Straight talk about Real Estate from Judy Moses, queen of no nonsense, tell it like it is, advice that you will really use when making the biggest purchase of your life.
In ‘The Little Prince’, by St. Exupery, the fox tells the Prince that the most valuable things in the world can’t be seen.They must be felt with the heart.
For many years, my heart has been yearning for long lost friends, Meera and Bala.I met them in the early ‘80’s.Meera and I studied a post grad Business Certificate program at Harvard Extension.She came to Boston from Delhi when her husband, Bala, a Rotary Scholar, was admitted to the SloanSchool.
Meera and I immediately hit it off.She was from India, dot, dress, and all!I never had an Indian friend that I remember.But she didn’t seem different from the Americans. She was full of laughter and joy.We had a roaring good time and it made the class work light.
Bala was quiet and gentle and my heart immediately warmed to him. He is a brilliant and good man, and I felt honored that he considered me a friend.
Business took them out of the country.We lost touch.I chastised myself – how could I have let such good friendships fade?Being ‘busy’ was just not a good enough excuse for something so important.
My thoughts kept returning to my dear friends.I googled them and searched facebook and sent messages to strangers.But it was like trying to find ‘John Smith’.There were loads of people with their name. I wasn’t getting anywhere fast, and I had no idea where they might be.All I knew is that they went to Turkey in 1997.
Yesterday, I sat at the computer, ready to dive into my search once again. I told the universe to send them to me today.So, I went to Linkedin…no luck.Facebook.No luck.Then, I remembered…they had kids!And, those kids were probably the right age to be on Facebook
I searched for their oldest. There were again several with his name, but this time there was one with some additional information attached. He was about the right age, and had attended High School in Turkey.Could it be..?
I quickly sent a message and asked if his parents were Meera and Bala.I described who I was and how I knew them, in case it was their son.I figured this young man may think I was looney tunes.
Anyway, I received a message right back – not only was he their son – he had been talking to his dad about me that day!He was in Hong Kong. There are no coincidences.
Long story short, I am now in touch with Meera, Bala, and their kids.I have contact emails and phone numbers.I will be seeing them in the flesh very soon.And all because of Facebook.
Yes, sometimes technology eats time, but when it pays off, it is worth its weight in gold!
Chapter 9: Analysis Of The Basic Principles Used In Making That Sale
Anatomy of a Sale-continued
Step 6.Explode dynamite.
Sometimes it is effective to do something shocking.
For example - give people ice packs in January! Tell them they will need them soon for their summer picnic. Plant the idea that preparation is important, as it also is when you are planning to buy or sell property. Step 7. Arouse fear. People are motivated by either desire of gain or fear of loss. You can test the water by suggesting that the client may lose out on a situation if they don't take action now. Ask them how they would feel if that happened, how it would impact their plans.
Step 8. Create Confidence a. Act like an assistant buyer/seller. Take off your sales person hat and pretend you are out shopping with a friend. Feel your enthusiasm increase and put that into the situation!
b. 'If you were my own family member...' Use only if you are sincere.
c. Praise your competition. It says a lot about your character if you are willing to honestly admit when others are doing a good job.
d. 'This is a unique opportunity.....' Again, only say this if it is indeed true. Step 9. Express honest appreciation of your listener's ability. People love to be appreciated. Maybe your client has good instincts about properties. Tell him! However, don't be heavy handed. Be sincere. Step 10. Assume a close - Have a winning attitude!
Step 11. Put YOU in the interview. Use the words YOU and YOURS. See things from the other person's point of view. Try to avoid 'I' or 'WE'. Replace with YOU and YOURS.
How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling
by Frank Bettger
Basic principles of making a sale? For seasoned professionals? Even the best of us can use a refresher course. Back to Basics!
Here is part one of Judy's chapter 8 break down:
Chapter 8: Analysis Of The Basic Principles Used In Making That Sale
Anatomy of a Sale-Part One
Step 1. Make the Appointment! Then show up on time, looking good.
Step 2. Be Prepared! Do your research, have all your materials with you.
Step 3. Stay on the Key Issue. Figure out what is most important to the prospect and stick with it! For example, is the client moving because they need a child in school by September? If so, make sure this is a factor you discuss frequently as you show property.
Make sure the client fully grasps the time it takes from accepted offer to closing date. Keep it simple. If things get too complicated, the client can suffer from analysis paralysis.
Step 4. Have Key word notes for yourself. For example, you may be working with a first time buyer who wants a home in a good school system so their child can start in September. Remember key words about September school starts, 2 months to close the transaction and move in, some great features about the local schools, maybe convenience of particular neighborhoods to schools.
Step 5. Ask questions. You should prepare questions in advance. There may be questions you think you know how the client will answer. Ask them anyway! The questions help the clients crystallize their thinking.
What have you heard about the schools in ....Is there a school you prefer....What in particular about that school is appealing to you....Would you consider another school...
Ask questions that require more than a 'Yes' or 'No' answer, questions that give you insight into your client's thought process.
Judy's notes below from chapter seven- Objections are requests for information! We must learn to master question asking!
How I Raised Myself From Failure To Success In Selling, Frank Bettger
Not all questions are created equal!
Chapter 7:A $250,000 sale in Fifteen Minutes
How? By asking the right questions.
As salespeople, our job is to help people acquire the product or service they want and need. Sometimes, during the process, they hesitate. They are unsure. They raise ‘objections’.
Objections are simply requests for more information. If we as salespeople are unclear about what type of information the client needs to make a decision, we may inadvertently add to the confusion.
The best way to circumvent this is to ask permissiontoask the client questions. It will not only help us learn what the client needs, it will help the client crystallize his own thinking.
For example, the client may say he wants to ‘think it over’. Well, what exactly would he like to think over? Is it the price? Is it the location? Is it the parking? Is it the layout? Whatever it is, we can’t help the client if we don’t address the proper concerns, and we can only uncover the real concern by asking questions.
Here's the synopsis of chapter six. Please post questions or comments.
How I Raised Myself From Failure To Success In Selling, Frank Bettger
Now that Mr. Bettger has introduced us to the fine art of questioning, we’ll learn how to use the information we gather to help our clients make decisions.
Find the target and stick with it!
Chapter 6: Hitting the Bull’s Eye
Mr. Bettger was a big advocate of lifelong learning. He felt that if you get one good idea from a seminar, your time was well spent.
At seminars, Bettger learned the ‘bigsecret of selling anything’ the idea of hitting thebull’s eye – finding out what the prospect wants, talking about it, showing him how to get it.
Dale Carnegie said, ‘There is only one way to get anybody to do anything… make them want to do it. When you show a person what he wants, he’ll move heaven and earth to get it.’
Oftentimes, we don’t make a sale because the client hasn’t seen what he wants yet. He may not even know what it is that he wants. Our job is to uncover the unmet need and propose a workable, attractive solution. Although this may sound easy, it takes practice and persistence.
Sometimes a client thinks he wants a certain feature or benefit. If we don’t adequately probe, we may not have the information we need to provide a feasible alternative.
For example, a client may say he wants ‘4 bedrooms’. Well….why? Does he have a need for 4 rooms for people to sleep in? Or does he have a need for 3 sleeping rooms and a home office? Is there a first floor sunroom that is heated and could be used for this purpose? In other words….how does he plan to use the space? How does he live? Does he have a passion or hobby that he can’t accommodate in his current space, which has him out house hunting in the first place?
Without the proper information, the ‘full story’, a sales personmay choose to show ONLY houses with 4 bedrooms and totally eliminate workable alternatives that have 3 bedrooms and an additional ‘space’ somewhere in the house.
Never assume you know what the client wants. Ask questions to help them clarify their thinking. This exercise will help them be comfortable to make a decision and move forward when they do find a workable property.
And always further refine. ‘Tell me why you like this…. Tell me why this space won’t work for you.’ All the information you gather will sharpen your aim so you will be closer to hitting the bull’s eye!
How I Raised Myself From Failure to Success in Selling by Frank Bettger
It's never too late to have a new beginning...
But we need a road map!
Chapter 4: The Only Way I Could Get Myself Organized
The answer rests in one small, 4 letter word: PLAN!
We can get so much done when we work with a plan, and close to nothing accomplished when we flop around without one.
Set aside time daily to think and plan. Do things in order of their importance.
Ben Franklin believed that if you want to be a success, you must be an early riser. So, become part of the 'Six o'Clock Club'.
Use an hour to read and study before you start your day.
Set aside a block of time each week as 'Self Organization Day'. Do not allow anyone to encroach on this planning time! Non negotiable!
Have a Weekly Work Sheet that details who you will see that week and the specific activities you will take.
Poem by Douglas Malloch:
There may be nothing wrong with you,
The way you live, the work you do,
But I can very plainly see
Exactly what is wrong with me.
It isn't that I'm indolent
Or dodging duty by intent; I work as hard as anyone,
And yet I get so little done,
The morning goes, the noon is here,
Before I know, the night is near,
And all around me, I regret,
Are things I haven't finished yet.
If I could just get organized!
I oftentimes have realized Not all that matters is the man;
The man must also have a plan.
How I Raised Myself From Failure ToSuccess In Selling, Frank Bettger
Are we all back in the game of Real Estate, connecting with past and prospective clients and actually tracking our number of contacts?Our next installment:
Strive to Speak Like Lincoln or Churchill!
Chapter 3:One Thing I Did That Helped Me Destroy The Biggest Enemy I Ever Had To Face
The best way to overcome fear of talking to strangers is to learn to speak to groups.
When we master the art of speaking to an audience, we also conquer any reticence about
speaking to people one on one.
Public speaking helps build confidence.It helps us learn to express ourselves clearly & convincingly.It helps us develop courage.And, it helps others get to know us better.It may even lead to an additional sale, since you never know who may be in your audience!
Join a public speaking group like Toastmasters.If there is no group in your area, form one with friends or business associates.
Mr. Bettger describes this training as one of the turning points in his career.How do you feel you may benefit by honing your public speaking skills?
How I Raised Myself From Failure to Success in Selling, Frank Bettger
I hope you enjoyed Chapter 1, and that it helped you rediscover your ‘enthusiasm’ for the Real Estate business!
Sales is a Contact Sport!
Chapter 2: This Idea Put Me Back Into Selling After I Had Quit
If you are in sales, you cannot do any business until you personally connect with people. The more people you contact, the greater chance you will do some business.
So, get off the bench and get up at bat! And remember – keep score!
When we track our activities, we can see how many contacts we are actually making, how many touches are necessary to produce a lead, and how many prospects before a sale.
A short pencil beats a long memory every time. Sometimes we think we have been more industrious than we actually are! It is very easy to fall off the wagon and drift into bad habits.
So, whatever you are doing to connect with people, write it down.
As Mr. Bettger says…
You can’t collect your commission until you make the sale;
You can’t make the sale ‘til you write the order;
You can’t write the order ‘til you have an interview;
And, you can’t have an interview ‘till you make the call!
Feeling down about business? Act with ENTHUSIASM!!
Sep. 14, 2009
In our current economy, everyone faces challenges. Now, more than ever, we need to nurture ourselves so we are prepared for each new day.
With this in mind, I want to share some advice I gleaned many years ago from a book that Dale Carnegie described as 'The most helpful and inspiring book on salesmanship that I have ever read'.
How I Raised Myself From Failure to Success in Selling, was written by Frank Bettger in 1947 at the request of Dale Carnegie.
Here is the first in a series of Mr. Bettger's suggestions. I hope you find these ideas useful!
Act with enthusiam!
Chapter 1: How One Idea Multiplied My Income And Happiness No matter what you do....act with enthusiasm!
Enthusiasm is powerful.
It conquers our fear.
It is contagious.
When prospects are excited, they are more likely to buy our product.
It gives us the energy to persevere when we are challenged.
Don't feel enthusiastic at the moment? No problem! Fake it till you make it!
I challenge you. For 30 days, act with enthusiasm. See what effect it has on your business and your life.
Every day when you get out of bed, establish your own 'Enthusiasm Ritual'.
Maybe you have an affirmation you enjoy. Maybe you listen to happy music. Maybe you move your body.
Whatever your 'enthusiasm ritual' employ it faithfully for 30 days and expect great things!
Buying a home? What to do if the bank appraisal comes in too low.
Jul. 25, 2008
What if my appraisal comes in too low?
If you are applying for a mortgage to buy your new home, the lender, as your ‘partner’ in the purchase, wants to be absolutely certain that you don’t pay more than market value for the property. So, they will hire a licensed appraiser to value the property.
The appraiser will look for 3 properties that sold within the past 6 months, in the same community as the ‘subject’ property (the property you plan to buy), preferably within a mile, and as similar as possible in size, style and condition. Since in New England we are often hard pressed to find similar homes, they will use homes that differ and make ‘adjustments’ to compare them. For example, one home that sold may have a fireplace, yet the subject does not. As a result, the value of the subject property may be slightly less than the value of the comparable sale.
When the number of sales is low, the appraiser may not have the data he needs to do a proper analysis. If your appraisal comes in lower than the price you had offered to pay, the lender could refuse to make the loan. You do have options.
First, you could contact the appraiser and question the properties he/she used as comparables. Maybe the ‘comparable’ property had been rented by students reminiscent of those in ‘Animal House’ and the property was totally trashed. Or, maybe the subject has a brand, spanking new, granite and stainless kitchen. The appraiser may be able to make adjustments in your favor.
Second, you could ask for another appraiser to value the property. You would have to pay for this, or convince the seller to pay.
Third, you can share the appraisal information with the seller and ask for a reduction in sales price. After all, maybe another purchaser will end up with the same appraisal value.
Finally, if you love the property and have the financial ability, you can buy it anyway and make up the difference by putting more money down.
How about a list of activities and things to do around Beantown? Ask and you shall receive!
Newbury St is great for shopping and strolling, of course, but did you know there are many art galleries you can visit? Newbury-st.com is the place to go to search for restaurants, shopping, art and nightlife on what is perhaps Boston's most famous street.
A trip to Fanueil Hall marketplace may tickle your fancy. You can pick up some souvenirs, take your photo with Red Auerbach (you'll see what I mean) or just window shop!
Want to go to a museum? We've got plenty! From the Museum of Science to the Museum of Fine Art, there is sure to be something oof interest. Boston-online.com offers a list of local museums and their websites.
How about a trip to the New England Aquarium? You can visit shark, ray, seal and penguin exhibits!
Take a trip to the Boston Public garden and ride the swanboats!
The City of Boston site has a visitors area with loads of information!
Below is a list of activities with websites and phone numbers (in case you want to print a copy to take with you!)
Enjoy your stay in Boston and let me know if you have any questions.
List of activities with web address and phone numbers
Boston's public transportation system, the MBTA, (affectionately called "the T" by the locals) will get you just about anywhere you want to go around town, via bus or train. You will have access to routes, schedules, maps and fare information.
There is also a feature called the trip planner. You can enter your beginning and ending destinations, plus dates and time for your trip.
If you have a particular destination in mind, such as a restaurant or museum, you can ask how to get there by T if you call. Or, your hotel concierge will certainly be able to point you in the right direction!
Friend of Pathway Home Realty Group and Boston resident, Alyse Mariani, was kind enough to contibute this post. Alyse will tell you the hottest places to be seen around the city!
Be sure to visit MBTA.COM, Boston's public transportation system for information about the trains and buses. You'll find routes and schedules here as well.
Enjoy!
Welcome to Boston! It doesn't come as much of a surprise to me that the Women's Council of Realtors selected the prettiest time of year to hold their conference in Beantown. Living here for the past 8 years has made me well aware that although fun can be found in the winter, it's the summer that keeps me sticking around. I am excitedto have the chance to give some tids and tads about where to find fun in Boston. I have limited historical knowledge, but that kind of information is readily found in any guide book. What I know is where to go if I want to watch the sunset over water, or what days to visit the Museum for a discount and where to park to avoid tickets. I hope that my tips are helpful, and if you would like more information, I am happy to respond to emails. I can be reached at alyse.mariani@gmail.com.
Where to get Happy Hour Cocktails: TIAS
One Word Summary: A Boston Summer Standard
Location: WATERFRONT
Contact: http://www.tiaswaterfront.com/
True, after about 10:00pm, most of the patrons of Tias are two sheets to the wind. As a popular after-work drinking spot, with great waterviews and outdoor patio, it's known as a come and leave early watering hole. Considered amongst my girlfriends as a great place to pick up a date, you might choose to dedicate an evening beyond 10pm to Boston's active dating scene. They do have a restaurant, and although I have eaten there I can't remember much about it (enough of a statement in and of itself). Its close proximity to the Marriott Long Wharf and refreshing cocktail list make it aneasy choice for this blog. My suggestion would be, meet the ladies here for a drink, enjoy the sunset over the harbor, then head to the North End for dinner.
Where to Eat: Monicas One Word Summary: Authentic North End Italian Location: NORTH END Contact: www.monicasonline.com
A little background on the neighborhood: A short walk from the Waterfront, the North End is a historically rich Boston neighborhood. Because of the close proximity to the the docks and waterways, the North End has been home to many different immigrant populations through the years. However, since the early 1900's it has been known as the "Little Italy" of Boston. At its height in the 1930's the North End had nearly 44,000 Italian-American occupants and was more densely populated than Calcutta. Today, the population is closer to 11,000 and of that only 41% are Italian-Americans. Despite the change over the years, the heritage of the North End can be found in most American pantries. Prince Pasta and the Paestene Corporation of Italian food products both had their start in this neighborhood.
What I have to say about it: Really, all of the North End, like many Italian locales, is dedicated to the pleasures of eating and drinking. The one thing to watch out for is the tourist trap restaurants that offer "EPCOT-Style" interiors and less than desirable cuisine. Located just off Hanover Street, Monica's is a place locals and 'in the know' visitors will find the seasonal menu of homemade pastas, fresh seafood and meats. Reservations are recommended for weekend dining and large groups. If you opt to not order desert, grab a cannoli and espresso at "Mikes Pastry's" instead. This is one place that being elbow to elbow with other out of towner's is worth it.
For a Night on the Town: Beehive One Word Summary: Bohemian Hotspot Location: South End Contact: www.beehiveboston.com
What I have to say about it: Live Jazz music, eclectic decor and exciting menu options have made the Beehive Boston's latest hotspot. Modeled after a Bohemian Parisian Cafe where the performing artist would supply the dinner to the audience members, the menu is a mish mosh of world flavors and cooking styles. The interior design itself if something to see, a mix between your Great Aunt's Attic and an artists studio, even if you don't like it, I am confident that you will appreciate it. Weekends usually mean there is a line to get into the downstairs bar after 10pm. The bar upstairs is nice, but is the holding pen for the large bar and stage downstairs. The best way to avoid this is to a) make a reservation for dinner, and request a table in front of the stage, order appetizers and then roll in with the crowd downstairs or b) get there early and scoot downstairs before the crowd. Also...don't be alarmed if your wine is served in a vessel you may not be expecting...it's not a mistake, just part of the charm.
Where to go for a Cultural Excursion: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum One Word Summary: The Original Women of Influence in Boston Location: Fenway Contact: www.gardnermuseum.org
What I have to say about it: This is by far my favorite museum, not only in Boston, but in the world. Isabella Stewart Gardner was a patron of the arts, active Red Sox and Harvard Football fan and a woman well beyond her time. Residing in Boston at the turn of the century, she constructed a Venetian Style Palazzo in Boston's marsh fens and filled it with carefully selected art pieces. Don't look for placards, because you won't find them, the experience is about the whole of the experience not about specific works. As willed by Mrs. Gardner, the permanent collection has remained untouched since her death in 1924. If you decide to visit this museum, it's a good idea to either buy the guide book or read about it online in advance, it will create a much more enriching visit. The best way to complete your time, is to sit in the cafe's outdoor gardens and enjoy lunch.
If you are coming to Boston and you have never been here before (or even if you have) you need to know all the best places to eat!
Tablecritic.com, founded by President and Boston native, Carol O'Connor, offers locals and travelers a site that features all of the hottest spots around Boston. She and her writers wil give you their honest opion about the menu, prices and staff. They post lots of pictures. They'll even tell you know whether or not you should make a reservation.
Be sure to visit the site's archive to see past restaurant reviews.
Bon Appetit!
Oh, by the way...Be sure to visit MBTA.COM, Boston's public transportation system for information about the trains and buses. You'll find routes and schedules here as well.
With all the media buzz over the mortgage industry shake down, many consumers wonder whether now is a good time to buy real estate
Of course, no one can predict the future. What we can do, however, is evaluate our individual needs and motivations, study the factors and trends in the market, and then make a wise decision – one that is good for us as individuals.
First…What other investment gives you a tax write off and a roof over your head? What other investment allows you to gather with family and friends and create memories? Real estate is not only an investment vehicle, it is shelter and it is home.
If you are looking to buy real estate for the short term – less than three to five years- there is always a greater risk. The longer you own a property, the more immune you will be to changes in the market. In addition, there are acquisition and selling costs involved with property. We need the appreciation we build over time to buffer these additional costs. For those who buy and hold, real estate has proven to be a wonderful investment.
Each market is different. What is happening in the market that interests you? How much inventory is on the market compared to a year ago? Are there more or less homes for sale? Don’t judge by ‘For Sale’ signs. You need hard data. How many properties sold this year compared to last year? What is the ratio of sales price compared to the list price? How does it compare to the sales a year earlier? How long are homes on market?
An experienced Realtor can help you sift through the data to learn about your market. When you locate a property, the Realtor will also prepare a ‘CMA’ or Comparative Market Analysis for you. This report will reflect the selling prices of similar properties that closed in the past 6 months. Together with your Realtor, you can then prepare a negotiating strategy and determine an offering price.
So, don’t let the media deter you! This can be a great time to buy. Simply make wise decisions for you, based on the facts of your marketplace and your individual needs.
Judy had 2 Brookline properties close yesterday so I thought I'd share the sale information.Plus, she has a gorgeous new listing in Jamaica Plain, pondside, totally renovated. It's a 3 bedroom condo for $519,000. Tell any family or friends who might be interested and watch the YouTube video below. Visit PathwayHome.com for more information or email Judy.
I thought I'd share the video of Judy's newest listing in Newton Highlands. It's a 2 bedroom condo in move-in condition. Lots of good stuff like central air and garage parking, plus it's just a stone's throw (I'm not exaggerating) to the Newton Highlands T, shops, restaurants. It's a truly great location.
Judy has compiled some tips for getting your home ready to market for sale. If you would like more information, please call Judy at 617 734 6188 or send an email to JudyMoses@JudyMoses.com.
Preparing Your Home for Sale….So It Sells! (Part One)
Preparing the Interior of Your Home for Sale
A common dilemma that prospective sellers often face is how much or little to do to make their home ‘market ready’.
It is important to remember that you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. So, the day your home hits the market, it must show at its best. Here are some guidelines that hopefully will help you through the process to a successful sale.
Step One: Pack early....because you will be moving! I suggest moving room to room and creating three categories: items you will give away, those you will throw away, and those you can sell. Next, set about disposing of each of these categories: maybe you donate items to a local charity, post others on Craig’s list or ebay, and dump the rest.
Step Two: Evaluate what is left and minimize! Do you have loads of books? Family photos galore? Or a beautiful porcelain collection? I suggest you pack these early. First off, you don’t want to jeopardize the safety of your cherished possessions. People may touch….or break…your things. Remove the temptation and make it a non issue. Also, buyers must be able to mentally move into your home before they will make an offer. When you weed out your personal items, you neutralize the property so buyers can imagine themselves in the home.
Step Three: Make sure everything is in working order. Now that you have removed most of the clutter, you should be able to make a good visual inspection of the property.
Is the paint cracked, peeling, dirty or discolored? Clean and/or repaint. Are all windows and storms in good repair and operating properly? Are all sash cords working? Do all doors open and close correctly and easily-including closet doors? Is all your plumbing operating correctly? There should be no leaky faucets or slow drains. I also recommend that you service your heating and air conditioning system-including changing filters. In addition, all your appliances should be in working order. If you have an element on your stove that is slow or broken, fix it.
A general handy man should be able to tackle most of these projects. It will be money well spent. When items are in poor repair or broken, buyers assume that the property has not been maintained. This could inhibit them from making an offer on your property. Or, they may make a very low offer, because they may guess that the situation is more serious than it is and overestimate the cost of repair.
Step Four: Organize all your storage areas. Buyers do open closets, kitchen cabinets, and medicine chests. They look in basements and attics. These areas should be neat and roomy. You want the appearance of ample storage. Overcrowding of items makes even the largest storage area appear inadequate. If you still have too many items, rent a storage area off site and move your boxes there.
A good Realtor should be able to guide you and connect you with service professionals to help you through this process.
This featured listing is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo at Newfield Woods in West Roxbury, right on the Chestnut Hill line. It has been meticulously maintained, has garage parking and an elevator for added convenience! Really pretty setting with easy access to shopping, restaurants, Medical area, Boston and major highways.