For Home Buyers • May 14, 2025

The Most Googled Questions from Home Buyers — Answered

by Beatriz Gomez

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially if you are a first-time buyer. Every day, people just like you are searching Google for answers to important questions about the home-buying process.

As a local real estate professional, I am here not just to help you find the perfect home, but to guide you every step of the way—starting with answers to the most commonly Googled questions by homebuyers.

1. How do I start the home buying process in Massachusetts?

Start with a clear understanding of your finances—know your credit score, set a budget, and get pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval letter not only gives you clarity on what you can afford but also strengthens your offer when you’re ready to make one.

How I help: I connect buyers with trusted local lenders for pre-approvals and walk you through the initial planning steps so you’re prepared and confident from the start.

2. What are the hidden costs of buying a home?

Beyond your down payment, you’ll want to budget for closing costs (loan origination fees, inspections, attorney fees, etc.), property taxes, home insurance, and future maintenance.

How I help: I give you a clear estimate of your full cost breakdown upfront so there are no surprises—and I recommend home inspectors, attorneys, and insurance agents who are reliable and cost-effective.

3. How much should I save for a down payment?

You may have heard you need 20%, but many Massachusetts programs offer options with as little as 3–5% down.

How I help: I connect you with lenders and local programs that can help reduce your upfront cost—especially for first-time buyers.

4. Do I need a real estate attorney?

Yes, Massachusetts is an attorney state, meaning you’ll need one for the legal parts of the transaction—especially for reviewing the Purchase and Sale Agreement.

How I help: I have trusted real estate attorneys I can refer you to, and I coordinate with them to keep the process smooth and efficient.

5. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Pre-qualification is a rough estimate, while pre-approval is a formal commitment from a lender. Sellers take your offer more seriously when you’re pre-approved.

How I help: I’ll guide you to reputable lenders who can get you pre-approved quickly so you are ready to act when the right home hits the market.

6. What are closing costs, and how much should I expect to pay?

Expect to pay about 1–3% of your loan amount in closing costs. This includes fees for the appraisal, title insurance, legal services, and more.

How I help: I’ll provide a personalized estimate based on your loan type and the area you’re buying in—and I’ll help you explore options to reduce or roll some costs into your loan.

7. Can I buy a home with bad credit?

Yes, it’s possible—with options like FHA loans or state programs. However, you might face higher interest rates or stricter conditions.

How I help: I’ll refer you to lenders who specialize in working with buyers with challenged credit, and help you explore programs designed to make homeownership more accessible.

8. What should I look for during house hunting?

Pay attention to condition, location, resale value, layout, school zones, and your lifestyle needs. Sometimes, the “perfect” home on paper might not feel right in person—and vice versa.

How I help: I preview homes, highlight pros/cons you may not notice, and offer honest insights to help you make a confident decision.

9. Should I get a home inspection?

Yes! Even with newer homes, an inspection can reveal hidden issues and give you leverage during negotiations.

How I help: I work with experienced inspectors who give detailed, unbiased reports—and I help you interpret their findings to negotiate repairs or credits.

10. What is PMI, and will I need it?

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is typically required if you put down less than 20%. It protects the lender—not you—if you default.

How I help: I’ll explain when PMI applies and help you compare mortgage options to reduce or avoid it altogether if possible.

Let’s Make Your Homeownership Dream a Reality

If you are buying a home, you don’t have to go it alone—or rely on Google to get the full picture.

As your local real estate expert, I’m here to:

Break down complex steps into clear, manageable actions
Connect you with top professionals (lenders, attorneys, inspectors)
Help you negotiate and advocate for your best interests
Make the entire process less stressful—and even enjoyable

Let’s connect today to talk about your goals and how I can help you find your perfect home.

You can call or text at 508 944 1779 or email me at beatrizsellshomes@gmail.com.

Let’s get the conversation started.

For Home Sellers • May 13, 2025

Thinking About Selling Your Home in Massachusetts? Here Are the Top Questions Homeowners Are Asking—And How I Can Help

by Beatriz Gomez

If you’re considering selling your home you are not alone—and you are likely searching for answers. In fact, recent data shows that local homeowners are Googling questions like:

“Is it a good time to sell my home?”
“How much is my house worth?”
“How do I prepare my home for sale?”
“What are the costs involved in selling a house?”
“How can I increase my home’s value before selling?”
“How do I sell my house fast?”

These are all smart, important questions—and as a real estate professional, it’s my job to make sure you have the answers that actually apply to your unique situation.

1. Is It a Good Time to Sell My Home?

The timing of your sale can have a big impact on your bottom line. I monitor the Massachusetts housing market daily, so I can advise you on current trends, buyer demand, interest rates, and seasonality—helping you choose the right time to list for maximum exposure and profit.

2. How Much Is My House Worth?

Online estimates are a starting point, but I provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) tailored to your specific home, neighborhood, and recent sales. This ensures your home is priced accurately and competitively.

3. How Do I Prepare My Home for Sale?

From staging tips to repair recommendations, I walk you through everything needed to make a strong first impression. I’ll help you prioritize updates that matter most to buyers in your area—and avoid wasting money on improvements that won’t yield a return.

4. What Are the Costs Involved in Selling?

Selling comes with some expenses—agent commissions, closing costs, and potential repairs. I’ll provide a clear breakdown of what to expect so there are no surprises along the way. Transparency is key.

5. How Can I Increase My Home’s Value Before Selling?

Not all upgrades are created equal. I’ll show you where to invest (like kitchens, bathrooms, or curb appeal) and what improvements buyers in Massachusetts are looking for right now. My goal? Help you boost value without over-spending.

6. How Do I Sell My House Fast?

A quick sale often comes down to smart pricing, great marketing, and strong local knowledge. I use professional photography, compelling listing descriptions, and targeted digital marketing to make sure your home gets in front of the right buyers fast.

Selling Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

Whether you are just starting to explore the idea of selling or you are ready to put your home on the market, I’m here to answer all your questions—honestly, clearly, and with your goals in mind.

Let’s talk about how we can sell your home with confidence and ease.

You can call or text me at 508 944 1779 or email me at beatrizsellshomes@gmail.com today for a free home consultation or pricing estimate. There’s no obligation—just information that helps you make the best decision for you and your future.

For Home Sellers • May 1, 2025

The Most Common Questions from Home Sellers – Answered

by Beatriz Gomez

Selling your home is a big decision, and naturally, it comes with a lot of questions. As a homeowner, you want to make sure you are doing everything right to get the best possible return. Whether you are selling for the first time or it’s been a while since your last sale, here are the most frequently asked questions from home sellers—along with clear, helpful answers to guide you through the process.

1. What’s the Current Real Estate Market Like?

The market can change quickly depending on factors like interest rates, local inventory, and buyer demand. In 2025, we’re seeing:

Interest rates that are stabilizing after previous hikes
Inventory levels that are still relatively low in many areas
Buyer activity that’s slowly rebounding as affordability improves

What this means for you: Well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling quickly in many neighborhoods. Understanding your local market conditions is key, let’s connect so I can share the most up-to-date insights.

2. When Is the Best Time to Sell My House?

The “best” time can depend on your personal timeline and market conditions. However:

Spring and early summer typically bring the most buyers.
Fall can also be a strong time in many markets.
Winter can work if inventory is low, meaning less competition.

Pro tip: List when your home will show best—landscaped in spring, cozy in winter, etc.—and when buyer demand is strong in your area.

3. What Is My Home Worth?

Determining your home’s market value requires more than a guess or a quick online estimate.

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) compares your home to recent local sales.
Your home’s condition, location, upgrades, and size all influence value.
Online home value estimators can be a starting point, but they’re often inaccurate.

Best approach: I will be happy to provide you with a customized CMA.

4. How Should I Prepare My Home for Sale?

A clean, well-staged home will typically sell faster and for more money.

Here’s how to prepare:

Declutter and depersonalize – Buyers need to visualize themselves in the space.
Deep clean everything – baseboards, carpets, windows, etc.
Stage key rooms like the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom.
Enhance curb appeal – mow the lawn, add fresh mulch, paint the front door.

Bonus tip: Neutral colors and good lighting make a huge impact.

5. How Do I Best Market My Home?

Gone are the days of just putting a sign in the yard.

Effective home marketing includes:

Professional photography and, ideally, video tours or drone footage
Online exposure via Zillow, Realtor.com, MLS, and social media
Open houses and private showings
Targeted advertising to local and relocating buyers

Let’s connect so I can share with you my personalized, modern marketing plan and strategies to get your home sold.

6. What Am I Required to Disclose to Buyers?

Transparency is not just ethical—it’s required by law.

You should disclose:

Known material defects (e.g., roof leaks, foundation issues)
Pest infestations
Past flooding or mold
Any repairs or insurance claims made

I will be happy to assist you in the completion of our seller’s disclosure form.

7. Should I Make Repairs Before Selling?

Buyers are more likely to offer top dollar for homes that feel move-in ready. But not all repairs are created equal.

High-ROI improvements include:

Fresh interior paint
Minor kitchen or bathroom updates
Refinishing hardwood floors or cleaning carpets
Improving lighting fixtures
Landscaping and curb appeal

Avoid big-ticket remodels. I am happy to do a walkthrough of your home, and advise you on the best repairs, based on our market.

8. Do I Need a Pre-Listing Home Inspection?

While not required, a pre-listing inspection can:

Uncover issues you may want to address before going live
Prevent surprises during the buyer’s inspection period
Give buyers peace of mind, which can lead to stronger offers

It’s a proactive step that can make your home more competitive.

Selling a home doesn’t have to be stressful when you’re armed with the right information. By understanding the market, preparing your home thoughtfully, and working with the right professionals, you can attract serious buyers and maximize your profit.

Ready to talk about selling your home? Let’s schedule a consultation and walk through the best strategy for your unique situation.

You can call or text me at 508 944 1779 or email me at beatrizsellshomes@gmail.com.

Let’s have the conversation started so I can answer all your questions.

Market Reports • April 16, 2025

Holliston Market Report for Q1 2025

by Beatriz Gomez

As of April 2025, Holliston, MA (ZIP code 01746) continues to exhibit a robust and competitive real estate market. The following analysis provides insights into current trends, based on recent data:

📊 Key Market Statistics

Active Single-Family Listings: 27
Median Living Area: 2,123 sq ft
Median List Price: $794,900
Median List Price per Sq Ft: $345
Median Days on Market (DOM): 23
Median Days to Offer (DTO): 8
Median Sale Price: $777,000
Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $345

📈 Market Trends and Insights

1. Sustained Seller’s Market

Holliston remains a seller’s market, characterized by limited inventory and high demand. Homes are selling rapidly, often within a week of listing, indicating strong buyer interest.

2. Price Appreciation

The median sale price of $777,000 reflects a consistent upward trend in home values. This appreciation is indicative of the area’s desirability and the competitive nature of the market.

3. Efficient Market Dynamics

With a median DOM (Days On Market) of 23 and DTO (Days to Offer) of 8, the market demonstrates efficiency in transactions. Buyers are making swift decisions, and sellers are receiving offers promptly, highlighting the market’s vitality.

🏡 Implications for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers: Be prepared for swift action. Homes are moving quickly, so having financing in order and being ready to make competitive offers is crucial.
For Sellers: The current market conditions are favorable. Properly priced homes are attracting multiple offers, often leading to sales at or above listing prices.

In summary, Holliston’s real estate market in April 2025 is marked by high demand, rising prices, and quick sales. Both buyers and sellers should strategize accordingly to navigate this dynamic environment

For Home Buyers • July 13, 2023

What I like about living in Holliston

by Beatriz Gomez

Living in Holliston has many advantages, here are a few of them:

Location: Holliston is accessible to major cities such as Boston, Worcester, and Providence. You can enjoy a suburban lifestyle while having easy access to urban amenities and employment opportunities.

Community Atmosphere: Holliston has a strong sense of community, with various events and activities organized throughout the year like festivals, parades, and community gatherings that foster a friendly and welcoming environment. Not to mention the numerous community organizations and clubs for residents to get involved in.

Excellent Education: The Holliston Public Schools consistently receive high ratings and offer a strong academic curriculum, extracurricular activities, and athletic programs. Additionally, there are private school options available in the area.

Outdoor Recreation: Holliston boasts an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The town has several parks, trails, and conservation areas where residents can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and nature exploration. There are also nearby lakes and ponds for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Historic Charm: Holliston has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The town features historic landmarks, well-preserved colonial homes, and a quaint New England charm. The downtown area offers a mix of local shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing a unique and picturesque setting.

Strong Sense of Safety: Known for its low crime rate, Holliston provides residents with a strong sense of safety and security. The town has an active police department and a tight-knit community that looks out for one another.

Proximity to Natural Beauty: Holliston is surrounded by natural beauty, with many scenic areas nearby. Residents can explore the nearby Ashland State Park, Callahan State Park, and the Charles River, which offer opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoors.

Access to Healthcare: Holliston is in proximity to various medical facilities and hospitals, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

It’s important to note that individual preferences and priorities may vary, so what might be an advantage for one person may not hold the same value for another. It’s recommended to visit or research the area further to determine if it aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

For Home Buyers • For Home Sellers • May 17, 2023

What You Need To Know About Home Price News

by Beatriz Gomez

What You Need To Know About Home Price News

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales Report tomorrow. The information it contains on home prices may cause some confusion and could even generate some troubling headlines. This all stems from the fact that NAR will report the median sales price, while other home price indices report repeat sales prices. The vast majority of the repeat sales indices show prices are starting to appreciate again. But the median price reported on Thursday may tell a different story.

Here’s why using the median home price as a gauge of what’s happening with home values isn’t ideal right now. According to the Center for Real Estate Studies at Wichita State University:

“The median sale price measures the ‘middle’ price of homes that sold, meaning that half of the homes sold for a higher price and half sold for less. While this is a good measure of the typical sale price, it is not very useful for measuring home price appreciation because it is affected by the ‘composition’ of homes that have sold.

For example, if more lower-priced homes have sold recently, the median sale price would decline (because the “middle” home is now a lower-priced home), even if the value of each individual home is rising.”

People buy homes based on their monthly mortgage payment, not the price of the house. When mortgage rates go up, they have to buy a less expensive home to keep the monthly expense affordable. More ‘less-expensive’ houses are selling right now, and that’s causing the median price to decline. But that doesn’t mean any single house lost value.

Even NAR, an organization that reports on median prices, acknowledges there are limitations to what this type of data can show you. NAR explains:

“Changes in the composition of sales can distort median price data.”

For clarification, here’s a simple explanation of median value:

You have three coins in your pocket. Line them up in ascending value (lowest to highest).
If you have one nickel and two dimes, the median value of the coins (the middle one) in your pocket is ten cents.
If you have two nickels and one dime, the median value of the coins in your pocket is now five cents.
In both cases, a nickel is still worth five cents and a dime is still worth ten cents. The value of each coin didn’t change.

The same thing applies to today’s real estate market.

Bottom Line

Actual home values are going up in most markets. The median value reported tomorrow might tell a different story. For a more in-depth understanding of home price movements, let’s connect.

For Home Sellers • March 7, 2023

An Expert Makes All the Difference When You Sell Your House

by Beatriz Gomez

An Expert Makes All the Difference When You Sell Your House

If you’re thinking of selling your house, it’s important to work with someone who understands how the market is changing and what it means for you. Here are five reasons working with a professional can ensure you’ll get the most out of your sale.

1. They’re Experts on Market Trends

With today’s housing market defined by change, it’s critical to work with someone who knows the latest information and how it impacts your goals. An expert real estate advisor knows about national trends and your local area too. More importantly, they’ll give insight to what all of this means for you, so they’ll be able to help you make a decision based on trustworthy, data-bound information.

2. A Local Professional Knows How To Set the Right Price for Your Home

Home price appreciation has moderated this year. If you sell your house on your own, you may be more likely to overshoot your asking price because you’re not as aware of where prices are today. Pricing your house too high can deter buyers or cause your house to sit on the market for longer.

Real estate professionals look at a variety of factors, like the condition of your home and any upgrades you’ve made, with an unbiased eye. They compare your house to recently sold homes in your area to find the best price for today’s market so your house sells quickly.

3. A Real Estate Advisor Helps Maximize Your Pool of Buyers

Since buyer demand has cooled this year, you’ll want to do what you can to help bring in more buyers. Real estate professionals have a wide range of tools at their disposal, such as social media followers, agency resources, and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), to ensure your house gets in front of people looking to make a purchase. Investopedia explains why it’s risky to sell on your own without the network an agent provides:

“You don’t have relationships with clients, other agents, or a real estate agency to bring the largest pool of potential buyers to your home.”

Without access to your agent’s tools and marketing expertise, your buyer pool – and your home’s selling potential – is limited.

4. A Real Estate Expert Will Read – and Understand – the Fine Print

Today, more disclosures and regulations are mandatory when selling a house. That means the number of legal documents you’ll need to juggle is growing. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) puts it like this:

“There’s a lot of jargon involved in a real estate transaction; you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.”

5. A Local Professional Is a Skilled Negotiator

In today’s market, buyers are regaining some negotiation power. If you sell without an expert, you’ll be responsible for any back-and-forth. That means you’ll have to coordinate with:

The buyer, who wants the best deal possible
The buyer’s agent, who will use their expertise to advocate for the buyer
The inspection company, which works for the buyer and will almost always find concerns with the house
The appraiser, who assesses the property’s value to protect the lender

Instead of going toe-to-toe with these parties alone, call, text or message me, I would love to help you navigate this market.

For Home Buyers • March 7, 2023

Could a Multigenerational Home Be the Right Fit for You?

by Beatriz Gomez

Could a Multigenerational Home Be the Right Fit for You?

During the pandemic, many of us reexamined the meaning of home for ourselves and our loved ones. Today, that can be seen in the recent rise in multigenerational households. According to Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Economic Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Multi-generational buying may be a home where families live in the same home with elderly parents, children who have boomeranged back home, or other extended family members. While this is not a new concept of living, it is one which has gained recent popularity.”

And citing data from Pew Research Center, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says:

“. . . multigenerational living has made a comeback in recent years, particularly after the 2008 financial crisis and during the pandemic.”

So, if buying a multigenerational home has crossed your mind, you aren’t alone. Depending on what stage of homeownership you’re in, there are different reasons it could be the right fit. The chart below shows responses to a recent survey from NAR about the reasons people have bought a multigenerational home:

Whether your motives are financial or focused on the people you’ll share your home with, a multigenerational home has distinct advantages. It can make homeownership more affordable, and it can help you best support your loved ones. As Lautz explains:

“Multi-generational home buying is a way for families to care for one another, support one another, and often buy a home that may have been previously out of reach. . . . The trend of multigenerational buying appears to be firmly established and one that could expand in the future.”

If you’re ready to buy a house, consider the opportunities of a multigenerational home. Let’s connect so you can explore your options in our area. Call text or message me, I’ll be happy to help you.

For Home Sellers • March 2, 2023

Spring into Action: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Guidance

by Beatriz Gomez

Spring into Action: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Guidance

To sell your home this spring, it may need more preparation than it would have a year or two ago. Today’s housing market has a different feel. There are more homes for sale than there were at this time last year, but inventory is still historically low. So, if a house has been sitting on the market for a while, that’s a sign it may not be hitting the mark for potential buyers. But here’s the thing. Right now, homes that are updated and priced at market value are still selling fast.

Today, homes with curb appeal that are presented well are still selling quickly, and sometimes over asking price. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com:

“In a market where costs are still high and buyers can be a little choosier, it makes sense they’re going to really zero in on the homes that are the most appealing.”

With the spring buying season just around the corner, now’s the time to start getting your house ready to sell. And the best way to determine where to spend your time and money is to work with a trusted real estate agent who can help you understand which improvements are most valuable in your local market.

Curb Appeal Wins

One way to prioritize updates that could bring a good return on your investment is to find smaller projects you can do yourself. Little updates that boost your curb appeal usually work well. Investopedia puts it this way:

“Curb-appeal projects make the property look good as soon as prospective buyers arrive. While these projects may not add a considerable amount of monetary value, they will help your home sell faster—and you can do a lot of the work yourself to save money and time.”

Small cosmetic updates, like refreshing some paint and power washing the exterior of your home, create a great first impression for buyers and help it stand out. Work with a real estate professional to find the low-cost projects you can tackle around your house that will appeal to buyers in your area.

Not All Updates Are Created Equal

When deciding what you need to do to your house before selling it, remember you’re making these repairs and updates for someone else. Prioritize projects that will help you sell faster or for more money over things that appeal to you as a homeowner.

The 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights popular home improvements and what sort of return they bring for the investment (see graph below):

Remember to lean on your trusted real estate advisor for the best advice on the updates you should invest in. They’ll know what local buyers are looking for and have the latest insights of what your house needs to sell quickly this spring.

As we approach the spring season, now’s the time to get your house ready to sell.

Call, text or message me today so you can find out which updates make the most sense.

Market Reports • October 8, 2022

Median Sales Price – October 2022

by Beatriz Gomez

Prices dropped slightly as higher mortgage rates impact affordability. Prices are not expected to depreciate, but the rapid appreciation of the last 2 years may be slowing. If you are thinking about selling to maximize your net profit, message me for a free local market analysis to see how much your property is worth today!