Massachusetts will soon require migrants staying in the state’s at-capacity shelter system to begin showing they’re trying to get work or housing, according to an announcement from the Healey administration Monday.
The state also announced Monday that it will be opening a new so-called safety-net site at a vacant building at the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home that’s been slated for demolition.
The moves come as Massachusetts continues to contend with an influx of migrants — lawmakers on Beacon hill are working to add hundreds of millions of dollars to the state’s budget to help address the issue.
How should Massachusetts fix the migrant crisis? The House, Senate and Gov. Healey all agree on an amount of money to be spent, but how to spend it remains up for debate.
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Under the new requirements, effective May 1, migrants staying at safety-net sites will need to show they’re working on getting authorized or trained to work in the country, apply for jobs, take English classes or search for housing every month in order to stay at the housing sites. The policy doesn’t apply to United Way of Massachusetts Bay-run sites.
“We have said for months now that our system is at capacity, and we do not have the space, providers or funding to continue expanding,” Emergency Assistance Director General Scott Rice said in a statement. “This new certification policy is a responsible step to address the capacity constraints at our safety-net sites. Families will need to demonstrate that they’ve taken action to get on a path toward independence and out of shelter.”
The state currently spends about $75 million each month — or about $10,000 per family — on the 7,500 migrant and local families that are living in emergency shelters across the state.
Housing the roughly 100 migrant families due to move into the new Chelsea Soldiers’ Home site in April will not affect services for veterans, Secretary of Veterans Services Dr. Jon Santiago noted in a statement. The building has fallen out of use after a brand-new facility, the Massachusetts Veterans Home of Chelsea, was opened last year.
With health care centers in Boston facing a capacity crisis, a nursing home’s plan to close could exacerbate the problem.
The Edgar P. Benjamin Healthcare Center in Mission Hill, which opened in 1927, is set to shut down soon.
“Two weeks ago, residents of the Edgar P. Benjamin Healthcare Center were notified that management is closing the facility in 90 days,” Boston City Councilor Benjamin Weber said.
Weber and fellow City Councilors Henry Santana and Sharon Durkan co-sponsored a resolution to help the nursing home’s 76 elderly residents, primarily of color.
Staff say fiscal challenged led to the closure.
“The first red flag was that we had not been paid for five weeks in November,” Admissions Director Leslie Henderson told NBC10 Boston.
Workers described their checks bouncing.
“The city council needs to have an active role when we see these warning signs,” Durkan said.
Staff also tell NBC10 Boston that CEO Tony Francis’ salary increased significantly from $180,000.
“Our problem is is our administrator makes over $625,000 a year, yet he’s closing this building voluntarily because of financial distress,” Henderson said. “So the red flag is that he’s a crook. That’s the red flag. There’s no mortgage on the building.”
The nonprofit nursing home was donated to the community as a charitable entity. Staff will now look for new jobs as residents look for new homes.
“These are humans that we’re talking about, these are people’s homes that we’re talking about, and we need to do everything as a city, as a state, to make sure that we are protecting them,” Santana said.
In a statement to NBC10 Boston, Francis said the nursing home’s leadership “will assist residents and family members to ensure that all residents are transferred to a skilled nursing facility that meets both their own and their family’s needs.”
“Management will also assist staff in transitioning to positions elsewhere in the industry,” he added.
A young puppy that was recently found along an on-ramp heading toward Interstate 93 in Boston did not take long to find a new place to call home.Mike DeFina, media relations manager for the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said Sunday that the 10-week-old Chihuahua named Sparkle was first spotted about a week and a half ago.DeFina said person who lives at the Pine Street Inn saw Sparkle wandering the Neponset Circle area for a couple of days before they spotted the dog wandering up an on-ramp for the part of I-93 known as the Southeast Expressway.Given that Sparkle weighs just 3 pounds and is an all-black dog, it would have been very hard for drivers to spot her on the highway. The good Samaritan was able to scoop her up and brought her back to the Pine Street Inn, where the staff then took her to the ARL’s Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center.”With Sparkle, I think it’s always a wonderful thing to see people stopping what they’re doing and have the consideration and the compassion when they see an animal in need to take action and do something about it,” DeFina said. “That’s why Sparkle is here today. I think if she would have found her way onto the Expressway, the outcome for her probably would not have been good. So we really, really want to thank both the resident of Pine Street Inn and their staff for taking her off the street and bringing her to us.”DeFina said the ARL does not know exactly how Sparkle ended up near the highway or how long she had been living on the streets, but they believe she was likely abandoned.Sparkle was a bit frightened when she was brought to the ARL facility, had a bit of an abnormal gait and was on a seven-day stray weight, but she was determined to be in good overall health for her age, according to DeFina.DeFina said the ARL then contacted Boston Animal Control and other outlets that deal with lost animals, but no one stepped up to claim Sparkle as their dog. After doing the due diligence, the ARL put Sparkle up for adoption on Sunday — and that’s where Joe and Tesla Chafins come in.Joe Chafins works for the Pine Street Inn and one of his co-workers and friends had told him and his wife about how Sparkle was found by one of the center’s residents and that the dog would need a new home.”My birthday was Friday and we were just kind of celebrating my birthday and she started telling my wife and I the story, showing us some photos she had of her,” Chafins said. “We just heard the story and we’re like: ‘We’ve got to go meet her.’ So we’ve been trying to call since and they said she was here today, so we’re here to meet her and take her home.”The couple already has three cats, including one that they adopted from the ARL of Boston seven years ago, as well as a few lizards.”Our friends kind of make fun of us because we are huge animal lovers,” Tesla Chafins said.”We have a little bit of everything. We’ve got a zoo at home,” Joe Chafins said. “This will be our first dog, though, but we’re excited to take her and to give her the best life that we can possibly give her.”So thanks to the Pine Street Inn, ARL of Boston and Chafins family, Sparkle now has a new forever home.Related story:
A young puppy that was recently found along an on-ramp heading toward Interstate 93 in Boston did not take long to find a new place to call home.
Mike DeFina, media relations manager for the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said Sunday that the 10-week-old Chihuahua named Sparkle was first spotted about a week and a half ago.
DeFina said person who lives at the Pine Street Inn saw Sparkle wandering the Neponset Circle area for a couple of days before they spotted the dog wandering up an on-ramp for the part of I-93 known as the Southeast Expressway.
Given that Sparkle weighs just 3 pounds and is an all-black dog, it would have been very hard for drivers to spot her on the highway. The good Samaritan was able to scoop her up and brought her back to the Pine Street Inn, where the staff then took her to the ARL’s Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center.
“With Sparkle, I think it’s always a wonderful thing to see people stopping what they’re doing and have the consideration and the compassion when they see an animal in need to take action and do something about it,” DeFina said. “That’s why Sparkle is here today. I think if she would have found her way onto the Expressway, the outcome for her probably would not have been good. So we really, really want to thank both the resident of Pine Street Inn and their staff for taking her off the street and bringing her to us.”
DeFina said the ARL does not know exactly how Sparkle ended up near the highway or how long she had been living on the streets, but they believe she was likely abandoned.
Sparkle was a bit frightened when she was brought to the ARL facility, had a bit of an abnormal gait and was on a seven-day stray weight, but she was determined to be in good overall health for her age, according to DeFina.
DeFina said the ARL then contacted Boston Animal Control and other outlets that deal with lost animals, but no one stepped up to claim Sparkle as their dog. After doing the due diligence, the ARL put Sparkle up for adoption on Sunday — and that’s where Joe and Tesla Chafins come in.
Joe Chafins works for the Pine Street Inn and one of his co-workers and friends had told him and his wife about how Sparkle was found by one of the center’s residents and that the dog would need a new home.
“My birthday was Friday and we were just kind of celebrating my birthday and she started telling my wife and I the story, showing us some photos she had of her,” Chafins said. “We just heard the story and we’re like: ‘We’ve got to go meet her.’ So we’ve been trying to call since and they said she was here today, so we’re here to meet her and take her home.”
The couple already has three cats, including one that they adopted from the ARL of Boston seven years ago, as well as a few lizards.
“Our friends kind of make fun of us because we are huge animal lovers,” Tesla Chafins said.
“We have a little bit of everything. We’ve got a zoo at home,” Joe Chafins said. “This will be our first dog, though, but we’re excited to take her and to give her the best life that we can possibly give her.”
So thanks to the Pine Street Inn, ARL of Boston and Chafins family, Sparkle now has a new forever home.
Related story:
Massachusetts is a state that exudes elegance and sophistication, with its rich history, picturesque coastal towns, and vibrant urban centers. From the charming streets of Boston to the exclusive waterfront properties in Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, luxury real estate in Massachusetts offers a blend of classic New England charm and modern opulence.
In this Redfin article, we’ll unveil 5 of the most expensive homes for sale by Redfin, offering a glimpse into the epitome of luxury living in the Bay State.
1. Elegant Melrose residence
174 East Emerson St, Melrose, MA 02176
Listed by Nancy McLaughlin
Priced at $1,999,900
Step into the heart of Bellevue in Melrose, where this residence stands as a truly special offering. A gracious wraparound porch beckons, creating an inviting entry to this grand dame on a wide, tree-lined street.
Architectural elegance defines this home, with the foyer setting the tone for a unique experience only homes of this era can provide. French doors open to a fireplaced living room, while a home office and a stunning eat-in kitchen showcase the residence’s charm. The elegant dining room, with direct access to a screened-in porch, adds to the allure. The primary suite graces the second floor, featuring a sitting room or home gym, while the upper floor boasts a playroom unlike any other. Bonus features include an au pair or in-law suite, a game room, a luxurious inground heated pool, mature landscaping, an attached garage, and ample storage.
2. Sherborn Colonial charm
88 Hollis St, Sherborn, MA 01770
Listed by Robin Spangenberg
Priced at $1,600,000
Discover classic New England charm in this custom Colonial on 4.5 acres in Sherborn. This home boasts elegant design elements like 9′ ceilings, crown moldings, and cherry cabinetry. The main level flows seamlessly from the kitchen to the sunny breakfast room and fireside family room, ideal for entertaining. A main-level office adds convenience.
Upstairs, find 4 bedrooms, including a primary suite with a luxurious ensuite and a sitting room. The walk-out basement offers expansion potential, and a spacious patio provides serene views. Enjoy a 3-car garage and the lovely surroundings of this Sherborn gem.
3. Luxury loft living
717 Atlantic Ave Unit 2A, Boston, MA 02111
Listed by CJ Lee
Priced at $950,000
Experience urban living at its finest in this unique live and work loft in Boston’s Leather District. Perfect for the urban professional, this sun-filled corner unit boasts impressive city views from its dramatic arched windows. The open-plan layout features polished concrete floors, track lighting, and 12-foot high terracotta ceilings.
The kitchen is a culinary delight with stone counters, gas cooking, a custom sub-zero refrigerator, and an oversized island. The spa-like bathroom offers a jetted tub.
4. Spacious Colonial elegance
2 Parsons Ln, Manchester, MA 01944
Listed by Patricia Nunez
Priced at $1,199,900
Luxurious living awaits in this spacious 2,872 sf colonial featuring 4 beds and 3.5 baths. The primary suite, additional bedrooms, and family bath on the 2nd floor provide ample space. Oak hardwood floors grace the 1st floor, complementing the kitchen with a sizable island, dining room with a fireplace, and a living room with French doors leading to a spacious deck.
Enjoy the fenced yard with gardening and play areas. Situated on a conforming 25,400 sf lot on a dead-end road, this property offers expansion potential for a truly indulgent lifestyle.
5. City chic penthouse
15 Mossland St Unit C, Somerville, MA 02144
Listed by Nancy McLaughlin
Priced at $1,175,000
Indulge in city living with this spectacular penthouse in the heart of Porter Sq. Unit C at 15 Mossland St. surpasses new construction, offering designer finishes and exquisite décor.
This unique condo features soaring cathedral ceilings, nearly 13′ high, oversized windows, skylights, and a treetop feel in the midst of the city. Top highlights include a sleek chef’s kitchen with a breakfast bar, a primary en suite with a deck and Boston skyline view, luxurious bathrooms, and a fantastic living room with a gas fireplace.
Thinking about buying or selling a luxury home in Massachusetts?
Whether you’re in search of an upscale property in the Bay State, exploring the featured listings mentioned earlier, or contemplating the sale of your high-end residence, a Redfin Premier agent is ready to assist you throughout the entire process. Armed with extensive real estate knowledge and a profound understanding of the local market, your Premier agent serves as your indispensable partner in securing the best deal as a buyer or maximizing your profit as a seller of luxury real estate in Massachusetts.
In the third quarter of last year, the median sale price of a house in the United States had fallen from around $480,000 in the fourth quarter of 2022 to about $430,000.
But that statistic doesn’t tell the whole story about what you’ll find if you are looking to sell or buy. And as the saying goes, it’s all about location, location, location.
“I never dreamed I would spend this much for a house,” said Caitlin LaClair, a homeowner in Wayland, Massachusetts — a notably expensive housing market.
“And if I thought that I could, I would be living in some amazing mansion, but I just live in a normal house. It’s totally terrifying. Like, it keeps me up thinking about how high my house payments are.”
Click the player above to listen to her whole story.
Tell us your real estate or housing story using the form below, and you may be featured on a future edition of “Adventures in Housing.”
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Q: My sister and I inherited our father’s townhouse when he recently passed away. We get along OK, but not great. I think it would be a good idea to rent it out, but she is still not sure and may want to sell it instead. Do you have any advice on how to proceed? — Robert
A: You have several paths ahead of you. The best options involve you working together with your sister.
You can decide to cooperate to sell the property, or she may agree to rent it out. In either case, sit down together and work out a game plan.
If you are going to sell it, agree on the significant terms in advance. Decide who will take the lead with the real estate agent and deal with prospective buyers. Discuss how you will deal with expenses when selling the property, such as ongoing association dues and necessary repairs. The townhome will likely need to be spiffed up to get the best price, so decide who will work on that, too.
If you decide to keep and rent the property, you should agree to many of the same issues. Talking through the plan is a great start, but it is best to write things down. A lawyer can help you prepare a “joint-ownership agreement” and help you agree on how you will deal with owning a home together.
Besides dealing with the tenant and making repairs, try to work through the money issues like how rent will be collected and shared and how much to hold in reserve for maintenance. You should also discuss what will happen if one of you does not want to be a landlord anymore.
If more than one person owns real estate, any owner can force its sale even if the other owner wants to keep it. The easiest way to deal with this would be to buy your sister’s half from her. If necessary, you should be able to get a mortgage to buy her out.
If you cannot do this, cooperating with the process is likely in your best interest.
Push comes to shove, she can force the property’s sale by filing a “partition” lawsuit, causing legal expenses to eat up some of the proceeds.
Gary M. Singer is a Florida attorney and board-certified as an expert in real estate law by the Florida Bar. He practices real estate, business litigation and contract law from his office in Sunrise, Fla. He is the chairman of the Real Estate Section of the Broward County Bar Association and is a co-host of the weekly radio show Legal News and Review. He frequently consults on general real estate matters and trends in Florida with various companies across the nation. Send him questions online at www.sunsentinel.com/askpro or follow him on Twitter @GarySingerLaw.