Massachusetts Home Buyer Guide

The median price of single-family homes in Arlington, Massachusetts steadily increased from 2009 through 2013, according to data compiled from MLS Property Information Network, Inc (MLSPIN).

In 2009, the median price of a single family home in Arlington, MA was $487,438. Over a five-year period, the price increased at an average of 3.6 percent per year. In 2013, the median price was $565,000, a cumulative 15.9 percent increase over the five years. Median prices for each year were as follows:

The South End is one of the most popular Boston neighborhoods for those individuals who desire a vibrant community. Its tree-lined neighborhood streets are known for historic properties, many dating back to the 1800s; charming brick sidewalks; ethnically diverse restaurants; eclectic shopping; distinct art galleries; and many small, quaint parks.

Geographically, the South End is located between Back Bay and South Boston and in close proximity to the theater district, Chinatown, Beacon Hill and downtown Boston. The neighborhood extends from Massachusetts Avenue on the west to Berkley Street on the east and north to south from Columbus Avenue to Albany Street.

The number of single-family homes sold in Massachusetts slightly declined in December 2013, the second consecutive month home sales dropped, The Warren Group reported January 29, 2014. 

Single-family home sales in Massachusetts decreased in December to 3,712 from 3,725 in December 2012, a decline of less than 1 percent. December saw the fewest number of sales recorded in one month since April 2013.

From January through November 2013, the price of a single-family home in Norwell, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in 2012, but condominium prices declined slightly, the Massachusetts Association of Realtors (MAR) reported last month.

From January through November 2013, the price of single-family homes and condominiums in Walpole, Massachusetts increased compared to the same 11-month period in 2012, according to data compiled by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors (MAR).

From January through November 2013, the price of a single-family home in Wakefield, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in 2012, but median condo prices declined, the Massachusetts Association of Realtors (MAR) reported last month.

From January through November 2013, the median price of single-family homes and condominium in Haverhill, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in November 2012, according to data compiled by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors (MAR).

The median price of a single-family home increased through November 2013 to $263,000, a 14.8 percent increase compared to $229,000 during the same eleven-month period in 2012. For the month of November 2013, the median price was $249,900, up 11.1 percent from $225,000 in November 2012.

The renaissance city Lowell, Massachusetts is a unique environment where diverse cultures, history and creativity intersect. Built in 1817, Lowell was the country’s first planned factory town. During the 1800s, the city was a major producer of textiles, attracting droves of workers to its mills. Lowell’s history as the cradle of the American Industrial Revolution remains present in the brick buildings and cobblestone streets, adding charm to the city’s lively downtown area.

With a population of a little more than 100,000 in 14.5 square miles, Lowell is the fourth largest city in Massachusetts. Lowell has five zip codes and eight distinct neighborhoods, including the Acre, Back Central, Belvidere, Centralville, Downtown, Highlands, Pawtucketville, and South Lowell. Bordering Dracut, MA; Tewksbury, MA; Billerica, MA; Chelmsford, MA; and Tyngsboro, MA, the city is easily accessed from its surrounding suburbs.

From January through November 2013, the price of a single-family home in Needham, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in 2012, according to real estate data compiled by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors (MAR).

The median price of a single-family home through November 2013 increased 17.2 percent to $805,000 compared to $687,000 during the same eleven months in 2012; however, for the month of November 2013, the median price dropped to $687,500, a 4.5 percent decrease from $720,000 in November 2012.

From January through November 2013, the price of a single-family home in Burlington, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in 2012, the Massachusetts Association of Realtors reported last month.

The median price of a single-family home increased 7.7 percent to $420,000 compared to $390,000 during the same eleven-month period in 2012. In November 2013, the median price increased to $410,000, a 0.6 percent increase from $407,500 in November 2012.

From January through November 2013, the price of a condominium in Cambridge, Massachusetts increased compared to the same period in 2012, the Massachusetts Association of Realtors reported in December.

The median price of a condominium in Cambridge, MA rose 15.2 percent to $514,250, up from $446,250 during the same eleven months in 2012. During the month of November, the median price increased to $616,750, a 34.4 percent rise from $459,000 for a condo during November 2012.

As part of a home inspection, home buyers may choose to have a radon test administered by the home inspector. Massachusetts home buyers should understand what radon gas is, how it is tested and what can be done to mitigate high levels of radon gas. 

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that results from breakdown of radium and uranium in soil and rock. Because radon is a gas, it spreads out from the ground and into homes through foundation cracks and holes. It can move into any space that allows for air flow. Fieldstone foundations are more likely to have higher levels of radon, but cement is porous, so air can easily make its way through cinderblock and poured concrete foundations as well. Even new homes that are well-sealed and houses without basements can have elevated levels of radon. Radon can also be found in building materials, such as brick, stone or concrete.