Buyer Agents

Everything to Know About Owning a Houseboat MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent Owning a houseboat is a dream for many, offering a unique lifestyle that blends the comforts of home with the freedom of life on the water. Whether you’re considering it as a full-time residence, a vacation getaway, or a rental investment, there are many aspects to weigh before making the plunge. Here’s everything you need to know about houseboat ownership to decide if it’s the right choice for you. 1. Types of Houseboats Houseboats come in various types, ranging from simple floating cabins to luxurious vessels equipped with all […]

Master Retreats: Mediterranean-Inspired Villa in Montecito, California MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent Mediterranean-inspired villa designs capture the essence of timeless elegance and relaxed luxury, making them a top choice for master retreats. With their distinct architectural elements, these villas offer a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfect for creating a sanctuary-like master suite. Classic design features such as terracotta-tiled roofs, stucco exteriors, and wrought-iron accents are not only visually appealing but also functional, providing insulation and durability in a variety of climates. The essence of Mediterranean design lies in its connection to nature, with expansive windows and outdoor […]

Mortgage Payments Jump Again in October MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent  With the national median payment requested by purchase applicants rising to $2,127 from $2,041 in September, homebuyer affordability decreased in October. This is in line with the Mortgage Bankers Association‘s (MBA) Purchase Applications Payment Index (PAPI), which uses information from the MBA Weekly Applications Survey (WAS) to calculate how new monthly mortgage payments change over time in relation to income.  “Homebuyer affordability conditions declined notably in October as rapidly rising mortgage rates pushed the national median mortgage payment up eighty six dollars from September,” said Edward Seiler, MBA’s Associate VP […]

Don’t Forget Daylight Saving Time Fall Back! MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent  Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving the clock forward in spring and back in the fall to make better use of natural daylight. The transition commonly referred to as “fall back” occurs in the autumn, when clocks are set one hour back, typically on the first Sunday of November. This shift marks the end of Daylight Saving Time, returning most regions to Standard Time. The goal of this transition is to align waking hours with sunlight, saving energy and allowing for more daylight during waking hours […]

Happy Halloween MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent Halloween is celebrated on October 31st each year. It is known for activities like trick-or-treating, where children go door-to-door collecting candy. Many people also enjoy dressing up in costumes, often depicting spooky characters such as ghosts, witches, and monsters. Haunted houses and pumpkin carving are popular traditions as well. The holiday has roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Modern Halloween also includes themed parties and festive decorations. Some people watch horror movies to get into the spooky spirit of […]

How should you pay for home repairs? MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent  When it comes to home repairs, one of the biggest challenges homeowners face is figuring out how to pay for them. A smart first step is to tap into your emergency savings. Ideally, every homeowner should have a fund set aside specifically for unexpected repairs, like a leaky roof or a broken water heater. Using cash from savings is often the best way to pay for home repairs, as it avoids the need to take on additional debt. If the repair is a one-time, moderate expense and your emergency […]

Hire a Pro for These Four Home Projects MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent  While DIY home improvement projects can be fun and rewarding, there are certain tasks where it’s best to leave the work to a professional. Electrical work is one such project. Handling wiring or installing new outlets and fixtures can be dangerous without the proper training and experience. Faulty wiring can lead to electrical fires, not to mention the risk of electric shock. Licensed electricians have the expertise to ensure that the job is done safely and in compliance with local building codes, which can also help you avoid […]

The Best Tools for Picking Up Leaves in Your Yard MABA MassachusettsRealEstate MaBuyerAgent FirstTimeHomeBuyers As fall leaves blanket your yard, keeping your outdoor space tidy can feel like a daunting task. Fortunately, there are several effective tools designed to make leaf collection easier and more efficient. Whether you’re dealing with a few scattered leaves or a yard full of fallen foliage, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to the best tools for picking up leaves in your yard. 1. Leaf Blower A leaf blower is an indispensable tool for quickly gathering large quantities of […]

Indigenous Day! MABA MassachusettsRealEstate MaBuyerAgent FirstTimeHomeBuyers   Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed on the second Monday of October, honors the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the Americas. It serves as a counter-celebration to Columbus Day, shifting the focus from Christopher Columbus to the resilience and richness of Native American communities. The holiday aims to raise awareness about the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. Many cities and states across the United States have officially recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Celebrations often include cultural events such as traditional dances, music, storytelling, and art exhibitions. Educational programs and public […]

Buyer Competition Expected to Ramp Up This Fall MABA MassachusettsRealEstate FirstTimeHomeBuyers MaBuyerAgent According to Zillow’s most recent market report, reduced mortgage rates and more inventory are providing house buyers with a window of opportunity at an uncommon time of year. For those looking to purchase a home, affordability has significantly increased, and rather than decreasing as is usually the case at this time of year, competition among them may continue into the fall. “Late summer may be an opportunity for buyers who have been waiting in the wings for a monthly mortgage payment they can qualify for,” said Skylar Olsen, […]