{"id":2814,"date":"2013-03-21T09:22:00","date_gmt":"2013-03-21T09:22:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bostonzest.com\/?p=2814"},"modified":"2013-03-21T09:22:00","modified_gmt":"2013-03-21T09:22:00","slug":"how-to-use-your-observational-skills-in-a-boston-real-estate-search","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/bostonzest.com\/?p=2814","title":{"rendered":"How to Use Your Observational Skills in a Boston Real Estate Search"},"content":{"rendered":"

This week, we met a very nice couple out on the hunt for a Boston condo. I hope they were out walking around after this week's snow storm. Observing how promptly and how well a building deals with snow removal can be an indicator of the management's concern for good maintenance.<\/p>\n

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If the owners of one of the buildings you're considering have someone get out early and often to shovel a wide path and de-ice their sidewalk, it's likely they have a responsible attitude towards complying with city codes and maintaining the property.<\/p>\n

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You don't want to face icy stairs when you leave your home. Nor, do you want to own part of a building that is the bane of the neighborhood and reported to the city on Citizens Connect after every storm<\/a>. <\/p>\n

You could use this map<\/a> to delete a scofflaw property from your list. Download the Citizens Connect App<\/a> and look at all of the reports for the area you're considering.<\/p>\n

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How Does the Garden Grow?<\/strong><\/p>\n

In the warmer months, you should take a look at the condition of the fencing, stairway, and garden in front of a property. Of course, not all Boston properties have front yards or gardens. But, many condo associations add a bit of color with a potted plant or wreath on the door. <\/p>\n

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However, if the spring real estate market is on and a pot of dead Christmas decorations is still in place, proceed with caution.<\/p>\n

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Check All Public Views<\/strong><\/p>\n

In some neighborhoods, public alleys let you check the rear of a property. Not all buildings will have a beautiful rear view like the one above. But, a nicely maintained rear facade is another sign of attention to detail and good neighborliness. And, in some cases, the alley will be the view from your home.<\/p>\n

Stop, Look, Sniff, and Listen<\/strong><\/p>\n

Once you have a short list of finalists, visit each property a few times on different days and hours. Will the smell of garlic from a nearby restaurant keep your windows closed? Will the sounds of a playgound disturb your peaceful enjoyment? Will parties from a building full of students next door disrupt your sleep?<\/p>\n

In addtion to all the financial checks and due dilligence you should be doing before you buy a Boston condominium, use all your senses to scan the sights, sounds, and smells that might impact your property value or make you want to move a year from now. <\/p>\n

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon<\/a>\"\" from here to support this site!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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