Real Estate News from Westfield, MA

Four Family For Sale in Westfield, MA

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 22:41:25 -0500

49 Jefferson Street, Westfield, MA a four family home with lots of potential.

Four Family Home

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description

$214,900

Multi Family
For Sale

Main Features

8 Bedrooms
4 Bathrooms
4 Units
Interior: 2636 sqft
Lot: 0.30 acre(s)

Location

49 Jefferson
Westfield, MA 01085

Lesley Lambert

Park Square Realty
(413) 575-3611
therealestatenatural@yahoo.com
http://www.lesleylambert.com

Listed by: Lesley Lambert/ Park Square Realty

Our recent listings

Victorian Two Family
Gorgeous Victorian
Updated Ranch in Fabulous Area
Low Price, Beautiful Home

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Westfield, MA real estate for sale

Victorian Two Family in Chicopee, MA FOR SALE

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:50:38 -0500

16 Lincoln Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 Visit www.16lincoln.com for more information and video of home. Beautiful Victorian 2 Family Home available for sale:

Victorian Two Family

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description

$179,000

Multi Family
For Sale

Main Features

2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
2 Units
Interior: 1524 sqft
Lot: 0.20 acre(s)

Location

16 Lincoln
Chicopee, MA 01085

Lesley Lambert

Park Square Realty
(413) 575-3611
therealestatenatural@yahoo.com
http://www.lesleylambert.com

Listed by: Lesley Lambert/ Park Square Realty

Our recent listings

Victorian Two Family
Gorgeous Victorian
Updated Ranch in Fabulous Area
Low Price, Beautiful Home

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Chicopee, MA real estate for sale

How is the real estate market in Western Massachusetts?

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:30:39 -0600

"Hey, how's the market lately?"

As a real estate agent in Westfield, Western Massachusetts, I get that question a lot. My answer changes, but lately the answer has been, "it is good!" to which I get a lot of surprised responses.

Well, I wouldn't blow smoke...I have proof that Western Massachusetts real estate is improving!

Let me start with my own office's numbers. Park Square Realty in Westfield and Agawam has the following to report:

Some statistics right from our Show Desk Tracking System-

Park Square Listings: First 2 Months of 2009... 345 Showings... 12 Pendings.

First 2 Months of 2010... 354 Showings... 44 Pendings.

Approximately the same amount of showings as last year at this time, but almost 4 times the amount of pendings.. THAT is a good sign!

Western Massachusetts buyers are serious right now and Park Square Realty's listings are selling.

Not enough proof for you? Here is some good news from the Massachusetts Association of Realtors:

"The Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® (MAR) reported today that the number of single-family homes put under agreement in February was up 16 percent over the same time last year, while condominiums were up 25 percent. February marks the eighth straight month that the number of both single-family homes and condominiums put under agreement had increased over the year before."

Still not enough? How about a word from Warren Buffett?

"Within a year or so, residential housing problems should largely be behind us," Buffett wrote Saturday in his annual letter to the shareholders of his Berkshire Hathaway.

If you are thinking of making a real estate decision, I am here to help and to educate!

Now is The Time to Sell Your Home in Western Massachusetts!

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 16:00:33 -0600

I recently did a video explaining the home buyer tax credits and why they make it such an ideal time to buy a home in Western Massachusetts. Home sellers, you can benefit from this tax credit, too! The buyers are out in record numbers and we are seeing a lot of activity on well priced homes for sale. The buyers who haven't found the right home, yet, will be excited to see fresh inventory hit the market. If you have been considering making a move, now might be the perfect time. In addition to the increased buyer activity, there is a repeat home buyer tax credit available, too! If you qualify (see this post) then you can get a $6,500 tax credit! You have to be under contract by April 30th so don't delay!

Here is a video explaining why I think it is the right time to make a move in Western Massachusetts!

I have been involved in Western Massachusetts real estate for over 20 years and am a Realtor at Park Square Realty in Westfield, MA. Get in touch, I would love to help!

Why NOW is the Time to Buy Your First Home in Western Massachusetts!

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:39:49 -0600

In my video I explain to first time home buyers in Western Massachusetts why now is a great time to buy a home. There is this fantastic tri-fecta in place right now: first time home buyer tax credit + low interest rates + low home prices = great values!

I have been helping buyers and sellers with their real estate decisions in Western Massachusetts for over 20 years! If you are thinking of taking advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit, get in touch...I love to help! Don't forget we have to have a home picked out and under contract by April 30, 2010! Be sure to check out my other posts that help to teach first time buyers about the process of buying their first home.

Beautiful Updated Ranch for sale in Shaker Heights, Westfield, MA

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:58:41 -0600

Updated Ranch in Fabulous Area

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Video
Neighborhood

$269,900

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Lot: 0.69 acre(s)

Location

287 Falley Drive
Westfield, MA 01085

Lesley Lambert

Park Square Realty
(413) 575-3611
therealestatenatural@yahoo.com
http://www.lesleylambert.com

Listed by: Park Square Realty/ Lesley Lambert

Our recent listings

Gorgeous Victorian
Updated Ranch in Fabulous Area
Low Price, Beautiful Home

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Westfield, MA real estate for sale

Gorgeous Victorian Home for Sale in Westfield, MA.

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:53:08 -0600

Gorgeous Victorian

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Video

$191,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Unit
Interior: 2059 sqft
Lot: 0.17 acre(s)

Location

19 State
Westfield, MA 01085

Lesley Lambert

Park Square Realty
(413) 575-3611
therealestatenatural@yahoo.com
http://www.lesleylambert.com

Listed by: Park Square Realty/ Lesley Lambert

Our recent listings

Gorgeous Victorian
Updated Ranch in Fabulous Area
Low Price, Beautiful Home

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Westfield, MA real estate for sale

Get Up To $7,100 in Repeat Home Buyer Credits!

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:27:18 -0600

Western Massachusetts Repeat Home Buyers:

If you are considering making a move to reap the reward of the $6,500 tax credit, working with me can raise your credit up to $7,100! The federal housing tax credit guidelines for existing home owners allows for up to $6,500 for buyers who are under contract to purchase by April 31, 2010 and who close on the property prior to July 1, 2010.

What is the definition of a move-up or repeat home buyer?

The law defines a tax credit qualified move-up home buyer (“long-time resident”) as a person who has owned and resided in the same home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse. That is, both spouses must qualify as long-time residents, with at least five years of principal residency for each. Repeat home buyers do not have to purchase a home that is more expensive than their previous home to qualify for the tax credit.

Make your move with me and I can add $600 to the overall credit!

The Park Square Realty Corporate Advantage Program is a one stop shopping system with the extra advantage of a credit at closing...win-win! You will get: A personal home buying consultant. Realtor/real estate agent Lesley Lambert A personal home mortgage consultant ... our in-house Wells Fargo representative A personal attorney chosen from our list of partners A credit at closing! Whether you are a home buyer who is moving up or moving down, these credits are available to you through April 30, 2010. Don't lose out on this opportunity....the clock is running down! Western Massachusetts home buyers, contact Lesley Lambert at Park Square Realty in Westfield, MA

Ten Winter Maintenance Tips for your Western Massachusetts Home

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 15:16:12 -0600

Whether you are selling your home this winter or not it is important that you take a few minutes to perform some seasonal maintenance. Winters in Western Massachusetts and other cold climates can do damage to property that hasn't been looked after.

These ten tips will ensure that your home stays in tip top shape!

#1- Safety First! Check that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have batteries and are functioning properly.

#2- It's f-f-freezing! Insulate pipes in basements, crawl spaces and attics. These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.

#3- Have you changed your furnace filter? If you have a forced warm air system, you need to either upgrade to a high grade filter that is intended for several months, or change the filter every month or two. A clogged filter will reduce your furnace efficiency and can even prevent it from working at all!

#4- If your heating system has a whole house humidifier, it should be cleaned regularly. Mold and bacteria can build up in there and will be pushed out in the air by the furnace.

#5- Firewood should never be kept against a home. It is a fire hazard and also attracts infesting bugs, which will make for long term problems.

#6- Put stormwindows on to save on heating costs. Keep warm air in and cold out!

#7- The dryer needs some attention, too! Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer

#8- Check that the weather stripping around doors is intact, and not brittle. Replace if necessary.

#9- Check electric outlets for drafts. If you feel cold air purchase foam insulation kits that are installed between the wall and the plate.

#10- Prepare for Blackouts - winter brings heavy snow that can knock out power and telephone lines, so be prepared. Stock up on emergency items such as candles, flashlights, batteries, etc. Have these items where they can easily be accessible.

With a few little tasks you can ensure the value, warmth and safety of your home are kept at a premium!

Tick Tock Tick Tock the Home Buyer Tax Credit is on the Clock!

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:59:11 -0600

APRIL 30, 2010

That is when the home buyer tax credit expires. No kidding. No rumors of extensions.

GONE.

If you are a first time homebuyer, you must close on your new home by April 30, 2010 to collect up to $8,000 in tax benefits.

Other buyers who may qualify for the "Step Up" Home buyer credit must be in contract by April 30, 2010 with a closing no later than July 1, 2010 to collect up to $6,500. My blog post on the tax credit extension has a complete guideline for your review.

Flash-Toys

The clock is running out on your chance to buy a new home while the prices are at historic lows, the rates are still very good

AND you will get a tax credit!

Gorgeous Ranch Home For Sale in Shaker Heights, Westfield, MA

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:23:24 -0600

Don't delay: make an appointment to see this well maintained, updated ranch in desirable Shaker Heights, Westfield, MA! Recently updated kitchen with lovely cabinets and solid countertops, updated bath, refinished wood floors, fireplace, finished basement, inground pool and so much more!

For more information you can: Text 287FALLEY to 368266

Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes for both First Time Homebuyers and Current Home Owners!

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:32:45 -0600

The rush of the holidays is over and the real estate market is heating up. Buyers are contacting me daily and the energy in the Western Massachusetts housing market is GOOD! What a difference a year makes: this time last year was the slowest I have ever been in real estate....I am glad things are moving in a positive direction for all of us!

The revised tax credit is part of what is stimulating buyers to get motivated early on in the year.

I wanted to take a moment to make sure that you have current and accurate information about the new Home Buyer Tax Credit.

First Time Homebuyers in Western Massachusetts

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:03:35 -0600

I always love working with first time home buyers. There is a blush to the whole process, an excitement and energy that you don't get with anyone except people buying their first home.

With the tax credits being offered, many people are taking advantage of the timing and credits to get into a new home and it has been my honor to help many of them purchase homes in Westfield, Holyoke, Springfield and surrounding communities.

Below is a slide show of my most recent buyers who purchased a lovely home in Holyoke. The transaction was very nice and the seller even threw them a party prior to the closing so that they could meet all of the neighbors and see pictures of the home over the years. In all my years selling real estate I have never seen this done: it was simply lovely.

There are many people hoping to take advantage of the first time and step up buyer tax credit extensions, I can help you be in your new home before the credit expires!

I am so appreciative of the people who choose me to help them buy and sell their homes.

My 20 Year REALTOR pin: Thanks Mom!

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 22:33:33 -0600

This blog is an homage to my mom: Sheila Ryan Weber, the best REALTOR ever.

My mom started her real estate career in about 1982 in Western Massachusetts after being an X-ray technician and then wedding consultant for years. The reason for real estate? My sister and I were competitive dancers and she needed to find a way to fund our expensive hobby. A good friend of hers ran a real estate office and convinced my mom that she would be a natural for the business. That is the kind of lady she is: my sister and I had a need and she was going to figure out a solution.

Fast forward a few years and mom is a top selling agent....fast forward a few more and she is managing an office....fast forward a few more years and mom owns her own office...fast forward a few more years and I am managing her office. Thus, my career was born.

Now, to be truthful, because my mom will tell on me if I am not: I never wanted to be a real estate agent. In fact, I think when I was young it was my #1 on the DON'T list. So mom and I busted our bums to put me through college and get an English Degree with a PR/Communications specialty. But life is funny and things really do work out for all the right reasons and now I can't imagine working that corporate desk job I once thought would be better.

Today I recieved my award for 20 years as REALTOR in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. I am very proud of this span and proud of all of my accomplishments in the field.

My mom is retired now (and deservedly so), but a day like today can't help but spark so many memories of our time together in the field. So for my mom, in honor of my two decades as a real estate professional in Western Massachusetts, here is my top ten reasons (in no particular order) why I love real estate:

#1-flexibility

#2- variety...I love helping people and the one thing that is for certain is it is never the same day twice.

#3- ability to help others

#4- multiple opportunities within the field

I have worked in almost every capacity in the field over the last two decades. I have been an agent, publicist, manager, trainer, speaker, TV host, office coordinator, writer, home retention specialist and social media teacher in the real estate industry. This variety sure does make the years fly by and also makes me a very well rounded real estate professional.

#5- control over my career...OK, it has it's days, but this job is never dull.

#6- meeting new people & helping them

#7- perfect job for a mom

#8- utilizes my diverse skill base

#9- family tradition/pride

#10- exciting

Here I am getting my 20 year pin as I am in my 21st year of real estate and I owe it all to my mom.

THANKS MOM!

Short Sales and Foreclosures Aren't Easy, But I Am Here To Help in Western Massachusetts

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:30:56 -0600

Recently a client hired me to help her with selling her home as a short sale and in our discussions she revealed to me that several other agents were unwilling (or unable) to help her. I wrote a blog expressing my dismay that instead of referring her to someone who would help, they simply said "I don't do short sales".

By LesleyLambert | View this Toon at ToonDoo | Create your own Toon

This was frustrating for this client, but it brought to my attention the fact that most real estate agents either do not understand the short sale process or are completely negative about working on them. I was stunned enough to write this short sale help blog.

I won't fluff on this: short sales ARE hard.

That being said, they are also a reality of this real estate market and working with homeowners to successfully close a short sale makes me feel fulfilled in helping the economic recovery, even if it is just one Western Massachusetts house at a time.

If you are in a situation that you think a short sale is the best option to solve there are a few things to keep in mind:

#1- Sadly most lenders will not start a short sale packet until you are behind in at least one payment.

#2- You MUST be open and upfront with your real estate agent about the situation and the status of your mortgage. If you are days away from foreclosure it will be a much different job than when you are behind one or two months mortgage payments.

#3- Communicate with your lender. Answer their calls (I know that is one of hardest things) and keep them up to date with what you are doing.

#4- Hire an agent with the experience, empathy and determination required to work a successful short sale.

#5- Remember that all short sales are different. There is no rule book or standard: each home is handled on a case by case basis.

There are many reasons that people in Western Massachusetts land in a distressed home sale position. Not the least of these are divorce, death or changes in income. There is no reason for home owners to feel that they are alone, there is help out there. For the full story on why I am empathetic with homeowners in a distressed sale position read my blog about my own home selling experience.

If you are a buyer then there is a different set of issues. The appeal of a short sale or foreclosure property is usually price. The buyer needs to remember that there is a different cost involved in buying these types of home: time. It will often take double the time to close a short sale or foreclosure that it does a traditional home sale. There are also many agents out there that don't want the homebuyer to look at short sales or foreclosures because they don't want to take on the extra work and risk involved in these sales. I look at these sales as a perfect facilitation and another way that real estate agents can help the economy.

Sometimes the biggest concern for buyers is the fact that these homes are listed in "as is" condition. For more information on whether "as-is" really means "as-is" in a foreclosure purchase see this blog I wrote for people buying a foreclosure home.

If you are looking at a short sale home as a buyer, things may be getting a bit easier in the future. We real estate professionals are hopeful that the government and lenders are able to come up with a way to make it easier to buy a short sale home.

My point is that there is a place for short sales as both sellers and buyers and that there are realtors out there that are willing and able to help. If you are looking to sell your Western Massachusetts home and need short sales advice please do not hesitate to contact me for a confidential and totally obligation free consultation. I will review your situation and try to help you organize a game plan to solve your situation.

If you are a buyer looking at foreclosures and short sales as a way to get into a home for less money then I would love to do a free home buyer consultation with you to discuss your goals and how we can best approach buying your new home.

I am here for you.