Q. What is the difference between the East Side and West Side of South Boston?

A. The boundary is typically considered Dorchester Street. In general the East Side is closer to the water and the West Side is closer to the City. They both have their own attributes. And do not forget the Andrew Square section of South Boston which is bounded by Old Colony Ave and the Southeast Expressway.

Q. How is public transportation in South Boston?

A. Andrew Square Station and Broadway Station are both South Boston stops on the MBTA Redline in South Boston. The MBTA is also supported by the #7 bus which goes from the East Side to Boston’s Financial District, the #9 Bus which travels across South Boston with stops at Broadway Station and Copley Station on the Green Line, the #10 which travels across South Boston with stops at Andrew Square Station and Copley Station and the #11 which crosses South Boston with stops at Broadway Station and Tufts Medical Center.

Q. How is parking in South Boston?


A. It is very much a matter of perspective. If you are coming from the suburbs you might find it difficult. However compared to Boston’s North End you might find it very easy!! You will want a Resident Permit Sticker which you obtain from the City of Boston, In general parking in South Boston is pretty easy during the day and on weekends. It becomes pretty competitive after 6 PM when everyone gets home from work. It is great to have your own deeded parking but rental spaces can be found at a cost of $100 - $300 per month.

Q. I am looking to buy a property in South Boston. What should I expect during the buying process?

A. The buying process will vary in terms of time and intensity. Some buyers look at one property and make a purchase. Others look for several months if not years before they make a decision. Once you have established a budget you should get an understanding of the current marketplace. Look at as many properties as possible both above and below your price range. The goal is to gain a perspective on the value of South Boston real estate. Next you will narrow your focus down to the properties that really fit your parameters. Once a target property is identified you make the leap and write an offer. In the offer you will include terms starting with price, financing contingencies, inspection contingencies, date to sign a pand s and closing date. Typically you will provide a check in the amount of $1,000 to be presented with the offer. Once both parties accept and sign the offer your new home is considered under agreement. Next will come the inspection followed by the signing of the purchase and sale agreement, followed by the loan commitment and closing. The time from offer to closing is typically 6 - 8 weeks. Your agent should be in steady communication with you throughout the entire process. A good real estate agent can make a big difference in the overall success of your purchase.

Q. How is the asking price determined?

A. The asking price is set by the seller. A good real estate agent should inform the seller with accurate information and help them set an effective listing price. A seller should look for an agent familiar with the area where the property is located. The agent will pull relative comparable sales, competitive properties currently on the market and properties recently under agreement. A quality agent will have first hand knowledge of most if not all of the comparable properties.

Q. I found a great property how do I decide what price to offer?

A. A buyer also can offer whatever price and terms they choose. As a buyer it is a good idea to also review the recent sales and competitive offerings prior to making an offer. Your agent should be able to supply this information pretty easily. Don't forget all the information you gathered as you went along in the home search process. Perhaps the property is over-priced. The property just as easily could be under priced. Either way you should offer close to or the actual value you have assigned to the subject property. Remember every transaction is different discuss your strategy with your agent.

Q. I would like to sell my South Boston home. What should I do?

A. Call Stephen McCarthy at 617-320-7219! We will discuss your objectives such as timing and price then work with you to tailor a strategy and approach that is correct for you and your property. Keep in mind I have been helping people buy and sell homes in South Boston since 2001 and have developed a local expertise. My local knowledge combined with the national brand of REMAX gives you an advantage over your competition.