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Snowstorms Put A Chill On Housing Market

The parade of snowstorms recently has cooled off the parade of homes.

The Massachusetts Association of Realtors says the number of single-family homes put under agreement in January fell 7.3 percent, compared to the same period the year before. Pending condo sales were down 12 percent year-over-year.

A sold sign, partially covered in snow (AP)
A sold sign, partially covered in snow (AP)

Northborough realtor Karen Scopetski says many sellers are holding off listing their homes for sale.

"Some people are dealing with ice dams," Scopetski said. "Having to get those repaired before they get them on the market. And you know, having to keep up with all the shoveling and plowing."

She said sellers are also worried about prospective buyers tracking snow and dirt into the house, as well as financial liability if anyone slips and falls.

The snowy winter weather has also cast a chilling effect on buyers, who don't feel like slogging through the slush to open houses.

But the state realtors association says despite the weather, consumer confidence is warming up. MAR President Laurie Cadigan is hoping for better sledding ahead.

"The opportunity is there for the number of homes put under agreement to go up in February," Cadigan said in a statement.

This program aired on February 3, 2011. The audio for this program is not available.

Headshot of Curt Nickisch

Curt Nickisch Business & Technology Reporter
Curt Nickisch was formerly WBUR's business and technology reporter.

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