Mike covers the current Massachusetts real estate market, emphasizing persistent low inventory, strong demand, and continued seller-market conditions despite slight recent improvement. Mike explains what helps offers stand out, including higher cash down payments (sometimes even leading sellers to accept lower prices for greater certainty) and reducing seller concerns about financing; he also notes the risk to sellers when deals fall through after going under agreement. They review mortgage rates, noting today’s ~6% is higher than recent 3% levels but still historically low compared with past decades. Mike says buyer “love letters” are largely discouraged due to legal and discrimination concerns, and he states Massachusetts no longer allows waiving home inspections or listing agents asking about it. He advises buyers not to rely on Zillow alone, to focus on strategy and personal affordability, and to work early with an experienced realtor for education, negotiation, and access to off-market opportunities. Mike Freeman(617) 759-1513[email protected]MikeFreemanhomes.com Topics