Beth Dickerson, one of Boston’s preeminent realtors, shares an insider’s look into the fall housing market.
Realtor Beth Dickerson
What type of homes are people generally drawn to now?
Buyers are very discriminating and are willing to wait for the perfect home that checks most, if not all, of the boxes. We’re seeing more and more buyers looking for large spaces—four-bedroom houses with en suite bathrooms plus gyms and offices.
Do you still see a migration of retirees downsizing from their large suburban homes and heading to the Seaport?
The Seaport is still very active and I’m seeing more and more empty nesters coming back to Boston. A buyer just purchased a Penthouse at the St. Regis for $20,000,0000.
Is the market still very competitive?
Yes, mostly due to low inventory in downtown Boston, but I am seeing more and more properties getting prepared to come on the market. If a home has outdoor space and garage parking, which are the top asks, it could sell as fast as one day but usually won’t linger more than a month. Also in demand are doormans and recently renovated homes.
What advice do you have for someone looking to list their home?
Listen to your agent about staging, painting, landscaping and anything else that will give your home curb appeal over others on the market. Don’t take anything personally and remember that they only have your best interest in mind.
What advice would you have for someone looking to buy a home now?
Be patient, choose your must-haves and be more flexible about items that are less important. No home is ever perfect.
When is the best time to list a home?
Fall or early spring.
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