Single Family Home Prices Jumped 18% in Massachusetts This September

Two reports released Wednesday affirmed the autumn housing market is thriving and healthy in Boston. The cost of a single-family home in Massachusetts in September averaged $472,000, which reflects an 18 percent year-over-year increase. Furthermore, sales were up more than 27 percent, according to a report by The Warren Group, a real estate analytics firm.

 

Historically in September the real estate market sees a significant slowdown in single-family home sales, but this proved not to be the case in 2020. As expected, Suffolk and Middlesex counties were the primary drivers behind the significant uptick in condo sales in September. 

 

In Greater Boston, sales of condos and single-family homes rallied, according to a report the Greater Boston Association of Realtors released Wednesday. The condo market experienced a 19.1 percent year-over-year increase in sales and a median price jump of 7.7 percent to $592,500. The median price for a single-family home rose 12.4 percent year over year to $680,000, and sales skyrocketed 32.2 percent.

 

Even throughout the pandemic and impending presidential election, the Boston real estate market still holds a lack of housing inventory, which is driving prices up.

4 Ways to Make Your Home Office Work

Working from home is the new normal for many Americans, which emphasizes major importance upon your home workspace functioning well, and looking great. Here's 4 tips on how to design and revitalize your home office space for maximum capability. 

1. Declutter

Now is the time to be honest for yourself and completely declutter your desk and draws. The importance of having a clean workspace with only the necessary items is astronomical, and will help keep your brain running smoothly and lower stress levels. Toss away any unnecessary items that need to be thrown out, pair similar items, contain stray pens into one decorative cup, and make sure you have all your workday essentials close at hand and non-essential items moved away. 

2.  Commit to Your Space 

Designating an area strictly for work in your home is highly important and will help you enter a driven and focused mental space. Whatever spot you choose, make sure it feels like a designated and functional work area. This means adequate lighting, a comfortable office chair, and a seamless tech set-up with plenty of space. 

3. Create an Inspiration Board

Now that you've set the stage, it's time to look forward. The wall behind your laptop (or desktop) should inspire you. This a great time to curate an inspiration board full of quotes, pictures, and your favorite images to inspire you and motivate you each day. You can also include your to do list and important reminders on the board. 

4.  Set the Mood

This is your time to create an inspiring space. Scented candles usually aren't allowed in your crowded office space, but those rules don't apply at home. Aromatherapy options are also available if you are concerned about kids or pets. Also now, your playlist can softly play out loud rather than through ear buds. Similarly, you can set out healthy snacks and any of your favorite drinks to overall create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.