Shrewsbury MA Real Estate Market Update December 2018

Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury Massachusetts | December 2018

Hi again! I’m Maribeth Lynch from Thrive Real Estate Specialists, with your Shrewsbury market report through the end of December 2018.

We are experiencing a market shift that is undeniable. We have moved from a strong sellers market to a more balanced market favoring buyers. The combination of rising interest rates and higher home prices have worked towards a softening in the market. However, Shrewsbury continues to outperform most other comparable towns both in total units sold and pricing.

Shrewsbury’s market volume in 2018 was slightly behind that of 2017, although prices were up by 5% in 2018

Unit sales were up slightly in December but off 30% from last December.

We also saw a sharp fall off in the list price/sale price ratio which dropped to 94%. It was previously holding steady at 98 to 100%.
These two factors confirm the weakening market that we have been feeling.

Despite these downward trends, our days on market are still low, with an average of 50 days on market in December.

Our inventory of homes tells a similar story-with 82 units on market at the end of 2018—this is up 40% more than the previous two years. If you are a Buyer, this data present a clear message that 2019 will be a great year for you to buy.

Looking at the high and low of the Shrewsbury market in December, a condo sold for $133,000, and a beautiful home sold for $2,750,000!

If you are a buyer—NOW is the time to get serious about your search. If you are a seller, the condition, location and price point of your home will be the factors most impacting the bottom line.

We love working with buyers as well as representing sellers in Shrewsbury—if 2019 is YOUR year to buy or sell, give us a call!

That’s your Thrive Real Estate Market Report for Shrewsbury through December, 2018. Here’s to a great 2019 for all!

 

Recent Market Updates

 

November 2018 Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury MA

October 2018 Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury MA

September 2018 Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury MA

August 2018 Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury MA

July 2018 Real Estate Market Update for Shrewsbury MA

Lakeway Commons Shrewsbury MA

photo of the apartments at Lakeway Commons in Shrewsbury Massachusetts

Exciting Developments at Lakeway Commons

Entrance to the Lakeway Commons development in Shrewsbury

If you’re like me, you’ve watched with interest as the former Spag’s site has undergone a transformation into Shrewsbury’s newest shopping plaza. While anchor store Whole Foods is not yet open for business, construction is largely complete, and the plaza hosted its grand opening last month with a kick-off party that included discounts, giveaways, and prizes. The event also featured the unveiling of a memorial plaque commemorating the Spag’s legacy.

The development includes excellent new Shrewsbury dining options such as Burtons Grill and Tavern in the Square, which are both now open and offer excellent, allergy-friendly dining options with large seating in the bar areas and plenty of dining space – although I would recommend making a reservation when dining at either location with a large group, especially on weekend evenings. The new Starbucks location in the plaza includes a drive-through and a roomy seating area inside.

Tavern in the Square

Other new businesses include Especially for Pets, Orangetheory Fitness, the newest location of Jenny Boston Boutique, a UniBank branch, Scottrade, Tile Works, Massage Envy, Visionworks, Lunchbox Wax, and QDOBA. Many are already open for business, while Whole Foods is scheduled to open in January.

Lakeway Commons, the culmination of a revitalization effort by Grossman Development Group, also includes condos and townhomes. Parts of the site were rezoned to accommodate its new mixed-used classification. The apartment complex includes a pool, clubhouse, and rental garages as well as professional landscaping that incorporates trees and green space. One- and two-bedroom and studio apartments are renting now.

While as Lakeway Commons is opening its doors to Shrewsbury residents, nearby Marlborough is home to the new Apex entertainment complex, which features restaurants, shops, offices, and multiple entertainment venues that are sure to appeal to residents from the surrounding towns. These new developments, coupled with existing shopping and dining options and the bountiful opportunities for outdoor activities in the area add further incentive to live in this beautiful part of Central Massachusetts. While we may be saying goodbye to past icons like Spag’s, there are always new opportunities for our town to grow and attract dynamic businesses.

Brighten Your Home with a Little Hygge

example of a Hygge setting in your home

Brighten Your Winter with a Little Hygge


Recently, I was introduced to a “new” concept that you may or may not have experienced: Hygge. Pronounced “hue-ga,” this Danish lifestyle concept is not actually a new concept at all; it simply hasn’t become a trend in the U.S. until rather recently.  When my client Victoria explained Hygge to me, I immediately connected with the idea and began embracing it in my daily life.

Hygge is a lifestyle concept that is practiced in Denmark. It is best described as a mindset that recognizes and appreciates special, cozy moments – whether these moments occur while alone or with family and friends, indoors or outdoors, unusual or ordinary. Hygge is a central part of Danish cultural identity and is rooted in a culture that experiences long, dark Northern winters; hygge evolved as an effort to counteract the cold, darkness, and boredom of those seemingly endless winter months. With winter on the way, I find that the mindfulness of hygge applies particularly well to hearth and home.

Here are a few suggestions to make your home reflect hygge in the coming months:

    • Coziness. Hygge is sometimes described as “the art of creating intimacy.” At home, consider the places you most enjoy spending your time. A window seat, hearthside armchair, or other cozy reading nook serves as a refuge from everyday problems. Curl up with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of wine and immerse yourself in a book.
    • Community. Involve family and friends in Hygge by creating welcoming spaces where you can spend time with the people you care about. This might be your kitchen (often the hub of the household) or a dining or family room. Use low lighting, candles, and appealing scents to set the stage for special times with your loved ones.
    • Simplicity. Find your joy in baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, playing board games, or working on a puzzle. Simple indulgences can bring us great satisfaction. A simple Sunday dinner of roast chicken or a hearty stew can give your mind and body a boost.
    • Peacefulness. In order to truly appreciate hygge, it’s important to make an effort to unwind. Take time to unplug this winter. Read, knit, paint, cook, or keep a journal of the things in life for which you are thankful. Take a walk in the quiet moonlight. Slow down and take the time to indulge in the activities that warm your heart and free your mind from the near-constant onslaught of electronic data that we are faced with daily.
    • Nature. Danes are famous for incorporating outdoor elements inside. Materials like natural stone and wood are key features in their living spaces that reflect a connection to nature. Something as simple as a rustic log pile next to the fireplace can evoke a feeling of natural beauty in your home.
    • Ritual. Stop and buy yourself flowers every week. Or make a habit of brewing your favorite tea each morning and drinking it from your best china cup. Cultivate a windowsill herb garden. Wear fluffy socks every day. Bake your own bread each week. Use your best linens every evening at dinner. Creating new rituals that release us from a feeling of drudgery when we’re at home can bring a sense of comfort to each day.

The ideas I’ve outlined really speak to me as we approach the time of year when home becomes a sanctuary from the elements. Coziness and contentment at home ultimately make us happier in every aspect of our lives. This winter, I encourage everyone to embrace hygge. Enjoy the now, feed your soul, and find an inner freedom that will sustain you!

Improving Home Energy Efficiency

photo of a home vector saving money on energy bills

How to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency


 
These days, there’s a lot of talk about “living green.” As a matter of course, we recycle everything from cardboard to plastic to metal and glass. Our communities regularly hold recycling events for items such as electronics. And more towns are adopting the same type of plastic bag ban that Shrewsbury has recently enacted to encourage reusable bags and less waste.
 
Green living also addresses the size of the carbon footprint we each create. One way to reduce our environmental impact is to adopt energy-efficient practices in our homes. Many of us already drive energy-efficient cars. Why not implement some energy-saving conventions at home as well? It isn’t as difficult as you might think and it can save you a lot of money in the long term.
 
I’m not suggesting that you rush out and replace dated appliances that are perfectly functional. If you’re not sure where to start your energy savings, begin by thinking small. Start by swapping burned-out incandescent light bulbs with LEDs and compact fluorescent options. Take some time to evaluate your home heating systems. How out-of-date is your thermostat? Smart thermostats are not terribly difficult to install and their programmable features allow you to control your furnace even when you are asleep or away from home. Some heating and lighting systems can even be controlled remotely by a smartphone or a tablet.
 
When one of your appliances does give out, shop for an ENERGY STAR certified replacement. ENERGY STAR certifies everything from furnaces to kitchen appliances to washers and dryers to television sets. Visit www.energystar.gov/ for more information. In addition to energy-efficient product listings, the website also provides useful energy-saving tips for homeowners that are easy to incorporate into daily routines.
 
If you’re willing to tackle a slightly more involved project in pursuit of energy savings, have a contractor or energy auditor conduct a review of the insulation in your attic and basement and the sealants around your windows and doors. Windows that are original to older houses are particularly prone to energy loss. Replacing weather stripping, adding sealants, and installing additional insulation can cut down on drafts and energy leaks. As a rule of thumb, if your home was built before 1980 and hasn’t been updated, it’s likely that your insulation is inadequate.
 
Massachusetts has many incentives in place to promote the use of renewable energy. Residential use of solar panels is increasing in popularity and their installation can dramatically reduce a household’s energy costs. For more information on available programs, visit www.mass.gov/solar-information-programs.
 

Energy efficiency isn’t the only way to make your home more environmentally friendly. You can also save money and diminish waste by reducing your water usage. If your water heater needs to be replaced, you should consider a tankless water heater, which eliminates the cost associated with keeping large amounts of hot water in a storage tank. Low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads can also cut down on the amount of water you use each day.
 
I am always looking for ways to streamline my life and eliminate waste at home. With renewable energy programs becoming increasingly affordable and advanced technologies growing ever more pervasive in our daily lives, reducing our environmental impact at home is easier than you might think. A little research can set you on a path toward shrinking that carbon footprint and leaving behind a cleaner, greener planet for future generations.
 
For a complete listing of available financing programs and tax credits available to Massachusetts homeowners, check out www.mass.gov/solar-information-programs.

Downsizing Homes

photo of downsizing from a larger home to a smaller one

How Can You “Rightsize” Your Next Home?

Earlier this year, I shared exciting information about several new mid-century homes on the market in Shrewsbury, many of them within walking distance of the center of town. As you might imagine, those properties drew a lot of interest based on their location – but they also appealed to some prospective homebuyers because of their size and amount of yard space.

There has been a recent trend among certain homeowners toward downsizing to a more manageable lifestyle. While there are plenty of buyers out there who are still looking for large homes for their families, there are many families that are finding they require less space than before. The reasons vary – children growing and moving out into the world, a desire to abandon large-scale material possessions and concentrate on a more experiential lifestyle focusing on hobbies or travel, or a heightened interest in lower home maintenance and increased energy efficiency. But whatever the reason, there has been a demonstrable surge in interest in curating a smaller living space rather than sustaining a sprawling property.

Fortunately, a town like Shrewsbury has many smaller homes, and a lot of them are in excellent condition, having been lovingly maintained and updated throughout the years by diligent homeowners. There are also condominium units on the market for those who desire a simpler lifestyle. If you’re in the market for a new home, there are a few considerations to address when determining how to best “rightsize” your next home purchase.

1)Savings. What are the financial benefits of moving to a smaller home? What will you save on your monthly mortgage payments? How much will you net on the sale of your current home? If more money in your pocket is appealing to you, are you willing to give up some of the space you have now?

2) Needs. What are your “must-haves?” Maybe you don’t need as many bedrooms as you currently have, but an updated kitchen or bathroom is important to you. What about a garage? Storage space? What kind of yard do you wish to maintain? What about location?

3) Effort. Are you willing to put in the work necessary to pare down the number of belongings in your everyday space? Swapping a large home for a smaller one involves hard choices about what to keep, sell, recycle, and donate. One solution for items that you don’t currently use but may wish to access in the future is to rent a storage unit. There are several options nearby. This be an involved project, so you should think about whether you have the resources and energy to systematically sift through all of your possessions and make some hard choices. However, that effort can also be a big payoff in the long run when you enjoy the simplicity of less cleaning, yard work, and general maintenance.

4) Ambiance versus Maintenance. Many homeowners appreciate the “charm factor” that accompanies older, smaller homes. Nuances like built-in cabinetry and pocket doors outweigh the potential pitfalls of maintaining an aging house. But for those who value ease of life over architectural aesthetics, a gleaming new condo might be a better choice than a freestanding home that was built 100 years ago.

5) Self-Perception. I know that it can be hard to admit, but our homes are extensions of ourselves. We maintain them, decorate them, spend long hours in them, and ultimately, they become reflections of who we are. If your current home serves at least in part as a status symbol, you may want to rethink moving into a humbler dwelling. While a lot of people are bucking the convention that money can buy happiness, it’s fair to say that our egos can be intertwined with our living space.

6) Routines. This is an important question to ask when assessing any potential move. What impact will your new home have on your lifestyle? Whether it is a question of your children changing schools, having to shop regularly at a new supermarket, or a change in space for entertaining, a move affects many of our established routines.

If you have thought through the benefits and drawbacks of moving to a smaller home and it is something that you would be interested to explore, please contact my team and me. We will be happy to talk you through the process of finding the home that is the right size for you.

19-21 Sias Avenue Shrewsbury MA 01545

photo of 19-21 Sias Avenue in Shrewsbury MA 01545

Homes For Sale in Shrewsbury MA- 19-21 Sias Avenue

Just Listed by Thrive Realtors!

$305,000

Open House Sunday 9/10/17 11:00-1:00pm


 
Calling all fans of the classic American bungalow: we may have found your match. This home simply commands a presence on its incredible corner lot, with a porch and huge deck overlooking the big, flat yard. The new Lakeway Commons is just a short walk away from this tight-knit neighborhood. You’ll be able to roll out of bed and stroll over to Starbucks for your morning Joe. A Whole Foods and Burtons Grill will be pretty much in your backyard. But back to the house, which has been in the same family for the past 55+ years. Step inside to find beautiful hardwood floors, high ceilings, original moldings with some great wood grain, unusual grillwork set into the brick fireplace, a handsome staircase, and a flexible floor plan that allows you to maximize the interior space. Upstairs are three good-size bedrooms with ample closets for the era. Screened-in patio and detached two-car garage. Come usher this quintessential American home into its next chapter, which is sure to be a love story.  Showings start at Open House.

See the Full Listing

Call/Text Maribeth 508-641-9323 for more information

11 Heatherwood Drive Shrewsbury MA 01545

photo of 11 Heatherwood Drive in Shrewsbury MA 01545

Homes For Sale in Shrewsbury MA- 11 Heatherwood Drive

Just Listed by Thrive Realtors!

$509,900

Open House Sunday 9/10/17 12:30-2:30pm


 
Exceptionally well cared for Cape in coveted Saxon Woods! Freshly painted in soothing yet crisp colors inside AND out, this gem also has new Harvey 8-over-8 windows and new water heater. The foyer offers a teasing glimpse of the living room, flooded with natural light and graced with a granite fireplace. The heart of the floorpan is the dining room, with a lovely, lighted built-in cabinet and views of the great yard. Those gorgeous hardwood floors can be found in every room, including the kitchen, where you’ll find granite counters and cherry cabinets. There’s a first floor bedroom, plus a great full bath: glass shower, pedestal sink, timeless floor tile and beadboard. Three bedrooms and the second full bath are upstairs. Got stuff? No problem. This house has plenty of places to put it. Deck or patio? No need to choose: this home has both. The spacious breezeway can easily accommodate a drop zone as well as a pleasant sitting area. Partially finished LL w/ fireplace, two-car garage  Showings start at Open House.

See the Full Listing

Call/Text Maribeth 508-641-9323 for more information

19 Floral Street Shrewsbury MA 01545

photo of 19 Floral Street Shrewsbury MA. 01545

 

Homes For Sale in Shrewsbury MA- 19 Floral Street

Just Listed by Thrive Realtors!

$539,900

Open House Sunday 7/23/17 12-2pm

Love the idea of living in a neighborhood, but still want some privacy? This is the place for you. Tucked away from the road, this classic & pretty American Four Square is perched on a knoll overlooking the neighborhood that grew up around it. Once an active farm with a history dating to the turn of the century, the home retains much original charm, but has the updates you’re looking for. The white kitchen has granite & SS appliances, while the bathroom has an on–trend square sink and tiled floor & walls. On the old house side of things, you’ll find an oh-so-pretty stained glass window, five-panel doors w/ lovely doorknobs, amazing hardwoods, a window seat, and an unusual (and useful!) built-in linen closet upstairs. A recent addition offers a great place for the family to hang out, overlooking the lovely, serene deck/pool area. The guinite pool is ready for you to make a splash! Floral St elementary school is just around the corner. Easy access to Rte. 9 & great shopping. Really nice!  Showings start at Open House.

View the Full Listing

Call/Text Maribeth 508-641-9323 for more information

Landscaping Tips and Tricks

Northborough Ma homes for sale

Landscaping Tips and Tricks from the Experts

Maribeth Lynch, Thrive Real Estate Specialists

It’s a very exciting time for THRIVE! With the advent of springtime here in Central Massachusetts – finally! – I am also pleased to introduce two new agents who will be joining us at THRIVE, Michael Aurelio and Tyler Lajoie. In addition to the real estate expertise Michael and Tyler are bringing to our team, both come from a background in landscaping. So I thought that in this blog, I would share some of their insights on landscaping, which is something that most homeowners tend to be thinking about as we cast off winter and head into another beautiful spring.

For many of us who enjoy doing our own gardening, heading out on weekends or after work to the local nursery is an exciting proposition. Michael and Tyler tend to deal with commercial nurseries, but recommend Bigelow Nursery and Garden Center in Northborough as an excellent supplier for residential landscaping materials and plantings. If you’re planning on embarking on any landscaping projects, you should be aware of the pitfalls that can thwart an amateur gardener. Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you’re planning to work on your lawn this spring and summer:

  1. Mowing. Lawns should be cut relatively tall – taller than many homeowners realize. Especially in the shade, a healthy height is about four inches. For proper mowing timing and technique, it’s a good idea to consult a professional for advice.
  2. Watering. The best time to water your lawn and plants is in the early hours of the morning. Watering later in the day can result in evaporation and watering at night can invite fungal diseases. Remember to water in accordance with your local water restrictions.
  3. Pruning. Proper pruning of trees and shrubbery will result in healthier plants. Advice for pruning specific types of trees and plants can be found online or by consulting an arborist or landscaper.
  4. Mulching. Many homeowners use bagged, untreated wood chips for mulch, and many of us tend to overmulch. A qualified landscape expert can help determine the quantity and type of mulch you will need in the different parts of your lawn.
  5. Lawn Treatment and Fertilizers. Fertilizers and chemicals require care! In addition to learning proper fertilizer spreading techniques, it’s crucial to the health and safety of people, pets, and wildlife that homeowners understand the chemicals they are using. Make sure to wear proper protection to reduce risk of dermal exposure and inhalation, and educate yourself about the specific hazards of the chemicals you are using.
  6. Driveways. Keep your driveway sealed. This should be done every few years for optimal results.
  7. Protecting Your Home. Anything organic that touches the outside of your home can be a pathway for pests to enter your house. Make sure that trees and shrubs are trimmed back from your siding and use treated products if you are placing anything directly against your foundation.
  8. Location. Buying a plant to put on your property without an idea of where you are going to put it is like buying a gallon of paint before you decide which room you are planning to paint. Pay attention to whether plants are annuals or perennials, how much sun or shade they need, and other important care instructions that will have an impact on their health.
  9. Maintenance. Your home is likely your greatest asset, and it’s important to remember that your lawn requires just as much maintenance and upkeep as your house to retain its value and aesthetics.

    10. If you aren’t the type of homeowner who likes hands-on lawn and garden care, our experts suggest you hire a professional to do the heavy lifting. Professional landscapers like Michael and Tyler use techniques that are safe, true, and based on experience. And they cannot stress enough how important it is to validate your landscaper just as you would any contractor who is working on your property! Landscaping companies should be fully licensed and insured.

    Homeowners who are thinking about selling a house in the future should realize that there are no “quick fixes” in landscaping. Planning is essential. And as Tyler points out, “Why would you set up your house beautifully for the next homeowner and not enjoy it yourself?” The same goes for your entire property. When it comes to landscaping, just as with home design and decorating, don’t wait until it’s time to sell to create comfort and aesthetic appeal.
    I look forward to working with Michael and Tyler and they will continue to share their insights and experience with all of us at THRIVE so that we can provide you with the best home buying experience possible.

Preparing your Home for a Spring Listing

 

Think Spring! What Should You Be Doing to Prepare?

 
Think Spring Quote RS

As I write these words, a light snow is falling outside the window and it doesn’t seem like spring is just around the corner … but time has a habit of flying by and I know spring will be here before we know it. In the world of real estate, spring is typically a busy time of year characterized by people emerging from their winter “hibernation” to put their homes on the market and peruse the real estate listings.

While we’re waiting for spring’s welcome arrival, homeowners and prospective home sellers can do a few things to prepare for a new season. Winter is a great time to hunker down inside and get the house in order, whether that means general cleaning, organizational projects, repainting, or a little light remodeling. A change of colors can breathe life into a room, but paint isn’t the only way to accomplish a new look. Sometimes a fresh look is as simple as some new throw pillows or an area rug.

January and February are a good time of year to do some shopping. White sales are prevalent in the first two months of the year. It’s a great time to stock up on new linens like bedding and towels. Some stores even extend these sales to kitchen items. Furniture sales are also common in the early days of the year since many manufacturers introduce new styles in February and older pieces need to be moved to create space in showrooms and warehouses. I’ve also heard that large-screen TVs are often discounted by retailers hoping to get a bounce in sales prior to the Super Bowl; New England certainly would be a prime area for such discounts with another Super Bowl in the cards for the Patriots.

If you’re in search of other items, post-Christmas sales feature seasonal décor for next year as well as winter apparel that cost a small fortune before the holidays arrived. Sports and fitness equipment see some price reductions during the early months of the year as well, so if you’re looking to work off some of the overindulgence of the holiday season, now is the time to see if you can get a discount on home fitness equipment or even a gym membership.

Small electronics often see an uptick in price reductions in February. And don’t forget that President’s Day is coming up, and long weekends often provide retailers an opportunity to run a short sale – just remember to plan accordingly, as these sales can be brief.

Redecorating and shopping can be enjoyable ways to spend long, cold winter days, but there are a few practical tasks you can do around your house, too. Adding insulation and sealing doors, windows, and walls may not be a glamorous activity, but it can save you money in both the winter and the summer by keeping the elements out of your home. And tuning up your heating system or installing a smart thermostat will keep you cozy until spring arrives.

It’s a little too early to start talking about landscaping and planting flowers and gardens, so in the meantime, plant a small herb garden to put on a sunny window ledge and spruce up your house with a few fresh flowers – Trader Joe’s has an ever-evolving selection at reasonable prices and you can bring the cheer of springtime into your home before the season even arrives!

For more information on getting your home ready to sell this spring, contact Thrive Real Estate Specialists.

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    Thrive Real Estate Specialists
    Maribeth Lynch
    26 Maple Ave.
    Shrewsbury, MA 01545
    Direct: (508) 641-9323
    Maribeth@ThriveRealtors.com

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