Cohasset Real Estate & Homes for Sale

Buying a home in Cohasset, MA, as a first-time buyer requires careful planning due to the town’s competitive market and higher-than-average home prices. It’s essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage early to strengthen your offer, especially since many homes receive multiple bids. Working with a local real estate agent can help you navigate the market, identify homes that fit your budget, and craft competitive offers. Additionally, researching property taxes, school districts, and commuting options can help ensure the home meets your long-term needs. Be prepared to act quickly when a desirable property hits the market.

Cohasset has a property tax rate that varies annually, so it’s crucial to check with the town’s assessor’s office or your real estate agent for the current rate. In addition to property taxes, buyers should budget for potential homeowners’ association (HOA) fees if purchasing within a managed community. If you’re considering waterfront or historic properties, additional regulations, flood insurance, or preservation restrictions may apply. Closing costs, including transfer taxes, attorney fees, and inspections, should also be factored into your budget.

Cohasset offers a variety of home styles, including historic Colonials, Cape Cod-style homes, waterfront estates, and modern new builds. When choosing a property, consider your lifestyle needs—do you prefer a home with ocean views, proximity to Cohasset Village, or a larger lot for privacy? If buying near the coast, check whether the property is in a flood zone and whether flood insurance is required. For buyers looking for newer construction, it’s worth researching local zoning regulations, as some areas have strict building codes to preserve Cohasset’s charm.

To attract buyers in Cohasset’s competitive market, focus on curb appeal, staging, and necessary upgrades. Homes with well-maintained exteriors, fresh landscaping, and neutral interior colors tend to sell faster. Since many buyers in Cohasset are looking for luxury or waterfront properties, highlighting high-end finishes, updated kitchens, and modern bathrooms can add significant value. Additionally, professional photography and virtual tours can help your listing stand out online. If possible, address minor repairs before listing to prevent buyers from negotiating down the price.

Sellers in Cohasset should budget for closing costs, which typically include a real estate agent’s commission (often 5-6% of the sale price), attorney fees, and Massachusetts’s transfer tax (currently $4.56 per $1,000 of the sale price). Additional costs may include staging, home inspection repairs, and prorated property taxes. If your home is part of an HOA, there may be resale fees or documentation fees required for the transaction. Being aware of these expenses in advance can help you price your home effectively.

In Cohasset’s competitive market, many buyers submit offers with contingencies for financing, inspections, or home sales. While accepting a contingency-free offer is ideal, it depends on your goals and timeline. If you receive multiple offers, a cash offer or an offer with waived contingencies may be more attractive, even if it’s slightly lower than another bid. However, if a buyer includes reasonable contingencies but offers a strong price, it may still be a solid choice. Work with your real estate agent to evaluate each offer carefully to ensure it aligns with your needs.