Insights & Market Analysis

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Data-driven perspectives on the Greater Boston housing market, policy developments, and practical guidance for owners and renters.

The NAR Settlement and Massachusetts Buyers and Sellers: A Plain-English Guide
Legislation
May 4, 2026

The NAR Settlement and Massachusetts Buyers and Sellers: A Plain-English Guide

Two years after the NAR settlement took effect, what's actually changed for MA buyers and sellers? Buyer agreements, who pays buyer-agent commission, and the 2026 reality on Boston commission rates.

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Who Pays the Broker Fee in Massachusetts? The 2025 Law, Explained.
Legislation
April 29, 2026

Who Pays the Broker Fee in Massachusetts? The 2025 Law, Explained.

Massachusetts law now requires the party who hires the broker to pay the fee — almost always the landlord. Here's what renters, landlords, and investors need to know about the August 2025 change.

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How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Massachusetts in 2026?
Selling
April 6, 2026

How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Massachusetts in 2026?

Selling a house in MA costs 9–11% of your sale price — not the 5–6% most sellers expect. Full breakdown of commissions after the NAR settlement, closing costs, transfer taxes, staging, and the new inspection law.

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Boston Housing Market 2026: What the Data Actually Shows
Market Analysis
April 1, 2026

Boston Housing Market 2026: What the Data Actually Shows

Boston's condo market just hit 4 months of supply. Multi-family absorption dropped to 24%. The headlines say 'hot market' — the MLS data tells a very different story.

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Why Vacancy Control Scares Every Housing Professional I Know
Housing Policy
December 22, 2025

Why Vacancy Control Scares Every Housing Professional I Know

At Zenith Residential Properties, we've spent nearly a decade working directly in the Greater Boston rental market. That's why it's important to say this plainly: rent control is an overcorrection to a real problem.

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Boston's Rental Slowdown Explained: The Data No One Wants to Discuss
Market Trends
December 10, 2025

Boston's Rental Slowdown Explained: The Data No One Wants to Discuss

Over the past year, many CEOs of large property management companies have blamed the rental slowdown on 'inexperienced agents' or 'weak leasing strategies.' Let's be honest: leasing is not rocket science.

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What Zillow's New MLS Standard Could Mean for Renters and Landlords
Industry News
April 11, 2025

What Zillow's New MLS Standard Could Mean for Renters and Landlords

One change that's starting to fly under the radar — but could have a sweeping impact — is Zillow's updated listing policy, which now requires all properties for sale to be listed via MLS.

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Fair Housing Compliance in Tenant Screening
Landlord Tips
March 1, 2025

Fair Housing Compliance in Tenant Screening

While screening tenants, it's vital to comply with the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

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