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Selling a Loved Oneâs Home: Guidance, Grace & Getting Through It
At Boston Connect Real Estate, we understand that selling a home is never just about bricks and mortarâitâs about life transitions, memories, and emotions. On a recent episode of our Talk Real Estate Roundtable radio show, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace took a heartfelt deep dive into one of the most sensitive real estate topics: selling a loved oneâs home.
Whether itâs a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or close friend, preparing a home for sale after a lossâor even during a difficult health transitionâcomes with emotional and logistical challenges. Our team has walked beside many clients during these tender times, and weâre honored to share what weâve learned.
It Starts With a ConversationThe most essential first step? Having the conversation. Whether youâre preparing for the future or in the thick of it, open and honest dialogue is key. Talk about the home, the finances, the will, the possessionsâand the wishes of your loved one. The earlier these conversations happen, the better equipped youâll be to make decisions without regret.
Leave a Legacy, Not a BurdenOne message that resonated throughout the show was Sharonâs simple but powerful reminder: âLeave a legacy, not a burden.â That means keeping important documents accessible, understanding the legal landscape (like probate or reverse mortgages), and making sure your family knows who to contact when the time comes.
A notebook with notes about when the roof was last replaced, who to call for real estate help, and a will in place can make a world of difference.
Emotions Are Always in the RoomSelling a loved oneâs home is not just about logisticsâitâs about grief, memories, and transition. Sometimes itâs a tearful goodbye to belongings. Other times, itâs family disagreements or emotional exhaustion.
At Boston Connect, we approach these situations with compassion and understanding. Weâre here to listen, to help, and to guide. And if additional support is needed, we often recommend involving counselors or estate professionals to help with the emotional toll.
Not All Families Are the SameIn the best scenarios, family members work together harmoniously. In others, loss reveals rifts. Sharon shared stories of bothâone where three sisters worked hand-in-hand, another where money and estrangement caused years of delay.
Each situation is different, and thatâs why our holistic approach is so important. We assess not just the market value of the home, but the emotional and personal landscape of our clients. Thatâs what sets our agents apartâwe meet you where you are.
Practical Tips for Selling a Loved Oneâs HomeHere are a few practical takeaways shared on the show:
Assess the condition early â Before investing time and money, talk to a professional. Not all homes need upgrades.
Know what youâre working with â If youâve never lived in the home, gather info about the roof, systems, and maintenance.
Be financially transparent â If thereâs a reverse mortgage or lien, understand the obligations before listing.
Highlight the positives â Focus on mechanicals and structure if cosmetic upgrades arenât feasible.
Respect what matters â Old Tupperware or a chipped strainer might seem like junk to one person, but they hold memories for another. Empathy matters.
We're Here to HelpWhether you're supporting a loved one into assisted living, managing an estate, or handling an unexpected transition, Boston Connect Real Estate is here for youâwith experience, empathy, and exceptional service.
Letâs have the conversation before it becomes a crisis. Let us help you move forwardâgracefully and thoughtfully.
đ Contact us today at 781-826-8000đ Visit us at BostonConnect.com
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Thinking About Buying New Construction? Hereâs What You Need to Know
At Boston Connect Real Estate, weâre all about helping our clients take the next step in lifeâwhether itâs buying your first home, upgrading, or settling into your forever home. On a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, our Broker/Owner Sharon McNamara and Director of Operations Melissa Wallace sat down to chat all things new constructionâa topic thatâs been a cornerstone of Sharonâs real estate career.
Back from Jamaica and Ready to Build!After a much-needed, soul-refreshing trip to Jamaica (complete with spa days, snorkeling, and a heartwarming story of kindness to a young hotel employee), Sharon returned recharged and ready to dive back into the South Shore market. While away, Melissa kept things running smoothly back home, teaming up with our agents on air and in the field.
Now, back in the saddle, Sharon was eager to revisit a topic she knows inside and out: buying and selling new construction homes.
New Construction: A Hot Topic, A Smart InvestmentItâs been a while since the Roundtable crew focused an entire episode on new buildsâbut the timing couldnât be better. Sharon and the Boston Connect team are actively working on two developments that are nearly sold out. If you're a buyer, that means now is the time to act.
But thereâs more at play than inventory. Sharon brought up recent news about tariffs on materials from Canada and Mexico and how they could impact the cost of building materials like lumber and gypsum. These added costs may eventually raise the price of new homesâwhich makes current new construction inventory even more valuable.
Why a Buyerâs Agent Is EssentialâEspecially for New ConstructionOne key takeaway from the episode? Not all buyerâs agents are created equal when it comes to new construction.
Sharon emphasized the importance of working with a buyerâs agent who knows the ins and outs of building from the ground up. It's not just about choosing countertops or picking out paint colorsâitâs about timelines, communication with builders, understanding contract clauses, and advocating for the buyer every step of the way.
âToo often,â Sharon said, âagents drop their clients off at the construction site and say âcall me when itâs done.â Thatâs not how we operate.â
At Boston Connect, our agents are present and proactiveâfrom lot selection to closing day.
Model Homes: A Smart, Move-In Ready OptionFor buyers who want a brand-new home without the wait, model homes can be a smart choice. Builders often use these homes to showcase premium finishes and upgrades, and since they're already completed, there's less risk of pricing changes due to rising material costs.
Buying a model home also means fewer decisions and a quicker path to move-in dayâwithout sacrificing quality.
Whatâs Next for the Market?Despite market challenges like rising rates and inventory shortages, Sharon remains optimistic. She sees promise in upcoming shifts that prioritize domestic production of building materials, which could stabilize prices in the long term and create more opportunities for buyers.
At the end of the day, whether you're considering new construction or just starting your home search, the Boston Connect team is here to guide you with experience, honesty, and heart.
Want to learn more about new construction opportunities on the South Shore?Contact us today at BostonConnect.com or call 781-826-8000 for a one-on-one consultation with Sharon and her team.
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Living Local: Spotlight on Bridgewater with Co-host, Kristen Howlett
At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe home is more than just four wallsâit's about community, connection, and knowing your neighborhood. Thatâs why weâve brought back one of our favorite segments: Living Localâwhere we shine a spotlight on the incredible towns we live and work in.
In this weekâs episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Melissa Wallace sat down with Boston Connectâs own Kristen Howlett, a full-time Realtor and longtime Bridgewater resident, to chat all things Bridgewaterâand we covered a lot!
From Pajamas to PodcastsKristen may have joined the show bright and early for a Saturday morning, but her energy was contagious. With a quick coffee, a few laughs, and her signature warmth, she dove right inâsharing what itâs been like living in Bridgewater for over two decades.
And yes, there was even a story involving pajamas, the old Bogartâs bar, and a power outage at Barrettâs that turned into one of those unforgettable âsilver liningâ days. (Spoiler alert: It ends with a blackout beer and belly laughs.)
Why Bridgewater?Kristen and her husband, Brian, moved to Bridgewater 24 years ago. He bought the house before she even saw itâand thankfully, it was love at first sight. âAt first, I felt like I had to walk two miles to the nearest Dunkinâ,â Kristen laughs, âbut that walk taught me to appreciate the privacy, space, and charm this town has to offer.â
She raised her kids in Bridgewater, watched the town grow, and today proudly serves her community as both a resident and real estate professional. That lived experience gives Kristen a deep-rooted perspective on the townâand her clients benefit from it every step of the way.
Favorite Local SpotsWhen it comes to local flavor, Kristen didnât hold back! A few of her favorite Bridgewater spots:
The Boundless Bean â Great coffee and a cinnamon âcruffinâ that she swears is life-changing.
Casa Agave â A go-to for margaritas and authentic Mexican food (and yes, her daughter works there!).
Krispys, The 99, and Fiesta Taqueria â All staples in the Howlett household for tasty meals and takeout nights.
CafĂ© Madeleine â A newer addition to the local scene with delicious gluten-free options and cozy vibes.
Barrettâs Alehouse â More than a restaurantâitâs a Bridgewater institution with great bartenders and a whole lot of memories.
Kristen also highlighted Bridgewaterâs growing list of businesses and attractions, including a new indoor golf simulator and year-round community events that bring neighbors together.
A Town That Loves Its TraditionsOne of Kristenâs favorite things about Bridgewater? The traditions. From the beloved 4th of July parade and fireworks at Legion Field to Autumnfest organized by the local chamber, thereâs always something to bring people together.
Itâs that small-town charm, combined with modern amenities, that makes Bridgewater such a special place to call home.
Looking Ahead: Living Local ReturnsMelissa and Kristen wrapped the episode by announcing the return of the Living Local series as a monthly segment on Talk Real Estate Roundtable. Each month, a different South Shore community will be featuredâhighlighting everything from local restaurants and shops to family-friendly events and real estate insights.
Have a favorite town you want us to cover? Want to share why you love where you live? Reach out to us! Weâd love to hear from you and maybe even give your favorite local spot a shoutout on the show.
âš Boston Connect Real Estate: We donât just sell homesâwe sell communities.Want to learn more about buying or selling in Bridgewater or surrounding towns? Reach out today at BostonConnect.com or call 781-826-8000.
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Melissa Wallace is joined by Tracy Grady, full-time Realtor at Boston Connect Real Estate to discuss how not to sabotage your Real Estate sale.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace discuss what to avoid in Real Estate.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace discuss the real reasons why properties do not sell.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace spring into action and discuss prepping your home for the market.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace as they discuss the Realtor advantage, why full-time professionals make all the difference.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace are joined by Trish Flynn, full-time Realtor at Boston Connect Real Estate to discuss what sellers should or shouldn't expect to leave behind when selling their home and what condition buyers should expect the home to be in when purchasing.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace as they discuss:
1. Challenges and strategies for winter buying and selling2. Seasonal maintenance tips for homeowners3. Concerns such as frozen pipes, snow damage, & maintaining curb appealPodcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara & Melissa Wallace as they discuss the role Escrow Accounts play in Real Estate and what happens when they are mishandled.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace as they talk about all the things they are grateful for in Real Estate. They are also joined by Anne Barry Jolles, creator of Grace Trail.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace as they discuss how to identify real estate scams.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace as they discuss the intricacies of selling a home or purchasing a home during the holiday season.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Melissa Wallace & Sue Bollinger as they discuss strategies for helping buyers find a home in a low inventory market.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Brian Cain as they discuss septic systems.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace as they discuss navigating the emotional aspect of Real Estate.
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live Every Saturday Morning at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Join Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace as they discuss strategies for buying and selling at the same time!
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live every Tuesday at 6:15 pm & Saturday at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Melissa Wallace was joined by Kristen Howlett, full-time Realtor at Boston Connect Real Estate for their monthly segment highlighting a community south of Boston. This month is all about Norwell!
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live every Tuesday at 6:15 pm & Saturday at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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Melissa Wallace, Director of Operations at Boston Connect Real Estate was joined by Tracy Grady, full-time Realtor at Boston Connect Real Estate to discuss all things Real Estate with The Grady Team!
Podcast & Live Radio Show on WATD 95.9The McNamara Horton GroupBoston Connect Real EstateSharon McNamara | Melissa Wallace
Facebook Live every Tuesday at 6:15 pm & Saturday at 8AM @ facebook.com/McNamaraBrokerTeam
Follow our team on Instagram @TheMcNamaraHortonGroup
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