A new survey released by the NAHB reports the escalating shortages of labor and subcontractors, as according to single-family home builders. While 69% of builders reported a shortage of contractors willing or able to do rough carpentry, 50% of builders reported a shortage of framing crews and finished carpenters, and 40% reported a shortage … Continue reading Report States Largest Shortage of Labor and Subcontractors in 15 Years
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If you're like me, you're sitting at your office dreaming of getting away to a tropical island, dipping your toes into the sand, and breathing in the salt water aroma of the ocean. While many of us do enjoy the beach in the summer, who says you can't permanently live in a tropical island of … Continue reading Everyone’s Dream: Buying an Island in Paradise
HVAC systems: every home has one, yet no one thinks about it until there lies a problem. With HVAC bills appearing to be more and more expensive these days, it's important to ask necessary questions ahead of time until your HVAC system has a serious problem and a serious bill. Yes, HVAC systems typically exist … Continue reading Yes, You Should Care about Your HVAC System (Here’s Why):
While it appears to be just a short time ago that the American 1% were opting for 10,000 square foot homes, one-upping their friends, and seeking as much acreage as possible, the tides are visibly changing. In a report by Bloomberg Business, it accounts the rapidly declining demand for large properties in Greenwich, with buyers … Continue reading “Downsizing:” Why Buyers are Opting for Luxury Rentals
It's only been about two years since the term "smart-home" has been invented, but now more than ever has it become common, and even somewhat mainstream for new homes on the market to be labeled as such. But what is it about smart-homes that are so popular with buyers? Will this trend last? My … Continue reading Smart Homes: Why They’re a Trend That Will Last
Continuing the Whole Foods/Trader Joe's Debate... While the rivalry between the two organic grocery store chains has been a reoccurring theme this summer, with individuals comparing food quality, food prices, customer service, etc., we decided to account how these two grocery magnates affect the real estate estate industry. The results weren't what I expected. Although Trader Joe's … Continue reading Whole Foods vs Trader Joes: Which One Increases Your Home Value More?
Niche.com, a website that collects data and complies information on neighborhoods, schools, and colleges, recently released their list of top suburbs in America to live in. With Brookline, MA topping the list, it comes without saying that Brookline is a flourishing suburban community. <!--more--> Based off of variables such as jobs, housing, transportation, safety, activities, … Continue reading Brookline, MA Ranked #1 Suburb in America
Recently added to CastlesMag.com are our picks for the most select properties in Weston. With convenient access to RT 128 and the Mass-Pike, Boston's most exclusive suburb has remained the premier town to live for those in Massachusetts. As the wealthiest town in the state based off of per capita income, Weston offers some of the most elite … Continue reading Top 5 Luxury Homes in Weston, MA for Sale
Recently reported in the 2015 National Community Preference and Transportation Survey states that millennials prefer walking as a mode of transportation by 12% points to any other form of commute. Aged 18-34, these individuals also were found to prefer attached houses, often located in neighborhoods walking distance to shops and restaurants. Work commute was also a factor … Continue reading Study Shows Millennials Prefer Walkable Communities
In a study conducted by WalletHub, Boston has been ranked the healthiest home market in the U.S. Based on Census data and the American Housing Survey, these figures compared the 25 largest metropolitan areas in the United States, with the Massachusetts capital taking the top spot. The survey was established upon the following 7 figures: -equity levels … Continue reading Boston Ranked “Healthiest Housing Market”
Recently posted to CastlesMag.com is a selection of international properties for sale that can only make one dream of spending summertime in such a residence. Listed below are our top 5 picks for such exquisite properties, with links to CastlesMag.com for more information. 1) Virgin Gorda Property, British Virgin Islands (Listing ID: 4413) Price: $40,000,000 2) Mahoe Bay, Virgin … Continue reading CastlesMag.com Top 5 International Homes (August)
The 2016 housing market is predicted to be a seller’s market. So what does that mean for buyers this year? Well, if you’re looking to purchase a home this year, you can expect increased prices, low supply and fierce competition. So, above all it’s important to keep an open mind and move quickly when you … Continue reading Top 3 Tips for Real Estate Buyers
Jim Lowenstern 