New home sales data released this week showed that sales were 16.6 percent higher than March when comparing the seasonally adjusted annualized rates, and 23.8 percent higher than last year.

This news comes from estimates released jointly by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Bicycle-friendly amenities are contributing to a surge in property values  for communities everywhere, marshaled by developments in urban centers and suburban outposts that accommodate “active” transportation. At its core, the bicycle boom is about people choosing a lifestyle that gives them more options and requires less dependence on motor vehicles. Through supporting bike infrastructure, real estate professionals who influence the built environment [buildings, neighborhoods and streets] can play a significant role in creating healthier, more sustainable communities.

Before you make an offer on a house, it's important to make sure all your questions are answered. But, more importantly, you need to be asking the right questions. Though the answers may surprise you or scare you off, they can also help you feel confident in your decision to move in on the right home.

Bicycle friendly amenities are leading to a rise in property values across the world marshaled by developments in urban centers and suburban outposts that accommodate “active” transportation.  On a national scale, the values of homes in areas with "above-average” access to transportation are higher than those of comparable properties by up to $34,000.

It is almost springtime and that is the prime time to begin pondering utilizing that bicycle for more than driving to work. Here are 16 trails around the area, from shorter urban ones to more rustic courses that sprawl many miles.

Mortgage rates continue to fall for the fourth week in a row due to the Fed’s holding its interest rate steady on Wednesday’s FOMC meeting.  

Thompsonville

Newton, MA

The Bowen School

Thompsonville is the smallest of the Newton villages located Newton Center, Newton Highlands and Chestnut Hill.

Thompsonville is often associated with the Bowen School. Figuring out where Thompsonville begins and end can be a bit difficult and locating its village center can be even more elusive. [...]

[...]

[...]