Cap Rate vs IRR vs Equity Multiple: What Do They Actually Mean?
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
If you've ever dipped a toe into real estate investing, you've probably heard terms like cap rate, IRR, and equity multiple tossed around like everyone’s supposed to know what they mean. But the truth is, even experienced investors sometimes mix these up—or worse, misuse [...]
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court just issued a major decision that every landlord should be aware of — especially those relying on security deposits to cover move-out [...]
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
Navigating the Boston rental market can be tricky, and when you're looking on platforms like Craigslist, it can be even harder to separate legitimate listings from the scams. Craigslist remains one [...]
New Home Inspection Laws in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
As of October 15, 2025, Massachusetts is making some important changes to the home-buying process that will impact both buyers and sellers. If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you might already know that home [...]
To Sell or Not to Sell: Should You Keep Your Current Home as a Rental?
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
If you refinanced your home between 2019 and 2022 when mortgage rates were at historic lows (think 2-4%), you might be facing a dilemma as you consider upgrading to a new property. The current housing market [...]
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If you’re even thinking about selling your home this summer or fall, June is go-time. The sun is out, yards are green (hopefully), and buyers are emerging from their spring market FOMO ready to pounce on homes that show well. The good news? You don’t need to gut-renovate your kitchen to make your [...]
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Renew or Buy? The Lease Dilemma Facing Boston Renters Right Now
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
As June 1st approaches, landlords across Greater Boston are gearing up to send out renewal notices—and if you're a renter, you're probably staring down one of the biggest questions of the [...]
Why Being a Generalist in Real Estate Works—For Me and My Clients
By James Riel, Principal Broker-Owner, JR Associates
In today’s real estate world, it’s common to hear that “niching down” is the way to go—specialize in one asset class, one neighborhood, or one kind of client, and build your reputation there. And while that works well for [...]
If you're starting on your journey to homeownership, it all begins with a relationship. On March 23rd, JR Associates and Guaranteed Rate will be hosting an informal 'Meet & Greet' with real estate broker, James Riel and mortgage lender, Ryan Van Auken. Come join us for light bites, drinks, and a giveaway! We'll provide you with some valuable [...]
Okay, so you’re officially 2 days from moving into your new apartment. If you weren’t one of the lucky ones to get in a few days early, here is a quick recap of what you should expect and a few helpful tips on making this a seamless and successful [...]
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