Thursday, January 29, 2009

Massachusetts Real Estate Update: What’s available for $500k?


A recent article on Boston.com went through a cornucopia of available listings throughout Massachusetts – each priced at $500k.

Read the full article on boston.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Boston Real Estate Update: Local banks move into the mortgage biz


A recent article on Boston.com detailed an interesting change in the mortgage market. Many nationwide companies who offer mortgages have been hard hit by defaults and tightening restrictions. In some cases, the local banks were not hit nearly as hard and are now able to offer more beneficial loans. So, if you are in the market for a new home, try stopping by your local bank to see what they can do for you.

Read the full article on boston.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Monday, January 26, 2009

Five Biggest Real Estate Myths


Barbara Corcoran, frequent real estate contributor to NBC, presented the 5 biggest real estate myths in this market.

Watch the clip on msnbc.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Boston’s Back Bay is named in the top ten dreamiest neighborhoods


Frontdoor.com, powered by HGTV, put out a list of ten dreamy neighborhoods in the United States. Boston’s own Back Bay was ranked number ten for its combination of Victorian brownstones, skyscrapers, cafes and 19th century landmarks.

View the complete article on marketwatch.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Spotlight on Boston real estate: Back Bay


Julie Harrison of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty has listed a wonderful Beacon Street condominium with Charles River views! This two bedroom floor through home features a gorgeous living room with original moldings throughout and separate dining alcove. Direct elevator access leads to an elegant formal foyer with floor to ceiling built-in's. There is a beautifully renovated kitchen, two full luxury baths, master bedroom suite with a walk-in closet, and a spacious and sunny second bedroom. Also has elegant common areas and a direct access deeded single parking space.

View the complete property description on SothebysRealty.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Boston homeowners can start to think about solar power


A group called One Block Off the Grid (http://1bog.com) has been brokering a deal to get special pricing on solar power systems for homeowners. They also have information regarding tax incentives in each state and from the federal government – including Massachusetts. This is well-timed with the goals of the new White House administration to invest in alternative energy sources.

View the complete article on 1blog.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Spotlight on Boston real estate: Beacon Hill


Beth Dickerson of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty has listed a Beacon Hill pie-a-terre with a fabulous roof deck. Proudly resting on prestigious Mount Vernon Street this pristine two bedroom floor through condo, neighbors Boston's highly sought after Louisburg Square! Situated on the second floor of this charming well maintained and professionally managed brick building, this home; with its hardwood floors throughout, two marble surround fireplaces, sun inviting oversized windows, and enormous private deck, is the ideal residence. A bright and open living room with views onto tree lined Mount Vernon Street, an office area separated by a beautifully molded oversized doorway, this spacious room is open to the well positioned galley kitchen. Master bedroom, offers large windows an en suite tiled bath with unique glass bowl sink basin, and glass shower stall. The second bedroom, currently used as study, provides for access to the sprawling sun drenched private deck. An abundance of outdoor space, direct sunlight, and lush vegetation offers a serene abode in the middle of Beacon Hill!

View the complete property description on SothebysRealty.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Spotlight on Boston’s Seaport


Brian Perry of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty has listed a spectacular loft-style home with gorgeous city views in the Seaport. This stunning three bedroom/three bathroom penthouse boasts soaring 21 ft ceilings and two walls of windows 18 ft high. Enjoy the view from your large, private balcony overlooking the Boston skyline. Unit features two fireplaces, one in the living room and one in the master bedroom. The master bathroom features a large glass shower, soaking tub and Kohler/Grohe fixtures. The kitchen shines with granite countertops, Viking stove, refrigerator and double wall oven. Two garage parking spaces are included.

View the complete property description on SothebysRealty.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Boston real estate suffers from a lack of inventory


An article on BankerAndTradesman.com detailed the defining difference between the Boston real estate market and much of the rest of the country: a lack of inventory. In fact, the inventory is down 21%.

The interview with John Ranco, Director of Sales for Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty, uncovered that the battle for agents is to inform clients of the difference between the “national news and regional data, which is much different.”

View the complete article on BankerAndTradesman.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Spotlight on Boston’s South End


Joe DeAngelo of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty has listed a gorgeous single family home in Boston’s South End. This historic building is in a great location! Once home to a sea captain and his son, this three bedroom and two-and-a-half bath home has wonderful possibilities. It features oversized windows, crown moldings, and six marble mantels. An exterior makeover was completed in 2008, including new roof and roof deck, with amazing Back Bay skyline and South End views.

View the complete property description on SothebysRealty.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Massachusetts sees positive change in relocation trend


An article on BostonHerald.com explored an exciting shift in the Massachusetts real estate trend. Typically a state that people left for sunnier or less expensive states, Massachusetts saw more people moving to the state last year. That was the first time since 1987. The study, released by United Van Lines, indicates that the economic problems in states like California, have forced some to move back east.

View the complete article on BostonHerald.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Boston sees mortgage restrictions loosen for some

John Ranco, Sales Director of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty and President Elect of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board, has made mortgages a key topic in recent sales meetings for his team of 160 sales agents.

“In this challenging market, it is critical for our agents to be knowledgeable about the most up-to-date mortgage guidelines. We’ve invited several firms to talk with us. And, we are excited about some of the opportunities that are on the horizon,” says Ranco.

One key to these opportunities is an influx of cash from the federal government, aimed at filling voids in the real estate financing market. Joe Smith from Countrywide Mortgage said that companies like his may be able to offer much needed financing to future new developments. Currently large new development projects are faced with tougher guidelines and restrictive pre-sale requirements. Smith says that Countrywide (soon to be Bank of America) may be able to improve on the federal guidelines for developers in Boston. This is good news for real estate buyers and the local construction industry.

In addition, Countrywide is able to offer loans to homebuyers with only 3.5% down, in some cases. This is contrary to the recent news reports that indicate an industry-wide halt on attractive mortgages. Smith says that there are still a lot of really great products out there and many with 4-5% interest rates.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Boston ranks in top places for commercial real estate investment


A recent article on NBC’s Washington site revealed that a recent study ranks Boston in the top ten cities for commercial investment opportunities in 2009. That is good news for our local economy.

View the complete article on nbcWashington.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Boston real estate market fares well in Case-Shiller list

A recent article on BostonHerald.com shows the Boston real estate market outperforming much of the rest of the country in the Case-Shiller list – Boston’s prices fell by a mild 6%, compared to the other large metropolitan markets that experienced an average decline of 18%.

Why is Boston maintaining better than other areas? Well, one reason is that Boston didn’t experience a construction boom like other areas of the country. Their influx of inventory prior to the subprime mortgage scandal and the subsequent market dip set off a landslide for prices in areas like Miami and Las Vegas.

View the complete article on BostonHerald.com.

For more information on the Boston real estate market, go to Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, Boston's real estate experts.