Every Year, the National Association of REALTORS conducts a survey and reports on the behaviors of homebuyers and sellers. They also report on real estate trends and other areas of interest to real estate.
The 2013 list is out! With firsthand knowledge in the marketplace, I would concur with their findings. Here's the list:
Access to Public Transportation - Yes! Today's buyers are willing to pay more if they have easy access to public transportation. Combined with high gas prices, high insurance rates as well an increasing awareness of our own personal responsibility for the environment, buyers are finding value in both public transportation and a home's "walkability" factor.
Curb Appeal! No matter how much I harp on my buyers to drive by a property before we schedule an interior appointment, sometimes it's just not feasible. They get home from work late and it's dark out - they can't really see how the home looks. We schedule an appointment and my buyer sits in their seat and says "I don't need to go in". No matter how nice your interior pictures are, if the outside doesn't capture them, it is tough to get them inside. Rake the leaves, mow the lawn, clean up after you dog! In winter, shovel the snow and create a clear non-slippery path for the buyer to get inside.
Amenities! Buyers want Basements - finished or unfinished so there is ability to add living space. With more and more people combining households with aging parents or boomerang children, In Law Suites are becoming increasingly popular. Not only do they want amenities within the home, they want nearby amenities. Walking Trails, Shopping, Dining, etc.
Central Air Conditioning! Buyers want comfort - plain and simple.
Master Suite! Not just a bedroom, but a spa-like retreat. En-suite Master Bathrooms and Walk In Closets are almost a requirement of today's buyer and no longer a luxury.
Storage! Did you know a booming business is the Storage Industry? Consumers still want to keep up with the Jones'. Decorating for Halloween is no longer just putting a Jack-O-Lantern on the front steps. It has evolved into a spectacle. It's actually become a 7 Billion Dollar Industry - yes, with a "B"! That's just Halloween! Where will people store all these things? A walk up attic or full basement is highly desired. If you're a seller and using these areas as storage - make sure they are neatly organized!
If you'd like more information on the property featured in these photos in Ayer, MA, please click here.
Buyers are willing to pay for what they want. With low inventory and relatively low interest rates, now is a great time to get your home ready to go on the market. If you need a referral to an exceptional agent in your area, click here, and if you're not in our geographical area, we will make sure you're put in the hands of a great, knowledgeable agent near you. If you'd like to browse Massachusetts Real Estate for sale, click here.
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