The Market

The market in our area is fine. For example, there are 22 new listings this week in Amherst and Hadley. Today I toured homes in every price range from a condo for $154,900 to a mansion for $1,250,000 and everything in between. So there is a lot to choose from if you are a buyer. Unfortunately for buyers, seller's prices haven't dropped as much here as they have in other regions.

Also unfortunately, foreclosures are up, also. I heard on National Public Radio today that many renters are loosing their homes due to the home they rent being foreclosed upon because the homeowner couldn't pay the mortgage. Tip: Massachusetts requires landlords to give renters the information on where the renter's security deposit is held. The law also requires that landlord to keep that money in an escrow account not accessible to creditors. The law also requires landlords to offer to give the renter the interest earned from that deposit each year. So, if you are a renter, be sure this is the case with your landlord. This diligence on your part could save you $$s if your home is foreclosed. Don't be one of the many renters I heard about today who lost their deposit, as well as their home, via eviction. I am not a lawyer, so if you need legal advice, seek professional representation.