Because buying or selling a home in the Boston area is such a big decision in our lives, the need for clear, trustworthy information and guidance is crucial. And while no one can give you perfect advice, when you align yourself with an expert, you’ll get the best advice for your situation.

An Expert Will Give You the Best Advice Possible

Let’s say you need an attorney, so you seek out an expert in the type of law required for your case. When you go to their office, they won’t immediately tell you how the case is going to end or how the judge or jury will rule. What a good attorney can do, though, is discuss the most effective strategies you can take. They may recommend one or two approaches they believe will work well for your case.

Then,

This month, Nick advises first-time home buyers and ideas for helping them navigate the competitive landscape of the Boston real estate market. Read on to learn how to make an offer competitive and one crucial piece of advice that can help you buy your first home.

What makes the Boston real estate market unique for first-time buyers?

First-time homebuyers in Boston are a bit different. Given that our average sold price in Boston is now over $1m, first-time buyers typically have to wait a bit longer until they can afford to buy a property here vs. other parts of the country.  

Even if they are waiting until they are in their late 20s or 30s, they still may not have enough money for a down payment, so we often see first-time buyers get help

Many people are wondering: will home prices fall this year? Whether you’re a potential homebuyer, seller, or both, the answer to this question matters to you. Let’s break down what’s happening with home prices in the Boston area, where experts say they’re headed, and how this impacts your homeownership goals.

What’s Happening with Home Prices? 

Home prices have seen 121 consecutive months of year-over-year increases. CoreLogic says:

“Price appreciation averaged 15% for the full year of 2021, up from the 2020 full year average of 6%.”

So why are prices climbing so much? It’s because there are more buyers than there are homes for sale. This imbalance is expected to maintain that upward pressure on home prices because homes for sale

With a limited number of homes for sale today and so many buyers looking to make a purchase before mortgage rates rise further, bidding wars are common. According to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), nationwide, homes are getting an average of 4.8 offers per sale. Here’s a look at how that breaks down state-by-state (see map below):

The same report from NAR shows the average buyer made two offers before getting their third offer accepted. In this type of competitive housing market, it’s important to know what levers you can pull to help you beat the competition. While a real estate professional is your ultimate guide to presenting a strong offer, here are a few things you could consider.

Offering over

Nick and the rest of the office recently got a special behind-the-scenes tour of the brand new Raffles Residences. This month, he talks about the exciting aspects of these highly anticipated homes and how they will blend into the Boston landscape.

What can you tell us about the new Raffles Residences?

Like many Bostonians, I had never heard of the Raffles hotel brand before. Walking into the sales center of the Raffles Residences, I sensed a different level of quality and finishes in these homes compared to what we see in many of the new luxury towers in Boston. 

The attention to detail was noticeable immediately, even in the small details like the knockers on the front door. 

This group of developers definitely wasn’t interested in

Many consumers are wondering what will happen with home values in the Boston area over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up in home prices will lead to a situation similar to the housing crash 15 years ago.

However, experts say the market is totally different today. For example, Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, tweeted just last week on this issue:

“. . . We do need price appreciation to slow today (it’s not sustainable over the long run) but high price growth today is supported by fundamentals- short supply, lower rates & demographic demand. And we are in a much different & safer space: better credit quality, low DTI [Debt-To-Income] & tons of equity. Hence, a crash in prices is very

As we enter the spring market, which is historically the busiest in Boston real estate, Nick gives his insight on what you can expect during the season. He offers tips for sellers looking to make a move and those looking for their first home in the Boston area.

What do you expect to see in the busy spring market over the next few months?

One of the factors likely contributing to the increased demand we have already seen in 2022 is the additional six rate hikes the Fed will likely make before the end of the year.  Many buyers are racing against the clock to lock in mortgage rates before they creep higher and reduce their buying power.  

I believe that this trend will continue to get stronger as we get into the spring market resulting in

As a homebuyer, it’s important to plan and budget for the expenses you’ll encounter when you purchase a home in the Boston area. While most people understand the need to save for a down payment, a recent survey found 41% of homebuyers were surprised by their closing costs. Here’s some information to help you get started so you’re not caught off guard when it’s time to close on your home.

What Are Closing Costs?

One possible reason some people are surprised by closing costs may be because they don’t know what they are or what they cover. According to U.S. News and World Report:

“Closing costs encompass a variety of expenses above your property's purchase price. They include things like lender fees, title insurance, government processing

In an annual Gallup poll, Americans chose real estate as the best long-term investment. And it’s not the first time it’s topped the list, either. Real estate has been on a winning streak for the past eight years, consistently gaining traction as the best long-term investment (see graph below):

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home this year, this poll should reassure you. Even when inflation is rising like it is today, Americans agree an investment like real estate truly shines.

Why Is Real Estate a Great Investment During Times of High Inflation?

With inflation reaching its highest level in 40 years, it’s more important than ever to understand the financial benefits of homeownership. Rising inflation means prices are increasing

As spring approaches, many people start thinking about listing their homes for sale in the Boston area. Nick discusses what sellers can expect this year in suburban and city markets. He also gives tips for best maximizing your sale price when you sell.

What can sellers expect in the suburban markets around Boston?

2022 seems to be following in 2021’s footsteps regarding the suburban market. Our agents report even more activity at open houses and multiple offer scenarios. Buyers are becoming more aggressive with dropping contingencies to compete. I believe that this is partially due to buyers' rush to get something under agreement before rates rise.  

I expect this trend to continue for a few months until the rates rise to a point where some