Opinion
Columnists, guest columns, op-eds and editorials published in Banker & Tradesman and its special sections.
Guest Columns and Op-Eds
From high officials to lone operators, read a diverse cross section of perspectives on the issues facing the Massachusetts real estate and banking industries today.
Pitches for op-eds and special section guest columns should be directed to managing editor James Sanna at jsanna@thewarrengroup.com.
Everett Sets a Standard for Housing Production
With persistent and overlapping issues of supply and affordability, it isn’t news to anyone that housing shortages are one of the key challenges facing cities and towns nationwide.
We Make a Direct Impact on Gateway Cities
The time has also come to think beyond these established metrics of success and ask another question: Can the real estate industry do more, more directly, for these communities?
Don’t Build ‘Freedom Cities’ in the Desert. Build on Post Offices
President-elect Donald Trump wants to open up federal land, possibly in the West, to housing construction. But there’s lots of underutilized land right here in Massachusetts.
Coming to a Backyard Near You: Accessory Dwelling Units
With communities’ history of opposition to housing in mind, MAR is extremely concerned about the ways in which municipalities may attempt to subvert the intent of this law.
A Pivotal Moment for Upgrading the Commuter Rail System
Massachusetts stands at a critical juncture for the future of its commuter rail system. Ridership has essentially recovered and a key decision is looming that could dramatically help lower traffic and produce more homes.
Unanswered Questions About Boston’s Article 80 Reform
Where does this leave modernization of Boston’s development reviews at the start of 2025? There is not a clear answer. And this fall’s elections could throw a spanner into the works.
The Most Important New Year’s Resolution You Need to Make and Keep
As we move into 2025, self-care needs to be more than just a resolution – it’s a necessity that should be your priority every day if you want to succeed in business.
Wall Street Investors Return to Boston Bidding Pool
Institutional investors returned to bidder pools for apartment complexes on the market in Greater Boston during 2024, resulting in more competitive sales processes and driving up prices.
‘Affordable Housing’ Has a Special Meaning in Mass.
Before joining the chorus of promoters of “affordable housing,” one might want to consider the meaning of that term, and its consequences.
Declining New Construction Has Driven Boston Apartment Pricing Higher
Greater Boston leaders should aim to make sure we have a real-time vacancy rate of at least 6 percent if they want to drive down rents. Lower affordability requirements can help.
Mass. Can Strengthen Section 8 to Expand Housing Access
Local housing authority policies are making a vital housing affordability tool far less effective than it should be, and hurt housing providers in the process.
The Counterintuitive Math that Unlocks New Possibilities
At first glance, the idea that two, plus two, equals five seems ridiculous. But sometimes, math isn’t just about numbers – it’s about people.
Scott Van Voorhis
Commercial Interests
Columnist Scott Van Voorhis analyzes the commercial real estate market, state politics, housing and more with the perspective of a journalist with 40 years’ experience covering businesses in Massachusetts.
Is Housing a Vulnerability for Wu? She Seems to Think So
With Boston’s mayor being challenged on her housing record, she seems to be trying to burnish her credentials by taking credit for homes permitted under her predecessors.
Beacon Hill Should Be Bargain-Hunting on Infrastructure Right Now
Amid a big drop-off in private-sector construction, a relatively booming public sector beckons for contractors seeking to stay afloat.
Healey’s Pro-Housing Nonprofit Seems to Rack Up Few Wins
The nonprofit Gov. Maura Healey formed to help fund pro-housing fights appears to be doing just enough to anger some local voters but only delivering modest financial support for its cause.
State Needs New MBTA Communities Strategy
The debacle in Needham last week should be a wake-up call for the Healey administration, which needs to reconsider its whole approach.
Lew Sichelman
The Housing Scene
Syndicated residential real estate columnist Lew Sichelman has been covering real estate for more than 50 years. He is a regular contributor to numerous shelter magazines and housing and housing-finance industry publications.
Finding Money to Rebuild After Disasters
Hurricanes, fires, floods: If you’re struck by one of these disasters, you’re going to need money. The good news is that there are numerous financial resources available.
Homebuyers’ Student Debt Issues Can Be Solved. Here’s Where to Start
Massive, often insurmountable amounts of student debt have prevented millions of otherwise qualified borrowers from obtaining financing to buy a house.
After Death or Divorce, What Happens to the House?
When a family member passes away, their loved ones sometimes become homeowners unexpectedly. In these situations, servicers are supposed to help, but some just steer borrowers into costly refinances.
Should Sellers Sign Long-Duration Listing Agreements?
The Department of Justice has warned buyers not to sign contracts binding them to the agent showing them houses. And maybe they shouldn’t. But what about sellers?