Property Details

Property Photos

Property Map

View Larger Map

Schedule a Showing

NEW LOCATION: at Parking Lot on Field Street at Fern Street by Danehy Park.

Accepted Items

•     Batteries: Vehicle & Non-Alkaline*
•     Car Fluids: Antifreeze, Brake, Engine Degreaser, & Transmission
•     Car Tires (max four per household)
•     Chemicals: Cleaners, Glues, Removers, Photography & Swimming Pool
•     Fluorescent Light Bulbs*
•     Mercury Items: Thermometers & Thermostats*
•     Paints: Oil-Based & Latex**
•     Poisons: Insecticides, Pesticides & Weed Killers  Poisons: Insecticides, Pesticides & Weed Killers
•     Prescription Medicines (also accepted year-round at Police Dpt, 125 Sixth St)
•     Propane Cylinders (20 lbs or less only)
•     Waste Fuels: Antifreeze, Gasoline, Kerosene & Motor Oil (motor oil also accepted year-round at DPW)

* Remember that the Recycling Center accepts non-alkaline batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mercury items and motor oil.
** Cans of latex paint may be dried out and set out for curbside trash collection, with the lids off. Let evaporate outside or add kitty litter to speed drying.

Property Details

Property Photos

Property Map

View Larger Map

Schedule a Showing

Cambridge’s first Winter Farmers Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables and other local goodies all winter long. The market also features art, music, and cooking demos.

Tamar Adler “bites” from CJ Richter on Vimeo.

The market is held at the Cambridge Community Center at 5 Callender Street every Saturday from 10am-2pm until April 28th.

View Larger Map

March 1st, 2012 – The Cambridge Real Estate Market has always benefited from demand fueled by first time buyers, relocating buyers and sellers moving up in the price scale. In most segments we experienced a strong Q4 2011. Interestingly, between 2005 and 2011 Cambridge had a 10.2% increase in median home price – the largest for any Massachusetts city or town. At this point we are experiencing a 37% decrease in inventory, creating a great deal of competition amongst buyers. This combined with attractive mortgage rates offers an excellent opportunity for Sellers who have been considering putting their property on the market.

Property Details

Property Photos

Property Map

View Larger Map

Schedule a Showing

Cambridge Condominiums – September 2011

• Properties listed for sale: 99
• Properties sold: 53
• Average sales price: $511,825
• Average original list price: $533,872
• Sales price to original list price ratio: 95.87%

Cambridge Single Family Homes – September 2011

• Properties listed for sale: 21
• Properties sold: 3
• Average sales price: $473,333
• Average original list price: $514,333
• Sales price to original list price ratio: 92.03%

Year to date, 85 single family homes have sold in Cambridge at an average price of $1,091,466. While the number of units sold has remained stable over the same time last year, the average sale price has declined by 8.4%. However, a closer look shows a shift in the price range of properties sold. As of early September 2010, 20 properties had sold in the $1M-1.5M range with the balance scattered among all other price ranges. To date in 2011, 15 single family properties sold in that range with roughly an equal number (14) selling in the $500K to $600K range – this shift in mix is significant in terms of the average sale price calculation. We are also seeing a 21% drop in Single Family inventory over this time last year.

Condominium Sales in Cambridge have remained stable both in terms of price and unit sales. By this time last year 509 properties had closed with 506 to date in 2011, the 22011 average sale price of $497,980 changed only $806 year over year which is statistically insignificant. However, we do have an inventory shortage with available units down 30%.

Are you interested in becoming a homeowner and want to know how? Here are a few suggestions to simplify the process from start to finish:

STEP #1: Ask about financing. There are state and government programs designed specifically for first-time homebuyers. Consult with a mortgage lender to determine which financial option is right for your specific needs. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is affiliated with NE Moves Mortgage, LLC.  Through this relationship, I have access to knowledgeable mortgage loan officers who can help you determine which program is right for you.

STEP #2: Take the mystery out of mortgages. It’s important to be aware of what mortgage lenders look for. Know your financial status as it affects the terms of a mortgage and the interest rates or types of mortgages you qualify for.

STEP #3: Get pre-approved for a loan. It’s critical to be pre-approved for a loan because it serves as a commitment to lend a specific amount based on the information you provide. A pre-approved loan gives you the confidence and buying power you need.

STEP #4: Do your homework.  Get to know the market you are interested in. Spend time researching different neighborhoods, school districts, transportation, etc.  Go online to sites such as NewEnglandMoves.com to obtain information on buyers’ resources. Doing this type of homework gives you a better understanding of what is available and at what price.

STEP #5: Simplify your search. Create a checklist of the important features you want in a home, such as location, or the number of bedrooms or bathrooms. Other questions to answer: What will the commute to work be like? Are there shopping centers, parks, and schools located near the home?

STEP #6: Find an agent. A sales agent will help you identify homes for sale and in the right price range. The agent also can help with tasks such as writing contracts, negotiating the asking price, and closing the purchase.

STEP #7: Make an offer. Once you find the right house, make an offer. Make sure it is contingent on two items: 1) You’re able to obtain adequate financing (if you haven’t already done so), and 2) you can pull out if the property doesn’t pass the home inspection and the owner can’t come to terms about how to fix the problem. Be prepared for counter-offers from other buyers and some negotiation with the seller. Make an earnest money deposit, which is a check you’ll give your agent to indicate you are serious about buying the house. The check will apply toward the sales price if the deal goes through; if not, you get it back. You should also set a time limit with your agent that the offer you’ve made is good for three days. If an offer is accepted, it goes to the contract phase.

STEP #8: Be safe, not sorry. You’ve found your dream home! Now you need to ensure it’s worth every penny.  Making an offer contingent on an inspection by a registered home inspector can save thousands of dollars by avoiding unseen problems. Inspectors check the house for any structural damage. In the contract with the seller, it should state any necessary repairs to be made before the closing. Prior to closing, walk through the house to see if the repairs have been made.

STEP #9: Protect your investment with homeowners’ insurance. Lenders require homeowners’ insurance to protect the new homebuyer’s interests as well as their own. There are many providers so shop around for the best rates.

STEP #10: Before, during and after the closing. This is where the seller and buyer sign settlement-closing papers to transfer the ownership of the home and all transactions are finalized.

If you need any assistance or guidance throughout the home buying process, please feel free to contact me.