it into maintenance. People may appreciate awesome upgrades like infinity pools or top of the line appliances, but let’s be realistic; they want a solid home where everything works and doesn’t leak.

Try not covering up any of the problems either.  It will cost you more in the long run if they are discovered during a home inspection.  Too often, buyers will request the seller make the repairs, negotiate a much lower price, or pay out a compensation to have the work done.

Rule #2: Choose Remodeling over Add-ons

Large additions don’t pay off either. You’re much better off redesigning and reconfiguring the existing square footage you have with a floor plan that is functional, modern and more desirable at a reasonable expense rather than taking on the costly addition projects to your home.  You’d be surprised a wall removed from the kitchen to the dinning room, or living room, can really open up a home’s space.

Rule #3: Going green saves money

There are a few eco-friendly improvements that’ll pay for them selves way before you start selling your home. Have the home well insulated is a good start.  There’s also a tons of EnergyStar appliances out there on the market that’ll help reduce your energy consumption.

And did I mention tax breaks?!  The federal government offers credit of up to $1,500.  Who’d a thought, saving the environment can save money too.

Rule  #4: Technology infrastructure, not gadgets

Technology and gadgets can get expensive and are usually out dated quickly.  It’s not worth your time and money to invest into something that will be cheap and old by the time you’re ready to sell your home.

However, having an infrastructure that’s relevant to the information age that we live in with cabling and Ethernet ports installed throughout the house will go a long way and can be a low-cost upgrade.

Rule #5: Monkey See, Monkey Do

Now we all hate having to keep up with the Joneses, but keeping your home amenities in line with the rest of the neighborhood will be in your best interest.

You’ll want to pay attention to any trends that occur with the rest of the houses on the block.  Last thing you want is to be that one house that’s out-dated and an eye sore.  Also keep in mind modern architecture, neutral-design, and traditional fixtures that could reach the broadest group of people when you decide to sell.

Rule #6: The new payback time is five years

If you’re just purchasing a home, plan to stay for at least five years if you want to see a return on your investment. If not, don’t take on any big projects. It’s too risky to put all that money into a home and take the chance of it all being lost in a tough housing market.

Right now, Home improvements are a bargain.  According to Bernie Markstein, senior economist with the National Association of Home Builders, “Contractors are bidding 10 percent, 20 percent, even 40 percent lower for the same work just a year or two ago.”  So while the price is low, you will want to make your move

If you want help finding the perfect Boston Real Estate or Brookline Real Estate, please contact Warren Residential today. We would love to help you find your new home, and our knowledgeable agents are equipped with helping you sell your Boston home as well!

Home Improvement loans: A solution to renovation.

Investing in a Boston home or real estate property is a big deal.  It can be the most important and largest asset for a lot of people during their lives.  Which is why it’s just as important to maintain and keep up with the remodeling of the home in order to retain and/or increase its value as time goes on.

Home improvements can be an expensive and extensive project to take on.  Don’t let the daunting task get you down, though.  For those who are considering repairing or updating their home, there’s always the option of taking out a home improvement loan.

A home improvement loan is one of the best solutions a homeowner could use when his or her house is in need of a quick fix.  These kinds of loans are intended to improve the living standards of your Massachusetts home for you and your family. They are typically offered through financial institutions and Banks. Some credit lenders provide affordable interest rates and easy installment terms.  It would be a good idea to shop around for the best lender that fits you, and it wouldn’t be a bad idea to make sure your credit is in order.

Some of the areas where home improvements can be brought about could be kitchen renovation, landscaping and gardening, restoration, energy systems upgrades, eco-friendly improvements, or expansion for the new family addition.  Whatever the case may be all projects are worthwhile investments when it comes to your real estate, especially here in the Boston Metro-area.  Increasing the value of your property will always put you, the homeowner, at an advantage in the real estate market .  And besides, who wouldn’t want to be able to create their dream home?

So here are just a few tips to consider when thinking about applying for a home improvement loan:

• Know what project you want to take on and be detailed about the plan.
• Have a good estimate of your expected costs in renovations.
• Research the institution in which you would like to borrow money.
• Check and understand your credit history as a borrower.
• Know the value of the home.
• Then apply.

You're looking for a home for sale. What next?

If you are buying a home in Boston or looking for real estate in the surrounding neighborhoods, one of the most important steps is making sure you have the property inspected.  The last thing you want to find out after you seal the deal is that your dream house is actually a project house.

Don’t be fooled!  Be prepared.  A well thought-out and thorough inspection can discover expensive defects such as flaws, damages, infestations and/or legal violations; saving you a lot of money in the long run.  Unless you prefer sharing your home with termites or like living in an accident waiting to happen, then this blog article isn’t for you.  But if you do prefer your home pest-free and without worry of having a roof falling on your head, then here are a few tips.

Step 1.) Hire a professional inspector to check the property.

That’s really all the step you need to take. Really, you don’t have to go any further.  But if you’re a handy-dandy do-it-yourselfer that wants to give it a go, or just too “fiscally minded” to hire a professional then here are some alternative tips.

Step 1.)  Inspect the general appearance of the house.  See how it looks from the sidewalk.  Take a look at the landscape.  Does it look appealing? How about the layout?  Ask yourself, “Do I think it looks attractive? Is this a home that makes me feel comfortable?” When it comes to first impressions with a property, go with your gut feeling.

Step 2.) Examine the health of the landscape.  Check the conditions of the soil; look for any signs of pest trouble, standing water, and any sinkholes.   Also ensure that the vegetation is lush, green and well maintained.  No one wants an ugly, eye-sore of a yard that’s all dried up and dead.

Step 3.) Check the home’s exterior.  Does it have vinyl siding? If so, what condition is it in? How about a painted home?  Is it chipping and flaking? If it’s an older house, you may want a professional to analyze it for lead.  How do the shingles look? Are some missing or look aged and ragged? Observe the shape of the home; does the roof and walls look structurally sturdy?  Be sure to inspect the windows, doors and fences for damages as well.

Step 4.) Survey the interior.  Check the floors, walls and ceilings for any visible damage.  Keep an eye out for any water stains or signs of ageing along these surfaces.  Make sure they feel structurally sound.  Does the floor have a spot that gives in when you step into it?  Probably not structurally sound.

Step 5.) Examine mechanical components. Check all systems that involve heating, air conditioning, furnace, fireplace, chimney and sprinklers.  Make sure that they are operational.

Step 6.) Inspect electrical systems.  You want to observe the fuse panel, circuit breakers, wiring, light fixtures and exhaust fans.  Make sure everything works and keep an eye out for any exposed, damaged or frayed wires.

Buying a home? No one ever said it was easy. Warren Residential is here to help.

Step 7.) Check all plumbing systems.  Inspect the drainage, vent pipes, faucets, sinks and toilets.  You are looking for any signs of damages, leaks or stoppage.

And finally…

Step 8.) You want to observe the functionality of the house.  Here are a few things to keep in mind.  Ventilation, how is the air flow?  Does the interior get enough natural light? Are doors and window frames properly sealed? Does it have enough ceiling height and space for you? Are smoke detectors in place? Does it have all the necessary appliances?  How about a garage and driveway?  Make sure it has all the essential things and functionalities it needs to be a home.

If you have any questions about real estate or want help finding the perfect home in the Boston area, please contact Warren Residential today. We would love to help you find your new home, and if you’re in need of selling a home, our knowledgeable agents are ready and equipped to serve you today!

If you’re thinking about selling your home in any of the Boston neighborhoods, you probably know that in order to help make the sale quick and financially beneficial, sometimes home improvements are necessary.

Here are ten worthwhile projects to invest in, and the percentage of cost that is typically recouped at resale in a seller’s market.

1. Painting (As much as 300 percent payback)

If you’re going to do one thing, paint! Interior and exterior painting is one of the few improvements on which you are likely to realize a profit. Just make sure you choose tasteful, current, neutral colors, and the work looks as though it has been professionally done (if you can do the work at a professional level, then by all means, do it yourself!)

2. Bathroom Addition (80 to 130 percent payback)

If your home has only one bathroom is meant to house more than two people, a bathroom addition should be one of your top priorities, especially if most homes in your neighborhood have two or more bathrooms. If yours has just one or one and a half, you will definitely increase your property value by adding a bath.

3. Bathroom remodeling (65-120 percent payback)

Upgrading a bathroom will add to your daily comfort and enjoyment and add to the value of your home. A timeless and safe choice for a bathroom remodel is white porcelain.

4. Kitchen Remodeling (68 to 120 percent payback)

Careful planning and shopping can help minimize the costs of this project, which is typically known as one of the most expensive. When remodeling the kitchen, remember to keep the project in line with the quality and style of the rest of the house and neighborhood. If your kitchen has an older feeling, don’t put in a pricey granite countertop or refrain from installing an all new $50,000 kitchen in a house that is only valued at $200,000.

5. Finishing Unfinished Space (50 to 90 percent payback)

Whether it’s an attic or a basement, finishing spaces adds significant value to your home by increasing square footage without having to actually build any additions.

6. Window/Door Replacement (50 to 90 percent payback)

If your windows or doors are wasting energy or just decrepit looking, replacements can be an excellent use of your home improvement dollars. Stick to the old standard styles; odd shapes or highly customized arrangements are not very beneficial for resale value.

7. Deck Improvement (65 to 90 percent payback)

Whether it’s adding an addition, expanding on an already existing deck, or just improving your deck with a new paint job, decks are one of the few exterior improvements with any significant returns.

8.  Adding a Room (50 to 83 percent payback)

Increasing square footage by making an addition to bedrooms, family rooms, and other areas is almost always an excellent use of remodeling dollars, but don’t expand your home so much that it intrudes onto your outdoor space leaving little to no space.

9. Home Office Remodeling (60 to 73 percent payback)

This project is becoming increasingly popular, just be sure to plan for plenty of electrical and cable outlets to accommodate all the required machines and gadgets.

10.  Energy Efficiency Retrofits (Highly variable payback)

If your primary concern is a return on your investment, proceed with caution. Some retrofits, like better insulation and high-efficiency furnaces pay for themselves relatively quickly. Other less mainstream retrofits such as solar panels, tankless water heaters, and heat recovery ventilators may take years to pay for themselves.

If you want help finding the perfect Boston Real Estate or Brookline Real Estate, please contact Warren Residential today. We would love to help you find your new home, and our knowledgeable agents are equipped with helping you sell your Boston home as well!

If you plan on listing Boston real estate or Brookline real estate, consider giving your home a little winter face-lift. There is a lot of competition in the marketplace; your listing needs to be in tip-top shape.

Remove Snow and Ice.

If  a buyer can’t easily park and access your property, it’s not going to sell. Shovel, salt, and tidy your walkway and driveway at least every other day, and especially when you know buyers are going to be touring your home, whether you’re listing a Cambridge condo or a South Boston apartment.

Create a Warm Atmosphere

If you know a buyer is coming through, turn up the thermostat! While it may be tempting to save a few bucks by skimping on heat, buyers who aren’t comfortable won’t stay for very long. For those who are fortunate enough to have a fireplace, utilize it during open houses for additional ambiance.

Light Up

Use timers and technology to your advantage to make your home feel lived in. Install motion sensors that light up a driveway or walkway and set indoor lamps to automatically turn on in the evening. Another trick to creating a better mood for potential home buyers is by tuning your radio to a classical station; the soft music is welcoming and soothing.

Showcase Seasonal Listing Photos

Since the winter months are often cold, gray, and dreary, show potential buyers an album of photographs taken during the warmer months, even if you don’t have a ton of landscaping or outside amenities included with the property. Pictures that display warm light streaming through the windows or flowers and trees in full bloom present a brighter and happier home than the bare branches of winter.

Don’t be discouraged! Winter is a popular time for relocation; Boston is the 8^th largest city for relocating professionals with many corporate moves occurring during the winter. If you would like to invest in Boston Real Estate or find the perfect Brookline apartment, contact an agent at Warren Residential Group today. One of our knowledgeable agents would be happy to assist you!