Why October Is the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2025 (Especially Around Boston’s Suburbs)
The Fall Advantage: Why October 2025 Is the Month to Make Your Move
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the “right time” to buy — grab your pumpkin spice latte, because that time is now.
According to Realtor.com, October 2025 is shaping up to be the most buyer-friendly month of the year, with a rare combination of factors tipping the scale in favor of homebuyers.
“By mid-October, buyers across much of the country may finally find the combination of inventory, pricing, and negotiating power they’ve been waiting for—a rare opportunity in a market that has been tight for most of the past decade.” — Realtor.com
What Makes October a “Sweet Spot” for Buyers
It’s not just a feeling — it’s backed by data. This month tends to bring:
- More homes to choose from — Inventory usually peaks as sellers who listed in summer are still on the market, joined by fresh fall listings.
- Less competition — Many buyers tap out once school starts or the holidays approach.
- Better prices — Homes that have been sitting since summer are often reduced to attract fall buyers.
- Sellers more willing to negotiate — If a home hasn’t sold yet, sellers become more flexible on price and closing terms.
- More time to browse — With fewer bidding wars, you can actually take a breath before making a decision.
What That Means for Boston Suburb Buyers
While the national “Best Week to Buy” lands around October 12–18, our local market in Greater Boston — especially in Walpole, Westwood, Dedham, Roslindale, and West Roxbury — tends to hit its stride a little later in the month.
In fact, Boston-Cambridge-Newton is projected to see its “best week to buy” between October 26 – November 1 this year. That means buyers in nearby suburbs could have prime conditions through Halloween and into early November.
If you’ve been struggling to find something in your price range all summer, the next few weeks could finally bring relief.
Why Fall Buying Feels Different
Let’s be honest — buying a home in spring can feel like standing in line at a Taylor Swift concert. Everyone wants in, everyone’s bidding high, and emotions run hot.
Fall? Much calmer.
Here’s what local agents (myself included!) love about helping clients buy in October:
- Sellers are serious. They’re not “testing the market” — they want to move before winter.
- Homes show beautifully. Crisp air, cozy lighting, and fall curb appeal make it easier to envision your new home.
- Local service providers have more availability. Need inspections, movers, or painters? You’ll wait less and likely pay less.
What the Experts Are Saying
It’s not just us real estate folks in Massachusetts who see the shift — the national experts agree:
“Homebuyers are in the best position in more than five years to find the right home and negotiate for a better price. Current inventory is at its highest since May 2020.”
— Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors
“Now is a good time to buy, if you can afford it . . . with falling mortgage rates and significantly more inventory, buyers have an upper hand in negotiations.”
— Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist, Redfin
“This fall just might be the best window for home buyers in the past five years.”
— NerdWallet
Local Snapshot: What’s Happening in Norfolk County
Here’s what we’re seeing locally as of early October:
- Inventory has ticked up, especially in Walpole, Norwood, and Westwood, giving buyers more to choose from.
- Days on Market are increasing slightly, meaning sellers are open to offers and discussions.
- Price reductions are happening — not across the board, but selectively where homes were priced too aggressively in summer.
- Interest rates have eased from their midyear peak, giving buyers a little more breathing room on monthly payments.
All this adds up to opportunity — but timing still matters.
How To Prepare for This “Golden Window”
If you’re ready to buy this fall, here’s your October playbook:
- Get pre-approved immediately. You’ll move faster when the right home hits the market.
- Know your local market. Every town — Walpole, Dedham, Norfolk, or Westwood — behaves a little differently. Work with an agent who can interpret those micro-trends.
- Watch for price drops. Properties that have lingered since July or August often adjust pricing right now.
- Schedule showings quickly. While competition is lower, good homes still go fast.
- Negotiate smartly. You may now have room for closing cost credits or flexible closing dates — things we rarely saw last year.
Bottom Line
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to make your move, October 2025 is your month — especially across the Boston suburbs.
With inventory up, competition down, and sellers eager to deal before the holidays, this is the best balance of opportunity buyers have seen in years.
Let’s get your strategy in place now so you can take advantage of this narrow, powerful window.
Schedule your homebuying consultation today or get a free home search setup customized to your favorite towns.
3 Reasons Affordability Is Showing Signs of Improvement This Fall
For the past couple of years, a lot of hopeful homebuyers felt stuck on the sidelines. Prices climbed fast. Mortgage rates climbed too. For many, the math just didn’t add up.
But good news is here: this fall, affordability is finally showing signs of improvement.
The latest data from Redfin shows the typical monthly mortgage payment is about $290 lower than it was just a few months ago. That’s a real difference for your budget (see chart below):
So why is this happening? Affordability in housing really comes down to three things:
- Mortgage rates
- Home prices
- Your wages
And right now, all three are finally moving in a better direction. Here’s a breakdown.
1. Mortgage Rates Are Trending Down
Mortgage rates have been dropping compared to earlier this year. In May, they hovered around 7%. Today, they’re closer to 6.3% (see chart below):
That may not sound like a lot, but it’s a game-changer. Even a fraction of a percent matters when it comes to monthly payments.
For example: On a $400,000 mortgage, dropping from 7% to 6.3% saves you nearly $190 per month just from rates alone. That’s real money back in your pocket.
As Joel Kan, VP and Deputy Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), said on September 10:
“The downward rate movement spurred the strongest week of borrower demand since 2022 . . . Purchase applications increased to the highest level since July and continued to run more than 20 percent ahead of last year’s pace.”
2. Home Prices Are Moderating
After years of sharp increases, home price growth has cooled. That’s giving buyers a breather.
Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, notes:
“National home price growth remains positive, but muted — low single digits — and we expect this trend to continue in the second half of the year.”
Translation: prices aren’t soaring anymore. In some markets, they’ve even ticked down. This moderation makes it easier to budget and opens the door for more opportunities.
3. Wages Are Growing
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), wages are up around 4% year over year. That’s meaningful because, as Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, explains:
“Wage growth is now comfortably outpacing home price growth, and buyers have more choices.”
That means the average paycheck is stretching a bit further than it did before—always good news when you’re buying a home.
What This Means for You
When you combine lower mortgage rates, slower price growth, and stronger wages, buying a home is a little easier this fall than it was just a few months ago.
The data shows it clearly: typical mortgage payments are already down nearly $300 a month compared to spring.
Bottom Line
If you’ve been waiting, now may be your moment. The fall market is offering a window of opportunity before the busy spring season kicks in and competition heats up again.
Let’s run the numbers together. I’ll walk you through your budget, what’s changed, and whether this fall is the right time to move from window-shopping to key-turning.
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.
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