The end of the year is a time when many businesses start planning for the year to come. With 2020 almost upon us, here is a quick look at the market conditions in a number of Boston's most popular areas for office space. We organized them in the order that we typically receive questions from businesses that are curious about the Boston [...]
Jamaica Plain is one of the fastest growing real estate markets in Greater Boston. Diverse, vibrant, and centrally located, it is highly sought after among buyers - investors and owner occupants alike. JP is an easy commute for those working in the center of Boston, and is more affordable than neighborhoods like Back Bay or South [...]
“The whole culture is telling you to hurry, while the art tells you to take your time. Always listen to the art.”
- Junot Diaz
Art enhances the home.
In today’s modern world, an environment adorned with art provides a quiet respite from the busyness of everyday life. Additionally, artwork has a huge impact on our moods and emotions and [...]
For some real estate investors, residential condominiums are the preferred type of investment property. Some benefits include that condos typically are less expensive than whole buildings and there are fewer management responsibilities because condo associations typically handle day-to-day operational issues like snow [...]
Guest Blogger: Nathan Hartseil of First Home Mortgage
Got a College Student in Boston?
Rent costs have you doing a double take?
What if you bought a condo instead?
Many folks are incredulous when I tell them that they are able to purchase a single unit (condo, townhouse, single family) residence for their child here in Boston at the same [...]
We are sometimes asked: Do I really need a buyer’s agent, or can I make an offer on a property on my own? Certainly, it is possible to buy a home without the help of a buyer’s agent. However, there are a number of advantages in working with an experienced agent. Here are some reasons to work with a buyer’s [...]
One of the metrics used by real estate investors to evaluate investment opportunities is called the capitalization rate (or cap rate). The formula is basically the net annual income divided by the purchase price. Cap rates do not take mortgages into account – since different investors receive differing financing terms, the cap rate is a quick metric to evaluate an opportunity on a level playing field.
The chart above shows multifamily cap rate trends over the past 10 years, and includes forecasts for the next five. Boston has maintained a lower cap rate than the national average and is projected to maintain that spread in the coming years. A lower cap rate means that investors are willing to accept a lower return on their investment, so investors will pay more for multifamilies in Boston because they view it as a stronger investment.
This article is focused on multifamily investment property – cap rates for other property types (e.g. retail and office) are different, and each property type has its own set of risks and rewards to consider. If you are interested in more market data or have questions about investment property in Boston, please reach out to us.
The peak spring and summer rental market season can be quite hectic. Fast moving inventory, top dollar market pricing, and competing with qualified applicants. All of this makes the stressful moving experience even more so. After September 1st, however, there are deals to be had if one can wait to move. The rental market tends to slow down during the fall and winter, and sometimes this leaves landlords with vacant apartments. Great deals are available for those who can move quick, or fill odd dates. This is also an opportune time to ask for some painting or touch up before move-in when typically there wouldn’t be time.
Call us and speak with a qualified rental agent to find out more.
Current Fall Specials (click for more info):
Dartmouth St, South End - 2+BR/2BA Penthouse Duplex with Private Deck - $4,995
M St, South Boston - 1+BR/1BA Renovated Penthouse - $2,625
Marlborough St, Back Bay - 2BR/1BA Penthouse with Central Air - $3,450
Warren Ave, South End - 1BR/1BA Renovated with In-Unit Laundry - $2,375
If you own and live in your Boston property as your primary residence, you likely qualify for a residential exemption on your real estate taxes. Through this exemption, the City releases you from paying part of your property taxes. Last year, the residential exemption saved qualified homeowners up to $2,719.09 on their tax bill.
For Fiscal Year 2020, you have until April 1, 2020 to file the application. For more information, including the application and other requirements, visit the City of Boston’s website here.
There are a number of benefits to homeownership, and this exemption is one of them. Be sure to take advantage!
When evaluating “Boston” office space, some of the most popular locations companies consider are: Back Bay, Seaport, Financial District and Kendall Square (which is actually in Cambridge, not Boston).* How do these areas [...]