News / Features

GBREB testimony opposes rent control and other regulations

The testimony, submitted to the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Housing, opposed a collection of rent control and other bills proposed for the Commonwealth.

Signature threshold met to get Massachusetts rent control initiative on the 2026 ballot

Now, ballot signatures must be certified by local election officials.

The exterior of the 2-story brick and white-siding "Wheeler House" featured in Stranger Things.
‘Stranger Things’ Wheeler House sells in Atlanta

Inside, the house includes original retro features like wood paneling, built-in bookshelves, a brick fireplace and an eat-in kitchen perfect for enjoying Eggos.

Chris Reyes
Douglas Elliman appoints Chris Reyes chief technology officer

In this role, Reyes will oversee the brokerage’s technology team, manage technology infrastructure and product launches and drive national software development.

NAR to drop membership requirement for MLS access on Jan. 1 

The association made local MLSs responsible for deciding whether non-Realtors may access their platforms as part of a suite of changes aimed at reducing antitrust risk. 

rental update
Boston single-family rental costs trend downward in Q3

Average rental costs for a single-family home have been decreasing for four consecutive quarters.

NAR unveils new three-year strategic plan

Priorities outlined in the plan fall under two overarching categories: building the future member experience and modernizing the association.

NAR’s Lawrence Yun expects 14% surge in existing-home sales in 2026 

The chief economist for the National Association of REALTORS® also predicts home prices will climb 4% compared to 2025. 

For property transactions over $1M, non-residents will pay up in Massachusetts

The rule shakes up the process of transferring high-value properties and adds steps — and costs — for non-resident sellers.

Boston enters top five STEM employment markets

Boston climbed four spots in the rankings last year, from No. 9 to No. 5.

Massachusetts market remains strong amid seasonal transition

Closings grew 5.6% year over year, with 3,921 single-family homes sold.

First-time homebuyers hit record low in Realtor buyer/seller survey 

At the same time, the average age of the first-time buyer hit an all-time high of 40, according to the 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. 

Eco-friendly features top Realtor.com’s 2026 trend forecast

At the top of the list? WaterSense fixtures — the plumbing solution, which claims to reduce water use by more than 20%, increased in popularity by 289.6%.

Boston officially a sports-lover’s dream

“Boston truly stands as one of the best sports cities in America,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo.

a
Seven Boston developments awarded Climate Ready Housing grants

The funds will help developers reduce energy use as part of the Healy Driscoll administration’s net-zero emissions goals for Massachusetts.

Kelly Marie appointed 2026 Cape & Islands regional vice president for MAR

In the role, Marie will intercede between MAR and the Cape & Islands Association of REALTORS®.

Oops! We could not locate your form.