Buying and Selling Real Estate in Boston MA

Boston luxury condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Benefits for residents of the Boston luxury condos at the Mandarin Oriental Luxury Condos include:

Private luxury condo elvator access from Boylston Street
Stunning master suites with 5 piece master baths, enormous walk-in closets, and dressing rooms
State of the art kitchens, with fine marble and stone coutners and accoutrements
50 goreous, unique residences on the upper floors with 10 foot high ceilings
Juliet balconies, marble entry foyers
Private roof gardens
Concierge services, spa treatments, room service and dry cleaning service
Garage and Valet Parking space is available
In-building fine restaurant dining, steps to Boston's finest restaurants
Adjacent to Boston's famous theater district

The Boston luxury condos at the Mandarin Oriental is the pinnacle of luxury. As a resident you'll have access to exclusive benefits like room service prepared by in house chefs who can cook anything you ask for, from a snack to a multi-course meal for you and a companion or a private party.

The Mandarin Oriental Boston is owned by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (MOHG). The MOHG is traded on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong, and is a member of an award winning international hotel investment management group known as the Jardine Matheson Group, which specializes in luxury resorts and residential hotels in Eurpe, Asia and the Americas. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is internationally respected for it's leading restaurants, service and management. The original hotel, "The Mandarin", was opened in Hong Kong in 1963. The group acheived a reputation for excellence in luxury and management. The Mandarin International Hotels Limited corporation was formed as the management company in 1974, with a goal of expansion in Asia which could replicate the standard for excellence set at the original Hong Kong location.

For more information on these Boston luxury condos visit our Midtown luxury real estate office at 151 Tremont Street in Boston, Massachusetts.

Boston condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Mandarin Boston Hotel Group has brought a new level of luxury living to the Boston condo market.

The Boston Mandarin Oriental condos are an ultra luxury new development in Boston's Back Bay. The building is part of a five-star hotel. The property includes access to the in-building 16,000 square foot spa and gym facility, with vitality pool and sevel reatment rooms. Located steps away from Boston's premium shopping at the Copley Square and Prudential Center malls and Boston's famous Newbury street outdoor boutique promenade.

Boston condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

According to MLS the following neighborhoods: Back Bay, Beacon Hill and Charlestown had closings in the last sixty-days:

Back Bay real estate closings: 64 condos sold.

Beacon Hill real estate closings: 23 condos sold.

Charlestown real estate closings: 28 condos sold.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to put the following Boston real estate properties under agreement in the last three weeks:

Back Bay - Luxury two bedroom condo in the Back Bay for $1,060,000.00, located on Newbury Street.

Beacon Hill - Two bedroom luxury condo for $575,000, located on Primus Avenue.

North End - Three unit building in the heart of Boston's North End.

New listing for rent on Boston's Midtown area.

New listing at 151 Tremont Street

We rented a luxury condo at the Devonshire bldg.

Boston luxury real estate: The Mandarin

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Back Bay luxury real estate. In the Back Bay, The Mandarin PH has been up for sale for a whooping 722 days. Ths asking price for this Back Bay luxury condo is $16,990,000. The most expensive condo listed on MLS.

The Back bay luxury condo is 8,000 sq feet with an asking price of 2,123.075 per sq ft.

More info call John Ford 617-595-3712.

Boston luxury condos - 1% Rebate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is providing a 1% rebate for any Boston luxury condo priced $600k or more.

45 Province Street Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you're interested in viewing Boston luxury condos at 45 Province Street please call one of our three offfices:

Beacon Hill 617-720-55454

Boston Midtown 617-426-6616

Boston, Massachusetts 617-595-3712

Boston condos and real estate for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston condos for sale. New updated Boston real estate listings.

Latest Listings :: Updated November 11, 2010

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71160488	150 Beacon	8 room, 3 bed, 4 bath 2/3 Family	$4,250,000
71160417	303 Columbus	3 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,850,000
71160416	303 Columbus	3 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,650,000
71160414	303 Columbus	3 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,485,000
71160051	165 Tremont	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,200,000
71160410	4 Battery Wharf	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$1,195,000
71160290	4 Battery Wharf	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$1,095,000
71160370	28 Worcester Sq	6 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$924,950
71160720	110 Stuart Street	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$905,000
71160332	19 Bay State Rd	4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$829,000
71160508	295-297 Beacon St	6 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$749,000
71160659	148 commonwealth	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$545,000
71159944	2 Clarendon	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$449,000
71160811	32 Myrtle Street	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$409,000
71159871	99 Bartlett St	4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$374,900

Boston luxury condos - Ritz Carlton

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Ritz Carlton luxury condo building was completed in 2005 and is designed and constructed to the highest Boston luxury condominium standards. Many units feature floor to ceiling windows and terraces, hardwood floors and some have private gardens. These Boston luxury condos have spectacular city and Boston Common views. The Ritz luxury condominiums come with Brazilian Cherry hardwood flooring, granite countertops, stainless steel applianced kitchens, marble bathrooms, as well as in unit washer/dryers. Residents enjoy a private Club Room with a working gas fireplace and Plasma television. There is an exclusive on-site fitness center with sauna. Availability varies so please call or email anytime for more information. My phone number is 617-720-5454 or email realtyford@yahoo.com

Boston luxury condos - 180 Beacon Street

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

180 Beacon Street is a full service concierge, luxury high rise condo located on the corner of Clarendon and Beacon Street in Boston's Back Bay luxury neighborhood. This full service luxury building has some of the most desirable views in the entire Boston area. Overlooking the Charles River on one side and The Back Bay skyline on the other. 180 Beacon has become one of the most desirable and exclusive addresses in Boston. Patience is a virtue as units rarely become available in this luxury building.

If you'd like to view this Boston Back Bay luxury condo please call me at 617-720-5454

Boston luxury condos - 1% rebate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we are now providing a 1% purchase price rebate for the following properties:

The W Residences Boston luxury condos

45 Province Street Boston luxury condos

The Clarendon Boston luxury condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Bryant Back bay condos sold $100/per square foor more than in the last auction in 2009. A total of 11 Back Bay luxury condos were auctioned off at The Bryant on Sunday, November 7th 2010. The average discount was 18% and the average of price $763/ per sf. This is almost $100 dollars over the last auction at The Bryant where buyers paid an average of $674/sf just a year ago

New Boston real estate and condo listing..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

New Boston Real Estate & Condo Listings

Each day will provide you with new Boston condo and real estate listings from the most expensive to the least expensive. The following are today's Boston condo and real estate listings:

New Boston Real Estate Listings – Updated November 05, 2010

MLS #	Address	Bed	Bath	List Price
71158628	10 Rowes Wharf	3	3	$4,500,000
71158303	200 Beacon	4	3	$3,990,000
71159185	242 Beacon St	2	1	$879,000
71159125	1 Avery St	2	2	$869,000
71158376	110 Stuart Street	1	1	$785,000
71159056	500 Atlantic	1	1	$779,000
71158840	46 Mount Vernon St	2	2	$769,000
71158452	94 Saint Botolph St	2	1	$739,000
71159107	360 Newbury St	1	1	$705,000
71158989	234 Causeway	2	2	$689,000

Boston Beacon Hill condo sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we closed on a Beacon Hill condo today. The Beacon Hill condo was located on River Street with a sales price of $489,000.

This Boston Beacon Hill condo was a two bedroom located on the flat of the hill. Linda Mitrano was the listing and selling real estate broker.

To view the most recent Boston condo sales stats visit www.bostonreb.com

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Two big cheers for the marketing team at the Clarendon. They sold another Boston luxuy condo this week. The Back Bay Boston luxury condo building is now over 35% bought out. This makes it the most successful Boston luxury condo building that has come on the market in the last few years.

The 37th closing at The Clarendon Back Bay was recorded, today. The purchase price was $2,400,000 and included one deeded garage parking space.

This was an 22nd-floor, three-bedroom, three and ½-bathroom.

Boston real estate mortgages

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

To hear the pros tell it, the past few months of historically low mortgage interest rates have been booming for the mortgage industry, with swamped appraisers, lenders and originators struggling to get piles of refinances out the door.

But a look at the numbers tells a different story, one of a boom that wasn’t – or at least, wasn’t much, in comparison with historic averages.

It’s not that the past several months haven’t been busy when compared to the post-crash doldrums of the past few years. According to an analysis of data produced by The Warren Group, publisher of Banker & Tradesman, more non-purchase mortgages were recorded in Massachusetts in the third quarter of this year than any quarter since the second quarter of 2009, which was the last time interest rates dropped.

In the third quarter, lenders originated 66,861 non-purchase mortgages in Massachusetts. That’s 16 percent more than the third quarter of 2009, and 80 percent more than the third quarter of 2008. September in particular was a busy month, with 26,133 non-purchase mortgages recorded – the busiest September since 2006.

But taking a larger view produces a different story. Through September, there have been 157,623 non-purchase mortgages recorded in the state – the lowest year-to-date figure for the last decade. And when you add in purchase mortgages, the numbers look even worse. The 202,837 total originations in the first nine months of this year are not only more than 20 percent less than the 260,094 at this point in 2009, they’re below even 2008’s figure of 216,003.

New Normal

Over the past 20 years, there have been roughly 378,000 originations per year, reaching a peak in 2003 at 845,570. In 2010, if current trends continue, originations are likely to be about 30 percent below historic norms.

So if current volumes aren’t anywhere near the old normal, why is everybody so busy?

One answer is simple: The herd has been thinned. Appraiser numbers are down almost 30 percent compared to three years ago, according to Steve Sousa, executive vice president of the Massachusetts Board of Real Estate Appraisers (MBREA). And with the FHA and many large banks requiring appraisals be conducted only by certified residential appraisers, “There are fewer bodies available to do appraisals, and with these restrictions, there’s even fewer,” he said.

The restrictions also make it more difficult, not easier, for appraisers to take on trainees, according to Jonathan Asker, CEO of West Bridgewater-based North Atlantic Appraisal. Rookies must be mentored and supervised, but can’t take over assignments on their own, making it tough for existing appraisers to offload assignments. That leaves them feeling swamped even if overall volume numbers are down.

It doesn’t matter whether he’s got 36 appraisial orders coming in per day or 45, if his company can only produce 35 per day, Asker said.

“We… can only put out and work at 100 percent,” he said. “I’m still maxed out.”

The other reason the lower volume can feel heavier is because loans are taking more work to process at every stage, said Amy Tierce, president of Fairway Independent Mortgage in Needham.

“In 2003, a loan officer could have 100 loans in their pipeline. You verified income, you looked at the appraisal, and that loan file might have had only a pay stub and an appraisal and that would be it,” she said. “Today, if you don’t have blood and urine samples along with every piece of paper in somebody’s financial filing cabinet, you don’t have enough for the loan. You’re busier doing less volume, because it takes so much work to get the volume done.”

Manufactured Demand

Another reason the total volume of the “boom” has been smaller in comparison with historic averages is that a much larger percentage of loans are ineligible for refinance. A substantial percentage of homes are underwater, and given toughened and underwriting standards and economic woes, fewer people have the sterling credit required to obtain a new loan.

According to Asker, a certain volume can only be considered a boom in light of the total amount of people eligible. Given that many people who would have been eligible to refinance during previous low-rate periods aren’t eligible this time around, he feels like the current upsurge is a boom “as far as it can go.”

The dwindling pool of applicants leaves Asker wondering about the future.

“We’re gonna get through these refis, and then the question is, how long before the sales come back?” he asked.

Given the substantial number of people who have been locked out, there may be a deep well of untapped demand for refinancing in the future. But those loans may only be able to be refinanced if home prices rise and underwriting standards return to pre-bubble norms.

That might take a while.

“Because the change in market conditions is happening so slowly, until you begin to see that change, it becomes harder and harder to support higher market values,” since appraisers must rely on recent sales as their foundation for comparison when estimating value, said the MBREA’s Sousa. “From an appraisers perspective it’s a chicken and egg thing.”

Industry observers say there’s just too much uncertainty to guess whether and when the market might return to more normal historic levels. Some said they think the federal government may still have a role to play in creating demand.

“One of the things that I question is, are we going to see a continued boom manufactured by the government because they create programs to help more people refinance who are being left out,” Tierce said

Boston real estate condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Latest Listings :: Updated October 31, 2010

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71156815	45 Province Street	8 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$3,964,000
71156840	146 West Canton Street	9 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$3,595,000
71157099	2 Avery St	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,675,000
71156205	13 Bowdoin St	4 room, 1 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$699,000
71156807	45 Province Street	5 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$678,000
71156559	23 Cross Street	7 room, 4 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$629,000
71156293	357 Commercial St.	5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$559,000
71156252	27 Wareham St	3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$509,000
71157020	566 Commonwealth Avenue	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$479,000
71156235	90 Commercial Street	4 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$362,000

Boston luxury apartments: Just Listed

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

New Boston Luxury Apartments

Just Listed This Week!

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71155642	391 Beacon Street	4 Beds 2 Baths 2960 SqFt	$9000/month
71155591	160 Commonwealth Avenue	1 Beds 1 Baths 709 SqFt	$2350/month
71155567	42 8th st	2 Beds 2 Baths 99999 SqFt	$2900/month
71155557	83 Main Street	2 Beds 2 Baths 800 SqFt	$2450/month
71155494	9 Hawthorne Pl	0 Beds 1 Baths 650 SqFt	$1700/month
71155400	453 Washington	2 Beds 2 Baths 1950 SqFt	$4200/month
71155350	551 East 6th St.	4 Beds 1 Baths 1400 SqFt	$2400/month
71155323	223 Endicott Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 700 SqFt	$1650/month
71155318	396 Beacon Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 568 SqFt	$2100/month
71155306	55 Springfield St	2 Beds 1 Baths 950 SqFt	$1995/month
71155290	19 Revere	1 Beds 1 Baths 570 SqFt	$2350/month
71155213	280 Beacon St	1 Beds 1 Baths 685 SqFt	$2150/month
71155182	41 Rutland Square	3 Beds 3 Baths 2300 SqFt	$6750/month
71155053	328 Dartmouth St	1 Beds 1 Baths 650 SqFt	$2700/month
71154993	154 West 2nd	2 Beds 2 Baths 1600 SqFt	$3300/month
71154934	834 East 5th	1 Beds 1 Baths 750 SqFt	$1800/month
71154876	100 The Riverway	2 Beds 2 Baths 1240 SqFt	$2750/month
71154873	29 WALL STREET	2 Beds 1 Baths 900 SqFt	$1900/month
71154792	27 Garden St.	2 Beds 1 Baths 700 SqFt	$1900/month
71154558	340 Marlborough Street	6 Beds 4 Baths 4610 SqFt	$12500/month

Boston luxury apartments for rent

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71155642	391 Beacon Street	4 Beds 2 Baths 2960 SqFt	$9000/month
71155591	160 Commonwealth Avenue	1 Beds 1 Baths 709 SqFt	$2350/month
71155567	42 8th st	2 Beds 2 Baths 99999 SqFt	$2900/month
71155557	83 Main Street	2 Beds 2 Baths 800 SqFt	$2450/month
71155494	9 Hawthorne Pl	0 Beds 1 Baths 650 SqFt	$1700/month
71155400	453 Washington	2 Beds 2 Baths 1950 SqFt	$4200/month
71155350	551 East 6th St.	4 Beds 1 Baths 1400 SqFt	$2400/month
71155323	223 Endicott Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 700 SqFt	$1650/month
71155318	396 Beacon Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 568 SqFt	$2100/month
71155306	55 Springfield St	2 Beds 1 Baths 950 SqFt	$1995/month
71155290	19 Revere	1 Beds 1 Baths 570 SqFt	$2350/month
71155213	280 Beacon St	1 Beds 1 Baths 685 SqFt	$2150/month
71155182	41 Rutland Square	3 Beds 3 Baths 2300 SqFt	$6750/month
71155053	328 Dartmouth St	1 Beds 1 Baths 650 SqFt	$2700/month
71154993	154 West 2nd	2 Beds 2 Baths 1600 SqFt	$3300/month
71154934	834 East 5th	1 Beds 1 Baths 750 SqFt	$1800/month
71154876	100 The Riverway	2 Beds 2 Baths 1240 SqFt	$2750/month
71154873	29 WALL STREET	2 Beds 1 Baths 900 SqFt	$1900/month
71154792	27 Garden St.	2 Beds 1 Baths 700 SqFt	$1900/month
71154558	340 Marlborough Street	6 Beds 4 Baths 4610 SqFt	$12500/month

Boston luxury condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston Luxury Condominiums

The number of Boston luxury condominiums that sold for $1,000,000 or above from July 28, 2010 through October 28, 2010 was near 100, 95 to be exact.

The Boston luxury condo list below are some Boston luxury condo data:

Number of Boston luxury condos sold – 95

Average Boston luxury condo sales price - $1,739,231

Median Boston condo sales price for the luxury market - $1,542,500

Average price per square foot - $850.00

Boston real estate blunder

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

At first, the federal government's decision to help fuel home prices by doling out billions in tax credits appeared to go swimmingly.

Sales, and then prices, of homes rose steadily into 2010 from their 2009 depths as buyers rushed to cash in their credits, sometimes even overpaying in their eagerness to get their government handout.

But instead of kick-starting the market, the tax credit simply stole from future demand. When the tax credit ended in April, sales plummeted - and are still hurtling downward as we speak.

But more than just the tax credit is to blame. The Obama administration and state governments from here to California have spent the last few years making half-hearted attempts to bail out homeowners facing foreclosure.

The attempts in many cases have simply delayed the inevitable, leading to a massive pileup of bank-owned homes and condos.

So what has been the sum total of all this ineffective government tinkering and bumbling? Well, if you haven't guessed it already: A protracted downturn in the residential market, in which prices fall but are kept from hitting bottom.

After all, home sales first began to slow in late 2005 in Greater Boston, and now, five years later, the downward spiral continues, with no end in sight.

Sure, home values are down maybe 15 percent to 20 percent from their peak in the Boston area, but given the loony levels they hit back during the bubble years, that's far from enough to bring out the buyers.

So we are stuck with an endless standoff.

Sellers, more than a few of whom overpaid during the bubble years, are holding out for still inflated prices while buyers attempt to wait them out

Boston Single family home sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston Massachusetts Single-family home sales

Boston Massachusetts real estate sales for single-family homes dropped almost thirteen percent compared to last year.

Boston Massachusetts had 486 fewer single-family home sales in September 2010 compared to September 2009.

Boston MA had 366 fewer single-family home sales in September 2010 compared to August 2010.

Boston W Condominiums

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Prudential Insurance Co. is pushing for the hotel to foreclose. While a Boston real estate lawyer can better explain the process of foreclosure, if the W Boston does go through foreclosure, it may end up costing the city of Boston more than $10 million in city loan funds. Prudential initially invested $192 million into W Boston.

Prudential is opposed to the developer Sawyer Enterprises' idea to rent out a quarter of the high end condos in the building by saying that rentals of the condos will only bring about wear and tear. The rentals may also prevent future sales of the condos because of the stigma attached to being a rental property. Prudential submitted a court filing that stated: "The debtor has demonstrated no ability to mount a fresh sales campaign to rehabilitate its business or otherwise reorganize nor does it have any prospects for such reorganization on the horizon."

Sawyer countered back by saying that the lease "will serve to strengthen its income stream, bolster its marketing efforts and better its chances of structuring a viable (bankruptcy) reorganization." The city of Boston also sounded alarmed at the prospect of foreclosure. If Prudential is able to foreclose on the property, it is likely that it would sell off the condo units at bargain basement prices. In court filings, the city's attorney wrote: "It would be simply unconscionable for Prudential to wipe out, through foreclosure proceedings, all of the value that it has watched the city of Boston pour into the project."

The case's next hearing will be this November. If you, like W Boston hotel are suffering from the possibility of a foreclosure, make sure to call a Boston real estate attorney.

Boston luxury apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

There are 41,011 homes for sale in Boston, MA.
THIS BOSTON REAL ESTATE WEB SITE
HAS OVER 1.4 MILLION MA REAL ESTATE PHOTOS
Boston MA Suburb Homes

BACK BAY

BEACON HILL

BOSTON LUXURY DEVELOPMENTS

Looking to buy a Boston condo? [click]

New Boston Luxury Apartments

Just Listed This Week!

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71154397	1 Charles St S	2 Beds 1 Baths 1068 SqFt	$4900/month
71154183	491 East 3rd St	2 Beds 1 Baths 800 SqFt	$1800/month
71154125	5A Bantry Way	2 Beds 1 Baths 782 SqFt	$1750/month
71154089	1 Charles St S	1 Beds 1 Baths 1068 SqFt	$4200/month
71154025	327 Commonwealth	1 Beds 1 Baths 950 SqFt	$2350/month
71153954	42 8th Street	2 Beds 2 Baths 1311 SqFt	$3800/month
71153828	193 Saint Botolph Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 1010 SqFt	$2600/month
71153749	32 Woodward St	2 Beds 1 Baths 1012 SqFt	$1850/month
71153700	15 Thacher St	3 Beds 1 Baths 880 SqFt	$2850/month
71153671	201 Newbury	1 Beds 1 Baths 908 SqFt	$2900/month
71153622	44 Irving	1 Beds 1 Baths 700 SqFt	$2300/month
71153611	44 Irving Street	0 Beds 1 Baths 400 SqFt	$1495/month
71153301	275 W. Second Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 738 SqFt	$1800/month
71153171	65 Anderson St	2 Beds 2 Baths 1550 SqFt	$6900/month
71153082	6 Whittier Place	0 Beds 1 Baths 632 SqFt	$1750/month
71153059	8 Lindall	1 Beds 1 Baths 500 SqFt	$2000/month
71152963	130 Fulton Street	2 Beds 2 Baths 1485 SqFt	$3150/month
71152875	19 W. Cedar St	2 Beds 1 Baths 968 SqFt	$3500/month
71152835	38 Charter Street	3 Beds 1 Baths 800 SqFt	$2100/month
71152687	170 Tremont Street	1 Beds 1 Baths 910 SqFt	$2450/month

Bryant Condo Auction: Back Bay

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

One year to the date the Bryant Back Bay conducted its first condo auction for the luxury Back Bay luxury condos.

On November 7, 2010 the remaining 11 luxury condos in the building are being auctioned on Sunday, November 7, 2010 with an average minimum bid at $600 per square foot.

The Bryant, has undergone a luxury lobby renovation, for both the interior and exterior.

If you'd like more information on the Bryant luxury condo auction, please call us at 617-720-5454. Visit our web site www.bostonreb.com

www.bostonluxurycondominiums.com

Boston Luxury Condos: Boston W Residence..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston W just added 8 more luxury condo listings to MLS. For more info visit this websites home page.

Bryan Auction: Boston Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

STREET #	STREET NAME	UNIT #	SALE $	SF +/-	$ / SF	BED	BA
303	Columbus Ave	PH1001	$2,975,000.00	2,011	$1,479.36	3	2
303	Columbus Ave	205	$570,000.00	945	$603.17	1	1
303	Columbus Ave	402	$1,500,000.00	2,167	$692.20	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	301	$1,400,000.00	2,274	$615.66	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	303	$1,650,000.00	2,743	$601.53	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	406	$1,350,000.00	2,097	$643.78	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	502	$1,350,000.00	2,167	$622.98	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	601	$1,370,000.00	1,913	$716.15	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	702	$1,550,000.00	1,959	$791.22	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	803	$1,600,000.00	1,793	$892.36	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	1003	$2,000,000.00	1,819	$1,099.51	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	302	$1,350,000.00	2,183	$618.42	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	503	$1,575,000.00	2,128	$740.13	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	603	$1,585,000.00	2,019	$785.04	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	305	$1,325,000.00	2,181	$607.52	3	4
303	Columbus Ave	401	$1,335,000.00	2,259	$590.97	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	403	$1,466,000.00	2,128	$688.91	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	404	$1,350,000.00	2,130	$633.80	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	504	$1,350,000.00	2,130	$633.80	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	505	$1,450,000.00	2,165	$669.75	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	602	$1,600,000.00	1,959	$816.74	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	902	$1,560,000.00	1,767	$882.85	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	604	$1,360,000.00	2,137	$636.41	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	605	$1,400,000.00	2,153	$650.26	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	801	$1,352,000.00	1,686	$801.90	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	802	$1,500,000.00	1,767	$848.90	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	506	$1,425,000.00	2,097	$679.54	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	304	$1,625,000.00	2,810	$578.29	4	4
303	Columbus Ave	501	$1,400,000.00	2,259	$619.74	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	405	$1,562,500.00	2,165	$721.71	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	804	$1,610,000.00	1,910	$842.93	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	805	$1,662,500.00	1,934	$859.62	3	3

BRYANT BACK BAY AUCTION CONDOS:

STREET #	STREET NAME	UNIT #	MINIMUM BID	SF +/-	$ / SF	BED	BA
303	Columbus Ave	701	$1,130,000	1,913	$590.70	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	704	$1,130,000	2,137	$528.78	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	705	$1,130,000	2,153	$524.85	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	903	$1,175,000	1,793	$655.33	2	2
303	Columbus Ave	904	$1,250,000	1,903	$656.86	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	905	$1,250,000	1,941	$644.00	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	906	$1,250,000	1,877	$665.96	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	806	$1,250,000	1,877	$665.96	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	706	$1,130,000	2,097	$538.87	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	306	$1,075,000	2,146	$500.93	3	3
303	Columbus Ave	606	$1,130,000	2,097	$538.87	3	3

FOR MORE INFO ON THE bRYAN AUCTION VISIT: BOSTON CONDO BACK BAY BRYANT AUCTION

Boston condos for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Latest Listings :: Updated October 16, 2010

MLS #	Address	Description	List Price
71151516	20 Yarmouth St	11 room, 6 bed, 5 bath 2/3 Family	$1,899,000
71150452	127 Pinckney Street	7 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,595,000
71150278	236 Beacon St	4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,325,000
71150603	22 Claremont Park	5 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,300,000
71150655	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,250,000
71150657	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,250,000
71150651	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,250,000
71150643	303 Columbus	4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,175,000
71150636	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,130,000
71150638	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,130,000
71150630	303 Columbus	4 room, 3 bed, 3 bath 2/3 Family	$1,130,000
71150533	6 Columbus Square	6 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,130,000
71150558	117 Marlborough St	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,099,000
71150493	0 Coolidge Avenue	6 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$1,050,000
71151450	86 Waltham St	9 room, 4 bed, 4 bath 2/3 Family	$1,050,000
71149991	311 Commonwealth Ave	5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$899,900
71149995	1 Charles St S	5 room, 1 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family	$829,000
71150739	40 Chestnut St	6 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$769,000
71150862	141 Warren Ave	7 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family	$750,000

Bryant Back Bay Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

On Vovember 7, 2010 the Bryant Back Bay will be conducting an auction for the remaining 11 condos that are unsold. More info on hou you can obtain 1% back of the purchase price visit Boston luxury condos/Bryant Back Bay auction.

Features and Amenities of the Bryant:

* Stunning lobby designed by Klaus Fuchs (coming in December)

* South End views

* 24-hour on-site resident manager and concierge services provided by Barkan and Tillingers

* Secured on-site parking garage

* Fitness Center (coming in December)

* Private storage units

* Spacious floorplans

* Low common charges

* Two- and three-bedroom residences

* Private elevator with direct access to your residence

* Elegant guest bathrooms

* Private terraces

* Equipped with cable and internet

Audubon Park Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following is from the Boston Real Estate Blog:

As stated in my earlier blog post, 25 Boston condos will be going up for auction at Audubon Park (16 Miner St). The units are listed on the Audubon Auction website which includes a one-bedroom condo with a min bid of $225,000 and a two-bed, two-bath condo with a min bid of $325,000.

The Audubon marketing team is paying a 2% commission to brokers. If you use my service here at the Boston Real Estate Blog I’ll give you 1% of my commission.

For more information read Boston real estate blog audubon auction or call 617-720-5454 or 617-426-6616.

File Under: You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.

Audubon Park Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The follwing is from the Boston Real Estate Blog:

The Audubon marketing team is paying a 2% commission to brokers. If you use my service here at the Boston Real Estate Blog I’ll give you 1% of my commission.

For more information email me at realtyford@yahoo.com or call 617-720-5454 or 617-426-6616.

File Under: You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.

Boston luxury real estate for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

MLS #	Address	Bed	Bath	List Price
71147666	90 Chestnut St	5	5	$4,400,000
71147281	80 Broad Street	4	3	$2,975,000
71146890	63 Atlantic Ave	3	2	$2,595,000
71147233	505 Tremont Street	2	2	$2,150,000
71147481	167 Marlborough St	3	3	$1,095,000
71147017	23 worcester st	2	2	$1,050,000
71147645	3 Avery	2	2	$999,900
71146559	97 Mount Vernon St	2	2	$899,000
71147021	25 DARTMOUTH STR	2	2	$890,000
71147192	413 Beacon Street	2	2	$879,000

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

New Boston Real Estate Listings – Updated October 06, 2010

Areas include Back Bay condos, Beacon Hill condos and Boston waterfront condos.

MLS #	Address	Bed	Bath	List Price
71146890	63 Atlantic Ave	3	2	$2,595,000
71147017	23 worcester st	2	2	$1,050,000
71146559	97 Mount Vernon St	2	2	$899,000
71147021	25 DARTMOUTH STR	2	2	$890,000
71145984	16 Gray Street	2	2	$875,000
71146493	21 Father Francis Gilday St	2	2	$849,000
71146069	101 Union Wharf	N/A	2	$775,000
71146426	505 Tremont Street	1	1	$755,000
71146896	285 Clarendon St	1	1	$750,000
71146817	150 Appleton St	2	1	$669,000

Audubon Park Auction - Fenway Boston

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Twenty-five stunning condominiums at Audubon Park in West Fenway, just off Beacon Street, will be auctioned at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19, at the Colonnade Hotel, 120 Huntington Ave.

She said it was the first time in Boston that a developer had purchased a property at auction with the intent to auction it again shortly thereafter and may even be the first time that this has happened nationally.

Davis is founder and CEO of The Davis Companies, and it was an affiliate, DIV Miner St. LLC, that acquired the property at auction for $13.51 million.

Velocity Marketing Services, a division of The Collaborative Companies, handled the June auction of the American Brewery Lofts in Jamaica Plain, when 21 lofts were sold in a half hour.

It also oversaw the auction of the 1850 at 90 Waltham St. in the South End last year to close out that development.

Audubon Park is six-story, 65,000-square-foot building of precast brick, glass and silver metal cladding.

A second bedroom, newly painted, at Audubon Park has been staged as a home office.

Designed by the Architectural Team of Chelsea, it comprises 18 different floor plans. It was completed two years ago and includes a two-level 34-car garage that wraps around a tunnel for the MBTA’s Green-D Line.

Two studios, five one-bedroom units with one bath and 11 two-bedroom condos with two baths, plus seven residences with two bedrooms and two baths will be auctioned. Ken Cullum will be the auctioneer.

Single parking spaces are available for an additional price, either $60,000 or $70,000, depending on which floor it is located in the garage. A tandem space is available for $100,000.

Bids will start at between 46 and 59 percent lower than the last asking price.

Minimum bids range from $195,000 for a 663-square-foot studio on the fifth floor to $325,000 for a 1,067-square-foot, two-bed, two-bath home on the sixth floor.

A living room in one of the condominiums has been furnished to serve as a model. The kitchen is open to the living/dining area, which has bamboo flooring.

When the property first came on the market two-and-a-half years ago, the developer described the design of Audubon Park as “Asian fusion,” with clean lines, high-end finishes and a glass-walled entry framed by a curved wood pergola.

A green stone concierge station anchors the expansive and inviting lobby with a stone floor and two stainless steel elevators. Artwork is displayed on the newly papered walls.

The interiors feature wide-plank, carbonized bamboo flooring and kitchen cabinets built of burnt sienna rubberwood. Both the rubberwood and bamboo are renewable.

The kitchens have glass-topped Bosch electric ranges, convection ovens, microwaves and full-size, front-loaded stacked washer/dryers and Fisher & Paykel refrigerators with bottom freezers.

The granite counters are either honed Absolute black, Baltic brown or Carioca gold.

The bedrooms are carpeted, and the white baths boast marble-topped vanities with contrasting ceramic-tiled floors that echo the palette of the kitchen counters.

For example, the Carrara marble vanity contrasts with Asian black floor tiles and light gray tub surrounds in the units with Absolute black granite.

The –08 units feature two bedrooms and 1,084 square feet of space. This kitchen in Unit 508 has a honed Absolute black granite peninsula and two pendant lights.

Botticino Classico marble, Egyptian beige floor tiles and almond wall tiles are in the baths of condos with Carioca gold granite.

The third color scheme is Rosa Aurora marble, Indian red floor tiles and blush surround tiles in the condos with Baltic brown granite counters in the kitchen.

Many of the units have Juliet balconies, and many of the units have more than one exposure. CAT-wiring with connections for telephone and cable are in each room.

The rooftop holds a single source of heating and cooling in an elaborate system of gas burners, eliminating the need for a hot water tank in each unit.

In addition to the all-new construction, its location is advantageous as well. It is close to two MBTA Green Lines – C and D – and to the Longwood Academic and Medical Area. Fenway Park is not far away either.

Just 12 units had been sold before the developer, 16 Miner Street LLC, defaulted on a construction loan held by California’s beleaguered lender, IndyMac, according to public records. OneWest Bank took IndyMac out of FDIC receivership and then sued the developer for repayment of the construction loan.

In late April, DIV Miner Street LLC purchased the 41 unsold units and 22 parking spaces at a foreclosure auction.

Information about the Audubon Park auction is available blog phone at 617-617-720-5454.

Audubon Park Condo Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you're interested in more information on the upcoming Fenway auction please call our office at 617-720-5454. Ask how we're giving you 1/2 our broker fee if you use Ford Realty's real estate service.

Please remember for use to give you back 50% of the real estate broker fee you must first see the condos with a Ford Realty representative.

More info visit our other Boston real estate web site.

Boston condo sales stats

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

According to data collected by The Warren Group, the median Boston condo sales price was up 16.87% in the month of August, compared to last year. Year to date, the median condo sales price has increased 12.54 percent.Sales dropped from 214 to 161 condo units. August median price rose from $492,000 to $575,000 while year to date it rose from $500,000 to $562,750.

Boston neighborhood price changes:

Allston -41% -18%
Brighton -4.61 +2.57
Charlestown +3.32 0.00
Dorchester +9.09 +24.13
East Boston -3.17 +2.69
Hyde Park +7.88 +28.21
Jamaica Plain +11.97 -0.68
Mattapan 0.00 +5.36
Roslindale -10.78 +4.34
South Boston 13.33 6.46
West Roxbury -9.82 -12.28

Boston Fenway Auction -

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Of you're in the market to purchase at the Fenway Audubon Park condo auction please visit the Boston Real Estate Blog to see how we can save you money. You can also call us for more details at 617-720-5454.

Fenway Auction - Audubon Park

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Save some Benjamins at the next Boston condo auction in the Fenway by using Ford Realty to represent you. If you purchase an Audubon Park condo from Ford Realty at the auction will give back to you 1% of our commision.

More info call John Ford at 617-720-5454.

Boston Condos: Fenway Auction Audubon Pa..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you're interested in purchasing a Boston condo for the upcoming Audubon Park auction please give us a call at 617-720-5454. If you use Ford Realty to represent you we will give you 50% of our broker fee at closing.

Learn more about the Boston condo market by reading the Boston Real Estate Blog

Boston Fenway Condo Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

25 Luxury Boston Condos will be auctioned off on Tuesday, October 19th at 7pm. The units range from Studios, ONE- Bed Condos, TWO- Bed/1Bath Condos, and TWO-Beds/2Baths Condos. The Studios’ minimum bid will start at $195,000, The ONE-Bed Condos from $225,000, The TWO-bed/1Bath from 285,000, and The TWO-bed/2bath condos from $325,000. Best of all Ford Realty will give you back 1% of the sales price back to you or 50% of our commission. More info call Vilma Dassoni at 617-426-6616.

LOCATION:

Audubon Park is located in the heart of the dynamic and vibrant cultural, educational, and medical center of Boston, anchored by eight colleges and universities, the Longwood Medical Area and several major museums. Audubon, which was newly constructed in 2008, is within walking distance of the myriad of shops, restaurants and nightlife of the Kenmore Square, Newbury Street, Back Bay and Fenway neighborhoods. Two branches of the MBTA green line and a new 13 million dollar Yawkey commuter rail station are within steps, providing easy access to downtown Boston and other points of interest. The surrounding area is undergoing a dramatic redevelopment with over 2 million square feet of office, retail and medical space and approximately 1,000 units of housing planned. Best of all Ford Realty will give you 1/2 of our commission that's paid by the Auctioner to you the buyer. More info call Vilm Dassoni at 617-426-6616.

FEATURES AND AMENITIES:

The residences feature clean-line moldings and casings, and two-panel doors with lever hardware. Each unit comes with environmentally-friendly bamboo flooring throughout the living, dining and kitchen areas, and wall-to-wall low-pile plush carpeting in the bedrooms. Open kitchen designs boast granite countertops with oversized dining counters, stainless steel/frosted glass lighting fixtures and sleek cabinets with contemporary hardware. The units are all equipped with stainless steel appliances by Fisher Paykel and Bosch, including dishwasher, microwave, washer and dryer. Bathrooms feature ceramic tile flooring and base with full-height mosaic tile tubs or showers, European-style vanities with stainless steel legs and marble tops, as well as extra-deep European style wall-mounted cabinets. Each unit has individually controlled heating and central air conditioning, as well as cable and internet hookups.

Parking available for purchase in secure underground parking garage with direct elevator access from the garage to the residential floors, providing simple and secure access to the building
Steps from two MTBA Green Line Stations and the new Yawkey commuter rail stop
Convenient access to downtown Boston and within easy walking distance to the Back Bay, Charles River, Kenmore Square, Coolidge Corner and Longwood Medical Campus
Adjacent to dozens of Boston’s best attractions, including Fenway Park, popular restaurants, stores and shops, academic institutions, museums and more.
On site superintendant.
Ford Realty will pay you the buyer 50% of our commission fee is you use us as your broker. More info call Vilma dassoni at 617-426-6616.

More info visit Boston Real Estate Blog.

Boston condo auction - Audubon Fenway.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty will give you 50% back on oour commission is you use us to represent you on the upcoming Fenway condo auction.

More info read our Boston real estate auction blog.

Fenway Audubon Condo Auction

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

On Tuesday, October 19th twenty-five units at the Audubon Park condos in Kenmore Square will be auctioned off.

The minimum bid for the studio condos is $195,000 and the minimum bid for the 2 bedroom units is $325,000. Please note that garage parking spots are being sold separately for $60,000 – $70,000 depending on the level.

Each unit comes with bamboo flooring and carpeting in the bedrooms. The kitchens are open with granite countertops, oversized dining counters, stainless steel/frosted glass lighting fixtures and sleek cabinets with contemporary hardware. The units are all equipped with stainless steel appliances by Fisher Paykel and Bosch, including dishwasher, microwave, washer and dryer. Each unit has individually controlled heating and central air conditioning, as well as cable and internet. There is a on-site suprerintendant to take care of maintenance issues.

More info call John Ford 617-720-5454.

More info Auction Fenway Audubon Condos

Boston Luxury Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston local economy is having an impact on the Boston Luxury Condo Market. Sales are off by 1/3 in some Boston neighborhoods and in the Boston Common area Boston Luxury Condo sales are off by 66%.

Boston condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Visit our web site www.fordrealty.org

Visit our new blog www.bostonreb.com

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Steps in Buying a Boston Condo

• Budget realistically – Make sure that what you can actually spend each month aligns with what you intend to borrow to buy your Boston condo.

• Be an informed buyer – Check out your financing options (see our “Your Guide to Home Financing” article), and if you buy by December 2009, investigate whether you qualify for the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit before you purchase your Boston condo.

• Get preapproved for a mortgage – This will both add to your credibility as a buyer of a Boston condo will give you a clear understanding of what you can afford when searching for Boston real estate and Boston Condos for sale.

• Consider hiring an attorney – An attorney can help protect your best interests when drafting and negotiating the Contract to Purchase/Purchase and Sale Agreement for the Boston condo you wish to buy.

• Find realtors, brokers, and inspectors you trust – Ask friends and family for references of reliable, trustworthy professionals who will work alongside you through the home-buying process. Ask the broker how many Boston condos they have sold in a month, year ect. If an agent sold less than 12 Boston condos in a year ask why.

To view luxury Boston condos visit our new and improved Boston condo web site. www.fordrealty.org

Boston Luxury Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

To view a list of Boston luxury condos for sale visit our new and improved Boston real estate web site at www.fordrealty.org

Our new Boston real estate blog is located at www.bostonreb.com

Boston real estate credit reports.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

With several free Web sites that allow you one free credit report per year, you have no excuse not to get into the habit of an annual check. Reviewing your report once a year is the simple way to prevent unfortunate credit consequences down the road.

What is a credit report vs. a credit score?
A credit report is a written record of all of your current and inactive credit cards and payment history, as well as any credit inquiries that have been conducted into your account by creditors/loaners. A credit score is a literal number score that is based on your report history. While you are guaranteed one free credit report per year, you will have to pay to receive your credit score.

Why check your report and what to look for:
When you are applying for a loan, your credit report is the first thing that a lender will look at. You should know what they will see, and make sure it is completely accurate and updated. Errors in a credit report are surprisingly common, and when you discover a mistake you can simply call the credit bureau to report and fix the problem.
•    Make sure all of your credit lines are listed, and that there are no extra cards you have not authorized. Sometimes data from multiple reports can get mixed together.
•    Check your payment histories; occasionally credit companies do not accurately report payments or there is a technical error. If you see a discrepancy, address it as soon as possible.
•    As identity theft becomes more sophisticated and hard to identify in daily life, it is crucial that you insure there are no unknown accounts or activity on your report.
•    Keep up-to-date on how many inquiries have been made into your account (and make sure they are all by valid creditors you have authorized). Too many inquiries will begin to reflect negatively in your credit score, so you should always know where you stand before you authorize a new inquiry.

How to get a free credit report:
Several Web sites offer credit reports provided by the three approved consumer reporting companies, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, or you can go directly to those companies’ sites. Annualcreditreport.com and Freecreditreport.com are both reputable venues for attaining your report. Beware of imposter and scam sites and pop-ups.

Good credit report means you can purchase a Boston condo. View Boston condos for sale at www.fordrealty.org

View more Boston real estate blog reports at www.bostonreb.com

Boston Condos - Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

View luxury condos on our new web site www.fordrealty.org Boston Luxury condos for sale and rent.

View our new Boston real estate blog. www.bostonreb.com

Boston Luxury Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are looking to purchase a Boston Luxury Condo or Apartment, and are a first-time Boston homebuyer, mortgages can be confusing and unfamiliar territory. Here, we will break it down for you and explain the terms and processes you need to get started.

The players:
When you are requesting a loan, you can choose from these three routes of investigating lending programs.
•    Banker – A local bank may grant your mortgage directly if you qualify for one of that institution’s specific loan programs.
•    Mortgage Broker – This is a liaison between the lender/bank and you, the homebuyer. A Broker passes on your information to a wide pool of lending programs, but you have very little control or oversight of the process.
•    Mortgage Lender – A Lender can issue a mortgage pre-approval and/or loan commitment, and can explore loan programs from a variety of banks so that you get the best loan option.

What is pre-approval and why is it important?

Pre-approval for a mortgage is granted after you have submitted your loan application and your credit report has been checked. The difference between a pre-approved and an approved mortgage is merely technical – a mortgage is only approved when a specific home has been identified for the loan.

Having pre-approval makes you a more credible buyer, lets you know exactly how much money you have to work with, and allows your final purchase and move-in to be quick and easy.

Before you apply for a loan to buy your dream Boston Condo, be sure to check your credit report. You should get into the habit of doing this annually whether or not you plan to buy a home. It is now free to get a credit report (different than a credit score) through a few services. Look for any evidence of errors or identity theft so that there are no unpleasant surprises in your loan approval process.

Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Our new blog postings are located at www.bostonreb.com

Boston Real Estate Blog

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

For our blogs please go to www.bostonreb.com

Ford Realty will now post all its blog entrys on www.bostonreb.com

Ford Realty just acquired the Bostonreb...

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty just acquired the Boston Real Estate Blog from John A Keith. We would like to welcome John Keith, Darin Thompson and Frank Mancini to our staff.

Boston real estate news

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

the following is from our sister web site www.bostonreb.com

Banker & Tradesman breaks the story of a condo at the Ritz-Carlton Towers going into foreclosure.

In a sign that the housing crisis is not limited to hardscrabble neighbor- hoods, a five-room condominium at the Ritz-Carlton Boston Common is facing foreclosure.

The 1,359-square foot unit is expected to be listed on the MLS Property Information Network by Charlesgate Realty Group later this month for $600,000, according to P.T. Vineburgh, the company’s founding partner.

“The housing and mortgage disaster is starting to transcend socio-economic lines,” said Vineburgh. “It’s now extended to the Ritz.”

Maybe.

But, maybe not in this case.

Someone with the same name as the owner of this unit was dismissed from his job at FleetBoston Financial, back in 1999, following accusations that the company, through its Columbia Management Group, had engaged in “improper trading”.

In January 2008, according to the Boston Herald, someone with the same name was stopped at the gate prior to boarding a JetBlue flight from Logan Airport to Florida because there was a 9mm Glock pistol in his carry-on. “I forgot it was in my bag,” he said.

On October 12th, someone with the same name ended up in the Plymouth County Jail where, facing fraud charges, he was “waiting for an extradition hearing before being picked up by the Las Vegas Police Department,” according to the Hingham Journal.

It might be that there’s more than meets the eye, here.

Our New Real Estate Blog

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Check out our new Boston real estate blog at www.bostonreb.com

Condos/Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In the last two weeks 203 properties in Boston went under agreement.

The number of one million dollar real estate transactions under agreement are as follows:

1. One single family home under agreement in the last two weeks.

2. Six condos under agreement for one million dollars in the last two weeks.

3. One multi-family home under agreement in the million dollar range.

Interest rate cut?

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Economists were split on whether the central bank would actually cut a key rate when officials meet Tuesday, but it was widely agreed that the Fed will at least open the door to reducing rates in the weeks ahead if financial markets do not stabilize.

Boston buyers are hoping that the Fed comes through.

Beacon Hill Open House

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We will be conducting a Sunday Open House from 11:30am - 1:00pm at 6 Goodwin Place #1. This is a great chance to own a Beacon Hill studio for only $299,900.00. More info call Linda Mitrano at 617-512-4557 or at 617-720-5454.

Sunday Open House Ad

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today Ford Realty will be conduction a Sunday Open House at 6 Goodwin Place. Parlor level studio for only $299,900.00. The OPen House is from 11:30am - 1:00pm. More info call 617-720-5454.

U.S Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Nearly 102,000 homeowners lost their properties to foreclosure in August, up nearly 6 percent from July and more than 80 percent higher than in August 2007, according to data released Monday by Foreclosures.com, a provider of foreclosure information.

Luxury Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Two new Boston luxury condos just came on the market:

1. The Mandarin Oriental #10B - $6,500,000.00 this is a three bedroom, 3.5 baths with 6 rooms.

2. 2 Avery Street - Boston Ritz Towers - $4,250,000.00 6 rooms, 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.

More iinfo call the listing broker or have us represent you as a Boston Buyer Broker at 617-720-5454.

Real Estate Builders

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Toll Brothers one of the largest residential builders showed a lost of $29 million last quarter.

Boston Real Estate Foreclosure Preventio..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Here are 5 options you have if you want to avoid foreclosure.

Re-finance can be difficult due to the decline in real estate values. However, often a bank may offer a re-finance to pay off other high-interest debt like credit cards so that you will have enough income to pay your mortgage.
Short Sale - If you can prove financial hardship (loss of job, health problems, etc…) often a bank will allow a sale for a lesser amount than owed. Speak with a CPA as there are tax implication to a short sale.
Deed in lieu of foreclosure - an extended pre-foreclosure process (minimum 90 days in Arizona) is costly to the bank in terms of interest lost and potential decrease in property values. The bank may want to take back the home in exchange for release of debt by the owner so they can sell immediately. Again, ask your CPA about potential negative tax implications of a Deed in lieu of foreclosure.
Loan Modification - banks have been asked to cooperate with the American Housing Rescue act to work with borrowers to keep them in their home as foreclosures significantly impact their bottom line. If you are still able to make the majority of your monthly mortgage payment contact your bank with your financial information. They can reduce the interest rate (typically to 5%) and allow you to pay the new lesser monthly mortgage adding the difference to the principal of your loan.
Forbearance - If you are past due on monthly payments, yet cannot make up the accumulated missed payments, your bank may add those payments to your principal and allow you to pick up paying starting today. This is assuming you have the ability to keep paying monthly.

Boston Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

CNBC.com

The Boston Herald reports that Massachusetts foreclosures are on the rise once again.

Michael Phelps dives into the Condo Mark..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Michael Phelps Fuels the Condo Market

Posted By:Diana Olick | Realty Check with Diana Olick

Not that he needs anymore, but yet another kudo to Michael Phelps for doing his part in the housing recovery. Instead of heading for La-La-Land, where all those cameras await, or for a spicier set-up in South Beach, the millionaire medal man reportedly decided to sink $1.69 million into his hometown of Baltimore.

Buying real estate from home builders

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Sometimes home buyers want to buy a brand new home instead of a re-sell home. Home buyers sometimes want to buy a new house from a home builder.

There are some things that are very important that must be considered when thinking of buying a brand new home or townhouse or condo.

Obviously, whenever purchasing real estate, a home buyer should always be represented. This doesn’t mean being represented by the Listing Agent who represents the Seller or a new home subdivision personnel who represents the Builder.

All home buyers need professional representation by a Boston Buyer Agent who will you solely represents the home buyer’s best interest. Many new home builders offer the Buyer’s Realtor a commission if the Realtor brings the home buyer to the subdivision. A Boston Buyer Broker can negotiate the best price, and terms for home buyers.

One very important aspect of purchasing a new Boston single-family, condo or townhouse from a home builder is to make sure that the builder is solvent, at least as much as you possibly can. Personally, I would only buy a new home from a builder if it was at the end of a project versus at the beginning.

There are builders in our region who have gone out of business and each month there seems to be another one to add to the list. This may seem insignificant to you, but believe me when I say, that it has a very significant impact on every new home buyer in a subdivision where the home builder has filed bankruptcy.

Liens are placed on each and every new home in a subdivision where the builder has gone out of business. Sometimes as many as 16–18 liens have been placed on the homeowners property in a subdivision. Not only are the liens placed on homeowners who purchased a house in the subdivision but the remaining portion of the subdivision is not finished and becomes quite an eye sore.

Tip: When considering buying a new home at a new home subdivision be sure to:

Contact your Realtor and get proper representation before visiting any new home builder subdivision.
Get a Home Inspection of the new house or new condo. Don’t have the builder represent you.
You don’t have to use the new home builder’s lender. Many times you can get better loans elsewhere.
More info call Ford Realty at 617-720-5454

Difference in Real Estate - Men and Wom..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

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Press Release

Source: Obeo

Obeo Survey Provides Landmark Insight Into Home-Buying Behavior
Friday August 22, 9:14 am ET

SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- In keeping with its reputation as an expert in buyer behavior, Obeo's recent survey reveals significant findings regarding gender's impact on the process of purchasing a home.

Source: Obeo

·	Obeo helps real estate agents serve the end consumer
·	Click Here to Download Image

According to a survey of more than 500 adult respondents conducted by National Polling Service on behalf of Obeo, a leading provider of full-service residential real estate online marketing products in North America:

-- 41 percent of women surveyed began their search for a new home on-line, while 25 percent of all males did the same; interestingly enough, more men (28.5 percent) initiated their search by contacting a real estate agent.

-- 52.6 percent of all women surveyed searched 21 or more homes online compared to 45 percent of men surveyed

-- While price was considered the most important home feature to consider by both men and women, 13.2 percent of men surveyed said the size of a home was the primary feature to consider compared to 4.4 percent of all women

-- 94 percent of all women surveyed said photos of a home would be very helpful in their search for a home while nearly 70 percent said 360-degree panoramas would be very helpful.

-- More than 72 percent of all respondents found the interactive nature of Obeo - like being able to virtually change certain design elements of a home - helpful in their search for a home.

"We know that today's home buyers are more knowledgeable about the process in general and have higher expectations of information provided regarding the homes in which they are interested," said Obeo CEO Glade Jones. "What this survey provides with its in-depth demographic analysis is a map to better serving that end consumer."

"By providing REALTORS® with this breadth of information as well as a marketing platform to meet the consumer needs, we believe we are providing a valuable solution to the real estate industry," said Alan Earl, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

For more information and to download this survey, please visit www.Obeo.com/BuyerSurvey08 .

Obeo provides Realtors®, homebuilders, land developers and property managers with customized online marketing solutions and offline sales tools. To find out more, go to www.obeo.com.

Boston Condo

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty just listed a Beacon Hill condo for sale for $299,999.00. This large studio condo is located at 6 Goodwin Place parlor level. Must see won't last. It hasn't been listed on LINK or MLS but when it does it will go fast. More information call Linda Mitrano at 617-512-4557.

Broker commission refunds non taxable

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

IRS Rules That Redfin Does Not Have to Report
Commission Refunds as Taxable Income

SEATTLE - March 7, 2007: Online real estate broker Redfin Corporation today announced a ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service that Redfin does not have to issue Form 1099 to customers that receive commission refunds because such amounts generally are not taxable as income. Redfin is notifying all of its home-buying customers by mail that the company will not report their commission refunds to the IRS.

Redfin Direct combines an e-commerce application with the services of a local, experienced Redfin agent who handles home tours, pricing advice, offer presentation, negotiations, inspections and the closing process. Home-buyers who can find a home to buy on their own get two-thirds of Redfin’s commission refunded at closing.

Across Washington and California, Redfin’s average commission refund is more than $10,000. Redfin customers typically apply their refund to closing costs, which include loan fees, local property taxes and escrow-related costs as well as an initial mortgage payment. As the commission refund usually exceeds closing costs by thousands of dollars, Redfin often issues its customers a check for the excess.

Prior to Redfin Direct, commission refunds in excess of closing costs were relatively rare, and no ruling existed as to whether such amounts were required to be reported on Form 1099. Accordingly, Redfin petitioned the IRS in November 2006 for a ruling, which Redfin received from the IRS last week.

Because an individual or corporation can only petition the IRS on its own behalf, Redfin could only seek a ruling to clarify its own reporting obligation, not to address the individual circumstance of each customer’s tax return. The ruling does however state that “a payment or credit at closing from [Redfin] represents an adjustment to the purchase price of the home and generally is not includible in a purchaser’s gross income.’

In support of its ruling, the IRS cites guidance addressing a non-profit’s down-payment assistance to low-income families buying houses or a manufacturer’s rebate on a car, neither of which are taxable. The full text of the ruling is available on Redfin's blog.

“Seeking a ruling from the IRS is not an insignificant undertaking,” said Redfin VP of Real Estate Operations David Wilner. “Rather than having hundreds of customers make inquiries with the IRS on a case-by-case basis, we felt it was the right thing to do as part of our commitment to supporting customers through every phase of the home-buying process from offer to close and beyond.”

Real Estate Agents Commission Rate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

When it comes to residential real estate these days, it seems everything's subject to negotiation.

That includes the real estate broker's cut on the deal, according to a report issued Monday by Consumer Reports. Based on a recent survey of home sellers, 46 percent of people trying to sell their homes through agents tried to negotiate a lower commission rate. Of those home sellers, 71 percent succeeded in getting the real estate agent to take less.

Haggling, the nonprofit Consumers Union publication noted, didn't mean home sellers were getting less from their agents or were less satisfied with the outcome. Sellers who paid commission rates of 3 percent or lower were just as satisfied with their broker's performance as those who paid 6 percent or more, the report noted.

Despite the nationwide slump in residential real estate sales, 86 percent of Consumer Reports' readers who put their homes on the market made a sale, while only 8 percent gave up and took their homes off the market.

Agents with large brokerage firms scored just as well as independent brokers when it came to customer satisfaction, but the magazine recommends home sellers base their choice of agents on factors that include personal recommendations.

The magazine recommends home sellers price their homes realistically, and drop their asking price between 4 percent to 6 percent if they don't receive an offer within four to six weeks.

Downpayment Assistance Providers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Both the House and Senate passed H.R. 3221, Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, a comprehensive piece of legislation that addresses a variety of housing related issues. The bill contains a provision (SEC. 2113) that forbids FHA from insuring mortgages in which the borrower’s downpayment comes from a private downpayment assistance provider, beginning October 1, 2008. As of this date, the minimum downpayment will be increased from 3% to 3.5%.

The bill was signed into law by the President July 30, 2008. With the stroke of the President’s pen, downpayment assistance was shut down in the United States effective October 1, 2008.

Other Downpayment Assistance Programs (DPA) are still open, including employer assisted downpayment. Only DPA programs where the Seller had a vested interest in the sale were closed.

During its existence The Nehemiah Corporation of America, a national non-profit organization, has helped over 300,000 families who would have otherwise been locked out of homeownership due to lack of downpayment funds.

SOURCE: National Association of REALTORS

The least expensive homes for sale in MA

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

16 Listings

Single Family Listings

MLS #

Status

Address

Town

Description

DOM

List Price

70793429

ACT

46 Washburn St

Springfield, MA

7 room, 4 bed, 1 bath Colonial

415

$16,500

Single Family Listings: 1 Average List Price: $16,500 Average Market Time: 415.00

Condominium Listings

MLS #

Status

Address

Town

Description

DOM

List Price

70794002

ACT

121 Merrifield St U:1

Worcester, MA

5 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$9,900

70784138

ACT

26 Edgeworth St U:2

Worcester, MA

5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$14,500

70777619

ACT

500 Moody Street U:1C

Lowell, MA

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath Gardenx2

$14,900

70787308

PCG

5 Forbes St U:1

Worcester, MA

6 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Familyx4

203

$14,900

70729881

EXT

500 Moody St U:3B

Lowell, MA

5 room, 3 bed, 1 bath Mid-Risex6

$15,900

70758914

ACT

91 Summer St U:8

Lawrence, MA

2 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Gardenx5

$16,900

70798686

PCG

53 Seymour Street U:1

Worcester, MA

5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

296

$17,900

70799162

ACT

70 Rodney St U:4

Worcester, MA

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

108

$18,500

70798499

ACT

218 Vernon St U:1

Worcester, MA

5 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Familyx3

178

$18,900

70762859

ACT

2 Pelham St U:1

Worcester, MA

6 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Familyx10

$18,900

70784850

ACT

64 Ward St U:2

Worcester, MA

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$18,900

70770208

ACT

17 Clifton St U:2

Worcester, MA

5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

327

$19,900

70803167

ACT

37 Winfield St. U:2

Worcester, MA

6 room, 4 bed, 1 bath Garden

206

$19,900

70752447

ACT

64 Ward U:3

Worcester, MA

5 room, 3 bed, 1 bath Garden

164

$20,000

Condominium Listings: 14 Average List Price: $17,136 Average Market Time: 137.00

Multi-Family Listings

MLS #

Status

Address

Town

Description

DOM

List Price

70788413

ACT

10 Herbert St

Salem, MA

1 unit, 4 total room, 2 total bedroom 2 Familyx8

$1,000

Multi-Family Listings: 1 Average List Price: $1,000 Average Market Time: 61.00

Real Estate Agents

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Agents' role in home selection diminishes
The role of real estate agents in identifying for-sale homes for buyers has diminished with the rise in online home searches, according to an analysis by ForSaleByOwner.com that is based on National Association of Realtors survey data. While real estate agents still play a major role in identifying homes that buyers eventually purchase -- with 34 percent of buyers in 2007 reporting that they first learned about the home they purchased from an agent -- that share has dropped from 50 percent in 1997.

Meanwhile, the share of buyers who first found the home they purchased on the Internet grew from 2 percent in 1997 to 29 percent in 2007. Yard signs are still a major source for luring prospective buyers -- and 14 percent of buyers in 2007 reported that they first found the home they purchased from a yard sign, compared with 17 percent in 1997. ForSaleByOwner.com, which is owned by media giant Tribune Co., offers Internet marketing services and other tools to assist home sellers in selling their homes without an agent.

***

First Time Home Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Government Grants For First-Time Home Buyers

For First Time Home Buyers, American Dream Down Payment Act has made it lot easier to make their dream true of buying their own home. Let us learn more about these Government Grants…

Enlarge Image

A home is not just an investment but a personal joy and a stronghold that brings a sense of security to you and your family. The good news is that the American Government sanctions close to $200 million as grants every year for the coming four years to the low-income group who want to buy their first home. This certainly makes the castle in the sky inch closer for those who dream of buying their own home and are unable to do so because of the heavy initial down payments in the process.

Government Grants For First-Time Home Buyers
The Government has launched the American Dream Down Payment Initiative Grant for which it has tied up with banks to facilitate this process in order to boost the country’s economy by allowing more fluidity in loans to first time home buyers. One of the best things that have come out of this is that there is no window for getting cheated because the state and federal agencies are the most credible people you can literally speaking, bank on as compared to any realtor or predatory loan shark.

Now, not only has the problem with the initial finance been obliterated but the interest rates with banks are also touching rock bottom and all financial assistance professionals are urging you to benefit of this wonderful opportunity. Once you are in possession of your own home the equity in it can be the source of making the next down payment.

As this facility is not available to you if you are a first time home buyer as you don’t have any equity in property, the Federal Government has come up with this scheme of offering first time home buyer grants. Not only are these grants a boon to making the payment but are also immensely practical in closing the mortgage. In this case, even bad credit can’t be counted against you as you have not had in your own name any housing ownership within the last three years.

Tax Benefits
A substantial amount of tax savings can be generated through your mortgage interests too. If you are renting an apartment for a certain amount, the same amount when applied to your mortgage loan payment would result in a huge tax deduction as practically speaking, the preliminary mortgage payment is generally to cover up interest rather than actually paying off the loan and this interest is tax deductible. If you are in the conventional 28% tax bracket with all the normal expenditure, this deduction could cause a major dent in your annual savings.

There are absolutely no issues and hang-ups and the only quantifiable point is that your annual family income should meet the stipulated minimum in order to receive the grant, which is calculated on the basis of income v/s dependents, the location of the home etc. However, not every state in the USA is offering this kind of a grant yet, though it is still possible to obtain a grant through federal assistance. It is important to note that each state has its own set of rules and regulations that apply to the grant program as instigated by the state legislature.

Why is this Free Money?
The government is labeling this money as free money because as there are no interests or monthly payments to be made it is virtually free, these funds remain mute as a second mortgage until they are repaid. In other cases, they are simply forgiven like in the State of Wyoming; the government grant for first-time home buyers can be as high as $2,000 and is forgiven in the case that you reside in the house for a period of 30 years.

This differs in different states and some states offer a loan that turns into a grant after a certain period of time. Thus a loan calls for the amount to be repaid in installments even if it for a low interest rate. However this is only a qualifying process for the mortgage and in most cases you receive a percentage of the mortgage amount making it all very easy in the long run.

Unmasking the Grant availability
All this may be a little difficult to believe at first and reason dictates that this kind of money will be hard to obtain for the average seeker but in reality these grants are not highly advertised by the government and there are few sources that can give you the necessary data so the chances that you will have people queuing up outside these agencies and going away with pot loads of money is very, very slim. Most of these agencies have not exhausted their capacity which simply goes to say that there is money available for obtaining that grant.

Lastly, a home is definitely high on the list of safe investments into the future as the escalation of prices for properties is constantly on the rise owing to growing population and economy that gives way to inflation that causes real estate investments to be stable if not a climber. Now is the best time to take advantage of the extremely low interest rates and make good your dream of owning your home.

Real estate companies taken a hit

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Real estate brokerage and franchise company Realogy Corp. on Wednesday reported a net loss of $27 million in the second quarter, with a 21 percent year-over-year decline in home-sale transaction sides within its franchise unit and a 19 percent decline at company-owned offices.

The average home-sale price fell 5 percent within Realogy's franchise group and dropped 8 percent among company-owned offices during the second quarter compared to the same quarter last year, the company reported.

"In the midst of a very difficult housing market, Realogy remains focused on increasing productivity and reducing our operating costs to enhance our ability to manage through this protracted downturn and, ultimately, be well-position to capitalize on the real estate market when it recovers," said Richard A. Smith, Realogy's president and CEO, in an earnings announcement. The company last month launched an additional franchise brand, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate -- other Realogy brands include Coldwell Banker, Century 21, ERA and Sotheby's International Realty, among others.

Property Values

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Aug. 12 (Bloomberg) -- Almost one-third of U.S. homeowners who bought in the last five years now owe more on their mortgages than their properties are worth, according to Zillow.com, an Internet provider of home valuations.

Second-quarter home prices fell 9.9 percent from a year earlier, giving 29 percent of owners negative equity, said Zillow, the Seattle-based service that offers values for more than 80 million homes. For those who bought at the 2006 peak of the housing market, 45 percent are now underwater, Zillow said.

Negative equity and declining prices are making it difficult for homeowners to sell property for a profit. Almost one-quarter of U.S. homes sold in the past year were for a loss, Zillow said. That contributes to the foreclosure rate because some homeowners can't absorb the loss and end up surrendering their homes to the bank that holds the mortgage, said Stan Humphries, Zillow's vice president of data and analytics.

``For homeowners who need to sell, this is a gravely serious situation,'' Humphries said in an interview. ``It can also be harmful to communities where the number of unsold homes adds more to inventory and puts downward pressure on prices.''

The highest percentages of homeowners with negative equity were located in California. In four of the state's metropolitan areas -- Stockton, Modesto, Merced and Vallejo-Fairfield -- the number of homeowners whose mortgage debts exceeded the values of their properties topped 90 percent, Zillow said.

In five more California areas -- the Inland Empire (Riverside-San Bernardino), Bakersfield, Yuba City, El Centro and Madera -- the percentages were more than 80 percent.

Foreclosure Sales

In Stockton and Modesto, more than half the sales in the second quarter were of foreclosed homes, Zillow said. Almost 15 percent of sales nationwide were foreclosures, the company said.

Prices fell on a year-over-year basis in 140 out of 165 markets, Zillow said. Pittsburgh, Oklahoma City and Austin, Texas, were among the markets that saw rising home values, the company said.

The 9.9 percent decline in home values was the largest on a year-over-year basis in at least 12 years, Zillow said. The median home price of $206,919 was the lowest since the fourth quarter of 2004, the company said.

``Sellers are starting to adjust their expectations,'' Zillow Chief Financial Officer Spencer Rascoff said in a Bloomberg TV interview. ``More sellers accepting a loss is actually a sign of optimism. It means that the transactions might start happening. There are so many sales contingent upon the buyer selling their home.''

The Zillow Home Value Index is the median valuation for a given geographic area on a given day and includes the value of all single-family residences, condominiums and cooperatives, regardless of whether they sold within a given period, the company said. The index at the national and metropolitan area levels is calculated using a weighted average of the median home value for each county, Zillow said.

To contact the reporter on this story: Bob Ivry in New York at

Boston Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Return of the "F" word...

RealtyTrac®, the leading online marketplace for foreclosure properties, today released its July 2008 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report™, which shows foreclosure filings — default notices, auction sale notices and bank repossessions — were reported on 272,171 U.S. properties during the month, an 8 percent increase from the previous month and a 55 percent increase from July 2007. The report also shows one in every 464 U.S. households received a foreclosure filing during the month.

“Bank repossessions, or REOs, continued to be the fastest growing segment of foreclosure activity in July, posting a 184 percent year-over-year increase — compared to a 53 percent year-over-year increase in default notices and an 11 percent year-over-year increase in auction notices,” said James J. Saccacio, chief executive officer of RealtyTrac. “The sharp rise in REOs, combined with slow sales, has resulted in a bloated inventory of bank-owned properties for sale. RealtyTrac now has more than three quarters of a million properties in its active REO database, a number that represents approximately 17 percent of the inventory of existing homes for sale reported in June by the National Association of Realtors.”

Nevada, California, Florida post top state foreclosure rates
Nevada continued to document the nation’s highest state foreclosure rate in July, with one in every 106 households receiving a foreclosure filing during the month. Foreclosure activity in Nevada was up 15 percent from the previous month and 97 percent from July 2007, pushing the total number of properties with foreclosure filings to over 10,000. Bank repossessions in Nevada were up 384 percent on a year-over-year basis, while default notices were up 59 percent and auction notices were up 31 percent.

One in every 182 California properties received a foreclosure filing in July, the nation’s second highest state foreclosure rate, while one in every 186 Florida properties received a foreclosure filing, the nation’s third highest state foreclosure rate.

Despite increasing foreclosure activity, Arizona’s foreclosure rate dropped from the nation’s third highest in June to fourth highest in July. Foreclosure filings were reported on 13,350 Arizona properties during the month, a 3 percent increase from the previous month and a 127 percent increase from July 2007. One in every 195 Arizona properties received a foreclosure filing, a rate that was more than twice the national average.

Other states with foreclosure rates ranking among the top 10 were Ohio, Georgia, Michigan, Colorado, Utah and Virginia.

California, Florida, Ohio report highest foreclosure totals
Foreclosure filings were reported on 72,285 California properties in July, the highest total among the states. The state’s foreclosure activity increased 5 percent from the previous month and was up 85 percent from July 2007. On a year-over-year basis, bank repossessions in California were up 427 percent, while auction notices were up 67 percent and default notices were up 34 percent. However, default notices declined 4 percent from the previous month.

Florida foreclosure activity in July increased 14 percent from the previous month and 139 percent from July 2007. The state posted the nation’s second highest number of properties with filings — 45,884. On a year-over-year basis, bank repossessions in Florida increased 678 percent, while auction notices were up 180 percent and default notices were up 100 percent.

Ohio’s total of 13,457 properties with foreclosure filings in July was third highest among the states despite an increase of just 2 percent from the previous month and 1 percent from July 2007. On a year-over-year basis, bank repossessions in Ohio were still up 33 percent, while auction notices were down nearly 20 percent and default notices were up nearly 8 percent. One in every 375 Ohio households received a foreclosure filing during the month, the nation’s fifth highest state foreclosure rate.

After Arizona, Michigan documented the fifth highest state total in July — 11,591 properties with filings — but the state’s foreclosure activity decreased 4 percent from the previous month and 17 percent from July 2007. The state’s foreclosure rate — one in every 389 households received a foreclosure filing — ranked seventh highest among the states.

Other states with total properties with foreclosure filings among the 10 highest were Texas, Georgia, Nevada, Illinois and New York.

Top Metro Rates in California, Florida, Nevada, Arizona
The Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Fla., metro area registered the highest foreclosure rate among the 230 metro areas tracked in the July report. One in every 64 households in the metro area received a foreclosure filing during the month — more than seven times the national average.

Three California cities followed in the metro foreclosure rate rankings: Merced was at No. 2 with one in every 73 households receiving a foreclosure filing; and Stockton and Modesto were in a virtual tie, each with one in every 82 households receiving a foreclosure filing.

With one in every 85 households receiving a foreclosure filing, the Las Vegas metro area’s foreclosure rate ranked No. 5, followed by three more California metros: Riverside-San Bernardino, Bakersfield and Vallejo-Fairfield.

Fort Lauderdale, Fla., documented the ninth highest metro foreclosure rate, and the foreclosure rate in Phoenix took the No. 10 spot.

Posted by Jeff Brooks at 07:19 AM

International real estate buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

International real estate purchases in the U.S. continue to be a significant share of business for many Realtors, according to the 2008 National Association of Realtors^® Profile of International Home Buying Activity.

This new research indicates that international buying activity in the U.S. is widespread. NAR estimates that between 150,000 and 190,000 homes were sold to foreign nationals from May 2007 to May 2008. Recent foreign buyers purchased properties in every state and the District of Columbia. The most popular states where international buyers purchased homes are Florida, California and Texas. Arizona, New York, Washington and Nevada were also popular.

“As the most trusted resource for real estate information, Realtors^® have long understood what this latest research confirms – the U.S. housing industry truly has no boundaries,” said NAR President Richard F. Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif.

The typical international buyer purchased a single-family vacation home costing $297,400. Four in 10 paid for their U.S. property with cash, compared with 7 percent for all domestic buyers. The typical international owner stayed at his or her U.S. property for 2.6 months during the year, according to the NAR findings.

Foreign exchange rates have helped make U.S. homes more affordable for international buyers. The euro, for example, has strengthened 24 percent versus the U.S. dollar over the past two years. Home prices are also now more affordable in places such as Florida and Arizona, contributing to those states’ popularity among foreign buyers.

“Many international buyers recognize that real estate is an excellent investment and are drawn today by abundant inventory, low interest rates and a softer dollar. These conditions allow them to own their own a piece of the American dream,” Gaylord said.

International buyers are distinct from domestic buyers. International buyers tend to purchase more expensive properties, which cost an average of 36 percent more than the typical domestic buyer’s home purchase. In fact, more than 14 percent of properties sold to international buyers sold in excess of $750,000. Foreign buyers also show a greater preference for condos and townhouses compared to domestic buyers.

People from North America, Europe and Asia accounted for more than 85 percent of recent foreign home buying transactions. The top six countries of origin for foreign home buyers, in rank order, were Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, China, India and Germany. This year, Canada replaced Mexico as the country with the largest share of foreign buyers in the U.S. The percentage of Canadian buyers doubled from last year, from 11 percent to 23.5 percent.

“This survey confirms a pattern that we have observed for some years in Florida and other markets that are attracting buyers from overseas,” said Tony Macaluso, 2008 chair of NAR’s international business group. “This latest research enhances our understanding of this audience and provides insight for the increasing number of Realtors^® with international clients.”

Of the Realtors^® surveyed, 26 percent served international clients in the past year and about half of those clients ended up purchasing a home. The primary reasons some clients did not eventually buy a house were home price concerns, immigration laws, and property taxes. “If visa regulations that favor longer stays for overseas buyers such as retirees from abroad were in place, these sales levels would be even higher,” Macaluso said.

Realtors^® who have sold homes to international clients reported that their transactions with these clients accounted for about 16 percent of their entire business. For about 8 percent of Realtors^® who work with foreign buyers, more than half of their transactions were international sales.

Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If this is the worst real estate market (for sellers) in recent history, then surely it creates some of the best buying opportunities in a lifetime as well.

We are seeing smart money aggressively buying in our Boston real estate market, and hear reports of the same elsewhere.

The properties are being bought as primary homes, as fix-and-flippers --or are being held as longer term rentals.

We receive inquiries about these homes almost daily; but more recently, we are being consulted about strategies for buying real estate at bargain prices. These buyers may or may not have to sell their existing home to buy another--and may also be open to exchange possibilities.

Listed below are 7 strategies we use to help our home buyers (and others) get some of the best bargains on the market.

Study Market Time: Homes in general may take longer to sell these days because of pricing, percecived seller value and a more cautious pool of buyers. But that doesn’t mean sellers are any less motivated to move on with their lives. At one time, we thought little of homes sitting on the market for 90 days or more. These days, we seek buying opportunities if a home has been on the market over 60 days-- and are seeing some heavy price discounting from our buyers if days on market goes over 90 days.
Check Tax Records and other Sources: Is there more debt on the home than what it is worth? Has a Notice of Default been filed that would indicate a looming foreclosure? If so, and if this is a home of interest for our buyer, we submit an offer contingent upon the successful negotiation of a short sale (where the lender sells the property for less than what is owed). In this case, either we or professional negotiators deal with the lender(s) to reach the best possible price for our buyer.
Did Owners Pay Cash or Have They Owned Their Home for Longer than 10 Years? These sellers may be in a position to sell at a discount or may be motivated to do so due to life transitions or other investment opportunities. They may also be open to owner-financing for all or part of the home mortgage. Become knowledgeable about installment sales and other creative financing strategies.
Are You Open to Remodeling? Homes sold in as-is condition are more likely than others to sell at a substantial discount. Owners, especially when the home has been on the market for some time, are often overwhelmed with the thought of remodeling and updating–and fearful that their decor choices will not suit potential buyers. In many markets, older or outdated homes are sometimes sold at land value.
Foreclosure Sales: The f-word (foreclosure) is occurring even in the luxury home market. Highly leveraged homes purchased in the last few years are more frequently ending up on the courthouse steps. Foreclosure purchases, which require cash and carry no disclosures or guarantees, offer both great potential for profit–and big dangers for the uninformed. Bidding should be non-emotional and it is best to have a professional bidding for you–but only after thorough-as-possible research has been done regarding the home’s condition, its history and resale potential. Cracked slabs, structural defects and boundary line encroachments are unwelcome surprises.
Home Exchanges: This is a rather novel strategy for those trying to sell their luxury home in a bloody market. Life transitions encourage luxury homeowners to make moves. Empty-nesters may wish to relocate from their large estate to something equally posh but far less demanding in upkeep. Others may have expanding families that crave acreage, pools, tennis courts or equestrian facilities.
If the property you want is listed, have your agent check the other real estate agent’s listing history. If that agent tends to have listings on the market for a long time, you may wish to lower your offer. On the other hand, if the agent prices properties aggressively and has short “days on market,” you may consider coming in near to, at, or over list price. You will likely find those listings already priced at or below market to attract multiple offers.

A combination of patience, perseverance and the ability to move quickly will serve all astute buyers of real estate these days, but the greatest potential of all may lie with properties whose replacement value could far exceed the purchase price--or those with exquisite locations.

Condo Sales - Boston Proper

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Comparing July 2007 Boston condo sales with July 2008 sales.

July 2007 Boston condo sales:

* 464 Boston condo sold in July 2007.

* Average Boston condo list price is $482,047.00

* Average Boston condo sales price $467,565.00

* Average Boston condo day's on the market: 89

___________________________________________

July 2008 Boston condo sales.

* 425 condos sold

*Average list price $470,289.00

*Average sales price $454,334.00.

*Average day's on the market: 105

First Time Home Buyer Rebate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are a first time home buyer who purchases a home between April 9. 2008 through June 30, 2009 you may be entitled to $7,500.00 refund on your taxes. This is a sweet deal meant to lure out first time home buyers and clear out the existing unsold homes on the market.

To be qualified you need to make less then $70,000 per year as an individual or $140,000 as a family. To learn more about this program call Linda Mitrano at 617-512-4557 she is avail to ans your questions from 10am - 10pm.

Condos - New Boston real estate listings

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

42 Listings Updated on 8/3/08

Boston Condominium Listings

Address

Town

Description

List Price

40 Granfield Ave

Roslindale

5 room, 3 bed, 1.5 bath Townhouse

$239,900

456 Beacon

Back Bay

2 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Brownstone

$259,000

7 Douglas St

South Boston

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$275,000

10 Commonwealth Ct

Brighton

5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath Low-Ris

$275,000

82 Wyvern Street

Roslindale

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$279,900

102 Boston St

South Boston

4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$289,000

19 Glade Avenue

Jamaica Plain

6 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$289,900

200 Florence Street

Roslindale

6 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$299,000

4873 Washington Street

West Roxbury

4 room, 2 bed, 1.5 bath Townhouse

$304,900

102 Boston St

South Boston

7 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$320,000

11 Wachusett St

Jamaica Plain

6 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$325,000

34 Hemman St

Roslindale

6 room, 3 bed, 1.5 bath Detached

$329,900

37 HYDN STREET.

Roslindale

6 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$335,000

10 Douglas St

South Boston

4 room, 2 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$339,900

242 Jamaica Way

Jamaica Plain

6 room, 3 bed, 2.5 bath Mid-Rise

$339,900

76 Commonwealth Ave

Back Bay

2 room, 0 bed, 1 bath Brownstone

$340,000

27 BRACKETT ST

Brighton

5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath Detached

$349,000

612 Columbus

South End

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Brownstone

$349,000

612 Columbus

The Fenway

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Brownstone

$349,000

9 Hawthorne Pl

West End

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Hi-Rise

$359,000

196 Allston St

Allston

5 room, 2 bed, 1 bath Townhouse

$382,000

19 Boylston St

Jamaica Plain

7 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$389,000

19 Boylston St

Jamaica Plain

7 room, 3 bed, 1 bath 2/3 Family

$399,000

42 Parsons St

Brighton

8 room, 3 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$399,000

77 Bennett Street

Brighton

5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$399,900

254 North Street

North End

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Low-Rise

$420,000

428 Marlborough St

Back Bay

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Low-Ris

$425,000

554 East 5th Street

South Boston

4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$429,900

150 Dorchester Avenue

South Boston

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Mid-Rise

$449,000

77 Bennett Street

Brighton

8 room, 4 bed, 2 bath 2/3 Family

$479,000

85 East India Row

Waterfront

3 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Hi-Ris

$499,000

29 BRACKETT ST

Brighton

8 room, 4 bed, 3.5 bath Detached

$499,000

76 Washington Street

Charlestown

5 room, 2 bed, 2 bath Townhouse

$529,000

725 Harrison Ave

South End

5 room, 2 bed, 1.5 bath Townhouse

$599,000

280 Beacon St

Back Bay

5 room, 1 bed, 1 bath Mid-Ris

$675,000

121 Beach St

Leather District

3 room, 1 bed, 2 bath Mid-Ris

$699,000

376 Commercial St

Waterfront

6 room, 2 bed, 2.5 bath Mid-Ris

$729,000

45 Province St

Beacon Hill

5 room, 1 bed, 1.5 bath Hi-Rise

$871,000

182 Beacon St

Back Bay

4 room, 2 bed, 1.5 bath Brownstone

$950,000

21 Wormwood Street

Seaport District

4 room, 2 bed, 2 bath Mid-Ris

$1,199,000

199 State Street

Waterfront

6 room, 3 bed, 3.5 bath Mid-Rise

$2,199,000

55 Commerical Wharf

Waterfront

5 room, 3 bed, 2.5 bath Mid-Rise

$2,399,000

Condominium Listings: 42 Average List Price: $530,145 Average Market Time: 24.98

Beacon Hill Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we sold 41 Garden Street in Beacon Hill for $2,660,000.00 on Friday, August 1, 2008.

If you are an Boston real estate investor looking for income properties or a condo conversion project please feel free to call us at our Beacon Hill office location at 617-720-5454

Real Estate Sold in July

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to have participated in the following real estate sales transactions in July 2008 as a Buyer's Broker.

1. 9 Greenhalge St. Asland, MA.

2. 8 Sunnyside Road, Everett, MA.

3. 537 Massachusetts Ave. #2 Boston South End Condo

4. 47 West Cedar Street, Somerville MA.

5. 10 Beaconhill Ave. Lynn, MA.

Mortgage Relief

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

WASHINGTON - President Bush on Wednesday signed a massive housing bill intended to provide mortgage relief for 400,000 struggling homeowners and stabilize financial markets.

Boston Real Estate International Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If your an international real estate buyer looking for someone to look out for your best interest please call one of our two Boston real estate locations.

Beacon Hill and Back Bay - 617-720-5454

Boston Common and Boston Waterfront - 617-426-6616

Fenway Condo

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The best Fenway condo deal. Large Fenway studio condo located at:

118 The Fenway

Boston, MA Fenway 02215

This is a large sunny unit. MLS # 70798086

Housing Bill

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In a rare Saturday session, the Senate voted 72-13 to send the bill to the president; the House passed it Wednesday.

Bush had withdrawn his veto threat earlier in the week over $3.9 billion in neighborhood grants. He contended the money would benefit lenders who helped cause the mortgage meltdown, encouraging them to foreclose rather than work with borrowers.

Fenway Condo Rentals

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have seven Fenway condo rentals. The average rent price for a two bedroom $2,200.00.

Fenway Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Fenway sales for the 2nd Quarter of 2008.

Number of Fenway condo sales - 61

Average Fenway condo sale - $366,100.00

Median Fenway condo price - $356,792.00

Number of days on the market - 61

Boston Homebuyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

RISMEDIA, July 22, 2008-Nearly half of all home buyers (44%) believe the housing market will improve once the new President takes office in January, 2009, according to a new survey recently released conducted by Harris Interactive® and commissioned by Move, Inc., operator of Realtor.com®.Forty-eight percent of women and 41 percent of men who plan to buy a home in the current market said they think the housing market will get better once the new President is in office.

Boston Homebuyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston - 9th Most expensive city in U.S.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Forbes came out with their list of the most expensive cities in the U.S. Boston ranked 9th.

The most expensive cities in the U.S.

1. NYC

2. LA

3. Miami

4. Honolulu

5.San Francisco

6. Chicago

7. White Plans

8. Houston

9. Boston

10. Wahington

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Fenway Boston Real Estate & Fenway Condos

Fenway is a great place to live and of course watch a game at Fenway Park, the Fenway prides itself with being one the city’s best kept secrets. With a neighborhood vibe and a short walk away from the Longwood Medical Area and cultural attractions such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Symphony Hall, and local hang-outs such as The Back Bay Fens Hemingway Street with its local pizaa and taverns. Fenway is populated with young adults and its a great place to rent or buy a Fenway condo

Ford Realty regularly offers Fenway real estate and Fenway condos for sale. We offer our clients advisory and brokerage services relating to Fenway real estate, Fenway condos and other Boston real estate.

We can represent you as a Fenway Boston Buyer Broker for all your Fenway real estate needs.

Fenway Condos and Fenway Real Estate Sal..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Fenway condos and real estate sales.

Number of Fenway condos for sale as of 7/25/08 - 48

Average Fenway Condo sales price - $437,025.00

national foreclosures are up

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Foreclosure filings up 120%

220,000 homes were lost to bank repossessions in the second quarter, and the annual forecast for 2008 will have to be revised upward.

By Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer

Last Updated: July 25, 2008: 8:02 AM EDT

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- As foreclosures continue to soar, 220,000 homes were lost to bank repossessions in the second quarter, according to a housing market report Friday issued by RealtyTrac.

That's nearly triple the number from the same period in 2007.

A total of 739,714 foreclosure filings were recorded during that three-month period, up 14% from the first quarter, and 121% from the same period in 2007. That means that one of every 171 U.S. households received a filing, which include notices of default, auction sale notices and bank repossessions.

"Most areas of the country are seeing at least some increase in foreclosure activity," said James Saccadic, CEO of RealtyTrac, an online marketer of foreclosed homes. "Forty-eight of 50 states and 95 out of the nation's 100 largest metro areas experienced year-over-year increases in foreclosure activity."

Because foreclosure filings are growing so quickly, RealtyTrac will have to reevaluate its foreclosure forecast for the year, according to spokesman Rick Sharga.

"We've been saying foreclosures will total 1.9 million to 2 million this year," he said. "But midway through the year, we're already at 1.4 million so we're going to be raising our projections."

And there is more bad news: Bank repossessions are up as a proportion of total filings, representing 30% of the notices issued during the quarter, up from 24% a year ago.

"I don't think that's a surprise if you look at the general conditions out there," said Brian Bethune, chief financial economist for Global Insight. "There have been six straight moves of weaker employment this year. The ongoing problems in the housing market are compounded by a generally weaker economy. Foreclosures won't go down until we start to see employment move up again."

Sun Belt front and center

California's Central Valley remains ground zero for foreclosure filings. Stockton, which is just east of San Francisco, had the highest rate of foreclosure filings of any metro area, one for every 25 homes. That's seven times the national average.

Riverside/San Bernardino, which is east of Los Angeles, had the second highest rate in the nation with one filing for every 32 households. Las Vegas, Bakersfield and Sacramento rounded out the top five.

Detroit continued to suffer more than any other non-Sun Belt area, with one filing for every 66 households. And several Ohio cities were also hard hit, led by Toledo (one in 92 households), Akron (one in 93) and Cleveland (one in 108).

On the other hand, there were a handful of metro areas that remained relatively unscathed. Honolulu, at one filing for every 1,331 households had the lowest rate of all, followed by Allentown, Pa. (one for every 972) and Syracuse, N.Y. (one for every 880).

At the state level, Nevada had the highest rate with one filing for every 43 households, while California had the highest total number of filings - 202,599.

The report came as more negative news for the housing market this week. On Thursday, a report form the National Association of Realtors revealed that existing home sales had declined again as the number of homes for sale continued to rise. On Tuesday, a government agency reported home prices registered another drop in May.

All this is happening as Congress struggles to pass a housing rescue bill that will make FHA-insured loans available to many at-risk borrowers. The measure, which is expected to be enacted, would take effect until Oct. 1.

One of the sponsors of the bill, Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., said in a statement Thursday that he encourages lenders and mortgage servicers to delay taking action against delinquent borrowers before the new law takes effect.

"I am urging the mortgage servicers to hold off on foreclosures in applicable cases," he said, "so borrowers can take advantage of the program."

Allston Real Estate for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following is data on Boston/Allston real estate for sale.

Presently there are 2 new Allston condo listings fro sale in the last 24hrs.

There's a total of 32 Allston condo listings for sale.

There are 3 single-family homes for sale in Allston, MA.

Allston real estate for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following are a list of Allsoton real estate properties for sale based on MLS data.

32 Boston Alsston condo for sale.

2 new Boston Allston condos came on the market in the last 24hrs.

3 Allsotn single family homes are for sale.

Brookline Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following were recent sales in Brookline in the last three months.

1. 191 Brookline condos sold in the last quarter of 2008.

2. Average Brookline condo price $514.828.00.

3. 38 single-family homes sold. Avg. price $1.231.434.00

4. 7 multi-homes sold in Brookline for an avg price $1,075,923.00

Brookline MA Real Estate for Sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information was obtained via MLS. The current Brookline, Massachusetts housing market.

Number of Brookline single-family homes for sale - 51

Average Brookline single-family home sales price - $2.075,598.00

Average lenght of time to sell a Brookline single-family home - 181 days

_________________________

Brookline MA Condos

Brookline condos for sale - 163

Average Brookline sales price - $741,245.00

Average number of days to sell a Brookline condo - 157

Cambridge Real Estate Rentals

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information was obtained by MLS the real estate multi-listing service:

Number of Cambridge MA rentals: 53

Average Cambridge MA rental price: $2,962.00

Average days on the market (DOM): 67.06

Cambridge Real Estate Listings for Sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Cambridge real estate listings available now according to MLS:

49 Single-family homes available.

Average single-family homes sales price: $1,436,457

Number of Cambridge condos avail now: 263

Average sales price of a Cambridge condo: $577.136

Average dasys on the market for a Cambridge condo: 124

Suburbs - Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put three Boston suburb homes under agreement this week.

Real Estate Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Here are the states with the highest foreclosure rates:

1. Nevada: 1 filing per 146 households
2. California: 1 filing per 204 households
3. Arizona: 1 filing per 224 households
4. Florida: 1 filing per 242 households
5. Colorado: 1 filing per 349 households
6. Maryland: 1 filing per 380 households
7. Georgia: 1 filing per 422 households
8. Ohio: 1 filing per 432 households
9. Michigan: 1 filing per 440 households
10. Massachusetts: 1 filing per 539 households

Cambridge Real Estate Inventory

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Cambridge, Massachusetts

NONE
SINGLE FAMILY	34
CONDO/TOWNHOUSE	289
VACANT LAND	1
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL	27
MULTI-FAMILY	31
FARM/RANCH
WATERFRONT/VACATION
RENTAL/LEASE	35
INVESTMENT

Cambridge Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have over 300 Cambridge real estate listings for sale on our web site. If you are looking to purchase Cambridge, MA. real estate please call 617-720-5454. One of our agents will be happy to assist you in your Cambridge home search.

Real Estate Sales - East Boston

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

East Boston real estate sales in the last three months.

Number of condos sold - 43

Average sales price - $247,648.00

Number of multi-family units sold - 30

Average sales price - $269,617

Weekly Boston Real Estate - Update

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston real estate update for the week of 7/11/2008 through 7/18/2008

Number of new listings - 95

Number of real estate price changes - 71

Number of properties back-on-the-market - 12

Number of properties off-the-market - 57

Number of condos & townhomes uner agreement - 82

Number of real estate sales transactions - 51

Boston condo inventory - 2079

* Information provided by LINK.

Seaport District Condo Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information was obtained by LINK. LINK is one two Boston real estate multi-listing services in Boston .The information below is 2Q sales in 2008 for the Boston Seaport District.

Number of Boston Seaport Sales - 17

Average Seport condo price - $560,357.00

Median Seport Distict price - $554,000.00

Averag sq ft price for a Seport condo - $446.00

Average number of days on the market (DOM) - 133

Beacon Hill Apartments for Rent

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have two apartments for rent in Beacon Hill.

1. Two bedroom hardwood floors, avail Sept 1st. Students Ok. $2,200.00 per month.

2. Three bedroom for $3,500.00 per month. Duplex apartment.

North End Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

As of today's date there are 53 North End condos for sale. If you are looking into buying a North End Condo please call our Boston real estate office at 617-720-5454 or 617-512-4557.

Lending Rules - Real Estate Mortgages

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

This work has been removed. You can view the original information at this location.

The Peter Toner Weblog at http://real-estate.sandiego-mls.com/

Ford Realty apologizes for any people who may have been misled by the origin of this work.

Beware of Craigslist Apartment Postings..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

BY BARBARA ROSS and DAVE GOLDINER
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS

Thursday, July 17th 2008, 10:38 PM

A phony real estate company scammed thousands of online apartment hunters out of nearly $1 million in fake fees, authorities charged Thursday.

More than 4,000 people were ripped off by Innovative Apartments, which posted attractive listings on Craigslist to entice would-be renters to pay hundreds in bogus fees.

"Craigslist.org can be a terrific asset for New Yorkers trying to navigate a difficult real estate market," said Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. "Bait and switch schemes can turn hunting for an apartment into a nightmare," he added.

Innovative owners Igor (Bobby) Portnov of Teaneck, N.J., and Nader Jaber were hit with felony fraud charges along with employees Brooke Corio of Staten Island and Boris (Brian) Portnov of Teaneck.

They were arraigned in a Manhattan court and are being held on bail ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.

The fake real estate company claimed to have access to exclusive apartment listings, but demanded a $200 fee to complete credit and background checks. But it rarely did any checks and instead pocketed the cash - and most of the apartments were unavailable or nonexistent.

Innovative often e-mailed clients listings cut and pasted from other brokers or online postings, most of which were unavailable or required additional fees.

The scheme went on for at least 2-1/2 years and netted more than $900,000 for the shady brokers. When outraged customers demanded refunds, they were ignored or issued checks that failed to clear.

North End Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

North End condo sales for the 2nd Q of 2008.

Number of North End Condo sales - 23

Average North End Condo sales price - $609,641.00

Median North End Condo sales price - $520,000.00

Days on the market for North End Condo Sales - 113

Real Estate Home Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information is from Realtor.org website.

WASHINGTON, Realtor.org

Modest near-term movement is expected in existing-home sales, with a recovery in sales seen during the second half of the year, according to the latest forecast by the National Association of Realtors^®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in May, fell 4.7 percent to 84.7 from an upwardly revised reading of 88.9 in April, and remains 14.0 percent below May 2007 when it stood at 98.5.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said some pullback after a sharp increase in the previous month was expected. “The overall decline in contract signings suggests we are not out of the woods by any means. The housing stimulus bill that is still being considered in the Senate is critical to assure a healthy recovery in the housing market, jobs and the economy,” he said.

The PHSI in the West slipped 1.3 percent to 97.5 in May but is 2.0 percent higher than May 2007. In the Northeast, the index declined 2.9 percent to 77.0 in May and is 16.4 percent below a year ago. The index in the Midwest fell 6.0 percent to 78.6 and is 13.8 percent below May 2007. In the South, the index dropped 7.1 percent in May to 84.5 and is 22.1 percent below a year ago.

Yun said location has never mattered more than in the current market. “Some markets have seen a doubling in home sales from a year ago, while others are seeing contract signings cut in half. Price conditions vary tremendously, even within a locality, depending upon a neighborhood’s exposure to subprime loans.”

Double-digit pending sales gains in May from a year ago were noted in Colorado Springs, Colo.; Sacramento, Calif.; and Spartanburg, S.C.

NAR President Richard F. Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif., said the current market offers immediate benefits and long-term value for many buyers. “Home buyers are getting a great deal right now,” he said. “Although inflationary expectations appear to be under control for the time being, sharper consumer price gains could lead to notably higher mortgage interest rates in 2009.”

Based on current indicators, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is forecast to rise gradually to 6.5 percent by the end of this year, and then hold at that level for most of 2009. NAR’s housing affordability index is improving this year and is likely to rise 15 percentage points to 127.0 for all of 2008.

Existing-home sales are expected to grow from an annual pace of 5.01 million in the second quarter to 5.75 million in the fourth quarter. For all of 2008, existing-home sales should total 5.31 million, and then increase 5.0 percent next year to 5.58 million.

“The speed at which home prices has declined in a few select markets is unprecedented, but the large price declines in those areas have enticed bargain hunters back into the market,” Yun said. “Interestingly, there have been reports of multiple bidding after the large price cuts, so it is possible that most of the price declines have already occurred in those markets.”

The aggregate median existing-home price is projected to fall 6.2 percent this year to $205,300, and then rise by 4.3 percent in 2009 to $214,100.

New-home sales are likely to fall 32.3 percent to 525,000 in 2008 and decline another 3.4 percent next year to 507,000. “In light of high inventory conditions, rising commodity prices and construction costs will curtail new home construction deep into 2009,” Yun said. Housing starts, including multifamily units, will probably fall 28.7 percent to 966,000 this year, and then drop another 9.0 percent in 2009 to 879,000.

The median new-home price is expected to decline 3.2 percent to $239,300 this year, and then rise 5.3 percent in 2009 to $251,900.

Growth in the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) is seen at 1.6 percent in 2008 and 1.4 percent next year. The unemployment rate should average 5.4 percent this year and 5.8 percent in 2009.

Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, is forecast at 3.7 percent this year and 2.4 percent in 2009. Inflation-adjusted disposable personal income is projected to grow 1.5 percent in both 2008 and 2009.

The National Association of Realtors^®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

# # #

*The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. 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.

The index is based on a large national sample, typically representing about 20 percent of transactions for existing-home sales. In developing the model for the index, it was demonstrated that the level of monthly sales-contract activity from 2001 through 2004 parallels the level of closed existing-home sales in the following two months. There is a closer relationship between annual index changes (from the same month a year earlier) and year-ago changes in sales performance than with month-to-month comparisons.

An index of 100 is equal to the average level of contract activity during 2001, which was the first year to be examined as well as the first of five consecutive record years for existing-home sales.

Existing-home sales for June will be released July 24; the next Forecast / Pending Home Sales Index will be released August 7.

Boston International Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are an international Boston real estate investor please call us so we can help you find Boston real estate for sale. Many Europeans are taking advantage of the weak dollar and purchasing Boston real estate. More info call our Boston real estate office at 617-720-5454.

BostonForeclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In 2006, 19,487 foreclosures were started in JUST Massachusetts. That's an average of over 50 new foreclosures every single day, 7 days a week, all year long.

Fenway Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information was obtained by LINK. Fenway sales data for the 2nd Q of 2008.

Number of Fenway condos sold - 70

Average selling price of a Fenway condo - $409,513.00

Median price of a Fenway condo sold - $350,000.00

Average sq ft price of a Fenway condo - $575.00

Days on the market for a Fenway condo to sell - 77

Beacon Hill Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Beacon Hill real estate condo sales for the 2nd Q of 2008.

Number of condo sales in Beacon Hill - 73

Average Beacon Hill condo sales price - $823,005.00

Medain Beacon Hill condo sales price - $585,000.00

Beacon Hill - Three Bedroom Duplex

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Attention Renters: We have a three bedroom duplex for rent on Temple Street in Beacon Hill for only $3,500.00 per month. If you are looking for a Beacon Hill apartment rental call Linda Mitrano at 617-720-5454 or stop by our Beacon Hill real estate office at 137 Charles Street.

Beacon Hill Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put another Beacon Hill condo under agreement as Boston Buyer Broker Agency. 21 Beacon Street #4R in Beacon Hill

Real Estate Properties Under Agreement

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put the following properties under agreement:

537 Mass Ave. # 2 - Boston South End

8 Sunnyside - Everett, MA

9 Greenhalge Road - Ashland, MA

Back Bay Condo Sales - 2Q 2008

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following information was obtained by LINK the Boston real estate multi-listing service.

Back Bay condos Sold - $980,877.00

Back Bay Average Price Sold - $980,877.00

Back Bay Median Condo Price Sold - $737,500.00

Average Back Bay Condo Price per Sq Ft. - $760.00

Average Day's on the Market (DOM) for Back Bay Condo - 75

Boston MLS Sales Pictures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000


	4 Photos

MLS # 70791038 - New
Condo - 2/3 Family

36 west Eagle - Unit 2	List Price: $289,900
Boston, MA : East Boston 02128
Suffolk County
Total Rooms: 6	Bedrooms: 3
Full/Half/Master Baths: 1/0/No	Fireplaces: 0
Unit Placement: Middle	Unit Level: 2

Remarks

incredibly beautiful 3 bedroom condo on eagle hill, this unit boasts gleaming hardwood floors huge kitchen, exclusive use of the back porch, walk in closets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, views of the harbor, this unitis a must see. storage space in the basement and washer and dryer hook ups. come and see, seller is anxious so we'll take offers.

I can't beleive that a Boston real estate broker stated that this was an "incredible beautiful 3 bedrrom.....with gleaming hardwood floors."

South End Real Estate - 2Q 2008

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

South End condo sales results for the 2nd Q in 2008:

Number of South End condos sold - 224

Average South End condo sales price: $599,000.00

Median South End condo sales price: $589,000.00

Days on the market: 72

Real Estate Decorating Ideas

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

I would so smash my head into the wall every time I tried to get into bed.

From Betta Patterson.

Boston Real Estate - Home Inspection

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

You don’t need to be a home inspector or an electrician to know this is just plain wrong…

Real Estate Business Cards

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

That’s the guy you want representing you and your family in what will likely be the largest personal financial transaction in your life.

Boston Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Someone left their house and ran away

Someone left their house and ran away - Boston foreclosure?

Looking for a Boston Broker

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

It's been one of those weeks. My desk isn't quite as bad as the picture, but my brain probably is. I'm thankful for the business. Two years ago, there wasn't any real estate business. Work is good, but this week was piled with it.

Looking to buy a Boston Condo? Call Linda Mitrano at 617-720-5454.

Charles River Park - Boston Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Charles River Park - Apartment Rentals:

2 and 3 BED SPECIAL going on in ASTERIA on select units for a short time only!!!

Large 2 bed's, 1389 Sq Ft starting at $3300

2 Bed Townhouse reduced price for $5500 - 1570 Sq Ft

3 bed Townhouse reduced price for $7000 - 1979 Sq Ft

Asteria is now open! Come check out the Lobby and Amenities of Asteria West End!!!!!

One Bedrooms starting at ~ $2400 - 742 Sq. Ft

Two Bedrooms Starting at ~ $3300 - 1076 Sq. Ft

The Villas are open and ready for Move in!!

If you have not seen them- Please set up a tour today.

One Beds starting at ~ $2,725 - 900 Sq. Ft

Two Beds starting at ~ $3,500 - 1200 Sq. Ft

Vesta

1 bed's starting at $2450 - 745 Sq Ft

2 bed's starting at $3850 - 1235 Sq Ft

Longfellow

Studios starting at ~ $1845

One Beds starting at ~ $2230

Two Beds starting at ~ $2700

*Two Bed Penthouse ~ $4500

*Three Bed Penthouse ~ $6000

Emerson

Studios Starting at ~ $1,850

One Beds starting at ~$2,105

Two Beds Starting at ~ $2,825

Three Beds Starting at $ ~$3,635

More info call Mike Savage at 617-306-8986

Real Estate Moving Trends

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Relocation.com Reveals Findings From Major National Consumer Moving Survey

Preferences Highlight Indicators of Economic Concerns as Peak Moving Season
                                   Begins

    NEW YORK, June 17 /PRNewswire/ -- As summer begins and peak-moving
season shifts into full gear, Relocation.com, the leading online consumer
resource for moving services, today announced the findings of its
nationwide consumer moving survey. While the U.S.'s economic turmoil
continues to keep consumers on edge and home sales slow, the moving
industry is seeing marked changes in consumer attitudes. Relocation.com's
survey findings produced some key insights about moving hot spots in the
U.S., how the housing and mortgage crisis is impacting moves and consumer
opinions about using a professional mover.

    With 80 percent of consumers starting their real estate and moving
research online(1), Relocation.com conducted the survey to garner insights
about the consumer outlook on moving in order to better address their
needs.

    "With the typical summer moving season spike, our monthly traffic is
indicating similar patterns. However, we are seeing a general up-tick in
online searches for moving services that is reflected in the survey
feedback," said Greg Hebner, CEO Relocation.com. "The heightened
sensitivities consumers are feeling about the economy and their motives for
moving are showing a stronger need for superior customer service support
from the moving industry. We work with our partners, the moving
professionals, to deliver that high standard of service."

    Based on the most recent U.S. Census data, about 40 million Americans
move to a new residence each year, as part of a vibrant industry that
produces more than $15.7 billion in annual revenue and employs more than
172,000 people. Knowing the importance of the moving industry to the U.S.
economy and the sensitivity of the industry on the general economy and the
housing market, Relocation.com's study helps the moving industry gain a
better understanding of consumers' feelings for packing up and moving out
in the current marketplace.

    "As the price of gas continues to soar, we know that consumers are
going online to study and evaluate costs of moving themselves versus hiring
a professional mover. We can help them evaluate the best resources
available for their move and make smart choices to fit their budget," said
Sharon (Ron) Asher, Relocation.com founder and chairman.

    Economic Issues and the Housing Crisis

    This survey showed that the two most prevalent reasons for moving in
today's challenging economy are related to job change (relocating for an
existing job or finding a new job) and lifestyle change (downsizing or
retirement).

    The majority of recent movers went from one rental situation to another
with only 15 percent moving from a rental to home ownership. This result is
a direct correlation with the deteriorating housing market in the U.S. and
the tightening credit markets, making opportunities for home ownership much
more challenging than in recent years.

    The current real estate market in the U.S. is also likely reflected by
the fact that a greater proportion of the sample (19 percent versus 15
percent) went from home ownership status to renter status than the reverse,
and only 14 percent of these consumers owned their previous residence and
moved to a newly purchased home. It also reflects that efforts from
government and consumer groups to combat the rising number of foreclosures
have not yet had a significant impact on consumers trying to keep their
homes.

    Moving Searches Shift Online

    The survey indicates that the more mobile and affluent the consumer,
the more likely they are to rely on Internet sources (than "yellow pages,"
for example) for finding a professional mover and/or general information on
moving and relocating (including finding a new home or rental). This trend
is especially prevalent in those consumers between 25 and 54. With 66
percent of recent movers searching for their moving professionals online,
it shows a significant shift in the moving marketplace that once depended
on classified or "yellow pages" advertisements to attract new business.
Relocation.com has been one of the catalysts in helping moving
professionals bring their businesses online to meet this growing new demand
from online consumers.

    "Moving is a high touch business, but the reality is that today's
consumer is more Internet savvy and is using the Internet to conduct
business. We are working to meet this demand with our professional mover
members to help them market their services to all types of consumers --
whether on the Web, on the phone or face-to-face," said Linda Darr,
president and CEO, American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA).

    State Moving Trends

    Slightly more than half of all the recent movers polled had moved from
one state to another, with two-thirds moving more than 100 miles from their
previous residence and 54 percent of that group moving more than 500 miles
away.

    According to the survey results, California and Texas are the two most
popular states for people to move in 2007, based on interstate and
intrastate moves combined. Surveys over the past decade have shown that
California (the largest state by population) has always ranked first in
terms of destination state for people changing residences. This trend
continues, despite the growing mortgage crisis, which has heavily affected
many areas of California. The effect of declining home values combined with
the high cost of living has not kept consumers away. Only 43 percent of
people moving to a new location in California currently live in California;
thus 57 percent of all moves to California are people moving from other
states.

    Therefore, California is the number one destination state with 6
percent of the total sample moving from another state to California,
followed by Florida (5 percent), Texas (4 percent), New York (3 percent)
and Georgia (2 percent).

    The top destination state for people moving from California is Texas.
Not surprisingly, the "snow birds" from the Northeast seem to seek more
permanence in the temperate climate with the number one destination state
for people moving from New York being Florida.

    When dealing with the Midwest states, Illinois and Minnesota consumers
choose most frequently to head to sunny California. Wisconsin, Michigan and
Indiana residents prefer moving east to the warm Florida climate.

    Some consumers prefer to stay close to their most recent residence,
with 60 percent of all moves by Texans remaining within the state, more
than any other state, compared to 46 percent in Illinois, 44 percent in
California and 37 percent in New York. Florida, however, has the most
out-of-state moves with 66 percent leaving the Sunshine State. Recent data
shows that Florida had one of the highest foreclosure rates between
November 2007 and April 2008, which likely is a factor behind many of the
moves.

    Hiring a Professional Mover

    The majority of recent movers polled (74 percent) used a professional
mover to move some or all of their household possessions. The average
middle class homeowner shows a strong preference for hiring a professional
mover whenever an interstate move to a new residence is necessary.
Additionally, consumers who are planning to move more than 100 miles are
twice as likely to consider hiring a professional mover rather than moving
themselves.

    The declining economic and housing conditions in the U.S. likely
contribute to the rising proportion of moving consumers who report a high
level of fear or anxiety regarding an upcoming move (compared to similar
findings in 2006 and 2007 research). The majority (52 percent) of the
respondents rated moving anxiety or fear levels as high or very high, with
only 8 percent rating it very low.

    This high level of anxiety or fear of moving presents a major challenge
for the moving industry because even small problems, disappointments or
failed expectations can be magnified under these highly charged emotional
conditions. Yet, nearly 70 percent of the entire sample still perceived
value in hiring a professional mover. Setting clear expectations and
regular communication between the consumer and professional were key to
creating a positive working relationship.

    Survey Sample and Methodology

    A total of 1,237 consumers completed a national online survey focused
on moving and relocation behaviors and attitudes. This survey was launched
in mid-March 2008 and was conducted on behalf of Relocation.com.

    In order to qualify for the survey (for which there was no incentive),
respondents had to be over 21 years of age and either moved from one
residence to another within the past 12 months, or is currently planning to
move from one residence to another within the next 12 months.

    The sample size of 1,237 is statistically robust and yields a maximum
error tolerance of less than +/- 2.9% at the 95% confidence interval.
Approximately two-thirds of the survey sample (857) consisted of
respondents who had moved within the past year; most had moved within the
past 90 days. A total of 380 respondents who are planning a move within a
year also took the survey.

    About Relocation.com

    Relocation.com is the largest online marketplace connecting consumers
who are moving locally, nationally or internationally with professionals
that can best service their needs. Working with many leading moving and
storage companies, Relocation.com provides free quotes from quality,
professional companies who can service consumers during their upcoming
move. It is focused on helping make the relocation process easier and less
challenging for the 40 million people moving each year. Relocation.com
offers comprehensive information, tools and resources to help consumers
compare, connect and learn about products and services from hundreds of
relevant providers. The company was founded in 2000 by online moving
industry pioneer, chairman Sharon (Ron) Asher, and is based in New York.
For more information, visit http://www.relocation.com.

    (1) According to the National Association of Realtors

SOURCE Relocation.com

Boston Real Estate Update

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Activity in the Boston condo market appears to be brisk. We have several Boston condos under agreement and most of the brokers I have spoken to say that there has been an uptick in activity. Second quarter Boston real estate sales for 2008 will be coming out in the next two weeks.

Boston Real Estate International Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today we put a property under agreement with a Boston real estate international buyer. If you are an international buyer looking to buy Boston real estate please call us at 617-720-5454.

July 5th

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The staff at Ford Realty hopes that everyone had a haapy and safe July 4th.

If you are looking to rent or buy in Back Bay, Beacon Hill, The Fenwat or Brookline area we will be open today so please feel free to call us or stop by.

Beacon Hill Village

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Beacon Hill Village helps persons age 50 and older who live on Beacon Hill and in its adjacent neighborhoods enjoy safer, healthier and more independent lives in their own homes–well connected to a familiar and attentive community. Faced with the prospect of leaving the neighborhood they love in order to obtain the services of a retirement community, a group of long-time Beacon Hill residents decided to create a better alternative–Beacon Hill Village is designed to make remaining at home a safe, comfortable and cost-effective solution.

By partnering with proven providers of services, Beacon Hill Village is able to offer its members preferred access to social and cultural activities, exercise opportunities and household and home maintenance services, as well as medical care and assisted living at home. As a nonprofit, membership organization, it can provide these programs and services more cost-effectively than most conventional retirement communities.

Beacon Hill Village is seeking to ensure that all elders in the community have the opportunity to become members through foundation support.

Villagers can choose from an a la carte menu. Some services are included in the annual membership fee, with others provided at reduced rates.

Would you like to learn more about starting an organization similar to Beacon Hill Village in your own neighborhood? Order a copy of BHV's "The Village Concept: A Founder’s Manual" and learn how to make your neighborhood or town into a Village. Click here for our Conference DVD and Workbook order form.

Beacon Hill Village

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Beacon Hill Village is seeking to ensure that all elders in the community have the opportunity to become members through foundation support.

Villagers can choose from an a la carte menu. Some services are included in the annual membership fee, with others provided at reduced rates.

Fourth of July - Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are looking to buy or rent Boston real estate on this 4th of July weekend please email us. We will be happy to show you propeties. Email address is realtyford@yahoo.com

Charlestown

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put another property under agreement. 39 North Mead Street, Charlestown, MA.

July 4th - Boston Real Estate Weekend

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty will be closed on July 4th but we will be open on Saturday and Sunday this weekend. If you are in the area looking to buy or rent properties in Boston or Brookliine please call us at 617-720-5454

Investment Properties - Boston Real Esta..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Investment Properties

As property values dip, more and more consumers are turning back to renting as a way to save money until the markets stabilize. How can you cash in on this trend? Owning a rental property may be a smart way for clients to generate extra cash and for agents to establish a new niche market for themselves. Before you jump into an investment property, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Get Set to Market
Go through your client list and create segments for targeted marketing campaigns. According to National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) studies, 59 percent of investment buyers have no children under 18 living at home and 34 percent of buyers want to purchase near their primary residence.
Know Your Buyers
Are they willing to put in the time and elbow grease to maintain the property? If not, recommend a property management company. For a fee of usually up to 10 percent of the rent, the company will find tenants, collect rent and hire contractors for maintenance. Check out the National Association of Residential Property Managers at www.narpm.org to find a management company.
Loan Programs
You don’t have to be a pro on products with me at your side. I can provide expert home financing guidance, but you should know some basics. Many loan programs that you are already familiar with allow up to four units per property.

By educating yourself, you just may be able to help yourself make the jump into investment properties.

Foreign Real Estate Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In the last 10 days we have seen a rise in calls to purchase Beacon Hill and Back Bay real estate from foreign buyers. If you a foreign real estate investor looking to purchase Boston real estate please call us at our Beacon Hill office at 617-720-5454.

Boston Beacon Hill Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have several two and three bedroom apartments for rent with a September 1st move-in date. If you are looking for an apartment in Beacon Hill call Linda Mitrano at 617-720-5454.

Presidential Properties

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Presidential Properties opened up an office in Beacon Hill. They are creating a stir as they are now advertising other brokers properties as there own on Craigslist.org. As of today's date they have posted over 30 properties for sale in Beacon Hill, Back Bay and the South End. None of the properties they have advertised are their own listings.

Boston Real Estate interest rates

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

It appears that the Fed will hold off on any interest rate increases until after the elections.

Boston real estate open houses

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

From what I'm hearing from the Charlestown real estate brokers is that activity is picking up in the area. If you are looking to buy in Charlestown please call Linda at 617-720-5454.

Real Estate WebSite Users

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty's real estate website has over a 1,000 visitors a day viewing Boston condos and Boston real estate for sale.

Charlestown Condo for sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have a nice Charlestown condo for sale with indoor parking for only $249,9000. More information call Linda Mitrano at our Beacon Hill real estate office at 617-720-5454.

Boston Real Estate - First Time Home Buy..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston real estate - first time home buyer's we have several properties on the market in Boston and Cambridge designed for first time Boston real estate home buyer's. If you are looking to purchase your first home in either Boston or Cambridge please call us so we can represent you as a buyer's agent and inform you of the many programs that are avail to assist you in purchasing your first home.

Reduced Broker Fees - Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

For this week only if you are interested in listing your property for sale in Back Bay, Beacon Hill, South End or the Fenway area we have a reduced broker fee special. If interested call John Ford at Ford Realty 617-720-5454.

South Boston Condo

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford real estate is proud to announce their suucess in selling a South Boston condo at 412 E. Third St. #1 U:1 for $319,000.00. If you are looking to buy real estate in South Boston and are looking for a South Boston Buyer Broker Agent please feel free to call us at 617-720-5454.

This year we have sold several properties in South Boston and have found renters apartments in the area.

Boston Beacon Hill Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are looking for a Boston Beacon Hill two bedroom apartment please call our Boston Beacon Hill real estate office. We have several two bedroom apartments for rent for now, July, Aug and Sept. More info call 617-720-5454.

Back Bay Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to have put 387 Marlb. St # 6 under agreement. If you are looking for a condo in the Back Bay and would like a Back Bay Buyers Agent to reprresent you please give us a call at 617-720-5454.

Beacon Hill Sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce the sale of 8 Lindell Place #2 in Beacon Hill. Congradulations Megan Oates are you first new Boston Beacon Hill condo.

If you are a first time home buyer call John or Linda at our Beacon Hill office at 617-720-5454. We will work for you as a Boston Buyer's Agent.

Boston Real Estate - Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty has sold or put under agreement a property a week since January 2008. if you are looking to buy or sell a Boston condo or Townhouse please call us at 617-720-5454.

Beacon Hill Investment Properties

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty put under agreement three Beacon Hill apartment buildings last week:

5 Phillip Street - $1,410,000.00

55 Phillip Street - $2,900,000.00

41 Garden Street - $2,660,000.00

Sunday Open House

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put under agreement 21 Beacon Street studio at our first Sunday Open House.

If you are interested in listing your property for sale with Ford Realty please call us at 617-720-5454.

Broker Fees

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Are Commissions Negotiable?

In some areas of the country there is a certain percentage that real estate agents expect to earn as a commission.This commission amount is a certain percent of the sales price.Or, some companies will charge a set fee for their services.However, just like anything else in real estate, this amount is negotiable.When completing the listing agreement, you and your agent will agree on the amount of the real estate commission.

Boston Pied-a-Terre

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are looking to save money on driving back and forth from the Boston burbs we have the perfect solution. A nice Boston Pied-a Terre for sale at 21 Beacon Street for only $220,000.

Any interest call Shaun McHugh 617-372-2041

Boston Real Estate Brokers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today, June 23rd 2008 Christopher Sculco will no longer be working as a rental agent in our Beacon Hill office. The staff at Ford Realty wishes Chris the best of luck in his new job and his pursuit for Business Masters Degree.

If you are interested in a real estate position at our Beacon Hill office please call John Ford at 617-720-5454 or email him at realtyford@yahoo.com.

Happy Real Estate Buyer

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Dear Vilma,

We are writing to you to thank you very much for your patience, efforts and kind assistance for making one of our dreams come true.

We are really grateful for your support and advices which led us to take the appropriate decision.

Once more thank you and we have to say that the most important outcome for this deal that we gained a new dear friend in Boston and we hope this friendship will last for years to come. We also hope you will keep us updated with the new listings in 1, 2, or 3 Avery, who knows we might go for a bigger one or go for the second.

All the best
Salma and Amr -Ritz Towers, Boston Common

Two Beacon Hill Investment Properties

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that last week we put under agreement two Boston Beacon Hill apartment buildings. One at 5 Phillip Street and another at 41 Garden Street.

If you are looking for investment properties for sale that are not listed in MLS or Link please email us at realtyford@yahoo.com with your request.

Boston Beacon Hill Sales Listings

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Next week we will have three new one bedroom exclusive listings for $325,000. All condos include hardwood floors, detail and updated kitchen and batrhroom.

Beacon Hill Building for Sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Exclusive Beacon Hill building for sale. 10 apartments, renovated asking price $2.8 million. More information call John Ford at the Boston Beacon Hill office at 617-720-5454.

Back Bay Condos - Boston Real Estate Sal..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Back Bay condos and townhomes that sold in the first quarter of 2007 - 116

Back Bay condos and townhomes that sold in the first quarter of 2008 - 80

Boston Real Estate - Summer Rentals

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston summer rental season is here! If you are a renter looking for an apartment in Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Boston Common, Brookline or Newton please call us at 617-720-5454.

Landlords we are still looking for apartments please feel free to call us if you have a listing or visit our web site at www.fordrealty.net

Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty sold or put under agreement 20 properties since January 2008. We have conducted sales transactions in the following areas: Back Bay, Beacon Hill, South End, Charlestown, North End and South Boston.

Boston Real Estate Open Houses

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Before you start your Boston real estate search always remember that the Broker you meet at the Sunday Open House works for the seller's best interest not you the buyer. At Ford Realty we will work for you the buyer and your best interest.

Boston Condos / Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The first time I bought a home, I remember being surprised at all the things I had to do after the closing process. "It sure would be nice to have a list of all this stuff," I told my wife.

Think about it for a moment. There are thousands of articles that offer advice leading up to (and including) the closing / settlement process. But most of these articles fail to include tips for the period immediately after the closing. What's a new homeowner to do?

With that in mind, I offer you the following checklist:

1. Follow-up on your utility transfer.

You may have already started this process prior to closing. If not, that's okay too. Just be sure to follow up on electricity, gas, water and other paid utilities in your area to ensure proper transfer. It will save you a lot of headache later on, and possibly even a "lights-out" scenario.

2. Complete a change of address form.

If you haven't done so already, visit the local post office or go online to complete an official change of address form. Do this early on, and you'll minimize the amount of mail that gets sent to and forwarded from your old address.

3. Update your address with financial companies.

When it comes to credit card statements and other financial documents, it's best to go a step beyond the change of address form. Contact your credit card company directly to change your address on record. You don't want financial documents being sent to a home you're no longer in.

4. Update your voting information.

Call your local election board or visit their website to find out how to update your address. Even if you only moved locally, you might have a new polling station.

5. Get a new driver's license.

If you moved across state lines, visit your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to find out the process for exchanging your driver's license. There's normally a grace period where you're allowed to drive with the old license, but after a while you'll run the risk of getting a ticket.

6. Get a safe deposit box.

A safe deposit box is always a good idea, but it's even more important after buying a new home. Put all your important documents in there, such as your homeowner's insurance policy.

7. Set up auto-pay.

If your bank offers it, set up auto-pay for your mortgage payments. It will be one less hassle to worry about each month, and it will also help you avoid missing payments from forgetfulness.

8. Meet the neighbors.

If your neighbors don't come and introduce themselves, go say hello. Remember, these are the people who will keep an eye on your home when you're away.

9. Ease into your mortgage payment.

If this is your first home, or if you've upgraded from a less expensive home, it's a good idea to ease into your mortgage payments. Give yourself a couple of months to adjust before making big purchases like furniture or home entertainment systems.

10. Savor the experience.

Lastly, take a deep breath of satisfaction. You’re a new homeowner!

BR Cornett writes on behalf of Jimmy Jacobs Custom Homes, a home builder in Georgetown, Texas. Learn more at http://www.jacobshomes.com

Boston Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty has been open since 2001. We have sold Boston condos in the following areas: Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Boston South End, Fenway, North End.

If you are looking to purchase a Boston condo please call us. Boston condo listiings are located on our homepage.

Boston real estate transctions

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that since January 2008 til now we have sold or put under agreement 20 Boston real estate transactions as a Boston buyer broker.

Boston Real Estate Buyer Broker

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

As a Boston buyer real estate broker we have saved our clients thousands of dollars this year in negotating Boston real estate transactions. If you need assistance in purchasing your new home please call our Boston office at 617-720-5454.

Boston Real Estate Mortgage

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Reverse Mortgages Grow in Popularity

Currently, seniors age 65 and above own more than $2 trillion in home equity. Yet less than 1% of this total has been engaged by a reverse mortgage. That’s untapped money that seniors on limited budgets could use to meet daily expenses, pay off bills, travel, remodel, fund a new property purchase or a grandchild’s college education, or use in dozens of other discretionary ways.*

In 2007, seniors took out 107,000 reverse mortgages compared to just 7,000 in 2000, according to AARP. Applicants must be 62 or older.

A reverse mortgage may be a good choice for some of your clients or family members. Let them know that:

A reverse mortgage converts home equity into cash that can be distributed as a lump sum, line of credit, life payments or any combination of payments.
If they continue to live in their home, they will never have to repay their reverse mortgage. In fact, they will retain title to their home and cannot be forced to leave as long as they pay their property taxes and insurance and maintain their home in reasonable condition.
Their loan amount will depend on the applicant’s age, available home equity, house condition and current interest rates.
As part of the application process, they must speak with an independent HUD-approved counselor. Although their mortgage proceeds are tax-free, they should consult a financial advisor before proceeding to ensure that a reverse mortgage will not affect medical or other public assistance benefits.

* Ensure your applicants understand that they should consult their financial advisor on the consolidation of short-term debt into long-term debt.

Boston Buyer Agent

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty as a Boston Buyer Broker has conducted 8 Boston real estate sales transactions and 4 more are under agreement. If you are looking to buy and want someone to represent your beat interest and not that of the Seller please call us at 617-720-5454.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Economics in the News

The Commerce Department got the month off to a good start when it reported on May 1 that consumer spending in March was up 0.4%, double the increase that economists had predicted. Consumer spending, which accounts for 70% of U.S. economic activity, is vital to the nation’s long-term economic health.

Further economic stimulus came from the Federal Reserve, which announced on April 30 that it was pushing down the federal funds rate — the rate at which banks lend money to one another — to 2%, the lowest level since late 2004. The reduction marked the seventh rate cut by the central bank since it began easing credit conditions last September. On the heels of the Fed’s action, many commercial banks announced they were cutting their prime lending rate to 5%.

The Commerce Department also reported on April 30 that the gross domestic product — the sum of all goods and services produced in the United States — expanded at a 0.6% annual pace in the first quarter. The gain, which matched the rate of the previous three months, was better than forecast.

Job losses slowed in April, with the Labor Department reporting May 2 that employers shed 20,000 jobs from their payrolls, far fewer than the 75,000 cuts that economists were anticipating. The unemployment rate also fell from 5.1% in March to 5% in April, again surprising economists who had expected unemployment to climb to 5.2%.

Also on Friday, the Commerce Department reported that factory orders in March rose 1.4%, far better than the 0.2% rise analysts had forecast. The rebound followed a 0.9% dip in February and a 2.3% drop in January.

Economic news due out this week includes reports on workforce productivity on May 7 and the U.S. trade balance on May 9.

Economic data compiled from government reports and news services Bloomberg.com, msnbc.com, cnbc.com, cnn.money.com and Yahoo Economic Calendar.

What is RESPA?

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Refresh Yourself on RESPA

Feeling a bit rusty when it comes to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)? This is one set of regulations you don’t want to lose a grip on, as fines for violations of RESPA can be steep, although compliance with the requirements is very simple. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is very strict on enforcement of RESPA, so it’s worth your time to brush up on this legislation and make sure you are in compliance.

Congress passed RESPA in 1974 to protect consumers and ensure fair competition in the real estate industry, including mortgage lending. RESPA covers many subjects. The most important deal with compensation agreements that involve giving or accepting anything of value for referrals associated with mortgage loans. In particular, section 8 of RESPA strictly prohibits kickbacks, fee splitting and unearned fees.

Violations of RESPA are subject to fines up to $10,000 and a one-year imprisonment. If a private lawsuit is filed alleging RESPA noncompliance, the defendant can be liable for an amount equal to three times the charge paid for the service.

Also, home sellers cannot require buyers to purchase settlement services from a particular company — directly or indirectly — as a condition of sale. If found in violation, Section 9 allows the purchaser to sue the seller for an amount equal to three times all charges made for the title insurance.

Recently, HUD has proposed changes to RESPA in order to provide homebuyers even more complete and accurate information. To stay current on all RESPA rules, regulations and guidelines, visit the HUD website at: www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/res/respa_hm.cfm.

Last Week in the News

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Last Week in the News

Consumer confidence fell to a 25-year low, according to the Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment index, dropping from 69.5 in March to 62.6 in April. The reading is troubling because it’s regarded as an indicator of future consumer spending, which accounts for about 70% of U.S. economic activity.

Sales of existing homes dropped 2% in March to an annual rate of 4.93 million units, the National Association of REALTORS® reported April 22. The median price of an existing home tumbled 7.7% from a year ago to $200,700, the second biggest decline since a record 8.4% drop in February.

Sales of new homes plunged 8.5% in March to an annual rate of 526,000 units, the slowest sales pace since October 1991, the Commerce Department said April 24. The median price of a new home dropped 13.3% from a year ago to $227,600, the biggest year-over-year price decline since a 14.6% plunge 38 years ago. At the current sales pace, it would take 11 months to deplete the national inventory of new homes.

Homebuyers didn’t get much mortgage rate relief as 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate loans edged up for the week ending April 24, Freddie Mac said in its weekly survey of mortgage lenders.

The demand for durable goods — big-ticket items expected to last three or more years — dipped 0.3% in March, a worse-than-expected showing, the Commerce Department said April 24. The last time orders fell for three consecutive months was from February to April of 2001, when the nation was sliding into the last recession.

The job front was a bit rosier, however, as new claims for unemployment benefits fell by 33,000 last week to 342,000, the Labor Department reported April 24. Economists had expected a rise of 3,000.

Economic news due this week includes another consumer confidence report on April 29 and a preliminary report on the nation’s first-quarter gross domestic product on April 30.

By: David Bolton

Economic data compiled from government reports and news services

Boston Real Estate - Concrete Home Repai..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Basic Concrete Repair

When a client spots cracks in a concrete driveway or other concrete areas outside a home they are viewing, it is not time to panic. Cracks can be repaired quickly and relatively easily and needn’t be costly or hold up a home sale. Share these tips with your homeowner to help them understand their options and to help your home sales go smoothly!

Concrete has a tendency to crack during settling or changes in the weather. However, when cracks start to spread, it’s time to go into repair mode. In winter, water can seep into an untreated crack, freeze, and make the crack larger as the water expands. Having concrete repoured can cost upwards of $1,000, so it is important to take immediate action.

Narrow Cracks: Clean the crack and surrounding area thoroughly with a wire brush and broom. Fill with a masonry crack filler that comes in a cartridge designed to be used in a caulking gun, or use a vinyl concrete patching compound applied and smoothed with a putty knife. Vinyl concrete patching compound is ideal since it does not require a bonding agent.

Wide Cracks: Use a small hammer and chisel to widen the base of the crack. This technique will make it wider at the base than at the surface, keeping the patch in place for a more secure and permanent repair. Clean the area in and around the crack with a wire brush and broom. Wash with a stream of water. Mix vinyl patching compound and trowel the compound into the cracks. Pack the mixture tightly to remove air pockets. Smooth the mixture with the trowel. When the patch has set, smooth or brush the surface to match the surrounding area.

By: David Bolton

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Last Week in the News

In line with analysts' expectations, consumer prices pushed 0.3% higher in March after being unchanged in February, the Commerce Department reported April 16. Core consumer inflation, which excludes food and energy costs, rose 0.2% in March. Over the past 12 months, consumer inflation is up 4%, reflecting relentless gains in energy costs, which are up 17% over that period, and food prices, which are up 4.4%.

At the wholesale level, producer prices rose 1.1% in March, almost triple the 0.4% rise economists had expected. Core wholesale inflation, which strips out energy and food costs, rose just 0.2%, down from a 0.5% increase in February. For the past 12 months, producer prices are up by 6.9% and core producer inflation is up 2.7%, the biggest year-over-year increase in two years.

Housing starts fell by 11.9% in March to an annual rate of 947,000 units, the Commerce Department said April 16, a much bigger decline than economists were predicting. Meanwhile, building permits fell 5.8% to an annual rate of 927,000, the slowest pace since a 916,000 rate in April 1991.

Industrial production fared better, however, as output increased 0.3% in March, following a sharp 0.7% decline in February. Wall Street had predicted a 0.1% decline. Strength came mostly from the mining and utility sectors.

First-time claims for jobless benefits rose by 17,000, to 372,000 for the week ended April 12, the Labor Department reported. The four-week moving average of new claims held steady at 376,000.

According to RealtyTrac Inc, foreclosure filings were 5% higher in March than February and 57% higher than a year ago. March marked the 27th consecutive month of year-over-year increases in national foreclosure filings. Approximately one in every 538 households received a foreclosure filing in March.

Economic news due out this week includes reports on existing home sales on April 23 and new home sales on April 24.

Economic data compiled from government reports and news services

David Bolton

Boston Buyer Broker

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce as a Boston Buyer Agency we put under agreement/sold over $1.5 million dollars of Massachuestts real estate transactions in the month of March.

<A/ href="http://www.fordrealty.net">boston real estate</A>

Beacon Hill Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Early next week Ford Realty will update our Beacon Hill apartment listings. In the meantime if you are looking for a Beacon Hill apartment please call Linda Mitrano at 617-720-5454.

Creative Real Estate Financing

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

I just help my realtor put under contract a listing that was on the market for 245 days without lowering the sales price!

The 3-2-1 buy down is a great way to help clients get into a mortgage with reduced payments for 3 years. It is also a great incentive to offer buyers a lower payment option and bring more interest to your listing. Instead of reducing the price the seller will need to be willing to contribute 3-5 points to buy the interest rate down. Here’s how it works:

For argument sake, let's say the interest rate on a 30 year fixed rate mortgage is 7.00%. Using a $200,000 loan amount, your pre buy down payment would be $1330.60. The first year would be based off of an interest rate of 4%. The payment on the 4% rate is 954.83. The difference from the 7% rate is $375.77 a month. Take this number and multiply by 12 and you come up with $$4509.24. For the second year, you do the same. Second year rate would be 5.00% with a payment of $1073.64 and a difference from the 7% rate of $256.96. Times by 12 and your second year costs are $3083.52. Third year is 6.00% and a payment of $1199.10 and a cost of $1199.10. Take these 3 numbers and add them up for the total buy down cost of this program. For this scenario, the lender would collect $8791 for the buy down cost.

· Buyer can write the seller paid point off of their taxes in the first year

· Seller saves money on taxes because the net sale has been reduced

· Realtor’s commissions are intact because we did not reduce the sales price

**NOTE** A 2-1 buy down is also available and will cost a little less. If you have a seller unwilling to contribute the full amount needed for the 3-2-1 buy down, a 2-1 buy down may be more obtainable. Calculations are figured the same way.

Please feel free to send me your executed purchase contracts to see what this can do for your current clients. If you have any listing that you think may benefit let me know! I’ll gladly put together a buy down scenario.

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Mortgage Banker

Greenpark Mortgage

t: 617.642.3690

f: 781.726.6731

www.greenparkmortgage.com

Boston Real Estate Mortgages Checklist

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

THE HOME FINANCING CHECKLIST-Thursday March 28, 2008

BOSTON, MA - There are six critical things prospective homebuyers need to do in this sometimes confusing market, says a Boston mortgage expert. According to David Reznikow, Managing Director of The Newell Group, “There is an excess of housing inventory right now and that makes it a good time for buyers to get into the market. Lower prices mean lower monthly payments, but before prospective buyers jump in, there are some key things they need to know about getting a mortgage right now.” Those include:

1. Use a down payment – Consumers will see better loan terms if they can put at least 5% down. “Each 5% increment will help,” according to Reznikow, “so put as much down as you can and speak to a loan professional for specifics on various scenarios. Zero down payment programs have all but disappeared, although FHA and conforming 3% down programs still exist. Even with a small amount down, buying compares favorably to renting.”

2. Shop the right way for interest rates – “Fees are critical, as they affect your overall cost, so don’t go by interest rates alone,” adds Reznikow. “An interest rate that sounds higher may include no fees, while another is lower but includes fees that may make the actual financing cost higher, so be sure to have it spelled out for you.” Lenders are required to provide a Good Faith Estimate of all costs, and consumers are advised to check it carefully against the HUD-1 Settlement Statement to make sure there are no “surprise” charges or other fees “Forget the idea of “I want to catch the lowest rate”, say Reznikow, “you’ve got to catch the lowest cost strategy over time and have a professional manage that debt strategy for you and guide you through these very serious credit situations.” It’s not necessarily the lowest interest rate that makes sense but the lowest total cost strategy over time that will save you more money.

3. Be wary of advertising – The airwaves are full of advertisements trying to entice consumers into a mortgage because the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates claiming “rates will never be lower.” In actuality, long-term fixed interest rates for mortgages are tied to bonds called mortgage backed securities (MBS) and the prices investors are willing to pay for them, Reznikow explains. “The Fed does not control long-term fixed interest rates for mortgages. There may be some impact on adjustable rates, but seldom to the extent that advertisers would have you believe. So borrowers should research mortgage rates rather than simply believe false advertising claims.”

4. Think about paying more for your house – “It might sound crazy,” Reznikow says, “but by paying more for your home you might actually wind up paying less for the transaction. Here’s how: instead of negotiating the sale price down by a certain dollar amount, ask the seller to pay for the costs to “buy down” the interest rate on the loan. The monthly payment can be reduced substantially, saving cash flow in the short run while increasing your principal balance in the long term. Seller funds can also be used to buy out PMI,” Reznikow explains. “Your mortgage professional can help you calculate the actual savings.”

5. Know your PMI options – PMI, or Private Mortgage Insurance, protects the lender from losses incurred after default when foreclosing on a property. If a borrower has less than 20% down on a conventional conforming mortgage, they must pay PMI, with rates that can vary based on credit score. “Borrowers typically pay PMI monthly,” according to Reznikow, “but there are other options, including lender-paid mortgage insurance, in which premium is added into the interest rate of the loan. There are other options that allow a smaller fee at closing without raising the rate, and sellers can also pay the fee at closing, which sometimes can be a condition of the sale.” For more detail on these sometimes confusing alternatives, he recommends that borrowers check with their mortgage professional or consult with one of the hundreds of Certified Mortgage Planning Specialists www.cmpsinstitute.org

6. Improve credit scores – Credit scores have always been important, but never more than today, especially for borrowers with less than 20% as a down payment. Small differences in score can mean big differences in interest rates or fees, so consumers should do everything they can to show their credit in its best light. “Do not close out credit card accounts, but instead distribute the balances as evenly as possible and use old cards every few months to keep them active,” Reznikow says. “Check your credit report for errors and get them corrected, and get rid of liens and charge offs, if you have any, and resolve any late payments. All these will have a quick and positive effect on your credit score.” Even people with great credit scores as high as 720 may pay a penalty based upon recently changed guidelines. “Credit repair is not just for people who have credit problems,” he adds. “Most people don’t realize they can optimize their score using a few simple techniques.”

Reznikow is quick to recommend loan officers that are Certified Mortgage Planning Specialists (CMPS) as they can best help consumers sift through the myriad details of a loan transaction. “This means they are certified by the CMPS Institute,” he says. “Getting the right mortgage is much more than just getting a loan, because it has impact on wealth-building, retirement and other strategies in personal finance. CMPS professionals are trained in all of these, so they make a great choice for borrowers who want to understand how to use their mortgage to become financially more secure.” He adds that MortgageAnswersFast.com counts on CMPS certified experts from every state to answer consumer questions and offer free advice.

Boston Real Estate Mortgages

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Since December 2007, mortgage lending guidelines have changed very quickly and often without notice. Some of the more well-known changes include:

Broad restrictions on stated income home loans
Broad restrictions on 100 percent financing
"Risk-based fees" for credit scores under 740

Some of the lesser-known restrictions relate to property type and occupancy status as well as debt-to-income levels and mortgage payment histories. Because of the number of changes and their collective scope, home buyers should be prudent and get re-pre-approved for their home loan. Even if your client last spoke with their loan officer four weeks ago, it's important to know how market changes could ultimately impact your home loan approval. The market really is that different. Do not hesitate to call me about a re-pre-approval for your client.

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Mortgage Banker

Greenpark Mortgage

t: 617.642.3690

f: 781.726.6731

www.greenparkmortgage.com

Boston Real Estate - Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Since January 1, 2008 Ford Realty has sold or put uner agreement $4,000,000.00 of real estate sales. If you are looking for a Boston Buyer Broker that will represent your needs please feel free to contact our Boston office at 617-720-5454.

Another Real Estate Office Closes

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Banker & Tradesman newspaper reported this week that RM Bradley & Co. will be going out of business as of March 1, 2008.

Bidding Wars are back!!!!

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

This week alone two of my agents were in bidding wars. Both condos went several thousand above asking price.

Greater Boston Real Estate Board

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The following is from the GBREB

The past year was the fifth best on record for residential home sales in Greater Boston with more than 20,000 detached single-family homes and condos sold in 2007. After declining in 2006, sales of detached homes and condos each rose modestly last year in Greater Boston, making it the only region of the state to report an increase in sales activity over the prior year, according to Boston MLS data.

While home prices declined nationally in 2007 and have fallen in much of Massachusetts for the past two years, home values have stabilized in Greater Boston as the median selling price for detached single-family homes was unchanged at $480,000 in 2007 from one year earlier. Meanwhile, in the condo market, the median price for sold units rose a modest 4 ½ percent to $356,000 in 2007.
Despite the recent correction in home prices, housing is a solid long-term investment. In fact, median home prices in Greater Boston have increased an average of 6.5% per year over the past decade, and remain 20% higher than they were just five years ago ($480,000 in 2007 vs. $400,400 in 2002).
The inventory of unsold homes remains plentiful at many price points, but the supply of single-family homes and condos has shrunk substantially in the past year by 14 percent. At the end of 2007, there was a 6 ½ month supply of homes and condos for sale in greater Boston real estate compared to a nearly 8 months in 2006, indicating the market has become more balanced between buyers and sellers over the past year.
Massachusetts ranks among the bottom five states nationally for annual housing permits per capita, largely due to strict zoning regulations that limits new housing production. This fact, along with strong housing demand from a large immigrant population locally and much more modest real estate investor activity in Greater Boston in recent years should insulate the region from any severe price correction.
When looking to buy, it’s virtually impossible to time the market. With mortgage rates having declined and now averaging near 6 percent for a 30-year fixed loan, home prices having stabilized locally, and many homeowners motivated to sell, this spring should be a good time to buy.
Although mortgage lenders have tightened lending standards, financing remains readily available for creditworthy borrowers. Importantly, however, consumers with credit scores under 680 can expect to pay higher rates and points this spring following pricing changes that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will impose in March. Thus, those currently in the market may wish to act sooner rather than later to buy.

Foreclosures on the rise

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston Herald had a story in todays newspaper that Dorchester Foreclosures are on the rise.

Real Estate market heating up

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Here at Ford Realty we noticed an increase in sales activity in Back Bay and Beacon Hill. If you are looking to buy please call us.

Beacon Hill Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have several new Beacon Hill real estate units for rent, if you are looking to rent an apartment please give us a call at 617-720-5454.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty sold another Beacon Hill condo yesterday. If you are in the market to buy or sell please call us at 617-720-5454.

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">beacon hill real estate</A>

New Boston Real Estate Listings

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

$279,000	Back Bay - 257 Marlborough St #2	C	449	$621	S/1
$335,000	Back Bay - 11 Follen St #3F	C	404	$829	1/1
$465,000	Back Bay - 261 Marlborough St #6	C	725	$641	1/1
$649,000	Back Bay - 302 Commonwealth Ave #1	C	1063	$611	2/1
$669,000	Back Bay - 7 Bay State Rd #1C	C	1325	$505	2/2
$1,590,000	Back Bay - 190 Beacon St #2	C	1750	$909	2+/2
$2,175,000	Back Bay - 302 Commonwealth Ave #2	C	2544	$855	3+/2.5
$625,000	Beacon Hill - 58 Myrtle St #2	C	1025	$610	2/1
$659,000	Beacon Hill - 39 Grove St #A2	C	795	$829	2/1
$6,900,000	Beacon Hill - 5 Byron St #1	C	1	$6,900,000	4/6
$839,000	Cambridge - 9 St Paul St	2F	2236	$375	4+/3.5
$749,000	Charlestown - 5 Lincoln Pl	1F	1500	$499	2+/2.5
$749,000	Charlestown - 3 Lincoln Pl	1F	1532	$489	2+/2.5
$199,900	Dorchester - 32 Greenwich St	1F	1050	$190	3/1.5
$389,900	Dorchester - 52 Elmer Rd	1F	1700	$229	5/1.5
$399,000	Hyde Park - 1483 Hyde Park Ave	1F	2250	$177	4/3.5
$469,900	Jamaica Plain - 11 Parley Ave #D	C	1316	$357	2+/2.5
$585,000	Newton - 1175 Chestnut St #1	C	2202	$266	4/2.5
$439,000	North End - 44 Snow Hill St #1	C	613	$716	1/1
$279,000	Roxbury - 81 Westminster Ave #D	C	1181	$236	2/2
$248,000	Somerville - 43 Florence St #2	C	739	$336	2/1
$329,000	Somerville - 1 Fitchburg St #C-215	C	1014	$324	L/1
$7,000,000	South Boston - 401 W First St	L	32315	$217	0/0
$379,000	South End - 25 E Springfield St #2	C	602	$630	1/1
$439,000	South End - 39 Warren Ave #1	C	895	$491	1/1
$489,000	South End - 34 Worcester Sq #4	C	895	$546	2/1
$599,000	South End - 25 E Springfield St #1	C	1100	$545	2/1.5
$669,000	South End - 56 Gray St #1	C	1295	$517	2/2
$1,195,000	South End - 121 W Concord St #2	C	1843	$648	2+/3.5
$1,295,000	South End - 6 Edgerly Pl #402/403	C	1876	$690	2/2
$1,700,000	South End - 10 Holyoke St #1	C	2289	$743	3+/2.5
$729,000	Waterfront - 130 Fulton St #23	C	1283	$568	2/1

Real estate information

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Attached are numbers for the new conforming limits for the USA. Two important considerations are:

1. You must know the formula. If 125% of the local area median home price exceeds $417,000, the temporary loan limit would be that 125% of the median home price with a cap of $729,750.

2. You must know the median home price in your area. According to HR 5140, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will publish the median house prices within 30 days. We contacted the Public Affairs office of HUD directly to ask if there is anything definitive to reference in the interim, and they said, "no." However The Wall Street Journal published median house prices recently, and you may want to reference this information to get an idea of which areas will exceed the $417,000 limit (see attached).

New Estimated Conforming Limits for Selected MA areas:

Cambridge/Newton/Framingham-$542,600

Boston-$520,700

Essex County-$452,200

We will continue to keep you informed!

Condo or Co-op?

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Condo or co-op? What's the difference?
By Wayne Grover • Bankrate.com

Gotten to the point where you just can't keep up with maintaining that single family home? Or maybe your lifestyle is so busy and exciting there's no room in your life for all that stuff.

If mowing lawns, trimming shrubs, shoveling walks, cleaning gutters, painting and repairing the roof make you cringe, a condo or co-op may be right up your alley.

"Millions of baby boomers are looking for alternative living styles that will let them ease into retirement or just simplify their lives," says John York, a West Palm Beach CPA who has prepared tax returns for condo and co-op owners for more than 16 years.

"By purchasing either a condo or co-op, you still enjoy some tax relief and property appreciation, while someone else cuts the grass and takes care of the pool and grounds. But there's a price attached to it, both in dollars and your sense of independence."

The day-to-day life in a condo or a co-op is much the same and the typical resident usually wouldn't notice any difference. However, there are critical distinctions and what you don't know could cost you money and lots of aggravation.

David St. John, a Florida condominium attorney, says, "There are significant differences between a condominium and a cooperative, but each is considered a common interest development or CID. The terms 'co-op' and 'cooperative,' are short for 'cooperative housing project.' Cooperatives were in existence and common before the condominium scheme of ownership was fully developed in the United States. They were especially common in New York City and the northeast."

In a cooperative says St. John, an attorney whose firm represents more than 600 condominium, cooperative, and homeowner associations, the building containing the residential units or apartments is owned by a 'cooperative housing corporation.'

"In a condominium, each unit owner owns an individual apartment in fee simple. In addition, the buyer owns an undivided interest in the common elements such as the exterior walls, roof, pool and other recreational areas."

Both condo and co-op owners have monthly maintenance fees to pay, but they can vary, depending on what expenses the fee covers.

These monthly fees can be significant and should be taken into account when figuring your ability to pay the mortgage or co-op payment," adds York.

"As a practical matter, there is no significant advantage or disadvantage to a cooperative vs. a condominium ownership.

"There are pros and cons with both condo and co-op community living," adds York. "The good part for both is that most of the outside work is done under a contract let by the condo or co-op board of directors. Each unit pays a monthly fee for these services and many associations provide all outside maintenance, including painting, along with water, sewer and cable or satellite TV. Insurance to cover damage to the buildings and grounds -- but not the contents of each unit -- is also standard.

"The downside is that the individual cannot cut back on these expenses if times get tough. Owners on a fixed income may find these monthly fees strain their budget. Any home requires a certain amount of maintenance and if you can't or won't do it yourself, you have to pay someone else to do it. But paying for someone else to do it is generally more expensive."

Here's a look at the key differences between condos and co-ops to help you decide which may be best for you.

Form of ownership: The key difference between a condo and a co-op. A condominium owner actually owns the apartment in fee simple, like any other homeowner, and owns an undivided interest in the common areas like parking lots, recreations areas, lobbies and hallways.

In a cooperative apartment complex you don't actually own any real estate. Rather, you own shares in a not-for-profit corporation. As a shareholder you get the right to lease space in the building. The corporation owns the common areas. The effects of this are varied. Real property, for example, descends to your heirs while the co-op's tenant-stockholder's shares pass as personalty to your personal representative and may be subject to securities regulations. Generally, a condo is considered real property and a cooperative is considered intangible personal property.

Property taxes: Because condos are owned individually, they appear in the property tax rolls as separate entities and, accordingly, individual owners are taxed separately.

The entire property co-op is owned by the corporation, so it appears on the tax rolls as a single piece of property. The corporation pays the property taxes and passes along the cost to the tenant-shareholders, usually as part of the monthly maintenance fee.

Property taxes generally run lower in co-ops than in condos. That again goes back to the form of ownership. When condos are resold as separate entities, the appraisals and higher sales prices are recorded individually. This has the effect of producing higher assessed values and consequently, higher property taxes. Co-ops -- as sales of stock -- are not recorded at all and the only way a sale could be reflected in tax rolls is if the entire piece of property were sold, which is rare. Therefore, the rising value of the property usually lags in terms of assessed value and corresponding tax bills.

Financing: Generally speaking, there are two issues of financing when speaking about cooperatives. First, there is the underlying mortgage -- or blanket mortgage or master mortgage or corporate mortgage -- that funded either the original construction or conversion of rental apartments to a co-op form of ownership. Payments on that mortgage are paid by the corporation and then are passed along in the monthly maintenance fee to the tenant-shareholders. Secondly, there is the matter of whether the tenant-shareholder had enough cash to buy into the building or if he had to borrow the money.

Attorney St. John points out that since there is no fee simple ownership of the unit, it is sometimes difficult to obtain financing because the security for the loan is the resident's shares in the corporation. Many lenders will not lend money on a co-op at all. Consequently, most co-ops have relationships with a few "approved" lenders who will finance sales. But that means those lenders have an actual stake in the building and often demand that they have a voice in how the corporation is run. These lenders also generally offer far fewer mortgage options, normally require larger down payments and charge higher interest rates.
Other important points: Most co-op owners cannot get a home equity loan or line of credit and in a co-op each individual is dependent on the solvency of the entire project. If the corporation were to go bankrupt, all shareholders would feel the pinch. Individual condo owners are responsible only for mortgage debt and taxes solely on his property.

Federal tax deductions: In the condo situation, each individual is able, easily, to deduct payments made for mortgage interest and property taxes if he resides in the unit and further deductions for such things as depreciation and maintenance if the condo is used as a rental property. The co-op tenant-shareholder can only easily deduct his proportionate share of the property taxes and interest on the underlying mortgage. If other monies were borrowed to finance the actual purchase of the tenant-shareholder rights, deductibility depends on several different factors and is not done as easily.

Monthly fees: Maintenance fees, paid usually on a monthly or quarterly basis, generally are significantly higher in a cooperative because the corporation is collecting mortgage and property tax payments from each shareholder in addition to the periodic assessment for things like lawn care, pool cleaning, security and insurance. The corporation also frequently includes all utilities.

Co-ops have an advantage when it comes to special, costly repair or capital improvement projects, because they can borrow funds, adding to the amount of the blanket mortgage. The shareholders then pay off the cost of the project in their monthly fees. Condos cannot borrow money as an entity and therefore unit owners often face large assessments for similar projects.

Ownership Transfer: One of the good things about not being considered real estate is when the lease rights to a unit in a co-op change hands (because a seller sold his stock shares to a buyer) there is much less in the way of state and local taxes on the transaction and far less in settlement costs because there's no appraisal, survey or title work to be done. This also comes in handy for celebrities who want to keep their address and purchase price hidden from the public. Again, because it's a transfer of shares and not real estate, the transfer is not recorded in any public place.

Powers of the board: Despite the fact that many condo associations contend that they are empowered to either approve or disapprove the transfer of ownership, the reality is that they have almost no power at all. Co-ops, on the other hand have the right to approve or deny the sale of shares on the basis, for example, of the buyer's perceived inability to make the payments. They can also block the sale to celebrities; for example, who they feel may disturb the peace and quiet of other shareholders. Cooperatives, of course, are bound by federal fair housing laws and cannot discriminate against buyers due to race, religion, sex, nationality, etc., but they can -- and do -- choose people based on financial resources and criminal background. Condos cannot exercise that kind of control.

FHA Loans

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Legislative Update - Higher loan limits on the way!

Today, the US Senate passed an expanded version of HR 5140 – an economic stimulus package that includes a temporary increase in the conforming loan limits from $417,000 to as high as $730,000 in high cost areas. Unfortunately, the higher loan limits will be limited to high cost areas and the $417,000 limit will remain in effect for most of the country.

Feel free to contact me with any questions..

Real Estate Inventory

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

88 new Boston real estate listings came on the market in the last 24 hours. To view these listings visit our Ford Realty Boston real estate homepage.

Action Real Estate Sales and Rentals

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Massachusetts
Real Estate For Sale

Acton, Massachusetts

NONE
SINGLE FAMILY	46
CONDO/TOWNHOUSE	78
VACANT LAND	7
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL	21
MULTI-FAMILY	3
FARM/RANCH
WATERFRONT/VACATION
RENTAL/LEASE	28
INVESTMENT
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED
MODEL/NEW CONSTRUCTION
TIME SHARE
ADULT COMMUNITY
WATERFRONT LOT
CO-OP
We can also provide you with a list of all real estate currently for sale in this area.

Copyright © 2008 BIRDVIEW Technologies. All Rights Reserved. Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed. © 2008 Ford Realty. Equal housing opportunity. Privacy Policy. Terms & Conditions.

[ Web Assistant -- Restricted Access Only ]

Abington Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Massachusetts
Real Estate For Sale

Abington, Massachusetts

NONE
SINGLE FAMILY	60
CONDO/TOWNHOUSE	36
VACANT LAND	14
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL	10
MULTI-FAMILY	6
FARM/RANCH
WATERFRONT/VACATION
RENTAL/LEASE	3
INVESTMENT
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED
MODEL/NEW CONSTRUCTION
TIME SHARE
ADULT COMMUNITY
WATERFRONT LOT
CO-OP
We can also provide you with a list of all real estate currently for sale in this area.

Bidding wars once Again

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

For the second time this week one of our Boston Buyer Brokers at Ford Realty entered into a bidding war this time it was in the Boston Fenway area.

3 % Commission Offer for the Month of Fe..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty will list your Boston real estate condo or Boston Townhouse for only 3% for the month of Feb only. If interested to find more info on this Boston real estate offer call John at Ford Realty 617-720-5454.

Real Estate Sold or Under Agreement

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston real estate properties sold or put under agreement by Ford Realty in the month of January 2008.

1. 21 Beacon Street #2E, Beacon Hill, Boston MA.

2. 123 Pinckney Street #4 Beacon Hill, Boston, MA

3. 57 Dane Street, Cambridge, MA

4. 191 Bunkerhill Street, Charlestown, Boston MA

5. 73 Revere Street #7, Beacon Hill, Boston MA

Foreign Bost Real Estate Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Presently, Ford Realty's Buyer Broker relationships are mostly with foreign buyers. It appears that the weak dollar compared to strong Euro is bring in a lot of interest to the Boston real estate market.

Cambridge Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce that just put another single famliy home under agreement is Cambridge Ma. This year we have conducted the following sales transactions.

1. Two Beacon Hill condos sold.

2. One Beacon Hill condo under agreement.

3. One Single Family home under agreement in the Boston Burbs

4. One Cambridge Single Family home under agreement in Cambridge.

5. One Fenway Condo under agreement.

6. Two new Beacon Hill condo Listings

Scientology HQ leaving Back Bay

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston Courant reported today that the Church of Scientology's will be moving its headquarters from Beacon Street in Boston Back Bay to the old Hotel Alexandra in the Boston's South End.

Another happy client

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today, Ford Realty closed on 73 Revere Street and Karen White one of my sales associates received numerous compliments on her job performace. Thank You Karen!

Bradys Condo Fetches $5,300,000.00

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Tom Brady, the Patriots Quarterback is winning on and off the field. The Boston Courant and Banker and Tradesman reported that Brady sold his 314 Commonwealth Ave condo for $5.3 million and made a $1.2 million dollar profit.

Two Bedroom Condo for rent

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

We have a rare opportunity to rent a two bedroom Beacon HIll apartment for only $1,700.00 per month. This apartment features: hardwood floors, updated kitchen and good sunlight. More info call our Beacon Hill real estate office at 617-720-5454.

Real estate listings

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today, Link one of the two Boston real estate listing services has 25 new Boston real estate listings for sale. To view these new listings visit our homepage.

Real Estate Closing

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Tomorrow, Ford Realty will have another Beacon Hill real estate closing for 73 Revere Street #7, Boston, Ma. 02114.

If you are looking to purchase or list a property please call us at 617-720-5454.

Subprime Loan Fraud

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The FBI is investigating 14 companies for possible fraus or insider trading violations in connection with subprime loans. The FBI is looking into loans made to risky borrowers and invvestment flipping properties.

Number of Foreclosures Rises

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The number of U.S. homes in some stage of foreclosure is on the rise. 1.3 million homes were issued foreclosure notices last year, up from 717,522 in 2006.

Presently, Ford Realty is listing foreclosure properties for sale. If you would like a free copy or are interested in viewing properties call John at 617-720-5454.

Buyer Broker Agency

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you are looking for a Boston Buyer Broker we can help you. This week we helped two individuals purchase condos in Beacon Hill.

More info call Ford Realty-Beacon Hill at 617-720-5454 if you are in the luxury market call Ford Realty-Boston Common at 617-426-6616. For Brookline and burbs call 617-595-3712 or 617-232-1049.

Ttoal Home Sales in U.S.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

As a nation we had 5,652,000 existing home sales in 2007, the 5th highest year on record, the total was 12.8% below the 6,478,000 in 2006.

Source Realtor.org

Real estate sales and prices drop

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Both the Boston Globe and the Boston Herald had news articles regarding Mass home sales. "Sales of single-family homes in Massachusetts dropped 12.6% last year...." Condominum sales fell 12%.

Boston real estate interst rates dropping I expect a pick up this year in home sales.

Real Estate Web Site Changes

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

I'm looking into changing my Boston real estate web Site homepage. If anyone has any ideas that they would to see implemented on the Ford Realty web site please eamil us at realtyford@yahoo.com

Real Estate Outlook

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

I can't speak for all Boston Brokers but our two Boston real estate office locations are very busy with sales clients. This Sunday we put in a full price offer on a condo in Beacon Hill and it looks like we may have a bidding war before its over.

I attended two Sunday Open Houses in Boston and both were very active with potential Boston condo buyers.

Since January 2008 we have sold two condos and we have another 6 real estate listings under agreement.

Real Estate Mortgage Rates

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Good news for homebuyers and homeowners the Boston mortgage rates plunged to levels not seen since 2004. Boston Mortgage Brokers have told me there is surge in the refinanace market in the last few days.

The benchmark 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell 18 basis points, to 5.57% this week, according to the Bankrate.com.

Renters & Landlords

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Quick decision; did not consult landlords

Last month the Boston City Council voted unanimously to petition the Boston Zoning Commission to change zoning rules so that no more than four college-level students can occupy an apartment.

If successful, the change would have far-reaching impacts on the city and would give Boston's Inspectional Services Department (ISD) one more powerful tool to invade multi-family properties and interfere in tenancies. Boston is setting a terrible precedent in landlord-tenant relationships that we do not want no matter where we live.

The Council's petition goes to the Boston Redevelopment Authority, then to the Zoning Commission for a final decision. Stay alert for the public hearing that will be held.

Beacon Hill Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Yesterday Ford Realty and Coldwell Banker closed on a one bedroom condo at 21 Beacon Street for $444,000.00.

If you are looking to buy in Boston call one of our two Boston location offices and we will represent you as Boston Buyer Broker Agent.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today, Boston listed 76 new properties for sale. For more information on these new listings visti our homepage.

New Real Estate Lisitngs

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today 27 new real estate listing came on the market. To view these new Boston real estate listings visit our homepage.

Real Estate Sales Report

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

LINK came out with their 4th Q Boston region sales reports. We have the entire report on our web site. To view the report go back to the Ford Realty homepage and click on Boston Real Estate Reports.

Real Estate Builders

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Builders around the country are provideing more free optional items to buyers according to the National Assocaition of Builders. For example those offering to pay closing costs increased from 38% to 46% last year and the predictions it that it will rise again this year.

Real estate remains top investment choic..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Despite a real estate slowdown in some areas, investmen in real estate reamins the number one sought after asset among IRA investors who manage their own portfolios according to a survey by Guidant Fianancial Group funds.

Where Home Values are Up

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The soft real estate makret hasn't reached every metro area in the country. Here are some areas where prices are rising:

1. Salt Lake City

2. Binghamton

3. Salem, Ore

4. Farmingham, N.M

5. Allentown, PA

In reference to Boston, Ma certain areas of Boston are still on the rise.

Renters - Looking for an Apartment

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Attention Boston real estate renters: If you are looking for an apartment in Boston or Cambridge call us at 617-526-6616 or 617-720-5454. This weekend we rented two apartments one in Cambridge with indoor parking for only $1,600.00 per month and another in Beacon Hill a one bedroom for $1,575.00.

Luxury Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In the last few days three luxury condos at the Mandarin just came on the market for sale. Does this mean Boston luxury real estate investors are still in the market?

Manadarin #E 9 - B $4,500,000.00 avg sq ft price $1,744.00

Mandarin #W 12-A $6,900,000.00 avg sq ft price $2,156.00

Manadarin #W 10B $7,000,000.00 avg sq ft price $1,964.00

New Beacon Hill Real Estate Listing

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce a new Boston real estate one bedroom Beacon Hill listing for only $318,000.00. This Boston condo features hardwood floors, seperate galley kitchen. More info call John or Linda at 617-720-5454.

Beacon Hill - Two Bedroom Condo

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston Beacon Hill Two bedroom condo for sale for $618,000.00 this condo features hardwood floors, working fire place and a private roof deck

Job Loss

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Massachusetts lost 2,700 payroll jobs last month as the unemployment rate jumped to 4.5 percent from 4.3 percent, according to the state’s Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development.

The state’s economy has now lost about 4,600 jobs since August, when the housing-market and financial crunch intensified across the nation, according to data.

This is something to be concerned about, but only time will tell on what impact if any it will have on the Boston real estate market

Real Estate 3% Commission

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

This month Ford Realty is offering 3% commissions on any new real estate listing and 4% if it's a co-broke. To learn more about our Boston real estate sale commission offering call John Ford at the Beacon Hill office at 617-720-5454.

Commerical Real Estate Rents

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston Herald reported today that experts in the commerical real estate industry predict commerical rents will be heading downwards in 2008. This does not bode well for residential market as it may be an indicator that local companies are not hiring, thus less need for housing.

Real Estate Listings - New

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

$5,100,000	Back Bay - 171 Commonwealth Ave #3	Condo	4144	$1,231	3+/3.5
$629,000	Cambridge - 10 Rogers St #424	Condo	978	$643	1/1.5
$549,000	Charlestown - 50 Harvard St #2	Condo	1000	$549	2+/1
$259,000	Dorchester - 5 Woodworth St #6	Condo	827	$313	2/1
$319,000	East Boston - 5 Seaver St #4	Condo	850	$375	2/1
$359,000	East Boston - 5 Sever #5	Condo	1100	$326	2/2
$359,000	East Boston - 5 Seaver St #1	Condo	1850	$194	3/2
$240,000	Newton - 57 Broadlawn Pk #22A	Condo	750	$320	1/1
$247,000	Quincy - 1 Cityview Ln #304	Condo	834	$296	1/1
$290,000	Roxbury - 10 Williams St #48	Condo	788	$368	L/1
$489,000	Roxbury - 3 Highland St	2 Family	1700	$288	2/2
$2,395,000	South End - 40 Hanson St	1 Family	3036	$789	2+/3

Real Estate Web Site Users

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty's real estate web site averages over 25,000 visitors a month.

Real Estate Listing Prices

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Back Bay Condos - Presently there are 144 Boston Back Bay condos for sale. The average listing price on MLS is $1,752,030. The average days on the market is 189.

Beacon Hill Condos - Presently there are 65 Beacon Hill condos for sale. The average sales price is $1,054,683.00. The average days on the market is 196.

Boston Common/Midtown - There are 28 Boston Common condos for sale. The average sales price is $1,167,389.00. The average days on the market is 136

Midtown - Boston Common Rental

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Looking to rent an apartment across the street from the Boston Common? We have a two bedroom, two bath with parking for only $3,700.00 per month. Great views of the Boston Common.

Beacon Hill Condos - Under Agreement

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford realty is proud to announce that we put our 3rd Boston Beacon Hill condo under agreement since January 1, 2008

Real Estate For Sale

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Attention Boston Sellers: In this market place it is a good idea prior to putting your home on the market that you find out as much information about the Broker as you can. Here are a few tips:

1. Negotiate the Real Estate Commission: The average Boston real estate commission has come down from 6% to about 5% on average. As a Seller you have a right to negotiate your commission as much as you like. If you can manage even save even 1% point you can save thousands of dollars.

2. Learn the marketplace: Make sure your real estate agent understands the real estate market for your area. Ask the Realtor how many properties they have sold or put under agreement in the last 30-60 days.

3. Internet Placement: Today more and more buyers start are on the internet before contacting a Broker, make sure that the agency you pick is on the first or second page of Google for your area.

Thinking of selling your property contact Ford Realty at 617-720-5454.

Real Estate Market Update

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The media everday reports negative news on the local Boston real estate market but according to MLS the sles stats look great. For example in Boston single-family homes and condo sales were up in 2007 compared to 2006. The medain sales price increased from about $358,000.00 in 2006 to $376,000.00 in 2007.

Real Estate Agents

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce our newest hire Celeste Bettencourt.

Celeste Bettencourt brings to Ford Realty 8 years of Boston real estate expereince. After graduating from Fisher College with a degree in Geography Celeste went to work with a large real estate company in the Boston suburbs, she then decided to move to Boston several years ago and worked briefly on Newbury Street. After showing more properties on Beacon Hill than any other location Celeste fell in love with Beacon Hill and decided she wanted to work there with a reputable company such as Ford Realty. She is guided by 4 principles: hoensty, integrity, proffessionalism and hard work.

Real Estate Agents

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty is proud to announce our newest hire Celeste Bettencourt.

Beacon Hill Condos

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston Beacon Hill Condos: Ford Realty is proud to announce that we put two Beacon Hill condos Under Agreement this month. One is at 123 Pinckney Steet #4 and the other is at 21 Beacon Street #2E.

Crime Stats tren Downward

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In 2007, Boston saw a decrease in most types of crime in all areas of Boston which includes Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End and Midtown.

Allston Real Estate Sales - Last 30 days

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Sold Listings

Price Range

# of
Listings

Avg. Days
on Market

Average
Sale Price

Average
List Price

SP:LP
Ratio

Average
Orig Price

SP:OP
Ratio

Under $50,000

$50,000 - $99,999

$100,000 - $149,999

$150,000 - $199,999

$200,000 - $249,999

$250,000 - $299,999

$282,000

$289,000

$299,000

$300,000 - $349,999

202

$320,000

$349,000

$359,000

$350,000 - $399,999

$400,000 - $449,999

$450,000 - $499,999

$500,000 - $599,999

$600,000 - $699,999

$700,000 - $799,999

$800,000 - $899,999

$900,000 - $999,999

$1,000,000 - $1,499,999

$1,500,000 - $1,999,999

$2,000,000 - $2,499,999

$2,500,000 - $2,999,999

$3,000,000 - $3,999,999

$4,000,000 - $4,999,999

$5,000,000 - $9,999,999

Over $10,000,000

Total Properties

Avg. 129

$301,000

$319,000

$329,000

Lowest Price: $282,000	Median Price: $301,000
Highest Price: $320,000	Average Price: $301,000

Condo Sales Exceed 2 Billion Dollars

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Fun with Boston condo sales data. I just conducted an MLS search to compare Boston condos sales in 2006 with 2007.

Boston condo sales total market volume in 2006 - $1,920,972,189.00

Boston condo sales total market volume in 2007 - $2,228,188,450.00

Total number of Boston condos sold for $5 millon or more in 2006 - 0

Total number of Boston condos sold for $5 million or more in 2007 - 6

Shortage of Apartments

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

January has been in the past a busy rental month but so far the rental market appears to be slow. Main problem a lack of inventory in areas such as Back Bay, Beacon Hill and the Boston Common.

Housing Market

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

This morning on MSN the former CEO of General Electric Jack Welch stated that there will be no recession this year.

My agents claim that yesterday Sunday Boston Real Estate Open Houses were busy but the burbs are another story.

Are Real Estate Offices Downsizing?

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

In Beacon Hill the Boston Real Estate Group - ERA downsized its Cambridge Street office to a smaller office on Bowdoin St. I think we will be seeing more Boston Real Estate offices downsizing in the future for two reasons.

1. Offices like Boston Real Estate Group - ERA use the internet for a large portion of their marketing so havinf a rent office space is not as important as it use to be.

2. Do to a tougher market more and more real estate agents are leaving the industry so there is less need for large offices.

Real Estate Smoke Detectors

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Reminder: The month of January is good time to change the batteries on your smoke detectors.

Real Estate Investors

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The year is starting out with real estate investors still in the game. Ford Realty just put under agreement a property in Beacon Hill that will be purchased by an investor who intends to use it as rental income.

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">boston real estate investment</A>

Real Estate Top 10 Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

According to MLS data last year the top ten most expensive sales occured mostly in Back Bay, Beacon Hill and the Boston Common.

1. Back Bay - 25 Commonwealth Ave - $8,250,000.00

2. Back Bay - 171 Commonwealth Ave - $7,125,000.00

3. Back Bay - 265 Commonwealth Ave - $5,800,000.00

4. Back Bay - 180 Beacon Street - $5,747,500.00

5. Back Bay - 300 Boylston Street - $5,280,000.00

6. Back Bay - 150 Beacon Street - $5,000,000.00

7. Beacon Hill - 6 Otis Place - $5,000,000.00

8. Beacon Hill - 25 Beaver Street - $4,700,000.00

9. Boston Common - 2 Avery Steet - $4,600,000.00

10. Back Bay - 36 Commonwealth Ave - $4,560,000.00

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">luxury real estate</A>

Condos Sales - Boston Proper

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Boston condo sales for the first time ever exceeded the one billion dollar market in the year 2007. These results were recorded by MLS Property Finder.

According to MLS Boston real estate sales reached $1,097,133,249.00 in 2007 up from $943,462,712.00 in the year 2006.

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">boston condos</A>

Internet Real Estate Buyers

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Here are some interesting facts about Boston internet savy home buyers:

1. Boston real estate internet buyers purchase a condo/home in 1/3 the time while looking with a Boston real estate agent than traditonal buyers do.

2. Boston internet buyers start looking for a home on the internet before even narrowing things down to a specific neighborhood.

3.The percentage of Boston real estate transactions that begin on the internet is at a all time high of 82%!

4.How did the average Boston Buyer find his/her real estate agent?

* More and more individuals are finding their agent online.

Boston Common Rental

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty At Midtown just picked up a new two bedroom condo rental overlooking the Boston Common. This is a two bedroom, two bath with parking for $3,700.00. More info call 617-426-6616 or 617-720-5454.

College Dorms

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston Herald business real estate section ran a stroy today that Suffolk University finally open up their 200 plus room dorm in Boston Common area.

Real Estate Mortgage Rates

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

StateRate

APR/APY*

Nat'lRate

APR/APY*

30 yr fixed mtg

5.55%

5.74%

5.55%

5.73%

20 yr fixed mtg

5.51%

5.82%

5.50%

5.81%

15 yr fixed mtg

5.08%

5.44%

5.06%

5.41%

10 yr fixed mtg

5.19%

5.69%

5.11%

5.60%

1 yr ARM

5.30%

6.54%

5.34%

6.57%

3/1 ARM

5.23%

6.29%

5.23%

6.30%

3/1 ARM (interest only)

5.27%

6.39%

5.27%

6.36%

5/1 ARM

5.32%

6.23%

5.32%

6.25%

5/1 ARM (interest only)

5.35%

6.23%

5.37%

6.25%

7/1 ARM

5.54%

6.16%

5.54%

6.17%

7/1 ARM (interest only)

5.55%

6.16%

5.55%

6.15%

10/1 ARM

5.86%

6.29%

5.81%

New Boston Real Estate Listing

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Today a new listing came on the market: The Mandarin # W-10B three bedroom for $7,000,000.00 listed with Dan Mullin. If interested in the Boston luxury real estate market call Ford Realty at 617-720-5454

Beacon Hill Apartment Rentals

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty has the following Beacon Hill rentals:

1. One bedroom located on Phillip Street in beacon Hill for $1,600.00 per month.

2. One bedroom with hardwood floors, common roof deck and common laundry.

3.Two bedroom hardwood floors, located on the top of Myrtle Street for $2,800 per month, avail for rent now.

Top Reasons to Buy Boston Real Estate

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Top 5 reasons to buy Boston real estate now.

1. Selection, Selection - More and more indivduals are putting their property up for sale. Many Sellers were waiting for the new year. We have seen a large uptick in listings in the last few days. More selection more pick from and Boston Sellers are looking to make a deal.

2. Low interest rates - Interest rates are 6% or below so this makes an attractive time to jump into the market.

3. No bidding wars - Before the market heats up its a good time to buy to avoid bidding wars with other Boston Buyers.

4. Extra's Welcome - With a Buyer's market you as the Buyer has more flexability to have sellers provide new appliances or flooring.

5. Fewer Investors - Although there are foreign investors still in the market the Boston investor that buys fixes up and flips for a higher price is basically out of the market.

If you are interested in buying Boston real estate please feel free to contact one of our real estate offices.

Boston Real Estate Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Real estate news- Nationally real estate home sales of previously owned homes nudged up in November, but on the local market single family homes in Massachusetts moved slightly downward. Boston condo sales showed signs of strenght in cetain pockets of Boston. Real estate Sales of Boston luxury condos is very strong.

The National Association of Realtors reported last week that sales of existing single-family homes, condominiums and townhouses rose 0.4 percent in November from October, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5 million units. Even with the small increase, the pace of sales was still the second-lowest on record going back to 1999. The lowest pace - 4.98 million - was registered in October.

For the most updated Boston condo sales reports visit our web site home page, it provides sales information per week.

Apartment Rents Going Up?

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Boston Herald has an article in the paper today that Boston rents are going up. They based their information from an real estate investment company report.

Based on recent trends here in Beacon Hiill and the Boston Common area I tend to agree. Several factors are causing this:

1. Universities have a shortage for college dorms and as a result college students are renting thousands of apts each year and in some cases having two or three people per bedroom.

2. Lack of affordable Boston apartments being built in the area

3. More and more apartment buildings are being converted to condo conversions.

More information on Boston real estate visit our blog daily.

Real Estate Sales

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Since January 1, 2008 Ford Realty is proud to announce that we have sold one property in Charlestown and have two under agreement in Beacon Hill.

If you are looking for a Boston Buyer Broker please feel free to call us at 617-720-5454.

34 Boston Real Estate Sales Top $1 Milli..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Thirty-four sales in Boston proper during November surpassed the million-dollar market, according to Link and reported by Boston Homes Newspaper.

The most expensive property sold was sold in Back Bay at 148 Beacon Street which sold for $4.3 million.

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">back bay real estate</A>

Real Estate - Buying Process

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Listed below are the steps in buying real estate in Boston:

1. Pick a Boston Buyer Broker to represent you not the Seller.

2. Once you select a property you like you will be asked to sign a Boston Real Estate Disclosure Form. This form is required by Massachusetts State law and States that Ford Realty works for your best interest (the buyer) and not the Seller on this particular tansaction.

3.Conduct a Market Comparison Report. This is where we show you what compaable properties sold for in the building or surrounding area in the last few months, in order to come up with a price that we think you can buy the property for.

4.Complete an Offer to Purcahse Form: This form states you intend to purchase the property at such an such price contingent on various factors such as: Home Inspection, Mortgage Contingency, Reviewing the Condo Documents and Budget ect..... Along with the offer you the buyer will need to write a check for $1,000.00 to the Seller's Broker Representative which will NOT be cased unless the offer is accepted.

5.Home Inspection and other Contengencies: This is where you perform your home inspection, review and approve condo documents basically you are given approx, 2 weeks to perform these functions.

6. Purchase and Sales Agreement (aka P&S:) It is at the P&S that you put down usually 10 - 20% of the selling price. You will need an Boston Attorney to guide you through this process and to look out for your best interest.

7. Closing: The last step is called the closing it is here where you meet at the attorney's office or at the Regisrty of Deeds (court house) to sign over the deed and be recorded in the public records as the new owner of the purchased property.

If you have any questions please feel free to call our office at 617-720-5454.

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Condo Housing-to-Income Ratio

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

What is housing to income ratio? This ratio compares your monthly gross income to your monthly housing expenses. The Boston Morgage industry's conservative guideline is that housing expenses should be within 28%or less of your income.

At Ford Realty we have several Boston Mortgage Brokers which can help you obtain the above ratio for the Boston condo you wish to buy.

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">boston buyer broker"</A>

Rental Market

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty was mentioned in the Boston Herald today (12/29/07) regarding Boston luxury real estate rents. Boston condo owners at the Ritz towers are renting their condos at prices ranging from $20,000.00 and up, presently their is one condo on the market for $30,000.00.

To read the full article click on Press release button on our Ford Realty homepage.

Boston real estate rental market

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Ford Realty was mentioned in the Boston Herald today (12/29/07) regarding the high rents that are being obtained in for Boston luxury condos. A few examples that were mentioned were apartment rents at the Ritz which were getting between $20,000.00 to $30,000.00 per month.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Ford Realty!

Real Estate Mortgage Rates

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Mortgage rates moved away from the best levels of the year last week with force, and this week could resemble last.

Markets have been grappling with conflicting signals about the U.S. economy.

On one hand, there is evidence of inflation in the form of higher cost of living. On the other hand, there is evidence of a recession in the form of hiring and housing slowdowns.

Because market players had expected recession for so long, just the threat of inflation is enough to reverse markets.

Inflation erodes the value of bonds and investors don't want to be caught holding too many of them.

As mortgage bonds are sold, the extra supply drops their price. This causes mortgage rates to increase.

On most weeks, new evidence of inflation would cause a gradual rise in rates. But this is no ordinary time of year. With so many traders leaving for vacation last week, the rise was anything but gradual.

Fewer buyers and fewer sellers starved the market of liquidity and that helped contribute to the rapid movement in mortgage rates.

This week figures to be more of the same.

There are no major data points to watch this week so expect that stories about the U.S. consumer's holiday spending will take center stage.

If store receipts are higher, it shows that consumers may spend their way out of a potential recession and mortgage rates should rise in response. By contrast, if receipts are low, expect mortgage rates to idle or fall.

Regards,

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Certified Mortgage Planner

Sherwood Mortgage

T: 617-536-0600

C: 617-642-3690

Real Estate Credit Score

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Your mortgage pre-approval process is largely based on your Boston credit score. If you have a credit score between 300-650 you may have problems being able to purchase your Boston condo, however, if your credit score is above 650 feel free to proceed.

Boston Home Buying Tip

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

If you're considering to put a offeron a Boston condo this spring you should consider the pre-qualiication process now. A Ford Realty associate can help you find a lender and show you the best Boston condo for your money.

Pre-Qualification vs Pre-Approval

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval- by David Reznikow, CMPS

Pre-qualification or pre-approval can provide an important head start when shopping for a home, since the seller knows in advance that you won’t have any problems coming up with the cash. Plus it gives you, the buyer, additional security, because you know exactly how much of a mortgage you can afford, so you can focus your property search accordingly.

During the pre-qualification process, you provide a mortgage lender with all the information needed to determine your credit-worthiness — your income, assets, and any other outstanding debts you may have. In return, the lender provides you with an estimate of how much it might be willing to lend. After the pre-qualification has been concluded, there is no obligation on either party to proceed with an actual loan. You could ultimately decide to go with another lender, and the lender could ultimately decide not to give you a mortgage.

The pre-approval process goes a lot further, since the lender actually commits to lending you a specified sum, as long as your credit-worthiness checks out and the mortgage is agreed within a set period of time. To assess your credit-worthiness, the lender will verify the financial information you have provided and investigate your credit score and credit reports. Your credit score and credit reports are basically an evaluation of how reliable you are as a borrower. They show how punctual you have been in paying your bills, for example, and whether you have ever declared bankruptcy or defaulted on previous loans.

If you’re planning on applying for a mortgage, it’s a good idea to have a look at your credit reports first to make sure they are correct and, if necessary, to take steps to improve them.

David is a Certified Mortgage Planner (CMPS) in Boston, MA and is Managing Director of The Newell Group at Sherwood Mortgage. He has been featured in Fortune Magazine and the Boston Herald. David can be reached at dreznikow@sherwoodmortgage.com

Boston Real Estate Credit

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

recently did a mortgage training for a Boston real estate office. Although the training was a nuts and bolts session on how things have changed since the recent credit crunch the discussion quickly went to helping their businesses and how to build trust with clients.

As a certified mortgage planning specialist I am constantly reviewing what I have learned over the past 7 years in sales and try to practice it regularly. I have attached a very informative piece that I copied from one of my training manuals. In essence it teaches us how to communicate, which ultimately builds trust, with our clients through the 3 different most dominant senses. Because it is from a training manual it may appear in smaller font. I hope you enjoy it!

Happy Holidays

Regards,

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Certified Mortgage Planner

Sherwood Mortgage

T: 617-536-0600

C: 617-642-3690

Boston Foreclosures

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

STATEMENT OF OFHEO DIRECTOR JAMES B. LOCKHART

“As Director of OFHEO, the regulator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, I believe that the foreclosure prevention initiative announced by President Bush is a major step forward. I thank Secretary Paulson and Jackson and everybody from the private-sector involved. Fannie and Freddie are the largest investors in AAA subprime mortgage backed securities. They hold $160 billion of these securities and they are the major buyers of the refinanced subprime mortgages. This plan is a win-win for homeowners, neighborhoods, investors and the markets. But more has to be done. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have played an extremely important role in supporting the mortgage market as all the problems erupted this summer. Since then, they have been buying and securitizing almost $100 billion a month in mortgages. Their market share of all new mortgages has grown from 38 percent last year to over 60 percent. We need to make sure that they will continue supporting the mortgage markets. That is why we need now, as President Bush and the Secretaries have just said, GSE reform to strengthen the regulator of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks. For the last six years Congress has been considering GSE reform legislation. Given the problems faced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and the current market conditions, it is time to act to ensure that they will be here to support the mortgage market, especially affordable mortgages for lower income families, now and in the future.” ###

OFHEO's mission is to promote housing and a strong national housing finance system by ensuring the safety and soundness of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Boston Mortgage Information

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

The Week In Review for December 3, 2007

If you enjoy roller coaster rides, last week's mortgage markets were a delight. Up and down mortgage rates went, trying to find a balance between inflation and recession (or maybe neither).

A major cue for markets last week came from a high-ranking Fed official who raised expectations for future cuts to the Fed Funds Rate. Currently, the Fed Funds Rate sits at 4.500%.

For homeowners, it is unclear how changes in the Fed Funds Rate will impact mortgage rates. Contrary to popular belief, changes in the Fed Funds Rate are not tied to changes in mortgage rates.

For example, how the FFR increased more than 3.00% between 2004 and 2006 while mortgage rates only edged higher.

Similarly, the recent drops in the Fed Funds Rate have been accompanied by only a slight reduction in mortgage rates.

Instead, mortgage rates are based on the prices of mortgage bonds and recently the demand for the bonds has been erratic. This is why mortgage rates have been erratic, too. As demand goes up, mortgage rates come down. The reverse is true, too.

This week, demand for mortgage bonds should be tied to expectations from the Fed and its December 11 meeting, and to this Friday's employment data. Many economists believe that the Fed will take some cues from Friday's report so the numbers will take on added significance.

The economy is expected to have added 75,000 jobs in November, and the unemployment rate is expected to rise to 4.8%. If the actual numbers are stronger than the estimates, expect that mortgage rates will increase in response.

Regards,

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Certified Mortgage Planner

Sherwood Mortgage

Boston Real Estate Mortgage ARMs

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

MORTGAGE RATES FALL FOR ARM'S FASTER THAN FOR FIXED RATE MORTGAGES

After running neck-and-neck for several months, interest rates for fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages are finally diverging.

Despite pricing worse than its fixed-rate counterpart throughout much of August and September, ARMs are now close to 0.375 percent lower for conforming products sold through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

This equates to roughly $25 per month per $100,000 borrowed.

If you know that you don't need a 30-year rate commitment from your lender, you may find that a well-structured ARM is a real money-saver.

Regards,

David N. Reznikow, CMPS

Certified Mortgage Planner

Sherwood Mortgage

T: 617-536-0600

C: 617-642-3690

<A href="http://www.fordrealty.net">boston real estate</A>

Want to get the great deal? Make an offe..

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:05:04 +0000

Want to get the great deal? Make an offer

By Trina Ott

Ford Realty Inc.

You hear it everywhere you turn: "Now's the time for getting a great real estate deal." It is. But you and your Boston real estate agent need to be prepared to go out and get that deal – it's not going to fall on your lap.

Obviously there are things that you want to look for in a property that has "great deal" potential. Your agent can give you information on the market history. This includes how long it has been on the market, as well as details of price changes and any offers that did not go through. Knowing the mortgage history can help guide you in deciding what type of an offer you need to make. And, determining whether or not the property is vacant may give a hint as to how eager the seller is to deal.

All that said, the bottom line is simple. If it looks like a deal on paper (or on-line, as it may be), go see the property, decide what its worth to you, and make an offer. While research is an extremely important tool in getting your great deal, you can do all of the research you want but getting out there and getting an up close look is going to tell you plenty. Once you've seen it, throwing out an offer is going to be the "tell all" of where the seller stands.

It's an incredible disappointment to miss out on the property only to learn that it sold for a price you would have been more than willing to pay (which was less than the asking price). If you're scratching your forehead and shuffling through the property report trying to figure the seller's "breaking point," the next step is a no-brainer: Just ask. And if your agent thinks you're wasting your (or their) time, that's even more of a no-brainer: Call Ford Realty we specialize as a buyer's agent.

Trina Ott is a real estate agent at Boston 's Ford Realty, serving the Greater Boston area with offices in Beacon Hill and Midtown . She can be contacted directly at trinaott@yahoo.com .