How to Downsize Smartly in Boston’s Suburbs Without Sacrificing Lifestyle
You’ve raised your family, filled every bedroom, every closet, and maybe even the garage (or two). Now the kids are grown, the house feels too big, and you’re ready for the next chapter. But here’s the million-dollar question: how do you downsize smartly in Boston’s suburbs—think Westwood, Walpole, Roslindale, Dedham, Norfolk, Wrentham—without feeling like you’re giving up the lifestyle you love?
Spoiler alert: downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. Done right, it can mean less maintenance, more freedom, and a home that suits this new phase of your life beautifully. Let’s dive in.
Why Downsizing Makes Sense
Empty nesters often reach a turning point where the family home feels more like a museum of memories than a practical living space.
- Too much house to clean (and we all know dust multiplies faster in empty rooms).
- High utility bills for heating and cooling unused space.
- Lawn care headaches—those shrubs don’t prune themselves.
- Equity locked in your current home that could fund your retirement, travel plans, or even that dream beach cottage.
In towns like Westwood or Walpole, where home values have soared, selling a larger home can free up equity while letting you stay close to family, friends, and all the Boston-area amenities you love.
Suburbs That Are Perfect for the Next Chapter
If you’re thinking of downsizing but staying local, here’s what’s attractive about some popular nearby towns:
- Westwood: Known for excellent schools (still a selling point for buyers) and proximity to Route 128, but also offers luxury condos and smaller homes with walkability.
- Walpole: A mix of classic colonials and newer townhome developments, plus the charm of Bird Park and the convenience of Walpole Center.
- Dedham: Legacy Place for shopping and dining, plus historic charm and commuter rail options.
- Norfolk: A quieter, more rural feel, but with commuter rail access straight into Boston.
- Wrentham: A balance of small-town living with outlets, dining, and plenty of recreational space.
Smart Downsizing Tips
Here’s where the rubber meets the road—or in Boston’s case, where Route 1 traffic meets the backroads shortcut.
1. Start with Your Lifestyle Goals
Ask yourself: Do you want to travel more? Be within walking distance of coffee shops and community centers? Have space for grandkids to visit? Your new home should match your vision for the next decade, not just the next move.
2. Think “Right-Sizing,” Not Just Downsizing
Smaller doesn’t mean sacrificing. Look for homes that are:
- Single-level living (bye-bye stairs).
- Open floor plans for entertaining without the square footage.
- Low-maintenance exteriors like vinyl siding or condo associations that handle landscaping.
3. Purge Before You Pack
Easier said than done, but this is key. Sort items into:
- Keep (things you truly love or use daily).
- Donate (local charities in Walpole, West Roxbury, and Dedham are always grateful).
- Sell (estate sales or even Facebook Marketplace work wonders).
- Toss (no one needs that VCR anymore).
4. Consider New Construction & 55+ Communities
Many towns around Boston have seen a boom in townhomes and active adult communities. They often offer:
- Clubhouses and social activities.
- Maintenance-free living.
- Modern finishes without renovation headaches.
5. Don’t Forget Location, Location, Location
You may be giving up square footage, but make sure you’re gaining convenience. Proximity to:
- Grocery stores (Walpole Stop & Shop, Dedham Whole Foods).
- Healthcare (Newton-Wellesley, Norwood Hospital - Yah, I know. It’s coming).
- Public transit (commuter rail lines from Westwood, Norfolk, or Walpole).
Common Downsizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long—moving is easier when you’re still mobile and energetic.
- Keeping too much stuff—your new space will thank you if you edit now.
- Focusing only on cost savings—yes, a smaller home may be cheaper, but also make sure it adds to your quality of life.
- Overlooking resale value—choose a property that will be desirable if you need to sell again.
Downsizing Checklist
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for Boston-area downsizing:
✅ Evaluate current and future needs (mobility, family visits, travel).
✅ Choose a town that fits your lifestyle (walkable vs. quiet retreat).
✅ Explore 55+ or new construction options nearby.
✅ Purge ruthlessly—less is truly more.
✅ Lean on a local REALTOR® who knows the suburban market (hi, that’s me 👋).
Helpful Resources
- Bird Park, Walpole – a community favorite for walking and events.
- Legacy Place, Dedham – dining, shopping, and entertainment at your doorstep.
- Wrentham Village Premium Outlets – because downsizing doesn’t mean cutting back on shopping.
Final Thoughts
Downsizing in Boston’s suburbs doesn’t have to mean giving up the lifestyle you love. In fact, it can mean simplifying your home while expanding your experiences. With the right plan, you can trade in lawn mowers and unused bedrooms for coffee dates, weekend trips, and a home that finally fits just right.
Ready to explore your downsizing options? Get your free home valuation today and start your next chapter with confidence.
Mortgage Rates Just Saw Their Biggest Drop in a Year
What Sparked the Drop?
According to Mortgage News Daily, the shift came right after the August jobs report—weak for the second month in a row. When the economy shows signs of slowing, financial markets start pricing in what’s next. Historically, that often nudges mortgage rates lower.
So while the headlines sound dramatic, here’s the takeaway: this isn’t just about one day of data, it’s about the larger direction the market may be heading.
What This Means for You
This rate drop isn’t just a number on paper. It translates into real dollars saved when buying a home.
Take a look at this example for a $400,000 loan:
- At a 7% rate, the monthly principal and interest payment is about $2,661.
- At a 6.29% rate (where we are now), it drops to $2,473.
That’s a savings of nearly $188 every month. Over the course of a year, that’s about $2,250 back in your pocket.
And if your budget is tight, this kind of shift can be the difference between stretching too thin and feeling comfortable in your new home.
Will It Last?
Here’s the honest answer: no one knows for sure. Rates could continue easing, or they could tick back up depending on what happens with:
- Upcoming inflation data
- New jobs reports
- The Federal Reserve’s next policy moves
But what we do know is that mortgage rates have finally broken free from the rut they’ve been in for months. As CNBC’s Diana Olick puts it:
“Rates are finally breaking out of the high 6% range, where they’ve been stuck for months.”
That’s reason enough to pay attention.v
Why Buyers Shouldn’t Wait Too Long
If you’ve been thinking about buying in our local communities—whether a starter condo in Roslindale, a colonial in Dedham, or new construction in Walpole—this change could open the door for you. Even a small drop in rates can increase your buying power and make homes that felt out of reach just a few months ago suddenly possible again.
Bottom Line
This is the shift buyers have been waiting for. Mortgage rates just saw their biggest drop in over a year, and that could mean real savings for you.
Want to see what today’s rates could save you on your monthly payment? Let’s connect and run the numbers together.
History Shows the Housing Market Always Recovers
When the market slows, it can feel like someone hit the pause button on your moving plans. Homeowners who hoped for top-dollar offers are increasingly choosing to take their homes off the market instead. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes being withdrawn is up 38% since the start of this year and 48% compared to last June.
In June alone, for every 100 new listings, about 21 were pulled back. If you’ve been in this position, you’re probably feeling frustrated—and rightfully so. But here’s the good news: slowdowns don’t last forever.
History Repeats Itself: Proof from the Past
This isn’t the first time the housing market has cooled down. In fact, history shows us that no matter the reason for a slowdown, the housing market always rebounds. Let’s look at a few examples:
- 1980s: Mortgage rates soared above 18%, pushing buyers out of the market. Once rates came down, home sales rebounded quickly.
- 2008: The Great Financial Crisis led to one of the toughest downturns in housing history. But even then, once the economy began recovering, sales and prices climbed back up.
- 2020: At the start of the COVID pandemic, home sales disappeared almost overnight. Yet within months, buyers came rushing back, creating one of the strongest housing booms in recent memory.
The lesson? Every slowdown is temporary.
Today’s Situation: Where We Stand Now
In the last few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge. Mortgage rates jumped at record speed in 2022 while home prices were also on the rise, making it harder for many buyers to qualify. Naturally, when fewer buyers are active, home sales slow.
That’s where we are today. Sales are sluggish, and many sellers are deciding to wait it out. But history—and the data—say this won’t last.
The Outlook: Why Things Will Improve
Here’s the encouraging part: the recovery is already on the horizon.
In 2024, about 4.07 million homes sold nationwide (gray bar below). This year, 2025, is projected to be nearly the same at 4.01 million (blue bar). But according to the latest forecasts from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 2026 could see an average of 4.57 million sales (green bar).
Why the jump? Experts expect mortgage rates to ease up, opening the door for more buyers to re-enter the market.
What That Means for You
If you’ve recently pulled your home off the market, you made the best decision for your situation. Your frustration is valid—but don’t lose sight of the bigger picture. Just like the 1980s, 2008, and 2020, today’s slowdown is temporary.
And when the rebound begins, the buyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines will start showing up again. That’s why it pays to stay connected with a local real estate professional who can watch the market closely and help you time your re-entry.
Bottom Line
If today’s market feels stuck, remember: it’s never stayed that way for long. Activity always returns, and opportunities follow.
So the real question is: will you be ready when the next wave of buyers arrives?
Let’s talk about your goals and map out the best timing for you. [Get your free home valuation today!]
Boston Suburbs Homebuyer Searches Hit a 2-Year High – What It Means for Sellers in Walpole, Dedham, Westwood, and Beyond
Intro: Buyers Are Quiet… Or Are They?
If you’ve been assuming the housing market has gone into hibernation because of high mortgage rates, you might want to think again. Believe it or not, buyer interest in the Greater Boston suburbs is heating up—and we’ve got the Google search data to prove it.
Buyers Are Actively Searching Online
One of the best indicators of buyer activity isn’t just open house traffic—it’s online searches. According to Google Trends, searches for terms like “home for sale” and “homes for sale” have climbed to their highest levels in two years.
The chart above shows these searches spiking mid-July 2025, right in the middle of what many think of as the “summer slowdown.” That means people aren’t just idly browsing; they’re seriously considering buying.
Why This Matters for Homeowners in Our Area
In markets like Walpole, Dedham, Westwood, and Roslindale, inventory has remained tight. Homes that are priced right and move-in ready still draw strong attention, often from multiple motivated buyers.
Here’s why this uptick in search activity is important:
- Pent-up demand: Buyers have been waiting for mortgage rates to drop. Some are realizing waiting isn’t practical anymore.
- Seasonal opportunity: Fall in Massachusetts often brings fresh listings—but with search interest already surging, you could get ahead of the wave.
- Local draw: Communities like Wrentham (with its shops and access to I-495), Norfolk (with its commuter rail), and West Roxbury (with city amenities but suburban feel) remain highly desirable.
What Motivated Buyers Are Really Looking For
Based on recent conversations and client searches, here’s what’s topping the list for buyers in our area:
- Move-in ready homes – They don’t want big renovation projects.
- Home offices & flexible layouts – Hybrid work is still very real.
- Outdoor living spaces – Decks, patios, and yards are a big win.
- Proximity to commuter rail & major highways – Easy access to Boston is a must.
Thinking About Selling? This Could Be Your Window
Here’s the bottom line: you don’t need 10 offers to sell your home. You just need the right one. With buyer search activity at a 2-year high, your ideal buyer may already be online looking for a house like yours.
Even with today’s higher mortgage rates, motivated buyers are:
- Pre-approved and ready.
- Flexible on timing.
- Serious about making a move before year-end.
Bottom Line
If you’ve been holding off on listing your home, now might be the moment to get back in the game. Demand isn’t at pandemic frenzy levels—but it doesn’t need to be.
Let’s connect today to discuss how buyer demand in Walpole, Dedham, and the surrounding suburbs could benefit you this fall.
Massachusetts Bans Renter-Paid Broker Fees: What Suburban Renters Need to Know Before September Lease Season
If you're a suburban renter in Massachusetts thinking about moving ahead of September’s typical lease turnover, listen up: a brand-new law, effective August 1, 2025, changes the rental game. Say goodbye to paying your landlord’s broker fee—if you didn’t hire the broker yourself, you shouldn’t be footing that bill anymore. This post breaks down the rule, explores implications for suburban renters, and offers tips to navigate the shifting rental landscape with ease—and maybe a grin.
What Just Changed?
As of August 1, 2025, landlords can no longer pass their broker’s fee onto tenants, unless the tenant independently hired the broker.
In effect: Whoever hires the broker must pay the fee—no agent shopping required.
The law reinforces an existing rule prohibiting landlords from charging more than:
- First month’s rent
- Last month’s rent
- Security deposit (up to one month)
- Lock/key changing cost
Why It Matters to Suburban Renters
- Suburban areas—like Walpole, West Roxbury, Dedham—often get lumped in with city rules, but this new law applies statewide, making rental costs more transparent across the board.
- The timing is key: with the law kicking in just before September, landlords competing to fill places might shift their approach—not fees, but maybe rents.
- One caveat: if a renter hires their own broker, yes, they'd still pay. Many tenants in high-demand markets already use brokers, so costs may still linger.
Potential Landlord Responses
- Rent Increase
Some landlords may raise rent to offset their newly unavoidable broker fee—so your monthly could inch up even if upfront costs drop. - Dodgy Fees
Watch for disguised charges disguised as “admin” or “application” fees—these are still illegal if they replicate a broker fee. - Mixed Compliance
Without robust enforcement, some landlords may continue old practices—intentionally or not—despite the law.
Helpful Tips for Suburban Renters
- Always ask upfront: Who pays the broker’s fee? Landlord or tenant? If the answer is unclear or sounds like a trick, press for clarity.
- Budget smartly: Plan as though you might pay a broker—better to be pleasantly surprised than financially stuck.
- Document everything: If you're told you must pay a fee—even informally—get it in writing or take a screenshot. You may need it later if enforcement becomes necessary.
- Know your rights: If you feel you're being unfairly charged, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.
- Choose your broker wisely: If you hire your own broker, make sure you get a fee disclosure form upfront—that’s required.
Suburban Spotlight: What This Means Locally
Dedham & Wrentham
With growing rental demand near transit hubs and academic institutions, landlords may test rent hikes—but upfront savings mean more cash for deposit or moving costs.
Westwood, Norfolk & Roslindale
Closer-in suburbs with mixed rental inventories might see more tenant demand; transparency could encourage more renter mobility and negotiation power.
Walpole & West Roxbury
Here, the broker-savvy may still pay for representation—but those going solo? They’ll breathe a little easier. Just be cautious of misleading fee language in listings.
Thinking of renting this fall? Get clarity on fees before signing anything. Want help understanding market rates or negotiating contracts in your area? Easy... contact me.
Is It Better To Buy Now or Wait for Lower Mortgage Rates? Here’s the Tradeoff
Why Rates Are Back in the Spotlight
Mortgage rates are still a hot topic — and for good reason. After the most recent jobs report came out weaker than expected, the bond market reacted almost instantly. The result? In early August, mortgage rates dipped to 6.55%, the lowest level we’ve seen so far in 2025.
That might sound like a tiny change, but for buyers who have been anxiously waiting on the sidelines, it’s a big deal. Even a small drop reignites the hope that rates might finally be trending down. But before you grab your pre-approval letter, let’s talk about what’s realistic and why waiting for your “perfect” rate might actually cost you more.
What the Experts Are Saying About Rates
The latest forecasts don’t predict a dramatic fall any time soon. In fact, most experts expect mortgage rates to hover in the mid-to-low 6% range through 2026.
While big changes aren’t likely, small movements are — and those shifts usually happen in response to new economic data. With more reports scheduled for release this month, we could see some bumps (up or down) in the coming weeks.
The 6% Benchmark: More Than Just a Nice Round Number
The magic number for many buyers is 6%. It’s not just psychological — it has measurable impact.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), if rates drop to 6%:
- 5.5 million more households could afford the median-priced home
- 550,000 people would likely buy a home within 12–18 months
That’s a lot of pent-up demand. And as the chart shows, Fannie Mae predicts we might hit that number next year.
The Tradeoff of Waiting
If you’re waiting for 6%, you’re not alone — and that’s exactly the problem.
When rates do hit that benchmark:
- More buyers will flood the market
- You’ll face fewer available homes
- Prices will likely rise due to competition
- Negotiating power will shrink
As NAR puts it:
“Home buyers wishing for lower mortgage interest rates may eventually get their wish, but for now, they’ll have to decide whether it’s better to wait or jump into the market.”
Why Now Might Be a Quiet Advantage
Right now, the conditions are surprisingly favorable for buyers — at least compared to what’s likely ahead:
- Inventory is up → More choices than in recent years
- Price growth has slowed → Sellers are more realistic
- Negotiating leverage → More willingness to cover closing costs or repairs
These advantages may disappear the moment rates fall enough to wake up the rest of the buyer pool.
Bottom Line
Rates aren’t expected to hit 6% this year — but when they do, the market will get crowded, fast. If you want more negotiating room, more choices, and less competition, your window might be open right now.
Let’s talk about what’s happening in Walpole, West Roxbury, Roslindale, Dedham, Norfolk, Wrentham, and Westwood — and whether it makes sense for you to make your move before everyone else does.
What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting Market
The market is changing—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Over the past few years, the housing market was like a rock concert—loud, packed, and full of people elbowing each other for the front row (or the nearest three-bedroom colonial). But now? Things are calming down. And that’s actually good news.
Today’s market is more balanced, more strategic, and more normal. That means whether you're thinking about selling soon or later, understanding what’s happening now will help you play the long game wisely—and profitably.
Here's your update.
1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.
According to the latest data, the days of “list it and they will come (with a cash offer and zero contingencies)” are over. Inventory is rising, and that’s leveling the playing field for buyers. (see graph below):
But inventory growth is going to vary a lot based on where you live.
But here’s the twist: local trends vary wildly. In areas like Walpole and Norfolk, inventory remains lower than average, keeping demand steady. In Roslindale and West Roxbury, inventory is growing faster, which means buyers may have more leverage.
Here’s what that means for you:
- If inventory is low in your neighborhood: You may still see strong buyer competition.
- If inventory is growing: You’ll need to stand out to get top dollar.
Local tip: In towns like Dedham and Wrentham, smart sellers are getting ahead by prepping homes for market with updated features and strategic pricing.
Bottom line: Work with a local pro who can decode your zip code’s trends.
2. The Right Price Matters More Than Ever
With more homes to choose from, today’s buyers are quick to skip over homes that feel overpriced. That’s why pricing your house right is the secret to selling quickly and for top dollar. That’s a point Realtor.com really drives home:
“ . . . a seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer."
Miss the mark, though, and you may have to backtrack. Today, about 1 in 5 sellers (19.1%) are reducing their asking price to attract buyers (see map below):
Here’s how to avoid being one of those sellers who has to reduce their asking price. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:
“The rising share of price reductions suggests that a lot of sellers are anchored to prices that aren't realistic in today's housing market. Today's sellers would be wise to listen to feedback they are getting from the market.”
Overpricing hurts:
- Your home sits longer on the market
- Price reductions weaken your negotiating power
- It creates doubt in buyers’ minds (“What’s wrong with it?”)
Smart pricing wins:
- Faster sale
- More offers
- Fewer concessions
Pro tip: Your agent has the data to price it right from day one. Trust the comps—and your local expert.
Because if your price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.
3. Flexibility Wins Negotiations
Gone are the days of buyers waiving inspections and appraisals just to get a deal done. Now, because they have more homes to choose from, buyers are able to ask for things like repairs, credits, and help with closing costs. And data from Redfin shows nearly 44.4% of sellers are willing to negotiate (see graph below):
This isn’t a bad market. It’s just a different one. And it’s in line with more normal years in the housing market, like back in 2019. The savviest sellers are the ones taking advantage of every opportunity to work with buyers and make their house shine.
And it’ll help if you think of concessions as tools, not losses. Use them to bridge gaps, sweeten deals, and get across the finish line. And don’t stress. Since prices went up roughly 55% over the past five years, you’ve got plenty of room to make a concession or two and still come out ahead. And remember: It’s not “giving in”—it’s “getting it done.”
Just be sure to work with your agent to understand which concessions could be the key to sealing the deal.
Local Market Snapshot (July 2025)
- Walpole: Low inventory, buyers ready to act fast
- Dedham: Slight increase in days on market—pricing matters
- West Roxbury: More listings hitting the market—highlight your home’s features
- Roslindale: High buyer interest, but they want move-in ready
- Westwood: High-end buyers are value-conscious and expecting quality
- Norfolk & Wrentham: More outdoor space = more buyer attention this summer
The Takeaway: Know the Market, Play the Market
This isn’t a bad market. It’s just not the old market. Sellers who adapt are the ones walking away with the wins.
Here’s how to do that:
- Price your home based on today’s data—not yesterday’s dreams
- Use flexibility as a tool, not a weakness
- Make your home shine in a sea of listings
Bottom Line
Sellers who are going to succeed in the weeks and months ahead are the ones who understand this market shift and lean into it with the right expectations and the right strategy.
Whether you’re listing next month or next year, the best time to start strategizing is now.
Let’s talk about what’s working in our local area right now – and how we can make those wins work for you whenever you’re ready to make a move.
Chipped Paint and Character: The Pros and Cons of Buying an Older Home in Boston’s Suburbs
If you’ve been house-hunting around Boston’s charming suburbs—Walpole, West Roxbury, Dedham, or even quaint corners of Wrentham—you’ve probably toured a few older homes. You know the ones: creaky floorboards, ornate trim, and kitchens that whisper, “I haven’t been updated since the Red Sox last won the pennant in 2004.”
But are these historic gems worth the quirks and repairs? Or are you signing up for a never-ending relationship with your contractor?
Let’s talk about what makes buying an older home a romantic dream—or a potential DIY nightmare.
Why Buyers Fall in Love with Older Homes
There’s something about walking into a house with a story. Maybe it’s the solid wood doors, the plaster walls, the crown molding you can’t find in a new build. Older homes in the Boston suburbs were often built with craftsmanship that stands the test of time—and with the kind of materials you just can’t buy at Home Depot today.
The Pros:
- Timeless Character and Charm: Arched doorways, built-ins, wainscoting, original hardwood floors, and quirky little nooks give older homes that unique “soul” newer builds often lack.
- Established Neighborhoods: Think mature trees, sidewalks, neighborhood traditions, and a sense of community that newer developments may not yet offer.
- Solid Bones: Many older homes were built with stronger wood and materials than their modern counterparts.
- Larger Lots: Homes built pre-1980 often have more outdoor space—a huge perk in towns like Norfolk, Westwood, and Wrentham where gardens and patios are lifestyle essentials.
- Investment Potential: A well-located older home with updates? You’ve got equity just waiting to happen.
Why You’ll Want a Good Inspector—and a Bigger Budget
Now for the less dreamy part. Older homes can bring unexpected “surprises,” from outdated wiring to foundation issues. And while not every home is a money pit, some might try their hardest to be.
The Cons:
- Outdated Systems: Old electrical (hello, knob-and-tube), plumbing, or heating systems might need upgrades to meet modern safety standards—or your comfort level.
- Lead Paint & Asbestos Risks: Homes built before 1978 could contain hazardous materials that require professional removal.
- Energy Inefficiency: Drafty windows and minimal insulation could hike up your heating bills—especially during our lovely Nor’easters.
- Costly Renovations: Want an open floor plan? Removing walls in older homes isn’t always simple—or cheap.
- Surprise Repairs: Roofs, chimneys, foundations… oh my. An older home requires regular upkeep, and it’s wise to budget 1–3% of the home’s value each year for maintenance.
What To Look For When Touring an Older Home
Before falling for the vintage wallpaper and clawfoot tub, keep your eyes open (and your inspector’s eyes sharper).
Checklist for Touring an Older Home:
- Foundation: Look for cracks, uneven floors, or signs of water damage in the basement.
- Roof Condition: Ask about the age of the roof and gutter system.
- Windows & Doors: Check for drafts or difficulty opening/closing.
- Electrical Panel: Make sure it’s updated and properly grounded.
- Heating System: Ask if it’s oil, gas, or electric and when it was last serviced or replaced.
- Lead Paint & Asbestos: Consider a professional test, especially if you have young kids.
- Permit History: If the home had past renovations, were they permitted and inspected?
Should You Buy an Older Home in Walpole or West Roxbury?
It depends. If you’re handy or have renovation experience, the character and value of an older home can be incredibly rewarding. Buyers with a vision (and a cushion in their renovation budget) can turn “outdated” into “Pinterest-worthy.”
But if you’re looking for low-maintenance, move-in ready living? A newer home—or one that’s already been updated—may be a better fit.
Still, some of the most desirable addresses in towns like Dedham, Roslindale, and Westwood are older homes on tree-lined streets with front porches and fireplaces that radiate warmth in more ways than one.
Bottom Line: Embrace the Charm, but Bring a Flashlight (and an Inspector)
Buying an older home in Boston’s suburbs is a lifestyle choice as much as it is a real estate decision. With a little patience and planning, you could find yourself living in a home with more personality than a reality show contestant—and that’s saying something.
Thinking About Buying a Home with Character?
Let’s make sure the charm outweighs the challenges.
Schedule a showing for that house you’ve been eyeing with us today.
What Type of Home Will Fit My Budget?
Navigating the Boston Market Without Blowing the Bank
If you’ve ever looked at Boston real estate listings while clutching your morning coffee, only to do a double take and whisper a silent, "How much for that?!" — welcome to the club. Boston’s cost of living is undeniably steep, and housing prices can be, well, sobering. But don’t panic. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or trying to figure out if you can afford a home with both a dishwasher and a driveway, this post will help you understand where your budget fits in Boston and beyond.
Setting Expectations: Boston vs. the 'Burbs
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: the budget. With median single-family home prices in Boston hovering around $800,000 (and significantly more in central neighborhoods), many buyers quickly turn their gaze toward the surrounding suburbs.
That doesn't mean you have to abandon Boston completely. Neighborhoods like West Roxbury and Roslindale still offer some of the charm, green space, and accessibility without the jaw-dropping prices of Back Bay or Beacon Hill.
Here’s a breakdown of what your dollar might buy in these more affordable locales:
West Roxbury: Suburban Vibes in the City
- Median Home Price: ~$750,000
- Home Type: Single-family homes, classic colonials, and newer townhomes
- Why It Works: Quiet, family-friendly, and full of parks. Plus, commuter rail access makes downtown commutes manageable.
If you're dreaming of a backyard and a finished basement, West Roxbury might just check your boxes.
Roslindale: A Hidden Gem with Personality
- Median Home Price: ~$700,000
- Home Type: Multi-family homes, renovated condos, and classic triple-deckers
- Why It Works: A vibrant main square, great community events, and a mix of older and newer properties.
Perfect for buyers looking to get creative with a multi-family home or find something move-in ready with character.
Southwest Suburbs: More Home, More Yard, Still Commutable
If your budget is under $700,000 or you’re craving more space, Boston’s southwest suburbs are calling your name.
Walpole
- Median Home Price: ~$650,000
- Highlights: Strong schools, community feel, and easy access to I-95 and the commuter rail.
- Home Style: Mix of updated ranches, capes, and newer construction.
Dedham
- Median Home Price: ~$680,000
- Highlights: Legacy Place shopping, historical homes, and Charles River green space.
- Home Style: Antique colonials, cape-style homes, and newer developments.
Norwood
- Median Home Price: ~$600,000
- Highlights: Affordable entry point, thriving downtown, and public transportation.
- Home Style: Mid-century homes, bungalows, and split-levels.
Westwood
- Median Home Price: ~$900,000
- Highlights: Top-tier schools and lush neighborhoods.
- Home Style: Higher-end single families, colonials, and custom homes.
Norfolk
- Median Home Price: ~$625,000
- Highlights: Wooded lots, quiet living, and a slower pace.
- Home Style: Ranches and contemporary colonials.
Wrentham
- Median Home Price: ~$600,000
- Highlights: Outlet shopping, open space, and excellent commuter access.
- Home Style: Mix of older homes and newer subdivisions.
Medfield
- Median Home Price: ~$850,000
- Highlights: Top-rated schools and scenic surroundings.
- Home Style: Spacious colonials and elegant new construction.
Tips for Matching Your Budget to the Right Location
- Prioritize Needs vs. Wants: Do you really need four bedrooms, or will three with a home office do?
- Factor in Commute & Transit Access: Some suburbs have direct commuter rail access — a game changer.
- Consider Property Taxes: A lower home price in one town might come with higher taxes than a neighboring one.
- Don’t Skip Pre-Approval: Knowing your real budget makes searching much less stressful.
- Explore Multi-Family or Condo Options: Especially in Roslindale or Norwood, this can open doors.
How to Start Your Search Without Losing Your Mind
- Use tools like Realtor.com or Redfin with filters set to your max budget.
- Visit open houses to get a feel for what different price points look like.
- Partner with a real estate professional (hi, I’m Jennifer) who understands the nuances of each town.
- Be ready to compromise on cosmetic fixes in exchange for good bones and location.
Bottom Line: You Can Still Find a Home That Fits — Even Here
The Greater Boston market is competitive, but with the right strategy (and some neighborhood know-how), you can absolutely find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Need help figuring out where you fit? Let’s chat.
Why More Sellers Are Choosing To Move, Even with Today’s Rates
It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here’s something to consider.
While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can’t handle anymore, or being 1,000 miles from your family. And those real-life needs are pushing more sellers off the fence despite today’s rates.
Data shows the share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% is dropping as more people move. And, as a result, the share of homeowners taking on a mortgage rate above 6% is rising, too (see graph below):
The Biggest Reasons People Are Moving Right Now
Why are some homeowners willing to take on a higher rate? A survey from Realtor.com helps shed light on that. It shows 79% of homeowners considering selling today are doing it out of necessity. And that same survey says most of the necessary reasons people are moving are non-financial in nature (see graph below):
Do any of these reasons resonate for you, too?
- You Need More Space: Whether it’s a new baby, children needing their own rooms, or having your parents move in so it’s easier to take care of them, outgrowing your space can happen fast.
- You Need Less Space: The kids are out of the house now and you’re craving a life that’s a little simpler. Downsizing can be a major relief: fewer rooms to clean, less to maintain, and lower utility bills, too.
- You Want to Be Closer to Family: Whether it’s to help with grandchildren or care for aging parents, sometimes the pull of being near loved ones outweighs the math.
- A Relationship in Your Life Has Changed: Divorce, separation, or moving in together after a marriage or new partnership – all can create the need for a fresh start and a new place to call home.
- Your Job Is Taking You Somewhere New: If you finally landed your dream job or your partner’s company is relocating, you may need to move too.
What About Mortgage Rates?
Yes, experts expect mortgage rates to ease, but slowly. The latest projections show only modest declines this year – not the 3% you may be hoping for (see graph below):
So, while waiting for a big drop in rates might sound strategic, it could just mean more time feeling stuck in a space that no longer fits. And for many, that waiting game has already gone on long enough.
According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have been thinking about moving for over a year. If you’re one of them, maybe it’s time to ask:
How much longer are you willing to press pause on your life?
Bottom Line
Maybe your current house fit your life five years ago. But that “for now” house you bought in 2020? It just can’t deliver on what you need in 2025. And that’s not just okay, it’s normal.
Mortgage rates are part of the equation, for sure. But the bigger question is:
What kind of home do you need to support the life you’re living now?
Let’s talk about what’s changed, and what kind of move would actually take your life forward.
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