Fall House Hunt 2015 is on
The hunt is on for the perfect home this season in some of Greater Boston’s hottest towns and neighborhoods.
The harbingers of autumn are upon us: students, pumpkin-flavored everything, and an influx of home-shoppers. Looking for a home this fall? Here are some tips that can help you navigate the the hundreds of listings coming to market.
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare
Don’t underestimate the power of doing your homework. Understand how much you can spend and what you’re willing to compromise on. Get pre-approved for a loan before you shop. It will help you understand your budget concretely and appeal to sellers who often request pre-approved buyers.
2. Find yourself a team
A buyer’s agent, more specifically. A good buyer’s agent will not only help you find homes that fit your budget and criteria, they’ll help you handle the process and paperwork that arise when you move to close on your dream home. They can also make recommendations for a real estate attorney when the time comes. Most importantly, they’re working for your interests, not the seller’s.
3. Get in touch
If you see a listing you’re interested in, don’t delay! Nothing is more frustrating than seeing a listing drop off the market before you could make the decision to see it. Even if that unit is off the market, these examples will help guide your agent as he or she searches on your behalf.
4. Leave the kids at home
It may not always be feasible, but if you can, leave the kids at home. Paying attention to the details of the home should be your priority during a showing or open house.
To help you get started, we have compiled listings from some of the most popular Greater Boston neighborhoods and towns. Good luck!
1868 Commonwealth Avenue #A, Boston
A rarity at this price, this four-bed condo on Commonwealth Avenue features an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.
Cambridge – search for listings
1800 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge
Professionally managed and located in the heart of Porter Square, this one-bed condo is your chance to be in the middle of it all. Close to the Porter Square shopping center, Lesley University and Harvard, you couldn’t ask for a better location.
An updated cape in North Waltham, this property has been updated with stainless-steel appliances and features hardwood flooring throughout.
Beacon Hill – search for listings
145 Pinckney Street, #321, Boston
In Beacon Hill, you can get a 525-square-foot studio condo, just steps from Charles Street, for well under the median home price.
South Boston – search for listings
In South Boston, for $449,000, you can get a two-bedroom, one-bathroom, 720- square-foot condo that was totally renovated in 2010. Pet-friendly as well!
South End – search for listings
You can get a 377-square-foot studio in the South End for $399,000. It has exposed brick, high ceilings, and a separate kitchen. The kicker? This condo comes with one off-street parking space.
This custom-built Colonial isn’t holding back. Filled with marble, granite, and Brazilian Cherry floors, this home doesn’t miss a detail.
Charlestown – search for listings
106 13th Street, #313, Charlestown
This 805-square-foot one-bed in the Charlestown Navy Yard is located in the historic Bacilica Condominium Complex. This unit has been fully updated and meticulously maintained.
From the nearby golf course to the bright kitchen offering views into the wooded back yard, if you’re looking for a home with gorgeous views, this is it.
North End – search for listings
For $399,000, in the North End, you can get a one-bedroom, one-bathroom, 579- square-foot condo with two levels connected by a wrought iron spiral staircase.
Wellesley – search for listings
This stately $2,999,000 home is appointed with an upper-level master suit that offers a marble bath and fireplace, one of five.
Lexington – search for listings
1475 Massachusetts Avenue #106, Lexington
Didn’t think Lexington could fit your budget? This two-bed condominium, located in the old Muzzy Junior High School building, just may be your ticket.
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