North Metro Boston | Real Estate Updates and Community News

Just Sold! 50 Amberwood Dr. Winchester MA!

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:17:00 GMT

The Sven Andersen Team has once again successfully marketed and sold another Winchester property!

Just sold! 5 BR, 3.5 BA colonial in Winchester, MA!

Searching for a new place in Winchester to call home? The Sven Andersen Team makes it easy for you to search for your new Winchester home. This FREE, NO-OBLIGATION service can help you find the home of your dreams! Simply visit http://www.northofbostonlistings.com/ and fill out the form to start your auto-email home search today! It's just that easy! The Sven Andersen Team is always willing to help and will always respect your privacy; we leave it up to you to contact US when you're ready to buy or sell in the Winchester area.

If you want to learn more about selling your home visit: www.PriceMyNorthofBostonhome.com
If you want to get our 450 ways to sell your home fast visit: www.450waystosellfast.com
If you would like to take a video tour of Winchester, MA click here

If you, friends, relatives, or colleagues are considering buying or selling a home, condo, or land, please consider contacting Sven for assistance in your search. Sven coverage area includes: Winchester, Belmont, Medford, Woburn, Lexington, Arlington, Melrose, Stoneham, and Reading. We also offer a complimentary referral service, called "Anywhere Agents," to assist folks who are looking to buy or sell outside our coverage area, including international locations. We will interview prospective agents in the area(s) you or a family member are considering to assure you get the most knowledgeable Real Estate Professional to assist in your home buying/selling needs.

Meticulously maintained condo in Woburn, MA! $399,900

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:00:00 GMT

Enjoy luxury one- level living at Salem Place!

From the moment you enter the tiled foyer you will appreciate the attention to detail in this meticulously maintained three bedroom condominium. The granite kitchen boasts beautiful cabinetry with exceptional storage space, stainless steel appliances, tile floor and crown molding and wiring for pendant fixture. You’ll enjoy entertaining family and friends in the adjoining dining room. Relax in the fireplaced living room with its hardwood floor, recessed lighting, large windows and Hunter-Douglas blinds.

The three bedrooms offer hardwood floors and Levolor top down- bottom up blinds, providing both privacy and natural light. Relax at the end of a long day in the large soaking tub in the master suite, which also has a walk in shower and double sinks. Lots of clothes? No problem! A walk –in closet with cantilevered shelves provides exceptional storage space. A second tiled full bath, tiled laundry, and large hall closets complete this lovely unit.

The Clubhouse, conveniently located across from this unit, will be an oasis for you with its fitness room, function room, pool room and movie theater. The adjoining outdoor patio area is available for summer barbecues.

Other features include 2 deeded parking spaces, security system, and additional storage room in the basement.

Easy access to Rtes. 93, 95, and shopping.

How much is your Winchester home worth? Looking to sell your home, or maybe just curious about the value of your home? Visit http://www.pricemynorthofbostonhome.com/ and tell us about your home and its features. Shortly after that you'll receive an automated email with your home's approximate value. It's FREE, simple and DEPENDABLE. The Sven Andersen Team is always willing to help and will always respect your privacy; we leave it up to you to contact US when you're ready to buy or sell in the Winchester area.

Just Sold! 4 Coppersmyth Way Lexington, MA $735,000

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 03:00:00 GMT

The Sven Andersen Team has once again marketed and sold a Lexington, MA property!

Just Sold! Luxury Townhouse at Coppersmyth Way!

Help Sell Your North of Boston Home This Holiday Season!

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:00:00 GMT

You may think that selling your North of Boston home during the holidays is nearly impossible. While, it’s true that many buyers tend to put their home search on hold until after the new year, there are those who are taking advantage of less competition. In fact, selling your home this time of year allows you to highlight the warmth and comfort that your home offers. Buyers can immediately imagine themselves celebrating the holidays in your North of Boston home, which means putting your best foot forward this time of year is important!

If you currently have your home on the North of Boston Real Estate market, or have been considering selling your North of Boston home; you’ll want to know the best way to enhance your home without going overboard. Here are seven tips that can help sell your North of Boston home this holiday season.

1. Add Holiday Adornments- You don’t want to go overboard, but a simple evergreen wreath, a poinsettia center piece or other small decorations can create a very warm and welcoming atmosphere. Of course it’s best to avoid overly religious flourishes as this can be off-putting to some.

2. Complement Your Décor- You’ll want to make sure that your Christmas decoration palette matches or complements your current décor. If the colors clash or seem to be fighting for attention, this can be very distracting to buyers and can take away from the great features of your home you’re trying to highlight.

3. Highlight the Highlights- Draw attention to a beautiful fireplace mantle with a few tasteful ornaments or enhance an arched doorway with hanging mistletoe.

4. Go Light on the Lights- An abundance of outdoor lights can leave North of Boston buyers wondering what the front of your home looks like. And, while you may love your giant inflatable lawn ornaments; it may be best to leave those in storage this year. Everyone has different tastes and you don’t want buyers to be met at your home with a sense of “tacky.”

5. Mind the Tree- While a tall Christmas tree can showcase a two story living room, be sure to be careful of the tree’s width. The last thing you want is to have your North of Boston home appear smaller than it really is. Also, you’ll want to stick with a cohesive theme for your ornaments. The family homemade ornaments can be meaningful to you, but can quickly make your tree look gaudy to outsiders. Keep it simple this year and remember, there’s always next year when you can display those keepsakes in your new home!

6. Give Warmth- Just before a showing, be sure to turn up your thermostat a few degrees to make it extra toasty inside. North of Boston buyers will be thankful for the change from Massachusetts’ cold winters. Put a fire in the fireplace to add an extra sense of warmth and highlight the cozy atmosphere that this feature of your home can bring.

7. Offer Tasty Treats- While you don’t want to come across as trying to bribe buyers, everyone loves holiday treats and having a plate full of cookies and candy can make the home showing a little sweeter. Hot chocolate and apple cider are always welcome and buyers will feel that you have their best interest in mind.

As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I enjoy helping people sell their homes! My experience and savvy marketing tactics have allowed many clients sell their North of Boston homes in a timely and efficient manner.

I hope these tips encourage you that selling your North of Boston home during the holidays is possible and gives you insight into how to make your home stand out on the North of Boston Real Estate market.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you have about selling your North of Boston home, or to get started!

Sven Andersen
North of Boston Real Estate Expert

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Streamline the Winchester Home Buying Process this Holiday Season!

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 03:00:00 GMT

With the holiday season now in full swing, you may be concerned about beginning the home buying process. While many tend to put their Winchester home search on hold during the seasons’ festivities, buying a home now can prove to be a savvy investment.

Oftentimes sellers are more flexible during the holiday season because the amount of buyers actively searching has dwindled, and their home is getting less activity. It also means chances are you’ll have less competition when it comes to making an offer on a Winchester home. As a Winchester Real Estate agent, I’ve seen the market ebb and flow with the changing seasons and I can assure you that beginning your Winchester home search now can give you the advantage over those waiting till after the first of the year to begin.

If you’re wondering how to make your home buying process as efficient and stress free as possible, you’ll want to take note of the following eight tips!

1. Start Your Search Online- Instead of spending your time searching for open houses or for sale signs, get online to streamline your search. There are many great homes in Winchester which you can view online.

2. Get Pre-Approved- Finding the home of your dreams and then shopping for a loan is a risky move, as most home sellers won’t even look at an offer that’s not accompanied by a pre-approval letter. Getting pre-approved ensures you know your exact budget and can save you from a bidding war if many are vying for the same home.

3. Look for Motivated Sellers- Again, this shouldn’t be hard to find motivated sellers during the holiday season. Don’t settle for sellers who aren’t willing to budge on a home at the top of your price range; there are too many other great Winchester homes out there that will have motivated sellers.

4. Prioritize Your Housing Needs- Finding a home fast means being flexible. The longer the list of requirements, the harder it will be to find a home. Keep your list short and to the point. Focus on the key elements you’re looking for and let the extras fall as they may.

5. Find a Great Agent- This may seem easy, but finding an agent that truly knows the Winchester Real Estate market and can show you properties that are right in your price range and meet your style and needs can be challenging. Of course, I’d love to help you in your home search and know that my experience and proven success will make the home buying process an easy one. Bottom line? Do your homework and really research local Winchester Real Estate agents.

6. Negotiate Repairs- If an inspection reveals that the home you want to buy requires repairs, taking the responsibility off the seller can help you close the deal quicker. After obtaining estimates, ask the seller for a credit rather than asking them to complete the repairs themselves.

7. Have Cash Ready for Closing- You don’t want to be scrambling for funds at the last minute, so be prepared for this important date. A day or two before closing on your Winchester home, you’ll get the final settlement statement, detailing the terms of your loan and all the closing costs. Be sure to get a certified or cashier’s check made out for the total amount you owe at closing, including the down payment since you can’t use a personal check.

8. Have a Plan B- Because not every transaction goes smoothly, be sure you have a property or two as a backup; you don’t want to have to start from scratch!

Following these eight tips can help ensure you have a great home buying experience and are in your new Winchester home in no time! If you have questions about the current Winchester Real Estate market or are ready to begin searching for a Winchester home; please feel free to contact me!

I’d enjoy the opportunity to help you find your new Winchester home!

5 Advantages of Owning a North of Boston Home

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I’ve talked with potential buyers that are concerned with jumping into the current real estate market. Whether it’s because they don’t want to think about buying a home during the holiday season, or they’ve heard negative reports from the media; they’re leery of jumping into the home buying process.

However, if you’re currently renting a condo or home in the North of Boston area, now is an ideal time to buy a North of Boston home. Not only will you find there’s less competition during the holiday season, but the low mortgage rates and great home prices can offer you the incentive needed to take the plunge.

Homeownership, while is is a large financial responsibility and needs to be seriously considered; it also comes with a long list of advantages. Here are five that I’ve pulled together and that you’ll want to consider.

1. Ownership- While this may seem obvious, the fact that you own your home comes with a wide variety of perks! You’re free to renovate and update your North of Boston home to match your taste and lifestyle.

2. Equity- While buying a home can come with some initial costs, you will make that money back over time in equity built in the home. Historically, homes appreciate by about 4% to 6% a year, so you’ll be sure to see a return on investment for your North of Boston home.

3. Relationships- Homeowners stay put much longer than renters, so you’ll find you’re able to build relationships with your neighbors much more easily. Getting to know your neighbors can give you that sense of community in your North of Boston neighborhood and bring about a more enjoyable lifestyle.

4. Predictability- Most people buying in today’s North of Boston Real Estate market are choosing a fixed-rate term on their mortgage. Since mortgage rates are currently low, this makes sense and can give great predictability to your monthly payments.

5. Great Deals- It’s a great time to buy a home in the North of Boston Real Estate market. Interest rates are at historic lows such as 4% rather than 6% or higher. Home prices have also softened given the current buyers market, which translates into great deals on homes.

As you think through buying a North of Boston home, I hope these five advantages of homeownership help build your confidence in taking the next step in that decision.

As always, I’m here to help and can answer any questions you have about the North of Boston Real Estate market. My years of experience in helping buyers navigate the home buying process will ensure that you have a smooth and efficient transaction and that you find the North of Boston home that fits your needs and lifestyle.

I look forward to working with you!

Winchester Area State of the Market: November 2011

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:47:00 GMT

Please click the link below to find the Current Month Supply chart of Single Family homes for North of Boston Real Estate. Sven and his team have compiled this data using the local MLS Property Information Network and documented the data in the easy to read chart.

http://www.northofbostonrealestate.com/agent_files/2011_November.pdf

Please Note: The current month supply of homes on the market is defined as the ratio of the current inventory of active listings compared to sales. In other words, given recent sales activity, one can estimate how long it would take for the entire inventory of active listings to sell, assuming no new listings were to appear on the market. For example, if the chart reads that Winchester has a current month supply of 3.0, this tells us that based on the historical data; it will take about 3 months to sell all of the current active listings, without adding any new homes for sale.

If you should have any questions regarding any of the information below call Sven today at 781.625.4249 he will be more than happy to help!

Discover The Prestigious RE/MAX Collection!

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I enjoy the opportunities I have to gather with others in the field to share success stories and tips. It’s a great way to feel rejuvenated and ready to get back to what I love most; helping clients buy and sell homes in the North of Boston area! Gathering with colleagues also allows me to stay on top of what’s going on in real estate trends and how I can better serve my clients.

Being at RE/MAX Leading Edge in Winchester has provided me the opportunity to be involved with an excellent group of real estate agents under the RE/MAX umbrella. This company seeks to keep their agents at the top of their field by providing events throughout the year that sharpen and enhance their skills, and there’s one such event coming up to which I’m really looking forward!

RE/MAX is hosting the next Collection Speaker Series event Thursday, December 1st at the Boston Harbor Hotel on 70 Rowes Wharf. This luncheon will feature the Top Ranking Teams and Producers who will share all of their Top Producer Secrets! Renowned Christopher Invidiata from The Invidiata Team of RE/MAX About Towne Realty in Oakville, Ontario will be speaking about the luxury market and will cover topics of high end marketing, and attracting high-end buyers and sellers.

Along with this special guest speaker, I have the privilege of leading a panel discussion along with Cindy Avis of The Invidaita Team and Marsha Ulbrich of RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest in Lake Zurich, IL. We’ll be sharing our resourceful luxury success stories and our strategies for working in a high end market.

I’m really looking forward to this event, and if you’re a fellow RE/MAX agent, I would encourage you to attend! To RSVP, please email events@remax-newengland.com. Check-in begins promptly at 11:30am. The networking lunch will occur from 12- 2pm, with the panel presentation at 12:45pm. Hope to see you there!

If you’re currently looking to buy or sell a North of Boston home and have been searching for an experienced real estate agent to guide you through the process; please let me know! I would love the opportunity to meet with you and discuss your real estate needs.

I look forward to hearing from you!

10 Reasons You Need a North of Boston Real Estate Agent on Your Side!

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Buying or selling a North of Boston home is a large financial decision, yet there are those who feel they’re able to navigate the North of Boston Real Estate market without the help of an experienced real estate agent. Those who are considering buying a home are especially inclined to feel this way as they’re aware of the current leaning of the market towards buyers, and they assume that finding a great deal on a home without the help of an agent will be easy.

However, there are a lot of behind the scenes details of which buyers and sellers are often unaware. As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I can assure you that in order to find the best deal on a home, or to get the return on investment for your North of Boston home; you’ll want an experienced real estate agent on your side! Take a few minutes to review these top ten reasons it’s imperative to hire a North of Boston Real Estate agent.

1. Education and Experience- Their years of training and experience in the North of Boston Real Estate market will be a great asset to you! You don’t have to put pressure on yourself to learn about the market or how to negotiate a deal since your real estate agent will be fully trained and know the ins and outs of the buying and selling in the North of Boston Real Estate market.

2. Agents are Buffers- You won’t have to deal with multiple phone calls from buyers or other agents. Buying or selling a home can get personal and your North of Boston Real Estate agent can act as your personal shield against pushy buyers or bad deals.

3. Area Knowledge- If you’re buying a North of Boston home and are new to the area, your real estate agent will know the best places to search!

4. Price Guidance- Your North of Boston Real Estate agent can guide you in what you want to offer on a home and help you come up with a price that works within your budget. They can also give you advice on pricing your home correctly from the beginning in order to get your home sold quickly.

5. Market Condition Information- You’ll get an inside look into the North of Boston Real Estate market such as what homes are currently selling for on the market or when a home is a good deal.

6. Professional Networking- Your real estate agent may already have a connection to an interested buyer for your home! They will also have contact with other North of Boston Real Estate agents and brokers and can get the word out quickly about your home being on the market.

7. Negotiation Skills- Negotiating a contract can be tricky and your North of Boston Real Estate agent will be able to navigate through this process to ensure you are happy with the deal.

8. Handling Volumes of Paperwork- There’s a lot of paperwork that goes into buying or selling a home. Your real estate agent will be able to take care of this for you and make sure every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed!

9. Answer Questions after Closing- Sometimes there can be issues that arise during the closing or taxing authorities can get behind in their paperwork and call you months after closing. A good real estate agent will stick by you even after you close a deal to take care of any after effects.

10. Develop Relationships for Future Business- Finding a trusted North of Boston Real Estate agent can be tough, but once you find one; you’ll want to develop a great relationship with them! Whether you are looking to buy or sell again in the future, you know that they’ll be your first choice so building that relationship is key!

As you can see, finding a great real estate agent can ensure the entire home buying or selling process runs smoothly. If you have been considering selling your North of Boston home, I’d encourage you to take a look at my home selling record! I enjoy the challenge of selling a home in a timely and efficient manner. Looking to buy? There are a number of beautiful homes currently on the North of Boston Real Estate market, and I’d love to help you find the home that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

Feel free to contact me today to get started!

Just sold! 23 Harvard St.

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:07:00 GMT

The Sven Andersen Team has once again marketed and sold another Winchester Property!

JUST SOLD! Great condo alternative in the Muraco School District!

How much is your Winchester home worth? Looking to sell your home, or maybe just curious about the value of your home? Visit http://www.pricemynorthofbostonhome.com/ and tell us about your home and its features. Shortly after that you'll receive an automated email with your home's approximate value. It's FREE, simple and DEPENDABLE. The Sven Andersen Team is always willing to help and will always respect your privacy; we leave it up to you to contact US when you're ready to buy or sell in the Winchester area.

Architect updated Colonial in the Fells! $489000

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Love nature, walking, biking, cross country skiing? Want easy access to Boston? Want a top rated school for your children? Nestled next to the Middlesex Fells Conservation area with its 2575 acres of woodlands, close to Rte. 93, Winchester center, and in the Muraco School District, this Architect-updated colonial has it all!

The open floor plan features a fully renovated kitchen with recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, built-ins, fireslate counters, and hardwood floor, brightly lit dining room with French doors opening to a spacious deck, fireplaced living room, and a first floor bedroom/ office.

The second level has two bedrooms, both with hardwood floors and tree house views, a generous fully renovated tiled bath, and access to extra storage in the attic.

Partial basement offers bike and ski storage and space for a workbench.

Enjoy time with family and friends in the privacy of the tiered back yard.

Other features include a brand new furnace and hot water tank.

10 Eco-Friendly Projects to Prepare Your Winchester Home for Winter

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:00:00 GMT

It seems that, whether we like it or not, winter has started its descent into Winchester, which has many of us thinking about how we’re planning on gearing up for the cold. If you’re pulling out your winter coats, hats and gloves, it’s important to remember that your home needs to be prepared for the cold as well!

As a Winchester Real Estate agent, I’ve enjoyed being a part of various community activities that teach and promote an eco-friendly Winchester. I feel that, my job is to not just help Winchester residents buy and sell homes, but to encourage a sustainable lifestyle within their home on a daily basis.

In making the change over to the winter season, I thought that now is a good time to talk about the top eco-friendly projects that will help you prepare your home for the winter months ahead.

1. Replace your shower head- Your shower head is a water-waster if it fills a gallon bucket in 20 seconds or less. Install a new WaterSense-labeled showerhead and you could save more than 2,300 gallons of water annually, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

2. Add aerators to your faucet- You can save an additional 500 gallons of water annually simply by replacing a standard aerator, which delivers more than 2.5 gallons per minute, with a low-flow one, with a flow of 0.5 to 1 gallon per minute. Low-flow aerators will cut water and energy usage while maintaining adequate water pressure.

3. Install a water-efficient toilet- The EPA estimates that a family of four replacing a home's older toilets with WaterSense-labeled models average $90 in annual savings on their water bill and $2,000 in the toilet's lifetime.

4. Switch to florescent light bulbs- As the days get shorter, you'll keep the lights on more. Now is a good time to switch from traditional, incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs. Energy Star-qualified CFLs use 75% less energy and last as much as 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Not ready to change every light bulb in your home? Start with your five most-used light fixtures, and you can save more than $65 annually.

5. Install a programmable thermostat- With a programmable thermostat, you can preset temperatures for your home and automatically reduce heating and cooling when you don't need them as much or when you’re away from your Winchester home. Energy Star says an average household can save about $180 annually on its energy bills by properly setting its programmable thermostat and maintaining those settings.

6. Build or install an insulated attic hatch- If your attic entry is not insulated, your home gains heat in summer and loses it in winter, greatly increasing your energy bills. Taking this on as a DIY project or hiring a contractor to do it will cut down on losing large amounts of heat in the winter and will result in a lower energy bill.

7. Stop chimney drafts- Even with the damper closed, your home's heated air goes up the chimney in winter and hot outdoor air comes down in the summer. When you're not using it your fireplace, plug the flue with a chimney balloon like the Draftstopper from Battic Door Energy Conservation Products.

8. Drain sediment from your water heater- To ensure your water heater's performance and longevity, drain it annually to get rid of accumulated sediment such as sand, minerals and other non-soluble debris that settles at the bottom of the tank. You’ll know to do this if your heater sounds like a coffee pot, making bubbling or burping noises. The basic strategy is to attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run it outdoors or to a utility tub.

9. Replace your washing machine hoses- Washing-machine hoses don't last forever, regardless of the material, whehter reinforced rubber or stainless steel, even those touted as "burst-proof." A broken hose can deluge your Winchester home with hundreds of gallons of water per hour, and your homeowners insurance probably won't cover the flood. Check the hoses frequently for rusting, bulging, cracking, fraying and leaks. All are signs that you should replace the hoses now. While you're at it, check the hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers and refrigerator icemakers.

10. Add insulating window treatments- You can increase your comfort and cut your energy bills this winter with thermal window coverings. There are a wide variety of options out there from foam backed thermal curtains and liners to energy efficient window shades.

I hope that you’re able to tackle a few, or all, of these eco-friendly projects before the busy holiday season begins. Taking the time to do so will not only result in lower energy bills, but a warmer and more energy efficient home.

As always, as a Winchester Real Estate agent, I’m here to answer any questions you may have about the Winchester Real Estate market. Ready to buy or sell a home in Winchester? Contact me today to get started!

Just sold! 3 Emerson Rd.Winchester

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

The Andersen Team has once again successfully marketed and sold another property in Winchester!

JUST SOLD! One level living in Ambrose School District!

Avoid These 8 Mistakes When Buying Your North of Boston Home!

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:11:00 GMT

As we’re all aware, we’re currently dealing with a buyers market, which is great news for those looking to buy a home in the North of Boston area. There are a number of beautiful homes on the North of Boston Real Estate market that are perfectly priced, and with historically low interest rates, it seems that now is an ideal time to buy!

However, as a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I see it all the time where people get so excited about buying, that they don’t take the time to really think through the process. One of my goals is to, not only help clients find a great home that fits their needs and lifestyle, but to ensure they’re fully prepared to move forward with such a large investment. Below are eight home buying mistakes that you’ll want to review so that you can be sure to avoid them in the future.

1. Not getting pre-approved before house hunting- Before you start house hunting, narrow down your price range by getting pre-approved. Shop for a North of Boston home lender or mortgage broker you can trust. The mortgage pro will review your credit, income, assets and debts, and recommend a mortgage with monthly payments that fit your budget. Not only does this let you know how much house you can afford, it also lets sellers know that you’re serious about buying.

2. Buying a house you can’t afford- It seems that our nation is learning its lesson in spending more than you can afford, and it’s no different in your North of Boston home purchase. Just because you get approved for a larger loan than expected; doesn’t mean you should buy a home at that price. Be wise in thinking through what you can actually afford and factor in any repairs or updates you plan on making in the North of Boston home.

3. Not reading the fine print- It’s smart to have your North of Boston Real Estate agent review all your paperwork and discuss it with you so you don’t get caught off guard at closing. There are a few documents and items that are truly critical, and you can request a copy of these in advance. This gives you time to review them and ask questions before closing.

4. Waiting for the market to improve or not buying at all- No one can predict precisely where the market is going, so trying to time your purchase with the bottom of the market is risky. All the time you spend procrastinating on buying a North of Boston home, you could be building equity, getting tax deductions and enjoying the many other benefits of homeownership!

5. Forgoing a home inspection- Even if a home appears to be in perfect condition, it’s a mistake to assume that it’s actually problem-free. Even brand new homes can have defects, so getting a professional inspection before making the commitment to buy is crucial. Be sure to attend the inspection so the inspector can explain any issues.

6. Falling for love at first sight- There are many beautiful homes in the North of Boston area from which to choose. However, if you don’t shop around the North of Boston Real Estate market and see what else is out there, you could miss out on a good deal or potentially regret your purchase. While you don’t need to visit every home on the market, you should compare at least three homes before you make a decision to ensure that you’re getting the right house at the right price.

7. Thinking short-term- The North of Boston home you purchase should be a place that feels like home to you and your family, but it’s important to remember that it’s also a huge investment. When shopping for a home, it pays to think about resale down the road. Search for homes in the area of town that best suits you, and look for features that future buyers will want, such as a great kitchen and lots of storage space.

8. Making an offer without contingencies- Having a back-out plan is a must for smart home buying. If the home has an irresolvable flaw, it doesn’t appraise for the purchase price, or your lender refuses to fund your loan, having contingencies on your contract gives you the right to cancel the transaction.

Buying a home is an exciting time and finding a North of Boston Real Estate agent that can help guide you through each step of the process is vital to a smooth and efficient home buying process. If you are interested in buying a home in the North of Boston area and have questions or are ready to get started, feel free to contact me! I’d enjoy the opportunity to help you find your next home!

45-47 Holland St. Great Investment Opportunity! $489,000

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

Looking for an investment opportunity in Winchester? Come see this two family Winchester home within walking distance of town center, shopping trains, and schools.

One side of this home has a kitchen with gas stove, disposal and dishwasher, living room, two bedrooms, office space, full tiled bath, and lower level storage area and washer/dryer hook-up.

The second side boasts a kitchen with gas stove, dishwasher, disposal, and ceiling fan. A family room with wall to wall carpeting and recessed lighting leads to a deck and fenced yard. A carpeted living room and half bath complete the first level. The second level has two bedrooms, one with a vaulted ceiling, office space, and full tiled bath. Two additional bedrooms are on the third level. The lower level affords extra storage space and washer dryer hookup.

Just Sold! 59 Johnson Rd. Winchester!

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

The Sven Andersen Team has once again successfully marketed and sold another property in Winchester!

Just Sold !! Meticulouly maintained home in Winchester!

7 Tips for a Stress Free North of Boston Home Buying Experience!

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 03:00:00 GMT

If you’re considering buying a North of Boston home this fall, you will find a wide variety of beautiful homes on the North of Boston Real Estate market. While it can be easy to get swept up in the excitement of purchasing a home and hurrying to get settled in your new home before the holiday season, it’s important to take a few minutes to gather your thoughts.

As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I encourage buyers to think through some of those tough questions prior to beginning their home search. Below are seven great tips to ensure a stress free home buying experience when searching for a North of Boston home.

1. Know when it’s the right time in your life to buy- Decide whether to buy based on your life and what makes sense for you, your family, your plans and your finances. Then, use the news about what’s going on in the market to decide how to buy: what kind of house to buy, what sort of loan to use, how much to offer, and other strategies for executing your home buying plans.

2. Get a good grip on what to expect during the homebuying process- Research as much as possible, but be sure to decide on a trusted North of Boston Real Estate agent as soon as possible. They’ll be able to give you a layout of what you can expect from buying a North of Boston home. Ask your North of Boston Real Estate agent when you’re expected to show up so you can take time off work, and when you’re expected to write checks so you can be prepared.

3. Learn how to prevent money surprises during escrow- When you first apply for a loan, you’ll receive a good faith estimate which is a standardized list of costs associated with obtaining the mortgage and a breakdown of the monthly mortgage payment due on the mortgage for which you were approved. Keep in mind this is just an estimate. When you close on escrow, you’ll pay prorated mortgage interest and property taxes from the date of closing till the end of the month. The date of closing can make a difference in thousands of dollars required to close. Ask your North of Boston Real Estate agent to help you set your closing date in accordance with the cash you have at your disposal.

4. Find the right North of Boston Real Estate agent- Finding the right North of Boston Real Estate agent can make all the difference! Be sure to look for the following: real estate associations and certifications, experienced in the transaction you envision, great referrals and testimonials, is a problem solver, and appeals to your personality style (you could potentially be spending a lot of time with your realtor, so you want to make sure it’s a good fit).

5. Solve the problem of how much you want to offer- This can be tricky, but there are some ways to determine the price of your offer. Your North of Boston Real Estate agent can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) which shows what other houses in the area are selling for. You can also determine the price by the sellers’ motivation to sell as well as the current market factors- which happen to be in the buyers’ favor right now!

6. Know the home you’re buying- You may have nightmares of coming home to a recent home purchase only to find it falling apart. Ways to avoid this are to thoroughly go over the disclosures which are required to list out issues or recent repairs within the home, get a home inspection, have contingencies in place when making your offer, maintain a home warranty policy that will cover many major malfunctions for a service call fee.

7. Know when to remove contingencies or waive objections- Removing contingencies or waiving objections usually puts thousands of dollars on the line, so it’s not a step to be taken lightly. Plus, by removing contingencies or waiving your objections, you are essentially telling the seller that you plan to close the deal — something you just shouldn’t do unless and until you are satisfied with the following items: title, disclosures and inspections, condition issues, appraisal and underwriting. Your North of Boston Real Estate agent can help you determine if and when you need to take this step.

Armed with these tips, you’ll feel much more confident in proceeding with the home buying process. As always, I’m here to answer any questions you may have about the North of Boston Real Estate market and would love to talk with you.

Feel free to contact me today. I look forward to helping you find your next home!

Local Winchester Non-Profit Needs Our Help!

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:14:00 GMT

One of the things I enjoy about living and working in Winchester is the commitment to community. As a Winchester Real Estate agent, I get the opportunity to interact with newcomers to the area on a regular basis and I love to talk about this vibrant and supportive town in which we live!

Whether you have lived in Winchester for some time or have recently moved to the area, you may have heard about a fantastic non-profit organization in town called the Mission of Deeds. This volunteer organization is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families at a time when they need it most, which is clearly seen in their mission statement of “Transforming generosity into hope and improving the lives of people in need.” Since it’s opening in 1993, this non profit has helped over 7,000 families in need, and they’re now calling on us to help them in their endeavors.

Recently, the Mission of Deeds lost a few of their key volunteers and their warehouse manager has received doctors orders to slow down his work pace. While the Mission of Deeds would like to keep running at full speed to ensure they’re helping as many families as possible; they can’t expand or reach their goals without the help of volunteers. And this is where we can step in and support our community!

The Mission of Deeds has put out a call for help for warehouse volunteers and as a town; it’d be great to rally around them and provide the help they need! Warehouse volunteers need to be able to lift heavy furniture and help load and unload trucks. Volunteers can give as little or as much time as they are able between the hours of 9am-4pm Monday through Friday. If you are able to help, please contact Bruce at 781-944-8050 or email Paula.Goss@missionofdeeds.org, any help is greatly appreciated!

Let’s help serve the Mission of Deeds to allow them to help continue to serve those in our community in need! If you’d like to learn more about the Mission of Deeds, please visit their website.

I hope we will all take advantage of this service opportunity!

Don't Miss This North of Boston Charitable Event!

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 03:00:00 GMT

As a North of Boston Real Estate agent, I enjoy meeting new people on a daily basis. Whether it’s those interested in buying or selling a North of Boston home, or other local business owners or real estate agents in the North of Boston area; getting out in the community and making connections is one of the aspects of my job I thoroughly enjoy.

If you’re like me and want to take advantage of getting out in the community as well as having the opportunity to support a great cause, you won’t want to miss the upcoming Crush It for a Cure event taking place Friday, October 7.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and RE/MAX Leading Edge has teamed up with other RE/MAX companies throughout the Boston North and Metro West areas to bring awareness and support this worthy cause. Best selling author and social media guru, Gary Vaynerchuk will be presenting his success story of used an online following and took a 4 million dollar company to a 60 million dollar enterprise!

This event will be inspirational for business owners, entrepreneurs, and students alike with a portion of the proceeds going to benefit the Susan G. Komen for a Cure organization. The Back Bay Center will host this great event which will take place from 11am-1pm. For more details and to purchase tickets, please visit the Crush It for a Cure website.

I hope that you take the opportunity to attend this inspiring and charitable event! You’ll not only learn about marketing, cutting edge social media and business, but will give back and get to know your community better. I hope to see you there!

If you aren’t able to take part in Crush It for a Cure, but do have questions about the North of Boston Real Estate market, please let me know! I’d be happy to meet with you and discuss your real estate needs and options.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Just sold! 20 Wildwood St.Winchester

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:07:00 GMT

The Sven Andersen Team has once again successfully marketed and Sold another Winchester Property!

Just sold ! Beautiful updated colonial with European Styling !