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Exploring Westfield, MA Black Squirrels!

🌳✨ Exploring Westfield’s Black Squirrels! 🐿️

Hey Westfield, I’m thrilled to share a video that takes you on a journey into the enchanting world of our beloved black squirrels, the true darlings of our city!

Black Squirrels of Westfield MA

In this very short video, I will share a quick history of how these unique creatures came to Westfield, MA.

But hold on, there’s more to the story – I’m not just your local realtor; I’m a Westfield enthusiast who has lived here since 1988! 🏡💚 Join me in unraveling the charm of our hometown, one squirrel at a time.

If you would like even more information on the story of the Black Squirrels of Westfield, MA, check out this article that I wrote: https://westernmahomes.net/westfield-ma-home-of-the-black-squirrel/

Whether you’re contemplating a move or simply curious about real estate in Westfield, I’ve got your back! 🏠 Feel free to reach out anytime via email at:

  1. 📞 Phone: 413-575-3611
  2. 📧 Email: realestate.lesleylambert@gmail.com

Lesley Lambert, Westfield REALTOR, Park Square Realty

Christmas in Western Massachusetts for Yours Truly

Gosh, it is less than a week until Christmas. I know I am not fully ready, maybe you aren’t either, but we will get there.

This Christmas is better/worse for me than the last few years. Without boring details, I have had some serious upheavals over the holidays during the last few years that had left me without my usual holiday spirit.

Growing up, I was the one that did the decorating. I was the Weber house Christmas elf. I loved all of it. The old-fashioned lit-up plastic Santa that I hung outside of our front door, the ubiquitous large bulb-colored lights…all of it. My sister and I had a tradition of sleeping under the Christmas tree the first night after it was decorated. Much like Buddy the Elf, Christmas was my favorite!

Fast forward to when I am an adult and have my kids…I had to have the HUGEST REAL Christmas tree. One year it was so big that it kept falling over and we had to bolt it into the wall. Yes, I am serious. However, I didn’t do that again because I lost a ton of my breakable decorations and I was salty about that situation. That being said, I was a stalwart champion of the authentic REAL Christmas tree for years. When my girls were still younger it was so much fun to wander the Christmas tree farm and watch them run and throw snowballs in our hunt for the “perfect tree”.

Well, kids do this thing…they grow up. They didn’t want to do the tree hunt (or didn’t have time) and I was left to my own devices or we would make a quick stop at a local tree seller of already cut trees. Last year was our last “real tree” year. I hit the wall when I had to drag that dead-ass tree out by myself and I was cleaning needles until June. Additionally, I had some personal and health setbacks that made it difficult for me to feel the joy of the season. I succumbed to the malaise…not my typical style, but there you have it.

So, this is our first year with an artificial tree. But the tree doesn’t define how we spend our holiday and I decided to get my elfish spirit back on in 2023! I had my now adult daughters (22 and 19) over for a good old-fashioned Christmas Tree Trimming Party. I made appetizers, blasted the Christmas tunes, got a good wood fire going, and decorated.

Our tree is not a “staged tree”. We don’t have a color palette or a “style”. It is all of the decorations collected since I was an adult on my own, including the fan favorites: the elementary school handmade decorations made with love by my girls. There is a lot of, “Wait, whose is this one?”, “Oh…do you remember making this?”, and “Awww how cute!”. It is a walk down memory lane as we decorate and reminisce about where the ornaments came from and spend some special family time together. I think that makes it the most lovely thing I have ever seen.

Our family is not a traditional one, but we have our traditions and I love them. I am so glad I was able to come out of whatever was keeping my Christmas Elf down and enjoy this time with my adult daughters. It will be our first Christmas without my mom, but I know she was in the room during the tree trimming and I feel her all around.

To you and yours, I wish you the merriest of the holiday seasons and all of the best going into the New Year. I feel blessed and I wish the same for you and yours!

Giving Back in Westfield, MA-What stole my heart

If you know me, then you know I love my community. I have lived in or near Westfield, MA my entire life and I am proud to call it my home.

I was raised with the understanding that if you love something, it is your job and responsibility to care for and nurture that thing. My mother instilled this in me and I carry it in my heart daily. Sometimes they are people, sometimes they are pets, and sometimes they are cherished heirlooms, but in this case, they are the community. Bear with me for a moment while I share some of what I have done, but stay with me for the opportunity that makes my heart sing.

Quick boring history

Briefly, I do a lot of volunteer work in my community. I was on the board of directors for the Friends of Grandmother’s Garden in the 90s and early 2000s when we went on a major fundraising project and tore apart and rebuilt this sanctuary in the heart of the city. I have run a project called “Blessing Bags for the Homeless” for years in Westfield. I have been on the board of directors for the Friends of the Westfield Senior Center for over eight years and I am the immediate past president of the Kiwanis Club of Westfield, I am a member of the Elks and I have recently been appointed to the Alumni committee at Westfield State University. All of these organizations and projects hold a special place in my heart, but the one that means the most to me began about three years ago.

This is the good part

Three years ago I discovered that the Westfield Public Schools were looking for mentors for their students. The children that are in the program come from any number of backgrounds, but their teachers and administration have noticed that they would benefit from a relationship with an adult who can be a part of their lives in a regular capacity. As soon as I saw this, I knew I wanted to become involved. I spent my entire life at a dance studio, many of those years as an instructor and I love children. My own children were mostly grown and I missed having younger children in my life.

Flashback to three years ago when I got my first assignment. I will call her Callie for the purposes of this story. Callie was a second-grade student who needed some help with focusing. She was assigned to me because she loved to dance. We bonded over my large collection of children’s dance stories and I taught her some of the moves. Callie flourished under a watchful eye and took to me right off the bat. Her energy was infectious and she was quick for a hug. As it turned out, Callie’s mom couldn’t afford to send her to dance class, so Callie was just doing her own thing. I was able to facilitate a scholarship and secure donations of dance apparel to give to Callie’s mom who then gave it to Callie for Christmas. Hearing her tales of dance class each week became a favorite moment of mine.

Callie is now a fourth-grade student at a new school and I have been able to follow her there and continue to see her weekly. She loves to sing and dance for me and we spend our time otherwise doing art, games, and chatting. She never fails to greet me with a hug and I never leave in a bad mood.

The elementary school that Callie was originally at contacted me a year after I started and shared that they had another high-energy student that they would like to pair with me. How could I say no? Enter my sparkle girl, Ky (also not her real name). Ky was a second-grade student who moved like she was built of bubbles. She is sunshine and rainbows personified and she grabs your interest from the start. I quickly learned that Ky was wise beyond her years. She came from a large family who fell on hard times, but you would never know it to look at her. I only knew from what she was willing to share with me.

Ky loves coloring, games, and crafts and throughout whatever we do she is singing. During our first year together, I had to miss some of our appointments because my mother was in and out of the hospital and eventually passed. Ky wrote me a homemade sympathy card that shared sentiments that were wise beyond her years. That note along with another (I will share in a moment) lives on my refrigerator. I am now in my second year with Ky, a big girl third-grade student now, and our bond continues to grow.

Each week when I arrive at these girl’s respective schools the administration shares with me that my student has been asking after me and checking in to see when they will see me. Each week when I arrive I am met with a beautiful young person running up to me with a full-on blast hug and a cry, “Miss Lesley! I missed you!”. We spend our time doing things that don’t seem important, but while we are doing them I am asking questions and giving support, I am teaching manners and patience, I am checking in on their classroom behavior and encouraging them to do their best, I am teaching them that it doesn’t matter who wins the game as long as you are playing it with someone you love and having fun and most of all, I hope I am teaching them that they can count on someone in their lives.

It is no exaggeration when I share that being a mentor has changed my life. I spend one hour a week volunteering my time, but the gift I get back will last me my entire lifetime. These children have made a mark on my heart that cannot be taken away. I hope I get to participate in their lives for a good long while.

Treasured for life

OK, so here is the second note from Ky that I mentioned. It is a thank you note that she asked the front office to send me at the end of last year’s school year:

“Dear Mrs. Lesley, Thank you for being here for me and supporting me.

I am happy that you came into my life. Love, Ky”

If you are inspired to join this lovely mission and live in Westfield, MA please email vips@schoolsofwestfield.org to get started. If you live elsewhere, contact your district office and ask how to get involved, you won’t regret it!

Westfield, MA Real Estate Market Report: First Half of 2023, Lesley Lambert-Westfield REALTOR

Westfield, MA Real Estate Market Report: First Half of 2023

Welcome to the Westfield, MA Real Estate Market Report for the first half of 2023! We’re here to provide you with an overview of the current market trends and key statistics that will help you navigate the real estate landscape in our vibrant community. Whether you’re a homeowner, a buyer, or an investor, this report will give you valuable insights into the market conditions.

Median Estimated Home Value:

The median estimated home value in Westfield, MA currently stands at $341,000. Over the past month, we’ve seen a positive growth of 0.88% in home values. Looking at the broader picture, the past three months have shown an increase of 1.68%, while the past 12 months have experienced a significant growth of 5.13%. These upward trends indicate a robust real estate market in Westfield, MA.

Median Sales Price:

The median sales price for homes in our area is currently $377,000. In the last month, we’ve witnessed a substantial increase of $27,630 in the sales price, reflecting a positive change of 7.63%. Over the past three months, the sales price has risen by an impressive 33.27%, and over the past 12 months, it has shown a notable growth of 10.74%. These figures demonstrate the strong demand and appreciation in the Westfield, MA housing market.

Seller’s Market with Low Inventory:

The Westfield, MA real estate market remains a seller’s market, characterized by low inventory levels and high buyer demand. Homes that are priced correctly continue to sell quickly and often at the asking price or even above. It’s crucial for sellers to work with an experienced real estate professional who can help them navigate this competitive market and maximize their selling potential.

In such a dynamic and fast-paced market, having accurate information and expert guidance is essential. As a trusted local REALTORÂŽ with in-depth knowledge of the Westfield, MA area, I am here to assist you every step of the way. Whether you’re interested in selling your home or exploring the available buying opportunities, I can provide you with personalized advice and comprehensive market insights.

View a video about this report HERE.

Do you have questions?:

Don’t miss out on the exciting opportunities in the Westfield, MA real estate market! Reach out to me, Lesley Lambert, your local real estate expert, at 413-575-3611. I am here to answer your questions, provide you with a free home evaluation, and guide you through the process with professionalism and care.

Stay informed and make informed decisions. Let’s work together to achieve your real estate goals in the thriving Westfield, MA market!

LESLEY LAMBERT, WESTFIELD REALTOR WITH PARK SQUARE REALTY, 413-575-3611.

You can view the full report HERE.

(Note: The statistics mentioned in this report are based on current data and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult with a qualified real estate professional.)

National Real Estate Market Update for 2023 – How does it affect you in Western MA?

There’s an old adage in real estate: location, location, location. But ever since the Federal Reserve began its series of inflation-fighting interest rate hikes last year, a new mantra has emerged: mortgage rates, mortgage rates, mortgage rates.

Higher rates had the immediate impact of dampening homebuyer affordability and demand. But this year, we’re seeing further repercussions. While analysts expected listing inventory to swell as sales declined, instead, homeowners have been pushing off plans to sell because they feel beholden to their existing, lower mortgage rates.

So what impact is this reduced demand and low supply environment having on home values? And what can we expect from the real estate market in the coming months and years? Here are several key indicators that help to paint a picture of the current market and where it’s likely headed.

HOME SALES ARE EXPECTED TO PICK UP BY EARLY NEXT YEAR

The weather isn’t the only thing that heats up in the spring and summer. Nationally, it tends to be the busiest time in real estate. But this year, the peak season got off to a slow start, with sales declines in both March and April.1,2 Existing home sales in April were down 3.4% from the previous month—and 23.2% from a year earlier.2

What’s causing this market slowdown? Industry experts attribute it to several factors, including near-record home prices, high mortgage rates, and low inventory.

According to National Association of Realtors (NAR) Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, “Home sales are trying to recover and are highly sensitive to changes in mortgage rates. Yet, at the same time, multiple offers on starter homes are quite common, implying more supply is needed to fully satisfy demand. It’s a unique housing market.”1

However, some industry experts believe the market is poised for a comeback. Forecasters at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) predict that home sales will continue to fall through Q3 before rising in Q4 and throughout next year.3  Analysts at Fannie Mae expect the recovery to take a bit longer, picking up in early 2024.

Meanwhile, home builder confidence is already up, as purchases of new single-family homes surged in March and April to a 13-month high.5 Builder incentives are helping to boost sales: According to the National Association of Home Builders, in May, 54% reported using them to win over budget-conscious buyers.6

What does it mean for you?  A slower pace of sales has given buyers some breathing room. If you hated the frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate market, now might be a better time for you to shop for a home. We can help you evaluate your options and make an informed purchase. This is proving to be true in many parts of Western Massachusetts.

If you plan to sell your home, prepare yourself for less foot traffic and a longer sales timeline than you may have found a year ago. It will also be crucial to enlist the help of a skilled agent who knows how to draw in buyers. While it does remain a seller’s market, you need the right marketing and price to reap the highest returns here in Western Massachusetts. Reach out to schedule an appointment to discuss my marketing plan. 

PROPERTY VALUES REMAIN RELATIVELY STABLE

Some good news for buyers: While home builder sales climbed in April, the median new-house price fell to $420,800, an 8.2% decrease from a year ago.5 Meanwhile, the median existing-home price dropped to $388,800, down 1.7% year-over-year. Notably, existing-home prices rose in parts of the country but fell in the South and West.2 

“Roughly half of the country is experiencing price gains,” explains Yun. “Multiple-offer situations have returned in the spring buying season following the calmer winter market. Distressed and forced property sales are virtually nonexistent.”2

The average national home price remains about 40% higher than it was in early 2020, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller index.7 A tight housing supply has helped to buoy prices amidst a slowdown in sales.

“While it varies from region to region, home prices at the national level may fall 1% or 1.5% by the end of the year, so not much,” Doug Duncan, senior vice president and chief economist at Fannie Mae, told Yahoo Finance in April.8

Record levels of home equity will help to stabilize the sector and prevent a wave of foreclosures, even as prices moderate, according to Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.9

“But for those who have owned a home for more than a year or two, their home will remain a rock-solid investment. And once affordability is restored, the next generation of households can become homeowners. Getting there is critical to the financial well-being of those households, their communities, and the broader economy,” writes Zandi in The Washington Post.9

What does it mean for you?  Prices have softened in certain market segments—and motivated sellers are out there and willing to make deals. I can help you find your next home and negotiate a great price.

If you’re a homeowner, the surge in home values has slowed, but you’re likely still sitting on a nice pile of equity. Reach out for a free assessment to find out how much your Western Massachusetts home is currently worth.

LISTING INVENTORY IS LOW, BUT NEW CONSTRUCTION IS ON THE RISE

Unsold existing home inventory rose 7.2% from March to April, according to NAR. At the current level of demand, this equates to 2.9 months of supply, which is still well below the 5 to 6 months of inventory required for a “balanced” market.2

Inventory remains tight despite the market slowdown because many would-be sellers are reluctant to give up their lower mortgage rates. “Affordability is not only an issue for first-time homebuyers, but also for many repeat buyers who still need to take on a mortgage,” explains Danielle Hale, chief economist for Realtor.com.10

In a recent survey by the home listing site, 82% of respondents who are planning to both buy and sell a home said they feel “locked in” by their low rate.11

In some areas, new home construction is helping to fill the supply gap. “Currently, one-third of housing inventory is new construction, compared to historical norms of a little more than 10%,” according to National Association of Home Builders Chief Economist Robert Dietz.12

And more new homes are in the pipeline, after a builder slowdown last year. Single-family housing starts rose 1.6% from March to April (seasonally adjusted) and new construction permits hit a seven-month high.13

What does it mean for you?  Inventory remains tight, but less competition means more choice and negotiating power for buyers. If you’ve had trouble finding a home in the past, it may be time to take another look. I can help you explore both new and existing homes in our area.

Sellers are enjoying reduced competition right now, as well. However, the longer you wait to list, the more competition you’re likely to face. And if you feel locked in by your current, lower mortgage rate, consider this: If you roll your equity gains into a down payment on your next home, you could possibly lower your monthly payment. I can refer you to qualified Western Massachusetts lenders for the full picture. Reach out to discuss your options.

MORTGAGE RATES MAY FINALLY COME DOWN

According to Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit a peak of 7.08% in the fourth quarter of 2022, and since then it’s primarily floated between 6 and 7%.14 However, there are signs that rates could trend lower later this year.

“Calmer inflation means lower mortgage rates, eventually,” Yun predicted in a recent statement. “Mortgage rates slipping down to under 6% looks very likely toward the year’s end.”15

Other leading economists agree. In its May forecast, Fannie Mae speculates that 30-year fixed mortgage rates will continue to decline, averaging 6.0% in Q4 2023 and 5.4% by Q4 2024.4 Meanwhile, the MBA predicts rates will fall even faster, averaging 5.6% by Q4 2023 and 4.8% by Q4 2024.3

On May 3, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark borrowing rate by another quarter point—its 10th consecutive increase since March 2022. However, in its corresponding statement, the Fed omitted language from its previous release about “additional policy firming,” leaving some analysts to speculate that the rate hikes may be over.16

Although mortgage rates aren’t directly tied to the federal funds rate, a decision by the Fed to pause rate increases could have a positive effect. In the meantime, buyers should shop around multiple lenders to find the best rate—and buckle up for what could be an exciting ride.

What does it mean for you?  Mortgage rates may finally trend down, which would be great news for buyers. But, a decrease in rates could correspond with an increase in competition and prices. If you start searching now, you’ll be prepared to make an offer when the time is right. I can help you negotiate a great deal and potential seller incentives.

If you’re planning to sell, this is good news for you, too. But, there are several factors to consider when determining the right time to list your home. Reach out for a consultation so I can help you chart the best course to sell your Western Massachusetts home.

I AM HERE TO GUIDE YOU

While national real estate forecasts can provide a “big picture” outlook, real estate is local. And as a local market expert, I can guide you through the ins and outs of our Western Massachusetts market and the issues most likely to impact sales and drive home values in your particular neighborhood.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home, contact me now to schedule a free consultation. I’ll work with you to develop an action plan to meet your real estate goals here in Western Massachusetts.

Lesley Lambert, Western MA REALTOR with Park Square Realty

413-575-3611

Realestate.lesleylambert@gmail.com

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

  1. National Association of Realtors –
    https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-slid-2-4-in-march
  2. National Association of Realtors –
    https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-faded-3-4-in-april
  3. Mortgage Bankers Association –
    https://www.mba.org/docs/default-source/research-and-forecasts/forecasts/2023/mortgage-finance-forecast-may-2023.pdf?sfvrsn=4bf1d1a7_1
  4. Fannie Mae –
    https://www.fanniemae.com/media/47006/display
  5. U.S. Census Bureau –
    https://www.census.gov/construction/nrs/current/index.html
  6. National Association of Home Builders –
    https://www.nahb.org/news-and-economics/press-releases/2023/05/lack-of-existing-inventory–boosts-builder-confidence-to-key-marker
  7. New York Times –
    https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/29/business/spring-housing-market.html?
  8. Yahoo Finance –
    https://finance.yahoo.com/news/mortgage-rates-increase-after-weeks-of-declines-160015631.html
  9. The Washington Post –
    https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/04/22/housing-prices-put-some-out-of-the-market/
  10. CNBC –
    https://www.cnbc.com/2023/04/20/home-sales-fell-in-march-amid-volatility-in-mortgage-rates.html
  11. Realtor.com –
    https://www.realtor.com/research/2023-q1-sellers-survey-btts/
  12. National Association of Home Builders –
    https://www.nahb.org/news-and-economics/press-releases/2023/04/lack-of-existing-inventory-continues-to-support-builder-sentiment
  13. United State Census Bureau –
    https://www.census.gov/construction/nrc/pdf/newresconst.pdf
  14. Freddie Mac –
    https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms
  15. National Association of Realtors –
    https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/instant-reaction-inflation-april-12-2023
  16. CNBC –
    https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/03/fed-rate-decision-may-2023-.html