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Over the past week, a well-known Boston-area property management company entered a liquidation/restructuring process, creating uncertainty for a number of local condominium associations and owners. While the situation is still unfolding, it serves as an important reminder that many condo owners pay close attention to monthly condo fees — but far fewer pay attention to the actual financial structure, controls, and oversight behind the association itself. For many owners, their

Condo financing requirements continue to change, and these updates may affect both current owners and future buyers across Massachusetts. I recently attended a webinar presented by MEEB attorneys Matthew Gaines and Mark Einhorn covering recent changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac condominium lending guidelines. The discussion focused on how lenders are placing greater attention on the financial health of condo associations and long term building maintenance. Topics Covered I

If saving for a down payment feels out of reach, you’re not alone. It is not always about earning more, but about keeping more of what you already make. Small changes can add up quickly and create real progress over time. Here are a few simple places to start. Review Your Subscriptions Go through your credit card statements line by line Cancel anything you have not used in the last 30 days Check app subscriptions that renew automatically Cut Back on Delivery Spending Delivery

If you own a rental in Boston, it may be time to take a closer look at the numbers. Not based on past performance or assumptions, but on what the numbers look like today. Rising costs and shifting market conditions are changing how rental properties perform. Here are a few key trends affecting landlords right now. Rising Ownership Costs Condo fees are increasing as buildings build stronger reserves. Property taxes continue to rise and are unlikely to reverse. Insurance costs

A new law passed in Georgia is starting conversations that could eventually impact condo owners in other markets. Known as the Property Owners’ Bill of Rights Act, this law introduces state oversight for homeowners associations, requiring them to register annually, disclose financials, and meet certain transparency standards. Associations that do not comply may lose key powers, such as issuing fines or placing liens. While this change is not currently affecting Boston, it ref

It’s easy to fall in love with a home. The sunlight, the open kitchen, or that perfect corner for your morning coffee can make a place feel right immediately. But before getting too attached, it helps to pause and look beyond the surface. Here are a few things worth checking before making an offer. The Neighborhood Visit the area at different times of the day. Notice traffic, noise levels, and how the neighborhood feels in the evening. A great home can feel very different dep

There have been several updates from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that affect condo financing. Some of these changes make it easier to finance certain properties, while others may require more documentation and stricter financial reviews from condo associations. Here is a simple breakdown of what is changing. The Good News Smaller Condo Buildings May Be Easier to Finance Project review waivers can now apply to condo buildings with up to 10 units . This helps smaller and boutiq

Let’s be clear: Rent control is back on the ballot in Massachusetts—and if it passes, it will directly impact property values, housing supply, and the long-term financial stability of our cities. I’m not neutral on this. I’m strongly opposed. And if you own property, develop property, or plan to invest here, you should be paying very close attention. What’s Actually Being Proposed The current 2026 ballot initiative would: Cap rent increases at 5% annually or inflation (whiche

My mom used to say something that many people still say today: “If you're going to spend that much in rent… why not just buy?” On the surface, it sounds like common sense. Rent feels like money disappearing. Buying feels like building equity. But once you actually understand how capital works , the question becomes dangerously oversimplified. Because housing isn't just a lifestyle decision. It's a capital allocation decision . And like any allocation decision, the answer depe

Boston’s luxury real estate market offers historic charm, waterfront living, and modern high rise residences. Understanding a few key factors can help buyers navigate the market more confidently. Location Matters Most Popular luxury areas include Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Downtown, Seaport District, and South End. Each offers a different lifestyle, from historic brownstones to full-service amenities to modern waterfront towers. Historic vs New Construction * Many luxury homes in

South Boston has quickly become one of Boston’s most desirable areas for upscale living. From waterfront views to modern developments, several neighborhoods stand out for luxury buyers. Seaport District Best for: Waterfront luxury and modern high rise living Known for new luxury buildings, harbor views, and upscale restaurants. Many homes feature floor to ceiling windows, concierge services, and premium amenities. City Point Best for: Ocean views and a quiet coastal feel Loca

Massachusetts voters may soon decide on a statewide rent control proposal. Supporters recently gathered more than 124,000 signatures, enough to move the measure forward for potential approval on the 2026 ballot. The proposal is supported by housing advocates and local leaders who argue that rising rents are pushing many residents out of the state. If passed, the proposal would introduce new regulations on rental pricing and property management across Massachusetts. What the P

Many investors hold onto a property simply because they have owned it for years. But if a property has not significantly appreciated, it may be worth reviewing whether it still supports your long term financial goals. Breaking even may seem acceptable, but when inflation, maintenance, property taxes, insurance, and time are considered, a stagnant asset can quietly reduce the overall performance of your capital. Here are a few key points investors often review when evaluating

Homes need regular checkups just like people do. Taking time each year to inspect key areas of your home can help prevent bigger issues later. A simple maintenance routine keeps your space safe, efficient, and easier to manage. This annual home safety checklist highlights a few areas homeowners should review to stay ahead of repairs and unexpected costs. Fire and Electrical Safety Start by checking your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each device and replace

Every condo owner pays a monthly condo fee. But what does it actually pay for, and why does it matter? Condo fees cover the shared costs of maintaining and protecting the building. This ensures the property stays functional, safe, and well-maintained over time. What Condo Fees Usually Include Most monthly condo fees help pay for: Building insurance (structure and exterior coverage) Maintenance (cleaning, landscaping, elevators, trash removal) Shared utilities (lighting, heati

Many homeowners do not realize there is an issue until they receive an unexpected bill. If your property taxes are paid through escrow, your lender collects an estimated amount each month as part of your mortgage payment. They then use that money to pay your property taxes on your behalf. This system is convenient, but it is based on estimates. And those estimates are not always exact. Why Escrow Estimates Can Be Wrong Property taxes often increase over time. When they do, yo

It’s a question more buyers are quietly asking as they search for their next home. If you have been browsing listings recently, you may have noticed that many properties are located within HOA, or homeowners association, communities. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, more than 65% of newly built homes in 2024 were part of HOA neighborhoods. That marks a significant increase compared to just 15 years ago. Today, over 21 million homeowners pay HOA

If your tenant might not renew, is it better to re-lease your property or sell while the market is still strong? If you own a rental property and a tenant has recently signaled they may not renew, it is natural to pause and reassess. The market has not shifted dramatically, but it has changed in ways that matter. The difference today is not about panic. It is about understanding where the numbers are pointing and what they mean for your next decision. Recently, at the AcceleR

If you’re renting right now, you’ve probably asked yourself this question: Should I keep waiting, or start preparing for higher rent again? Recent housing data gives us helpful context. Not hype. Not guesswork. Just signals that help explain where rent could be heading next. I recently attended a housing summit where Barry Habib, founder of MBS Highway, shared national trends shaping the market through 2026. These trends do not just affect buyers. They directly affect renters