Buying A House: When Is The Perfect Time

There is no “perfect” time to buy a house, just like there is no “perfect” house. When you find a house, don’t second guess interest rates or market conditions by waiting. Changes don’t occur that fast to make that much difference in price. Similarly, a good house won’t stay on the market long.

“Get Real” with Mildred Wong

MYTH: I need my car. An off-street parking space is non-negotiable when searching for an apartment.

FACT: The Boston metro area and all of its neighborhoods are easily accessible by an extensive underground subway system, locally called the T. It is important to weigh your “need” versus “want” to have a car.

“Get Real!” with Mildred Wong

MYTH: Times are tight. There is no room in my budget for a global vacation.

FACT: Vacation home swapping is an affordable solution to reduce travel costs by half and still have an authentic global experience.

“Get Real!” with Mildred Wong

MYTH: Always insist that your agent show you NO FEE apartments only. That way you won’t get stuck with paying a broker fee.

FACT: It is important to view ALL available apartments that fit your needs. EVERY apartment rented through a real estate broker agency comes with a fee equal to one month’s rent.

“Get Real!” with Mildred Wong

MYTH: There is plenty of time to secure an apartment. September 1st is still seven months away.

FACT: Boston’s rental market remains one of the tightest and priciest in the country. In 2011, the vacancy rate was 4.4% at the end of June, and even lower in neighborhoods that are desirable to young professionals and students. Landlords quickly reached 100% occupancy due to fewer turnovers than in previous years. As a result, they raised rent prices because supply was low and demand was still strong. And most landlords left the cost of the broker fee to the tenant.

“GET REAL!” with Mildred Wong

MYTH: It is not a good time to sell my home during the holidays and Winter months.

FACT: Seasonal trends no longer apply today with the Internet, smart phones, and tablets. Buyers are ALWAYS looking for properties online. The home market is no more affected during the holidays than during other “busy” periods of the year.