Smart Ways To Use AI When You Buy Or Sell A Home

November 7, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

AI is everywhere now. It can save time, sharpen your decisions, and reduce stress during a move. It can also make confident mistakes. Use it like a power tool with a guard on the blade. This guide shows you what AI does well, where it goes off the rails, and how to combine AI with a trusted real estate pro for the best results.

What AI Can Do For You Today?

Scan the market quickly:
Ask an AI to summarize pricing trends, property features, and days on market for a target area. You will get a fast lay of the land. Treat the summary as a first pass, not the final word.

Turn wish lists into search criteria:
Describe your lifestyle and must haves. AI can translate that into search filters that actually work. Example: quiet street near a park and grocery store within ten minutes. Three bedrooms. Space for a home office. Budget under 900 thousand. Target school commute under twenty minutes.

Prep your home like a pro:
Feed AI your listing photos and a few notes on condition. Ask for a room by room prep plan. You will get a punch list with estimated time and cost ranges. Then confirm priorities with your agent who knows your local buyer pool.

Compare financing paths in plain English:
AI can explain rate buydowns, points, and various loan types. It can also draft questions for your lender so you walk in prepared. Then rely on actual quotes and disclosures from licensed professionals.

Practice negotiations:
Role play your offer conversation with AI before the real thing. Test responses to inspection requests and appraisal gaps. You will sound clearer and more confident when it counts.

Plan a move like an operations manager:
AI can build checklists and timelines for utilities, movers, school transfers, and change of address. Ask for a week by week schedule with reminders.

Where AI Gets It Wrong

Local nuance:
AI is great at patterns. It is weak on block by block nuance that moves value. Your agent lives in that nuance.

Outdated or invented facts:
AI can sound certain while being wrong. If a claim would change your money or your legal position, verify with your agent or another licensed pro.

Photos and deepfakes:
Virtual staging and image edits can be helpful when disclosed. They can also mislead when not disclosed. Your agent will spot what is standard and what is suspect.

Regulations and forms:
AI can summarize rules. It is not your lawyer, your inspector, or your agent. Do not rely on AI for legal advice or contract strategy.

A Safe And Effective AI Workflow

1: Start with AI to explore options and draft questions
2: Validate with your agent and your lender
3: Decide with real data and signed documents

If a step touches price, terms, or timelines, pull your agent into the loop. If a step touches legal or tax, talk to a qualified professional.

Prompts You Can Copy And Paste

Use these exactly as written. Replace bracketed parts with your details.

Market scan:
“Give me a plain language summary of the past six months in [town or neighborhood]. Include typical list price, sold price, days on market, and inventory trend. Keep it under 150 words and flag any sharp changes.”

Search setup:
“Turn this lifestyle into search filters. I work from home. I need three bedrooms plus a quiet office. I prefer a small yard. My budget is [amount]. I want a grocery store within ten minutes and a commute under [time]. Suggest three realistic tradeoffs.”

Listing prep:
“I am listing a [bed bath size] home built in [year]. Floors are [type]. Kitchen is [condition]. Bathrooms are [condition]. Create a two week prep plan with tasks, low cost fixes, and high impact wins.”

Offer strategy practice:
“Role play as the seller’s agent. I will make a fair offer with [financing type] and [closing timeline]. Push back on price and inspection. I will practice responses.”

Financing decode:
“Explain the pros and cons of paying one point versus a temporary buydown for a loan of [amount]. Include break even math in simple terms.”

Move plan:
“Create a move checklist for closing on [date]. Week by week tasks for utilities, movers, address changes, school, and pet care. Keep it tight and practical.”

Red Flags To Watch

• Advice that asks for money or personal data before you meet a verified human
• Listings with impossible details such as square footage that does not match public records
• Photos where windows look like light boxes or walls have repeating textures
• Market claims that do not match what you see in active or sold listings

If it smells off, ask your agent to verify.

How Your Agent Uses AI For Your Benefit

Faster insights: pricing ranges, micro trend detection, and contract language reviews that surface issues early
Better marketing: audience targeting, copy drafts, and smart media plans that get your listing seen by the right buyers
Smoother transactions: automated reminders, deadline tracking, and document organization that lower your stress

AI does not replace your agent. It makes your agent more effective and gives you more clarity.

Privacy And Security Checklist

• Never paste full social security numbers or full account numbers into an AI chat
• Strip out exact addresses until you decide to tour or list
• Ask your agent which tools keep your data private and which do not
• Save anything important as a PDF in your own drive and share securely

Buyer Mini Playbook

1: Define budget and must haves with AI
2: Tour with your agent and refine the list based on what you learned in person
3: Use AI to draft questions for the lender and the inspector
4: Decide with real quotes, real comps, and guidance from your agent

Seller Mini Playbook

1: Use AI to create a prep plan and a pricing question set
2: Align on strategy with your agent who knows the local buyers
3: Let AI help with timelines and reminders
4: Review offers with your agent and negotiate from facts, not feelings

FAQ

Will AI help me find off market deals?
Sometimes it will surface hints, but reliable opportunities still come from local networks and agent relationships.

Can AI predict my final sale price?
It can estimate a range. Your actual price depends on timing, competition, and how buyers feel when they walk through the door.

Is it safe to trust AI for legal questions?
No. Use AI for education. Use licensed professionals for decisions.

The Bottom Line

AI is a booster, not a pilot. Use it for research, planning, and practice. Lean on your real estate agent for pricing, strategy, and negotiations. That partnership gives you speed and confidence without gambling on guesses.

Want a human strategy session

Bring your AI notes and your questions. I will bring real data and local insight. Together we will turn speed into certainty and certainty into results.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Why Now Might Be the Best Time to List Your Home Before Winter Rolls In

October 6, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

Let’s face it: New England winters do not exactly whisper “cozy open house.”
They shout “shovel your walkway or else!”

If you have been thinking about selling your home in the Greater Boston area, this fall might be your golden window.

Here is why smart sellers are listing now instead of waiting for spring thaw.

1. Fall Buyers Are Serious

We are no longer in “let’s browse open houses for fun” season.

Fall buyers are focused. Motivated. Ready to move.
Their lease might be ending. Their life change (new job, baby, downsizing) is real. They are not kicking tires. They are writing offers.

Pro tip: Fewer tire kickers means fewer Sunday sweeps and more real chances to close.

2. Curb Appeal Still Has Its Moment

Think pumpkins on the porch, mums in bloom, crisp air and crunchy leaves.

Fall in New England is made for real estate photos.
Before the snow hits and your roof disappears under a blanket of white, give your home one last glow up.

Yes, spring has flowers but fall has atmosphere.

3. Less Competition Means More Visibility

You know what happens in November?

Sellers get cold feet. Literally.

Many homeowners delay until spring thinking that is the “hot” market. Fewer listings now mean your property stands out.

It is the difference between being one of 5 homes a buyer sees or one of 55.

❄️ 4. Winter Brings Weather and Waiting

Once snow falls in Greater Boston a few things happen:

Showings get canceled due to weather
Buyers hibernate
Homes feel colder, darker, and less inviting

Selling in fall means you beat the freeze both literally and figuratively.

5. Interest Rates Are Still a Wildcard

While rates have been doing the cha cha lately many economists expect volatility into early 2026.

Buyers who are rate sensitive want to lock in before January. That urgency can create multiple offer scenarios if you are priced right and staged well.

So Is It Time?

Only you can decide when the timing is right. If selling has been on your mind, this fall might offer the sweet spot of serious buyers, low competition, and classic New England charm.

Want a quick market snapshot or a free home valuation?
Let’s chat. No pressure, just practical guidance (and maybe a pumpkin latte if you are into that).

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Homeownership Strategy ~ Smarter Moves in Today’s Market

September 9, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

Thinking about buying your first home? Upgrading? Downsizing?
Wherever you are in your real estate journey, having a smart homeownership strategy isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s your unfair advantage.

And no, I’m not talking about clipping coupons or timing the stock market. I’m talking real-life, real-estate savvy that makes homeownership work for you.

Step 1: Know Your Why

Before you Zillow yourself into a late-night spiral, pause and ask:
“Why do I want to own a home right now?”

Need more space (hello, home office or baby #2)?
Want to stop paying someone else’s mortgage?
Planning to build long-term wealth?

Whatever your reason, make it clear. Your “why” is the anchor that keeps your plan from drifting into “what was I thinking?” territory.

Step 2: Think Beyond the House

Location still rules, but now it’s got a twist:
“Live where you love, invest where it makes sense.”

This is called “rentvesting.”
Translation: You rent in your dream zip code (Cambridge, Lexington, Concord—looking at you) but buy a property somewhere with high ROI potential (think Worcester County or Southern NH).

You get lifestyle and leverage.

Step 3: Get Financially Fluent (Without Falling Asleep)

Let’s ditch the jargon. Here’s what you actually need to know:

Down Payment Hacks: You don’t always need 20%. Talk to a lender—there are creative options.
House Hacking: Buy a 2‑family or 3‑family property, live in one unit, rent the others. Boom: Mortgage helper.
Equity Strategy: Use your home’s value like a tool, not a trophy. HELOCs, refinance, or reinvest smartly.

Owning a home is a launchpad when you work it right.

Step 4: Don’t Just Buy—Plant Roots

A smart homeownership strategy isn’t only about numbers.
It’s also about community.

Do your research on:

Local schools (even if you don’t have kids yet)
Walkability & transit access
Future development projects (because “that empty field” might not stay empty)

A great neighborhood can lift your home’s value and your quality of life.

Step 5: Revisit the Plan Annually

Your life changes. So should your home strategy.
Once a year, ask:

Should I refinance?
Should I make upgrades?
Is it time to sell, rent, or buy again?

Think of it as a yearly “home checkup”—only less awkward than your annual physical.

Ready to Make Smarter Moves?

Whether you’re looking to own your very first place or level up your real estate game, having a personalized homeownership strategy makes all the difference.

Let’s build your custom plan together—no pressure, no jargon, just straight talk.

Reach out today and let’s map out your next move.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

What’s Your Real Estate Plan for the Rest of 2025?

August 4, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

As summer winds down and the second half of the year kicks into high gear, now is the perfect time to pause and ask yourself:

What are your real estate goals for the rest of 2025?

Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, selling your current one, investing in rental property, or just sitting tight — the choices you make between now and December could have a big impact on your financial future.

Let’s break it down.

Why Now Is the Time to Plan Your Next Move

1. The market is shifting.
Interest rates, inventory, and buyer demand are all moving targets. What made sense six months ago may look very different today. A smart strategy now = better results later.

2. Fall is a sweet spot for buyers and sellers.
Many people assume spring is the only time to make a move. But fall brings serious buyers, less competition, and end-of-year tax advantages for investors.

3. There’s still time to hit your 2025 goals.
Whether your goal is to upsize, downsize, relocate, or build wealth through real estate, a focused plan this August can make it happen before the holidays.

Not Making a Move? You Still Need a Plan.

Even if you’re not planning to buy or sell, having a strategy for your real estate investments is still essential. Consider:

Renovating or refinancing? Timing matters.
Need a property value update? Markets change.
Thinking about renting or investing? Opportunities are out there.

Need a Contractor, Lender, or Designer?

If you’re planning a home project or even just thinking about one, I have a database full of trusted local pros — contractors, painters, stagers, landscapers, designers, and more.
‍♂️ Text or message me what you’re working on, and I’ll connect you for free.

Let’s Create Your Real Estate Roadmap

Don’t wait for the perfect time — create it.

Schedule a 15-minute planning session to map out your goals for the rest of 2025. We’ll look at market trends, financing options, and your timeline to help you make the smartest move — even if that move is staying put for now.

Your real estate journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right plan and a trusted partner, you can finish the year strong.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Summer DIY Projects to Transform Your New England Home

June 10, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

Summer in New England is pure magic. The sun’s shining, the grills are firing up, and that to-do list you’ve been ignoring all winter? Yeah, it’s calling your name. But don’t worry—we’re not talking major renovations. These are simple, satisfying summer DIY projects that will make your home feel fresh, fun, and full of New England charm.

Whether you’re in a Boston brownstone or a Cape Cod cottage, here are some of the top trending summer DIY ideas to tackle this season:

1. Build a Backyard Herb Garden

New Englanders love their fresh ingredients. Whether you’re crafting cocktails or just want to step up your pasta game, an herb garden is a must. You can create a raised bed, repurpose an old pallet, or even use mason jars on your deck rail.

Bonus tip: Add local favorites like basil, thyme, chives, and mint. Your mojitos will thank you.

2. Refresh Your Front Door with a Pop of Color

A bold door is the easiest curb appeal upgrade ever. Think sea glass blue for coastal vibes or a classic Nantucket red to really show off that New England pride.

Pair it with a DIY seasonal wreath using shells, driftwood, or local wildflowers for a Pinterest-worthy entrance.

3. Craft Coastal Planters with a Nautical Twist

Pick up some terracotta pots and wrap them in rope, paint them with beachy colors, or stencil on starfish and anchors. These look great on porches, patios, and even window sills.

4. ✨ Create an Outdoor Movie Space

Use a blank wall or hang a white sheet, grab a projector, and boom—you’ve got the coolest backyard in the neighborhood. Add string lights, comfy pillows, and don’t forget the bug spray (hey, it’s still New England).

This is a favorite for warm summer nights and makes your home the hangout spot all season.

5. Upcycle Old Furniture (Yard Sale Finds Welcome!)

New England towns are full of summer yard sales—aka DIY treasure hunts. Sand down that forgotten chair, paint it with chalk paint, and give it new life. Or turn an old dresser into a cute outdoor bar for summer cocktails.

Upcycling is eco-friendly, wallet-friendly, and totally on trend in 2025.

6. Build a Backyard Fire Pit

Gather some bricks or stones, clear a space, and you’re in business. A fire pit adds warmth, light, and endless marshmallow-toasting potential. Perfect for New England nights that cool down fast—even in July.

Be sure to check your local fire safety codes before you strike that first match!

Why These DIY Projects Matter

These aren’t just weekend time-fillers. Summer DIY projects help you:

Boost curb appeal
Increase your home’s value
Make the most of your outdoor space
Create meaningful memories with your crew

Ready to Roll Up Your Sleeves?

Whether you’re going coastal chic or rustic farmhouse, these projects are perfect for anyone looking to add a little charm (and maybe a little sweat equity) to their New England home.

DIY doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, have fun, and embrace that perfectly imperfect, hand-crafted charm. Summer flies by in New England—make the most of it by creating a space you love coming home to.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Home Improvement & Design Trends Heating Up in New England

May 9, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

Spring has sprung, New England! That means it’s finally time to ditch the snow boots, grab a paintbrush, and give your home the glow-up it deserves. ️ Whether you’re getting ready to sell your home or just want it to feel a little more awesome, there are some hot home improvement and design trends buzzing all over New England this May 2025!

Let’s dive in — because your home deserves a little TLC this season.

Top Home Improvement Trends for May 2025

1. Nature is Calling — And We’re Answering!

Everyone’s bringing the outside in this year. Big, leafy plants, natural wood furniture, and cozy, earthy colors like sage green and soft clay are everywhere. If it feels like a forest, you’re doing it right.

Pro Tip: Snake plants and pothos are easy to keep alive — even if you forget about them for a bit. (We won’t judge.)

2. Kitchens Are Getting Smarter — and Cooler!

Smart appliances are all the rage. Fridges that remind you to buy milk? Ovens you can preheat from your phone? Yes, please! Plus, big kitchen islands and open shelving are sticking around. Kitchens are all about looking stylish and making life easier.

‍ Fun Fact: Open shelves = a great excuse to buy more cute dishes.

3. Multi-Use Spaces are a Must ️

Guess what? The home office isn’t going anywhere. More people are blending their guest rooms, workout areas, and Zoom call spaces into one super-room. Think fold-out desks, Murphy beds, and stylish storage.

️ Easy Win: A colorful room divider can separate spaces and add major style points!

4. Bold Front Doors Are In ✨

New Englanders are giving their curb appeal a serious boost with bright, bold front doors. Think cheerful yellow, deep navy, and even rich teal! It’s a quick upgrade that makes a huge first impression.

DIY Idea: Fresh paint, a new welcome mat, and boom—you’re the coolest house on the block.

5. Sustainable Everything ♻️

From energy-saving windows to recycled materials, green living is bigger than ever. Plus, buyers LOVE seeing eco-friendly updates when they shop for a new home.

Pro Tip: Start small with LED lights or a rain barrel for your garden!

Ready to Start Your Home Refresh?

If you’ve been thinking about sprucing up your space, now’s the perfect time! Whether you’re getting ready to sell, just moved in, or simply want to fall in love with your home all over again, these home improvement trends are easy to try—and super fun!

Need advice on which upgrades will boost your home’s value the most? Let’s chat!
I’m happy to share ideas (and maybe even a few secret tips ).
Contact us today!

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

How Buyers and Sellers Can Thrive in the Spring Boston Real Estate Market

April 7, 2025 by Debbie Spencer

Spring has sprung in the Greater Boston area, and with it comes the traditional surge in real estate activity. For both buyers and sellers, this season presents a unique window of opportunity. However, navigating this bustling market effectively requires a strategic approach. As a local realtor, I’m here to guide you on the best ways to capitalize on the spring real estate bloom.

For Buyers: Planting the Seeds for Success

The spring market often sees an influx of new listings, giving buyers more options. However, increased competition is also a hallmark of this season. To make your homeownership dreams a reality this spring, consider these key strategies:

Get Your Financial House in Order Early: Before you even start browsing listings, take the crucial step of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This demonstrates to sellers that you are a serious and qualified buyer. Knowing your budget will also help you focus your search and act quickly when you find the right property. For example, gather your pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements to streamline the pre-approval process with a local lender.
Define Your Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves: With more inventory comes more choices, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. Clearly define what you absolutely need in a home (location, number of bedrooms, etc.) versus what would be a bonus (updated kitchen, large yard). This will help you prioritize properties and avoid getting sidetracked. Consider making a list and ranking features by importance.
Be Prepared to Act Fast (But Don’t Panic): The spring market can move quickly, especially for desirable properties in popular Boston neighborhoods. Have your agent on speed dial and be ready to schedule showings promptly. However, don’t let the pressure lead you to make impulsive decisions. Stick to your budget and your list of priorities. Discuss with your agent the best way to receive new listing alerts and be prepared for potential multiple-offer situations.
Work with an Experienced Local Realtor: Navigating the competitive Boston market is best done with the guidance of a knowledgeable professional. A local realtor understands the nuances of different neighborhoods, can provide insights into pricing trends, and will expertly guide you through the entire buying process, from finding the right property to negotiating the offer. Look for a realtor with a strong track record in your target areas and positive client testimonials.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Strong Offer: In a competitive market, your offer needs to stand out. Work with your agent to craft a compelling offer that goes beyond just the price. This might include a strong earnest money deposit, a flexible closing date, or even a personal letter to the seller (with your agent’s guidance). Your agent can advise you on common offer strategies and what might be most effective in a particular situation.

For Sellers: Cultivating a Successful Sale

Spring is often considered the prime time to sell a home, as the weather improves and more buyers are actively looking. To maximize your chances of a quick and profitable sale in the Boston spring market, consider these strategies:

Curb Appeal is Key: First impressions matter, especially in the spring when everything is in bloom. Enhance your home’s exterior with fresh landscaping, a newly mowed lawn, and a clean entryway. A welcoming exterior can significantly impact a buyer’s initial perception. Consider planting colorful flowers, power washing your siding, and ensuring your front door is clean and inviting.
Declutter and Depersonalize: Buyers need to be able to envision themselves living in your home. Remove personal items like family photos and declutter every room to create a spacious and neutral environment. Consider a pre-listing clean or even professional staging to showcase your home’s full potential. Pack away items you don’t use daily and consider renting a storage unit if necessary.
Address Necessary Repairs and Updates: Before listing your home, take care of any outstanding repairs, no matter how small. Fresh paint, fixing leaky faucets, and ensuring all systems are in good working order can prevent potential roadblocks during inspections and negotiations. Consider making strategic updates that offer a good return on investment. Focus on areas like kitchens and bathrooms, as these often have the biggest impact on buyers.
Price Your Home Strategically: In a dynamic market, accurate pricing is crucial. Work closely with your realtor to analyze recent comparable sales in your neighborhood and determine the optimal listing price. Overpricing can lead to your home sitting on the market, while underpricing could leave money on the table. Your agent will provide a comprehensive market analysis to help you make an informed decision.
Maximize Your Marketing Efforts: Partner with your realtor to create a comprehensive marketing strategy that showcases your home’s best features. This includes professional photography, virtual tours, compelling property descriptions, and targeted online and offline marketing. Ensure your listing is widely distributed across relevant online platforms and that your agent leverages their network.
Be Prepared for Showings and Open Houses: With increased buyer activity, you can expect more showing requests. Make your home as accessible as possible and ensure it is always clean and presentable for potential buyers. Be prepared for open houses and consider leaving during showings to allow buyers to comfortably explore the property. Have a plan in place for quickly tidying up before showings and consider having some fresh flowers on display.

The spring real estate market in the Greater Boston area offers exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers. By understanding the dynamics of this season and implementing these strategic tips, you can navigate the market with confidence and achieve your real estate goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me, your local real estate expert, for personalized guidance and support.

Happy house hunting (or selling)! Reach out if you’d like to chat!

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Why the Holiday Season Might Be the Best Time to Buy a Home

December 6, 2024 by Debbie Spencer

Ah, the holiday season. A time for twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and the faint sound of Mariah Carey’s voice echoing through every store. But what if, amidst all the eggnog and gift wrapping, you decided to embark on the ultimate holiday adventure—buying a new home? It may sound unconventional, but hear us out. The holiday season just might be the perfect time to find your dream abode. Here’s why:

1. Less Competition Means More Cookies (and Homes) for You

While others are busy decking the halls, you can be busy locking in deals. The holiday season typically sees fewer buyers in the market, which means less competition for you. It’s like showing up to the cookie swap and realizing no one else brought snickerdoodles. More for you!

2. Sellers Are Extra Motivated

Many sellers during the holiday season are in the market for a reason—relocation, end-of-year tax breaks, or simply wanting to start fresh in the New Year. Motivated sellers might be more willing to negotiate, which could mean a lower purchase price or some extra perks thrown in. Free snowblower, anyone?

3. Interest Rates May Be More Cheerful

Mortgage rates can fluctuate throughout the year, but the holiday season often brings a little cheer in the form of competitive interest rates. Lower rates mean you’ll have extra room in your budget for important things, like an inflatable snowman for the front yard.

4. You’ll See the Home at Its Coziest

Shopping for a home in winter means you’ll get to see how the property handles the cold. Is the heating system up to snuff? Do the windows let in drafts? Plus, if it’s decorated for the holidays, you’ll get a sneak peek at just how festive your future looks. (And if the neighbors go too heavy on the inflatable reindeer, you’ll know what you’re in for.)

5. End-of-Year Tax Benefits

Closing on a home before December 31st could qualify you for some sweet tax deductions. Property taxes, mortgage interest, and loan points might all be deductible, which could make your accountant as jolly as Santa himself.

6. Real Estate Agents Have More Time

The holiday season can be quieter for real estate agents, which means they’ll have more time to focus on finding you the perfect home. Think of it as having your own personal elf dedicated to your housing wish list.

7. Holiday Sales Aren’t Just for TVs

Moving into a new home means you’ll likely need furniture, appliances, or maybe even that fancy coffee maker you’ve been eyeing. Holiday sales can help you furnish your new digs without breaking the bank. Black Friday isn’t just for gadgets, folks.

8. It’s a Great Excuse to Avoid Awkward Family Questions

“So, when are you buying a house?” This perennial holiday dinner question can finally be answered with: “Actually, we’re closing next week!” Watch their jaws drop as you casually pass the cranberry sauce.

Wrapping It Up Like a Holiday Gift

Buying a home during the holiday season might seem a little unorthodox, but it’s packed with perks that could make your decision to move merry and bright. So, if you’re ready to trade in your sleigh for a new set of house keys, grab a cup of cocoa, call me, your jolly real estate agent, and start dreaming of a home for the holidays—your very own.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

Upsize or Downsize: What’s Your Best Move?

June 6, 2024 by Debbie Spencer

Deciding if it is time for your family to upsize or downsize is not always a clear choice. There are factors to consider that might push you to take the leap or stay put for a while longer. Whether you are thinking about upsizing so your family can spread out or purging possessions so you can downsize, here are some questions to ponder.

1. How are you using your current space?
Do your family members feel like they don’t have adequate privacy or space to do their own thing? Are you tired of working at the dining table and really need an office or workshop? Is having the kids share bedrooms just not working out? Maybe an upsize is warranted. On the other hand, do you have rooms that aren’t being used, or are you tired of paying property taxes on more house than you need? Check for the downsize column!

2. Have you considered the maintenance costs?
If upsizing is on your mind, consider the added costs for maintaining a larger home and property, whether in money or time. Will you be able to keep up with cleaning, lawn care, and general maintenance issues that come with owning a home? If you are ready to cross maintenance off your to-do list, perhaps you are ready to downsize to a more manageable property or one where the HOA handles part of the job.

3. What are your outdoor space needs?
Are you ready to give up having a yard or garden to downsize to a maintenance-free space? Do you have pets that need outdoor space? Do you need more outdoor space for your children to play or your dog to run around in? The size of the house is one thing, but the property is important also.

4. Have you looked to the future?
What do you expect your needs to be in the next five, ten, or twenty years? Do you want a large home where your children and grandchildren will come for vacations and holidays, or will you be spending those times at their homes? Will you want to entertain groups of friends, or do you foresee going out for your entertainment? What will happen if your spouse passes; will you want to stay in the home on your own?

5. Do the financial implications add up in your favor?
Can you handle the higher costs involved with a larger home, or are you ready to cut costs with a downsize? Consider where you stand on your current mortgage. Are you alright with starting a new mortgage at this point in your life, or are you in a position to purchase in cash? What are the tax implications for your move?

6. Is it the right market to upsize or downsize?
A seller’s market is hot for those looking to sell a larger home and downsize. Upsizing may be riskier in a big seller’s market, but if your family would be happier in a larger home, it might be worth the leap.
Whatever questions you have about purchasing your next home, I’d be honored to assist you. So let’s work together to make sure your next move is the right one.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421

www.thedebbiespencergroup.com

8 Reasons Why Real Estate is the Best Investment

May 6, 2024 by Debbie Spencer

Real estate has long been considered a solid investment for many reasons. It is a relatively safe and easy way for people to build wealth beginning with a small amount of money. If you are interested in investing in real estate, I’d be happy to help you find the right properties.
Here are some of the ways investing in property can help you build an investment portfolio.

1. Real estate investments can provide you with a reliable and steady cash flow. Investing in rental properties is relatively easy as expenses are predictable and if your properties remain occupied you know what to expect in terms of profit margin.
2. Real estate appreciates in value. Real estate consistently appreciates, even during economic downturns, making it one of the more reliable investments. On average, real estate in the US appreciates between 3-5% annually.
3. Real estate investments help you retire. If you have been paying on your mortgage throughout your working years, you will experience greater cash flow as you near the end of your mortgage term and the principal is paid off.
4. Real estate sales are taxed at a lower rate than other income. When you sell your property, you are taxed short- or long-term capital gains which are usually lower than income tax brackets.
5. Real estate equity can be leveraged. One of the most attractive reasons for investing in real estate is the ability to leverage your money. When you take out a mortgage to purchase property you reduce the amount of capital required. As you build up equity in the property, you borrow against the equity or refinance the original loan, freeing up cash to buy another property.
6. You have control to improve upon your asset. Unlike an investment in stock, where you have no control over how it performs, you can improve upon your real estate investment. Updating or upgrading systems, finishes, appliances, and landscaping helps build value in your investment.
7. Real estate gains taxes can be deferred. Under the 1031 exchange tax code, you can invest the gains from the sale in one property to the purchase of another property without paying taxes on the gains.
8. Real estate investments are depreciable. This is confusing, but you can legally claim a depreciation expense on an investment property even though the value of your investment property is actually appreciating. The depreciation deduction allows investors to generate a higher cash flow while reporting a lower income for tax purposes.

DEBBIE SPENCER GROUP

REALTOR®, CRS, SRES

m: 617-285-7300
t: 781-860-7300
e: debbie@thedebbiespencergroup.com

1 Militia Drive, Suite 204, Lexington, MA 02421