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Kenzo Tatsuno
Sales Associate
(617) 233-9651
kenzo.tatsuno@commonmoves.com
KenzoLiving.com

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November 2025 Newsletter

Whether you own a home or are looking to buy or sell, here are the latest Good to Know® articles for when you’re ready to take the next step in finding your forever home.

Discover the Best Tools
for Snow and Ice

The latest advances in snowblowers offer advantages over previous gas-powered machines. Electricity-powered models produce “zero direct emissions” and are available in a range of “clearing widths” for sidewalk, driveways, and large lot widths. ThisOldHouse.com recommends 18-20 inches width for sidewalks and stone paths, while 21-22 inches is more suitable for medium-to-large driveways. Corded models have limited reach but can be lengthened with outdoor extension cords. Cordless models today run on lithium-ion batteries that are stronger and last about 30 to 50 minutes before recharging is necessary. The bigger and better quality the battery is, the easier your snowblower will plow through snow and ice.

You’ll still need a good snow shovel that is ergonomically designed to save strain on your back. Metal scoops are heavier, but better at breaking up ice and compacted snow, while plastic scoops are lighter and easier to use on fluffy newly fallen snow. Be sure to choose a shovel based on your height and strength. 

After shoveling, sprinkle some pet- and plant-safe sand to mitigate the dangers of ice found under the snow.

U.S. Housing Market Shows Signs of
Cooling Amid Rising Inventory

Since June 2019, list prices are up 37.6% and price per square foot is up nearly 52.3%, but there are signs the housing market is slowing—at least in some areas.

In July 2025, the number of homes for sale grew 24.8% year-over-year, according to Realtor.com, and they remained on the market a week longer than the previous year. Price cuts were reported on more than 20% of active listings. Overall, prices rose just 0.5% since last year but fell in 33 of the nation’s 50 largest metros. Of these 50 metros, 13 exceeded their pre-pandemic housing supplies by 25% or more, including Denver, Austin, and San Antonio, while 17 metros remain 25% or more below their pre-pandemic inventories, including Hartford, Chicago, and Providence.

Mortgage interest rates more than doubled during the pandemic to above 7%, but they’ve been drifting downward. The combination of greater selection and lower mortgage rates could reignite the housing market again.

Be prepared with pre-approval from several lenders so you can act quickly when the right home appears.

Should You Buy a Home During the Holidays?

If you want to celebrate the holidays by pausing your home search until next year, you may be missing an excellent time to buy a home.

Homes on the market during the holidays have typically been for sale for a while. They could be overpriced or in less than move-in condition. The owners could be recent heirs, landlords, work transferees, divorcees, widowers, etc.  What these homes have in common are highly motivated sellers.

As other homebuyers sideline themselves, you’ll also have an easier time shopping for homes and service providers like home inspectors, mortgage lenders, contractors, movers, and others. And you can save money—homes typically sell for more in the spring and summer than in the winter.

Lastly, closing your home purchase before January 1st gives you an extra year of tax deductions and benefits. If you close after that date, you must wait until the following year to claim benefits.

Different seasons offer different advantages, but the holidays can be uniquely beneficial.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate
350A Moody Street Waltham, MA 02453

©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity.