Talk Real Estate

• Winter Homebuying: What Buyer's Need To Know, Expect & Prepare For

  Winter Home Buying on the South Shore: What Buyers Need to Know, Expect & Prepare For Buying a home during the winter may feel unconventional but for many South Shore buyers, it can actually be one of the most strategic times of year to enter the market. In a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Boston Connect Real Estate’s broker-owner Sharon McNamara and co-host Melissa Wallace broke down the realities, benefits, and unique considerations of winter home buying. Below is a full guide inspired by that conversation designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and empowered as you explore winter opportunities in our local market. Why Winter Can Be a Smart Time to Buy Winter may be associated with slower real estate activity, but that slowdown often benefits today’s buyers. Less Competition & More Breathing Room While spring brings a flood of new listings, it also brings crowds of buyers and highly competitive bidding wars. Winter, however, offers: Fewer competing offers More flexible showing schedules Opportunities to revisit properties multiple times More room for negotiation As Sharon shared, many buyers today want to slow the pace down, and winter affords exactly that. Motivated Sellers Sellers who list in winter typically need or want to sell and that translates into stronger buyer leverage. From flexible timelines to concessions, winter sellers are generally more open to conversation. Seeing a Home in Winter: What Buyers Should Expect Winter showings feel very different from spring or summer ones and that requires a bit of imagination. Landscaping & Outdoor Features May Be Hidden Grass is dormant, pools are closed, and decks or patios may be snow-covered. That doesn’t mean these features don’t exist it simply means you may need additional context. Pro tip: Ask your agent to request seasonal photos from the seller so you can see the home at its best. Vacant Homes May Feel Smaller Rooms without furniture can be surprisingly difficult to visualize especially when you’re trying to picture how your sofa or dining table fits. Winter’s low light can add to the challenge. Your agent can help you assess scale, flow, and potential. Winter Home Inspection Considerations Inspecting a home during the winter months comes with specific limitations but also valuable insights. What You Can See Clearly Heating system performance Drafts or insulation concerns Potential ice dams or signs of past roof leaks Basement moisture issues, even with frozen ground General exterior condition, where snow allows Winter actually highlights issues that may not appear in warmer months. What You Can’t Test or Fully Evaluate Central AC systems (cannot be run in cold temperatures) Roof shingles hidden by snow Pools, septic leaching fields, and yard grading In these cases, your agent can help request: Prior service records Summer photos Written disclosures Additional documentation from licensed professionals Commonly Overlooked Items During Winter Showings Sharon and Melissa highlighted several small but important features buyers often forget to check in colder months: Outdoor water spigots (silcocks) – ensure they're shut off and drained Window screens – many sellers store them for winter; confirm they exist Chimney caps and flashing – visible only if not covered by snow Basement moisture – even frozen ground shouldn’t mask water issues Roof stains in attic or ceilings – could be from prior ice dams Their advice? Ask questions, take notes, and revisit anything unclear. Winter Negotiation Strategies Buyers Should Consider A less competitive winter market opens the door for stronger buyer negotiation opportunities. Beyond the obvious items like price or closing date Sharon shared several commonly overlooked negotiation points: 1. Firewood If a seller has a large supply, ask to include it. Firewood is expensive, and sellers often have no use for it once they move. 2. Remaining Oil in the Tank In Massachusetts, buyers typically reimburse sellers for oil remaining at closing. But Sharon notes this convention isn’t law and buyers can negotiate: “Oil to be at least half a tank at closing and included in the sale at no additional cost.” 3. Pool Equipment & Supplies If you're buying a home with a pool (especially one you can’t see under the cover), be sure to request all associated equipment and chemicals in writing. 4. Home Sale Contingencies These are becoming more common again in a slightly shifting market. Winter sellers may be more open to them. Using Winter to Your Advantage as a Buyer While some buyers wait for spring, savvy buyers use winter to secure a great home at a more relaxed pace. In Sharon’s experience, winter buyers tend to make more confident, thoughtful decisions because they aren’t pressured by intense competition. Winter also provides clarity on: How well the home heats Whether drafts exist If windows need replacement How the home performs during harsher weather These are insights you can’t get in June. Final Thoughts: Lean on Experience Winter home buying may require extra steps, questions, and preparation but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Boston Connect Real Estate, our team has guided thousands of South Shore buyers through every season, every challenge, and every market condition. Winter is no exception. If you’re considering a move or want a one-on-one consultation with Sharon and her team you can reach us anytime at BostonConnect.com or 781-826-8000.

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• Why Some Properties Stay on the Market Longer

  The What & Why of DOM: Understanding Days on Market in Today’s Real Estate Market When a home lingers on the market longer than expected, both buyers and sellers naturally start asking the same question: “Why hasn’t it sold yet?” On a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace took a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood metrics in real estate DOM, or Days on Market — and revealed why this number rarely tells the full story. In true Boston Connect fashion, they shared practical wisdom, personal experiences, and industry insights to help consumers better understand what DOM really means, why properties stay on the market longer, and how to avoid misconceptions that can derail a sale. What Is DOM and Why Does It Matter? DOM, or Days on Market, represents the number of days a property is actively listed for sale. While buyers often scan this number looking for “red flags,” Sharon explains that DOM is not always a reflection of the home itself  nor of the listing agent’s performance. Sometimes, it reflects market timing, neighborhood rules, or even the unique dynamics of new construction listings. Sharon shared how her DOM is typically higher than other agents because she represents a significant volume of new construction. Those homes may be listed months before a shovel even hits the ground, automatically inflating the DOM despite strong buyer demand and active sales.  Why Properties Stay on the Market: The Real Factors Behind DOM 1. Timing the Market, It’s Not Just About Spring Fever While spring is traditionally the busiest selling season, Sharon and Mel remind listeners that motivation matters more than the calendar. They explain that: Fall and winter buyers are more serious, even when overall foot traffic slows. Summer markets dip around July due to vacations but rebound before school begins. Holiday seasons may reduce showings slightly, but serious buyers are still out there. “A home can’t sell if it’s not on the market,” Sharon says and sometimes being one of fewer listings is better than competing with spring surges. 2. Community or Builder Restrictions Some neighborhoods require sellers to list with the community’s own team for 60 days before going to public MLS, a rule that often confuses buyers who don’t realize the property already had a “quiet” DOM before the wider public ever saw it. This can instantly make a listing look “stale” through no fault of the seller.  3. Pricing Strategy & Unrealistic Expectations Pricing remains the most influential factor in how long a home stays on the market. Sellers sometimes decide to “test the market,” but today’s buyers have unprecedented access to comparable sales  so overpricing backfires quickly. Sharon notes that buyers no longer “throw out an offer” just to see what happens. They wait for the seller to get realistic.  4. Home Sale Contingencies When a buyer needs to sell their current home before purchasing a new one, it adds layers to the timeline. Sharon explains: Sellers must often give the buyer 2–3 weeks to get their home listed. The listing agent has no control over how aggressively the buyer’s agent markets the other property. Momentum can stall if the other home isn’t priced or presented correctly. She also highlights the 48-hour kick-out clause, where sellers can accept a better offer if the original buyer can’t drop their contingency within 48 hours. Effective for sellers but nerve-wracking for buyers.  5. Micro-Market Differences Not all towns behave the same. A home in Hanover may get snapped up in days, while an almost identical home in a neighboring town lingers due to: school district desirability commuter convenience neighborhood characteristics local inventory levels These micro-market nuances matter more than many sellers realize.  6. Layout, Location, and Lifestyle Fit Some factors simply can’t be changed such as: Busy roads Unusual layouts Steep driveways Proximity to commercial activity Noisy surroundings Sharon shared an anecdote where buyers decided not even to go inside the home because of what they saw across the street. That alone was a dealbreaker, regardless of how perfect the interior may have been. 7. Economic Shifts & Buyer Behavior Everything from job layoffs to mortgage rate swings to government shutdowns can temporarily freeze buyer activity. During the recent shutdown, Sharon and Mel explained how certain government-backed loan programs stalled, delaying or preventing closings and reducing the number of ready buyers in the market. Even buyers unaffected financially may adopt a “wait and see” mindset when headlines signal uncertainty.  Why DOM Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story The biggest misconception about DOM is that “more days = something is wrong.” In reality: It could reflect restrictions outside the seller’s control. It could be seasonal timing. It could be contingent buyers. It could be new construction logistics. It could simply be a unique or niche property waiting for the right buyer. A skilled buyer’s agent will pick up the phone and get the real story something Sharon emphasizes repeatedly. “You shouldn’t have to ask your agent to do that. A good agent does it automatically.”  Final Thoughts: DOM Is a Number, Not a Diagnosis DOM is a single data point not a verdict on value, desirability, or strategy. If you're a seller: Work with an agent who understands timing, pricing, and your local micro-market. Don’t panic if your DOM grows it may not mean anything is “wrong.” Stay focused on your motivation and timeline. If you're a buyer: Ask questions before making assumptions. Let your agent uncover the true reason behind the DOM. Use the information to structure a smart offer. At Boston Connect Real Estate, our agents take pride in educating clients and providing transparent, honest insight because every move should be a moving experience. If you're preparing to buy or sell and want personalized guidance, our team is here to help. Visit BostonConnect.com or call 781-826-8000 to connect with one of our experienced REALTORS®.

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• Final Walk-Through

  The Importance of the Final Walkthrough: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know Insights from Talk Real Estate Roundtable with Boston Connect Real Estate At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe that education is one of the most valuable tools we can provide buyers and sellers. In a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, hosts Melissa Wallace and Tracy Grady took a deep dive into one of the final and most important steps of a real estate transaction: the final walkthrough. While often overlooked, this critical step can make the difference between a smooth closing and a stressful one. Here’s what every buyer and seller should know before closing day arrives. What Is a Final Walkthrough? A final walkthrough typically occurs within 24 hours of closing. It is not another home inspection. Instead, it is the buyer’s opportunity to confirm that: The home is in the same condition as when the offer was accepted. No new damage has occurred during the seller’s move-out. All systems and mechanicals that worked previously still operate as expected. All agreed-upon repairs have been completed. The seller has fully vacated and met the “broom clean” requirement. All items that were supposed to stay including appliances, fixtures, and window treatments—are still in place. For sellers, the walkthrough is the last checkpoint before passing ownership to the new buyers. For buyers, it is a chance to ensure they’re walking into the home they expect. The Purpose: Peace of Mind for Buyers During the walkthrough, buyers are looking for confirmation not perfection. This includes: ✔ Verifying Completed Repairs If the home inspection revealed issues that were resolved by the seller, buyers should: Bring the repair list from the P&S and inspection addendum Review receipts, warranties, or certificates Confirm the work was completed professionally For example, the agents discussed a home with mold remediation in the attic, which required certificates to be transferred to the buyer. These documents are essential, and buyers should receive them before closing day. ✔ Ensuring the Home is Empty & Clean In Massachusetts, sellers are required to leave the home in broom-clean condition meaning: Floors swept Surfaces wiped Cabinets empty No debris left behind Most sellers go above and beyond, arranging for a professional cleaning crew. But buyers should still inspect kitchens, drawers, appliances, and the garage or basement for stray items. ✔ Checking for Move-Out Damage Even the most careful sellers can accidentally cause damage while moving. Buyers should look for: Floor scratches from dragging furniture Damaged walls where TVs, shelves, or decor were removed Water leaks from disconnected appliances Broken windows or hardware previously hidden by furniture The show even recalled a real example where a safe dropped during move-out, damaging exterior brick steps, proof that anything can happen! What Buyers Should Not Do During the Walkthrough A final walkthrough is not the time to retest every appliance or mechanical system unless no inspection was completed. Generally: You do not run the dishwasher through a full cycle You do not retest the heating system, stove, or electrical systems You do not make new demands unrelated to the home’s condition These were already addressed during the home inspection. What Sellers Should Leave Behind (and What They Shouldn’t) ✔ Items Sellers May Leave (With Permission) Matching paint for touch-ups Extra floorboards, tiles, or siding Window screens or storm windows Pool equipment and maintenance tools Manuals, remotes, and spare keys Communication is key, nothing should be left without confirming the buyer wants it. ✘ Items Sellers Should Never Leave Without Approval Old or hazardous paint cans Chemicals, oil, or propane tanks Construction debris Broken furniture or outdated patio sets Food or cleaning supplies Kiddie pools, swing sets, or other large items not negotiated Items stored in the attic or basement that were simply forgotten The agents discussed common oversights  like sellers accidentally leaving old gardening stakes, basement junk, or even full hockey bags buried in attic corners. Handling Unexpected Surprises The walkthrough is where last-minute surprises can derail a transaction. Some real-life examples from the episode included: A tree falling through a condo roof prior to closing A sump pump failure causing basement flooding Unremoved outdoor furniture despite multiple reminders Refrigerators dragged across floors, causing large scratches Issues like these must be resolved before the buyer signs on closing day. Why This Step Matters For most people, buying a home is the largest financial decision they’ll ever make. The final walkthrough: Protects buyers from unexpected expenses Ensures the property condition complies with the P&S Builds trust between both parties Sets the tone for a smooth closing And for sellers? A clean, worry-free walkthrough is the last opportunity to leave a great impression.

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• Winter Wisdom: Buying & Selling Homes in New England's Cold Season

  Winter Wisdom: Buying and Selling Homes in New England During the Cold Months When most people think of real estate seasonality, they picture the spring market bright flowers, open houses, and eager buyers emerging from winter hibernation. But on this week’s episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace reminded listeners that winter in New England brings its own unique set of opportunities, challenges, and wisdom for both buyers and sellers. Busting the Myth: “No One Buys or Sells in Winter” One of the most common misconceptions in real estate is that nothing happens once the cold sets in. Sharon set the record straight homes sell every month of the year, and serious buyers don’t stop searching because the temperature drops. In fact, winter often attracts the most motivated buyers those relocating for work, upsizing or downsizing before the new year, or simply ready to make a move despite the season. As Sharon noted on-air, “There’s always a reason someone needs to sell and when motivation meets opportunity, the season doesn’t matter.” Why Winter Real Estate Deserves Attention Melissa asked the question many wonder: why does winter real estate deserve its own spotlight? Sharon explained that the colder months bring unique considerations from curb appeal under snow to heating costs, icy driveways, and limited daylight for showings. But with proper preparation, sellers can stand out when inventory is lower and competition is thinner. Plus, fewer listings mean more attention for your home. “You might just have fewer buyers looking,” Sharon said, “but the ones who are looking are serious.” Seller Tips for the Cold Months Create Warmth the Moment Buyers Step In – Keep the heat steady, bake something simple, and add cozy touches like soft lighting or throws to help buyers feel at home. Stay on Top of Snow and Ice – Safety is part of presentation. Keep driveways, walkways, and stairs clear. Highlight Winter Efficiency – Energy-efficient heating systems, newer windows, and good insulation are major selling points this time of year. Leverage the Season – Decorate tastefully for the holidays; a festive but uncluttered space can create an emotional connection. Buyer Considerations in Winter Winter home shopping isn’t without its perks. Sharon and Melissa noted that buyers can often see how well a home handles the cold. You’ll experience the heating system, insulation, and draft control firsthand. And because the market tends to slow, you may face less competition when making an offer. Buyers should, however, stay mindful of weather-related limitations roofs, landscaping, or exterior conditions may be covered by snow, so factor in a thorough spring check if needed. A Glimpse Ahead: Predictions from the Farmer’s Almanac The conversation took a lighthearted detour when the hosts discussed the surprising news that one edition of the Farmer’s Almanac will stop publication after 2026 though not the Old Farmer’s Almanac most New Englanders rely on. According to its forecast, Massachusetts can expect a mild and dry winter with fewer snow days than usual but Sharon and Tim at WATD agreed: “It’s still New England, baby. You never really know.” A Roundtable Tradition of Connection The episode also featured live listener calls and even a check-in from a real estate friend in Miami. Listeners weighed in on whether they’d list now or wait until after the holidays and most agreed: why wait? As one caller said, “If you’re serious, just go ahead and put it on now and see what happens.” That spirit of engagement mixed with laughter, storytelling, and genuine care is exactly what keeps Boston Connect Real Estate’s Talk Real Estate Roundtable such a beloved part of the South Shore community. Final Thoughts Whether you’re buying or selling this winter, the key is preparation and partnership. The agents at Boston Connect Real Estate specialize in helping clients navigate every season of the market with strategy, care, and a bit of local wisdom. If you’re ready to start your next chapter, contact our team today at bostonconnect.com or call 781-826-8000 to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Because with the right team by your side, every move can be a moving experience.

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• From Offer to Closing: Navigating the Home Sale Timeline

  From Offer to Closing: Navigating the Home Sale Timeline When buying or selling a home in Massachusetts, timing is everything. From the moment an offer is submitted to the day the keys change hands, there’s a complex series of steps that must align perfectly and sometimes those steps are influenced by weather, holidays, or even the timing of other transactions. In a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace of Boston Connect Real Estate broke down what really happens during the home sale timeline and how agents help clients navigate every turn of the process. The Emotional Rollercoaster of Buying and Selling Once an offer is accepted, excitement quickly gives way to nerves. Buyers start to realize, “This is really happening!” and suddenly, the process feels real inspections, financing, deadlines, and all. Sharon and Melissa note that this emotional shift is completely normal. For sellers, emotions run high too. Whether they’re upsizing, downsizing, or handling an estate sale, every transaction carries personal weight. A great agent’s role is to keep both sides calm, informed, and focused on the bigger picture. “Part of our job is to guide our clients through the emotions,” Sharon explains. “We’ve seen it all and that perspective helps everyone stay grounded.” Understanding the Layers of the Timeline The phrase “from offer to closing” might sound simple, but there are actually multiple timelines happening simultaneously. Offer and Acceptance – Once an offer is submitted, it includes an expiration date and offer deadline. Sellers must review and respond within that window. Home Inspection Period – Buyers usually have a short timeframe (often 5–7 days) to schedule and complete inspections. Purchase & Sale Agreement (P&S) – This formal contract typically follows the inspection phase and lays out the firm terms, dates, and contingencies. Appraisal & Financing – If financing is involved, this step is crucial. Lender delays or missed deadlines can push back the closing. Commitment & Closing Prep – Once financing is secured, attorneys and agents coordinate title work, smoke inspections, and final walkthroughs. Each stage has its own deadlines and missing one could jeopardize the transaction. The Listing Agent’s Balancing Act For sellers’ agents, managing the timeline is a true art form. Sharon emphasizes the importance of monitoring every date and understanding how one delay can create a domino effect, especially when the buyer is also selling a home. “You’re often lining up two closings,” Sharon says. “It takes careful coordination to make sure your clients aren’t left homeless or losing a deposit.” When a sale is contingent on another property selling, clear communication and tight timelines become critical. Agents often add date-specific contingencies to protect both sides ensuring no one’s left in limbo. Offer Deadlines and Market Dynamics Offer deadlines have become a common strategy in Massachusetts’ competitive market. Sharon explains that while they help organize multiple-offer situations, they can also cause confusion if not handled properly. “We used to set strict offer deadlines, but now I prefer to read the room,” Sharon says. “Sometimes, I let offers roll in and let the seller decide when they feel ready. It keeps flexibility in the process.” Melissa adds that understanding why deals fall apart from financing hiccups to misaligned timelines is one of the best ways for agents to prevent future issues. The Importance of Communication Perhaps the biggest takeaway from this episode is the importance of open, consistent communication. Buyers, sellers, lenders, attorneys, and agents must all stay in sync for the transaction to succeed. “Communication is the glue that holds the deal together,” Melissa notes. “If everyone’s on the same page, we can handle almost any curveball.” Weather, Holidays, and Friday Closings Oh My! Sharon and Melissa also reminded listeners that not all delays are financial or emotional. External factors like snowstorms, long weekends, or back-to-back “domino closings” can create unexpected scheduling challenges. Tip from the pros: Try to avoid Friday closings when possible banks and attorneys may close early, and if a wire delay occurs, you could be waiting until Monday to move in. Final Thoughts Buying or selling a home involves far more than signatures and keys it’s a careful dance of dates, details, and decisions. With the right guidance, however, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Boston Connect Real Estate, our agents take a holistic, hands-on approach to every transaction. From the first showing to closing day, we’re here to make sure every move truly feels like a moving experience. Listen to the Full Episode Catch the full discussion with Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace on Talk Real Estate Roundtable wherever you stream your podcasts. Need Expert Guidance? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just planning your next move, connect with the team at BostonConnect.com or call 781-826-8000 to schedule your consultation.

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