Cambridge Market Watch

Somerville home sales sag, condo market shows life

2011-12-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Somerville home sales sag, condo market shows life

4 ways to attract more buyers to real estate listings | Inman News

2011-12-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

4 ways to attract more buyers to real estate listings | Inman News

Barclays analyst sees housing rebound coming in 2012

2011-12-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

Barclays analyst sees housing rebound coming in 2012

Despite sales decline, Somerville homes get pricier

2011-11-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

Despite sales decline, Somerville homes get pricier

Know your home real estate inspection rights | Inman News

2011-09-13T18:47:00.000-07:00

Know your home real estate inspection rights | Inman News

Forecast: 15 top-performing real estate markets for remainder of 2011 | Inman News

2011-07-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

Forecast: 15 top-performing real estate markets for remainder of 2011 | Inman News

Renovate For Love Not Money

2011-06-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

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Renovate For Love Not Money

2011-06-30T09:16:00.001-07:00

Renovate For Love Not Money

2011-06-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

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What's Next for the Empty Nester?

2011-06-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

For many Cambridge families, this month has brought with it some significant milestones; senior prom, the last baseball game played on the high school team, and of course graduation. According to statistics posted by the National Center for Education, 3.1 million high school seniors are expected to graduate this year. Teenagers across the nation will eagerly pack their belongings and move from home towards their bright new futures.

This leaves many Cambridge empty nesters planning their bright new futures as well and wondering what to do with the family home. Is it the right time to sell? Will the sale enable the family to afford college tuition and purchase another home at the right price and size? Will there be enough to purchase the dream vacation home as well? There are numerous factors to consider when making a decision on one of the largest investments a family will make.

Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors, said in a recent release that existing-home sales nationwide have been underperforming by historical standards and will rise gradually but unevenly. Though this statement is true, it is important to keep various factors in perspective and understand how they impact you as a home seller or buyer in today’s environment.

According to NAR, the median price of existing homes increased an average of more than 6% every year between 1968 and 2008, with home values nearly doubling every 10 years. If a homeowner purchased their home 10 or more years ago, the home could have a wealth of equity and offer a significant return on investment if sold in today’s market.

Additionally, the market is ripe for homebuyers. Affordability is the best that it has been in years and mortgage rates are still relatively low. Five-plus years ago, it was the prime time to approach real estate as a financial short term investment. Now is the time, as it traditionally has been, to buy a home in Cambridge because one wants a solid investment for the future.

Mortgage rates still in free fall | Inman News

2011-06-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

Mortgage rates still in free fall | Inman News

Survey: Next 2 years is prime time for real estate investors | Inman News

2011-05-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

Survey: Next 2 years is prime time for real estate investors | Inman News

Real estate innovation: Ask an agent | Inman News

2011-05-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

Real estate innovation: Ask an agent | Inman News

Home Upgrades That Don't Pay Off | Real Simple

2011-04-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

Home Upgrades That Don't Pay Off | Real Simple

Existing-home sales up in March | Inman News

2011-04-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

Existing-home sales up in March | Inman News

National Pending Home Sales Unexpectedly Rise In February

2011-03-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

Banker & Tradesman

Damn Spam!!!

2011-02-24T13:35:00.001-08:00

My Hotmail account got spammed. Everyone in my address book has been getting junk from me. This happenned the day after I hung up on a rude telemarketer that promised to make my website no. 1 on Google. Coincidence perhaps? Hmm...

Looking Forward to Spring

2011-02-21T11:38:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons to look forward to spring. Thoughts of spring flowers and April showers can be a real respite from the bitter ice and cold that many are experiencing in the northeastern half of the U.S. For those of us in real estate, the spring selling season is literally just around the corner and there is much to prepare for in advance.

The spring season is historically the busiest time of year in real estate so if you are thinking of putting your home on the market for this coming selling season, now is really the perfect time to meet with us to discuss your options. There is much a homeowner needs to prepare for and we can help you prioritize and map-out your plan.

The spring market is a prime opportunity for sellers to capture motivated buyers, and sellers need to ensure their property stands out from the competition. To do so, price positioning and home presentation are critical factors in attracting a buyer’s attention.

We will provide you with a competitive market analysis and review current market conditions with you. We will use this information along with a review of current inventory, recent comparable sales prices and other data to advise you. In addition, your we will know which competitive properties currently on the market will impact you and can guide you on the optimal listing price to sell your home.

We will also direct you on how to prepare your home for maximum appeal. With spring only a few months away you have just enough time to remove the clutter, repaint, repair and refurbish those areas of your home that need it.

If your home is currently on the market, it is still a great time to review your current marketing plan and prepare to make the adjustments necessary to remain competitive during the high-selling season.

Regardless of the amount of snow on the ground right now, the reality is spring isn’t too far away. Be prepared and call your us today.

Mass January Pending Homes Sales Down As Snow Plays Factor

2011-02-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

Banker & Tradesman

Highest increases, decreases in home prices - Boston.com

2011-02-01T23:22:00.000-08:00

Highest increases, decreases in home prices - Boston.com

FICOs and FHA: 2 big lenders loosen up | Inman News

2011-01-31T14:16:00.000-08:00

FICOs and FHA: 2 big lenders loosen up | Inman News

Tax laws catch up to independent contractors | Inman News

2011-01-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

Tax laws catch up to independent contractors | Inman News

New FHA condo financing rules squeeze sellers | Inman News

2011-01-28T21:00:00.000-08:00

New FHA condo financing rules squeeze sellers | Inman News

IS 2011 THE YEAR OF RECOVERY?

2011-01-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

As we kick-off the new year and make resolutions to keep our resolutions, one question is still at the forefront of many minds. Will the housing market and the economy overall improve in 2011? Depending on what you're reading or who you're watching, the opinions of economists and real estate industry watchers are varied. It's not easy to predict what the market will do in the coming year, especially without the help of a crystal ball. However there are some key indicators to follow.

Most agree that the housing market recovery is largely based on the recovery of the job market. Consumers will make a down payment and purchase a home when they feel financially stable and secure.

According to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report released in December, 28 states and the District of Columbia posted unemployment rate decreases from a year earlier though the national jobless rate approached 9.8 percent in November.

In December, the Labor Department issued statistics that showed applications for jobless insurance payments fell by 3,000 sending the average in December to the lowest level since August 2008, and fewer workers filed claims for unemployment possibly signaling that the U.S. job market is improving if only slightly.

Another indicator to watch is pending home sale statistics. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), pending home sales jumped in October, showing a positive uptrend since bottoming in June. The NAR Pending Home Sales Index rose 10.4 percent to 89.3 based on contracts signed in October from 80.9 in September. Of course the index remains 20.5 percent below when compared to the same time last year as buyers rushed to meet the Tax Credit deadline in 2009.

Overall, these numbers are positive, but we still have some way to go before a full recovery is realized. "It is welcoming to see a solid double-digit percentage gain, but activity needs to improve further to reach healthy, sustainable levels," said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist. "The housing market clearly is in a recovery phase and will be uneven at times, but the improving job market and consequential boost to household formation will help the recovery process going into 2011," he said.

Homeownership is Still the American Dream

2010-11-21T11:16:00.000-08:00

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently released its annual Housing Opportunity Pulse Survey which questioned Americans from across the nation on their attitudes towards homeownership. According to the survey, homeownership still features prominently as the American dream as nearly 8 out of 10 respondents believe buying a home is a good financial decision.

Also according to NAR and its Pending Home Sales Index, pending home sales have increased for the second consecutive month rising 4.3 percent to 82.3 based on contracts signed in August. The data reflects contracts and not closings. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.

That number is still low when compared to August of 2009 when it was up 103.0, but it is still a sign of improvement and we'll take it. It's clear that we still have a ways to go towards a full housing market recovery. Most industry experts agree that we must have further job creation and healthier consumer confidence to achieve that goal. Those surveyed also agreed that job insecurity and the lack of jobs continue to be the primary obstacle to home ownership and market recovery at this time.

For those in a position to buy, it is still a prime opportunity with historically low interest rates and a wide selection of homes that are more affordable now than ever. NAR's survey respondents agreed, with more than two-thirds of respondents (68 percent) saying that now is a good time to buy a home.

If you are currently in the market to purchase a home, be aware that industry insiders are watching inflation rates closely right now. If inflation rates begin to rise, then so will mortgage rates. If mortgage rates rise, it could price many buyers out of their dream home.

Knowing When It's A Good Time To Buy

2010-10-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

The renting versus homeownership debate has taken center stage in the headlines lately. Wall Street Journal columnist Brett Arends provided readers with 10 Reasons to Buy a Home, while readers were able to ponder those 10 reasons the same week the Today Show featured a segment weighing the pros and cons of renting and buying.

All this information can be a lot to digest for many consumers, who are weighing whether to make the most significant financial commitment and investment of their lives. But for some people, the decision to buy a home isn't so much about dollars and cents it' s more of an emotional decision based on the desire to have a home that they can call their own. And many people simply want to be their own landlord, with no worries about an expiring lease hanging over their heads.

Almost everyone expects their real estate agent to say: "It's a good time to buy!" Right now, there are several factors that make that statement especially true. Buyers have a wider selection of properties to choose from, at more attractive and affordable prices. Mortgage interest rates are historically low, helping to improve affordability even more. Additionally, homeowners can also save on taxes by deducting mortgage interest from income taxes.

Home prices have stabilized in most markets, and in the long run home values typically enjoy modest gains. According to a recent survey by Fannie Mae, a majority of Americans still believe housing is a safe investment.

For some, purchasing a home can seem like an unreachable goal, while for others it still remains their number one American Dream. To find out if buying a home is a viable goal at this point in your life, contact your local Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office and they will assist you as you weigh your options.

A real estate professional can provide data on local home prices and sales, and help you analyze the statistics and determine how they affect you. They can also guide you as you search for a home and neighborhood that best suits your needs.

Whether to take the leap from renting to homeownership can be a tough decision. The guidance and expertise of a Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage sales professional can make it much easier.

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by our MLS partners. These entities neither guarantee nor are responsible for data accuracy. Data maintained by the MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.

Banker & Tradesman: @reuters reports - Study: ...

2010-10-05T20:27:00.000-07:00

Twitter / Banker & Tradesman: @reuters reports - Study: ...

Banker & Tradesman: Tax Revenue Increases In September

2010-10-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

Twitter / Banker & Tradesman: Tax Revenue Increases In S ...

Tax Revenue Increases In September

2010-10-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

http://ow.ly/2OhJ2

30-year mortgage rate sinks to 4.32%

2010-10-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON — Rates on 30-year mortgages have matched the lowest level in decades, while rates on 15-year loans dropped to their lowest point in nearly 20 years.

Yesterday, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said the average rate for 30-year fixed loans fell to 4.32 percent, the lowest on records dating back to 1971. That’s down from 4.37 percent the previous week.

The average rate on 15-year fixed loans fell to 3.75 percent, the lowest on records dating back to 1991.

Rates have been at or near the lowest levels in decades since spring as investors poured money into the safety of Treasury bonds, lowering their yield.

Also, Congress has extended a policy that allows homeowners in pricey real estate markets to secure government-backed mortgages of nearly $730,000.

Lawmakers voted to keep the maximum size of loans guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie and the Federal Housing Administration at the current level through the end of 2011.

© Copyright 2010 Globe Newspaper Company.

30-Year Mortgage Rates Fell In Latest Week

2010-09-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

Interest rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell for the first time in three weeks, real estate website Zillow.com said on Tuesday.

Interest rates are historically low, offering a glimmer of hope for a housing market that still faces plenty of obstacles. Rock-bottom rates may boost home loan refinancing activity and also makes homes more affordable.

Mortgage rates on 30-year fixed mortgages, the most widely used loan, were 4.25 percent Tuesday afternoon, down from 4.32 percent at the same time last week, according to Zillow Mortgage Marketplace.

That is the lowest rate reported since Zillow Mortgage Marketplace launched in April 2008.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate peaked at 4.35 percent on Saturday and hovered near 4.33 percent before falling on Monday to the current rate, Zillow said.

Interest rates on other types of mortgages also fell.
Fifteen-year fixed mortgage rates were 3.73 percent, down from 3.76 percent the prior week. Rates for 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, set at a fixed rate for five years and adjustable each following year, were 3.13 percent, down from 3.27 percent the prior week.

Zillow's rates are based on thousands of custom mortgage quotes submitted daily to anonymous borrowers through the website. They are not marketing rates, or a weekly survey.

Mortgage rates are linked to yields on Treasuries and yields on mortgage-backed securities. Yields move inversely to price.

Mortgage rates may continue to head lower.
Treasuries rallied on Tuesday as investors stampeded into safe-haven long-term U.S. debt. (Reuters)

Photos: Cambridge Carnival comes to town - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-09-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

Photos: Cambridge Carnival comes to town - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Tax Credit Deadline Extended

2010-07-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

Obama signs tax credit, flood insurance extensions into law
Closing deadline for homebuyer tax credits pushed to Sept. 30
http://tiny.cc/ecvq9

Mass Single Family Home Sales Up 37%

2010-06-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

Banker & Tradesman

Do open houses sell property?

2010-06-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

Do open houses sell houses? - Boston Real Estate - Boston.com

Green Bathroom Remodeling

2010-05-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

Green Bathroom Remodeling

If you want to make sure your bathroom remodeling project is as green as possible, here’s how to save energy, conserve resources, and protect your budget. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Green Line Extension meeting planned for Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-05-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

Green Line Extension meeting planned for Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Smile! You're being watched!

2010-05-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

Despite Cambridge City Council ban, surveillance cameras remain - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Flood Insurance Advisory Update

2010-04-16T17:50:00.001-07:00

The National Flood Insurance Program was extended to May 31, 2010 with the extension retroactive to February 28, 2010. This should eliminate any financing issues relating to the inability to obtain flood insurance for properties that are located in a flood zone (at least until May 31, 2010). I will keep you informed about further extensions as they come to my attention.

Harvard Graduate School of Design confirms it will buy Cambridge Jesuit properties - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-04-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

Harvard Graduate School of Design confirms it will buy Cambridge Jesuit properties - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Toomey: Harvard offers to buy Jesuit properties in Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-04-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

Toomey: Harvard offers to buy Jesuit properties in Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

The short-sale wrinkle | Inman News

2010-04-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering why it takes so long to get short sales approved? The real reasons may be very different from what you might believe. The short-sale wrinkle | Inman News

Flood Insurance Lapse Advisory

2010-04-06T14:35:00.001-07:00

As you may know, the National Flood Insurance Program expired on March 28, 2010 and will not be extended until, at the earliest, April 12, 2010 when Congress reconvenes after its current recess. Obviously, the ability to close transactions on properties located in flood zones may be significantly impacted during this gap period. Lenders will still be required to determine if properties are located in a flood zone and in cases where a property is located in a flood zone, it is unclear whether lenders will allow such transactions to close and if so, under what conditions.

Flood Insurance Policies cannot be issued or renewed during this gap period but flood insurance companies reportedly can complete applications and accept payments pending the reinstatement of the Program. Lenders may be willing to close transactions with evidence of such applications being filed based upon the expectation that Congress will promptly reinstate the Program and make the reinstatement effective retroactively to March 28,2010. However, whether or not that is going to be acceptable is presumably, entirely in the discretion of the applicable lender involved in the transaction. Another possible option to explore is whether it may be possible for the seller to transfer the seller’s existing flood insurance policy to the buyer. In any case where a property is known or believed to be in a flood hazard zone and the transaction is scheduled to close during this gap period, the buyer should be advised to contact his/her lender as soon as possible to determine what the lender’s position/requirements will be relating to flood insurance.

2010-03-29T17:52:00.000-07:00

Cambridge sewer, water rates going up - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-03-22T11:38:00.000-07:00

Since we had so much rain here last week many of us had water in our basements for the first time. Here is an article I found that might help if you found yourself ankle deep in your basement.

8 Solutions to Common Wet-Basement Problems
Solving wet-basement problems is one of the most important things you can do to protect the value of your home and health of your family. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Mixed reaction to extended parking meter time in Harvard Square - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-03-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

Parking Changes in Harvard Square

2010-03-17T20:31:00.000-07:00

Harvard Square metered parking time to be extended to 8 p.m. - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

SJC decision clears way for East Cambridge's NorthPoint development - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

2010-03-12T18:19:00.001-08:00

SJC decision clears way for East Cambridge's NorthPoint development - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Posted using ShareThis

Nab a real estate deal - while you still can.

2010-03-12T17:59:00.000-08:00

I just read this very timely article from CNNMoney. Given what's been happenning in our marketplace I think the writer is definitely on point. Here's a preview:

"If you've been holding off on a real estate purchase, glimmers of a turnaround in the housing market may have you wondering if it's finally time to make your move.

While home prices remain low, they're no longer free-falling in most markets. Mortgages are historically cheap. And the sweet tax credit that was offered to new buyers last year has been extended to April 30 and expanded to include current homeowners too." (Full article) http://tiny.cc/qgXKx

Survey: Cambridge not so good for apartment renters

2010-03-05T15:44:00.000-08:00

Cambridge — Looks like Cambridge might not be the best place for apartment renters, according to ApartmentRatings.com, which released rankings of renter satisfaction for the largest college towns and college cities in the country.

At the bottom of the list, along with Cambridge, were West Lafayette, Ind., San Antonio, Texas, University Park, Pa., Northridge, Calif. and Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

The satisfaction scores were tabulated from thousands of user-submitted ratings provided in 2009 for apartment buildings in the cities and towns of the 100 largest four-year colleges and universities in the United States. In addition to overall satisfaction, users on ApartmentRatings.com can rate their rental experience on a number of specific factors including noise, safety and maintenance, as well as leave comments about their own experience living in the buildings.

Topping the list is Davis, Calif., home to the University of California-Davis, a highly regarded public institution located in Northern California’s Central Valley. UC-Davis’s 30,000 students enjoy the comforts of a university town (population 64,000) and Mediterranean climate, as well as close access to the state capital of Sacramento (11 miles) and cosmopolitan San Francisco (72 miles). Off-campus housing is plentiful and relatively inexpensive when compared to many major metropolitan areas.

Other top-rated college towns include:

Athens, Ga. (University of Georgia)
Ann Arbor, Mich. (University of Michigan)
Amherst , Mass. (University of Massachusetts)
Albany, N.Y. (State University of New York & Excelsior College)
Tuscaloosa, Ala. (University of Alabama)
Madison, Wis. (University of Wisconsin)
Knoxville, Tenn. (University of Tennessee)
Tucson, Ariz. (University of Arizona)
Washington, D.C. (George Washington University, Georgetown University)

The full list of the 85 college towns included in the rankings can be viewed at http://www.apartmentratings.com/rate/2010collegetownrankings.

By Staff reports
Wicked Local Cambridge

Posted Mar 04, 2010 @ 11:49 AM
Last update Mar 04, 2010 @ 04:48 PM

Understanding Foundation Problems

2010-03-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

Understanding Foundation Problems

Foundation problems may mean expensive repairs. Here’s what to look for and what you need to know to keep small concerns from becoming big headaches. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

A Few Points About Interest Rates

2009-03-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

With the spring market starting to percolate (at least it is here in the Peoples Republic of Cambridge!) and interest rates dropping to historic lows thes tips might help you if you're in the market for a home.

Less is more!
If you're new to investing or real estate and don't know the first thing about interest rates, here's a good tip: the higher the interest rate, the more expensive it's going to be. High interest rates mean you will have to pay back more on the money you borrow. Another good rule of thumb is that affordability increases if you use an adjustable rate mortgage (it's easier to qualify this way). Of course, there will be a wide range of prices that you can choose from, depending on what kind of financing you choose.

Not even the Fed knows for sure.
The Fed holds a considerable amount of power, but they can't control everything. Mortgage interest rates are affected by many unpredictable political, economic and social events. So there is no guarantee what direction interest rates will go, despite the forecasts of the experts. Therefore, make your financial decision based on where things are today including your budget, your needs and your future plans.

Locking in rates assures your lowest interest.
If you do decide you want to lock in at a certain interest rate, you will need to complete a loan application and send it to your lender as soon as possible. This must be done so that your commitment doesn't runout before your loan is approved. Follow up and be se sure that the lender is receiving all of the necessary documentation. Get a property appraisal, which usually costs about $300, through your loan agent as soon as possible.

Don't obsess and miss a good real estate deal.
Although rising interest rates can create more problems for home buyers, waiting and hoping for low rates is not necessarily a smart move. You may end up paying a higher price. Also, refinancing is always an option in the event that interest rates come down.

Visit again soon! I have more information that you will need!

Curb Appeal

2009-03-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

Have you been thinking about painting you house or remodeling in some way this spring? If so here are a few facts you should know.

According to the 2008-09 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, which was produced by Remodeling magazine in cooperation with Realtor magazine, exterior improvements, including wood deck additions as well as all types of siding replacements return more than 80% of the project costs at resale.

Window replacements return more than 76% of cost at resale. A major midrange kitchen remodel returns 76% and a minor midrange kitchen remodel returns almost 80%. A midrange bathroom remodel will recoup approximately 75% at resale.

The least profitable? Glad you asked. They are home offices and sunroom additions.

The Greatest Day

2009-03-05T20:12:00.001-08:00

Finally! It's almost here! The greatest day of the year! I'm talking about Daylight Savings Time. If you've been suffering from SAD (and who doesn't!) all winter you know what I'm talking about. So, if you still wear a watch like I do remember to set it AHEAD Saturday night. Leaving the office on Monday after work is going to feel extra sweet!

Cambridge, the place the recession forgot

2009-03-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

There is a post on the Wicked Local blog that speaks to what I was planning to write about a couple of days ago. No, really I was. I swear! I guess I better move quicker. http://blogs.townonline.com/cambridge/?p=38822

There is a quote from by of my colleagues in the biz, Arthur Horiatis, where he talks about the pent up demand. That is so on point. The number of single family home sales in Cambridge was down almost 20% last year from 2007 which led to the average price going up last year by 12%. Condominium sales were down a whopping 26%! The prices of condos remained relatively stable increasing only 1% from 2007. This data came from our MLS partners.

What does it all mean? If you are planning to buy this spring look for the possibility if competing bids on well positioned properties that are in good locations and are in good condition. I suspect the 300-550K price range will be extremely competitive and with the interest rates expected to remain historically low properties may be on the market for less time than last year.

10 Questions to Ask Your Condo Association

2009-03-03T21:46:00.000-08:00

Before you buy, contact the condo association with the following questions. In the process, you'll learn how responsive-and organized-its members are.

Cambridge Condos

Welcome!

2009-02-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

Hi there! This is my first day with the new blog. This space will be an information center for what is happenning in the Cambridge MA real estate and an open forum for Q&A and lively discussion about the market as well as all things pertaining to real estate. Thanks for being a part of this!

Cambridge Market Watch

Somerville home sales sag, condo market shows life

4 ways to attract more buyers to real estate listings | Inman News

Barclays analyst sees housing rebound coming in 2012

Despite sales decline, Somerville homes get pricier

Know your home real estate inspection rights | Inman News

Forecast: 15 top-performing real estate markets for remainder of 2011 | Inman News

Renovate For Love Not Money

Renovate For Love Not Money

Renovate For Love Not Money

What's Next for the Empty Nester?

Mortgage rates still in free fall | Inman News

Survey: Next 2 years is prime time for real estate investors | Inman News

Real estate innovation: Ask an agent | Inman News

Home Upgrades That Don't Pay Off | Real Simple

Existing-home sales up in March | Inman News

National Pending Home Sales Unexpectedly Rise In February

Damn Spam!!!

Looking Forward to Spring

Mass January Pending Homes Sales Down As Snow Plays Factor

Highest increases, decreases in home prices - Boston.com

FICOs and FHA: 2 big lenders loosen up | Inman News

Tax laws catch up to independent contractors | Inman News

New FHA condo financing rules squeeze sellers | Inman News

IS 2011 THE YEAR OF RECOVERY?

Homeownership is Still the American Dream

Knowing When It's A Good Time To Buy

Banker & Tradesman: @reuters reports - Study: ...

Banker & Tradesman: Tax Revenue Increases In September

Tax Revenue Increases In September

30-year mortgage rate sinks to 4.32%

30-Year Mortgage Rates Fell In Latest Week

Photos: Cambridge Carnival comes to town - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Tax Credit Deadline Extended

Mass Single Family Home Sales Up 37%

Do open houses sell property?

Green Bathroom Remodeling

Green Bathroom Remodeling

Green Line Extension meeting planned for Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Smile! You're being watched!

Flood Insurance Advisory Update

Harvard Graduate School of Design confirms it will buy Cambridge Jesuit properties - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Toomey: Harvard offers to buy Jesuit properties in Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

The short-sale wrinkle | Inman News

Flood Insurance Lapse Advisory

8 Solutions to Common Wet-Basement Problems

Mixed reaction to extended parking meter time in Harvard Square - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Parking Changes in Harvard Square

SJC decision clears way for East Cambridge's NorthPoint development - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle

Nab a real estate deal - while you still can.

Survey: Cambridge not so good for apartment renters

Understanding Foundation Problems

Understanding Foundation Problems

A Few Points About Interest Rates

Curb Appeal

The Greatest Day

Cambridge, the place the recession forgot

10 Questions to Ask Your Condo Association

Welcome!