Looking for that perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Purchasing a second home is not only an idyllic retreat but can be a very smart financial investment. What is the single most valuable consideration? Location, location, location. Think about how to combine your lifestyle preferences with a return on investment that maximizes your purchase. Also, when you buy in the right spot, you also gain the potential to earn rental income through services like Airbnb or VRBO when you are away.

In this blog post, we highlight five fabulous areas of Massachusetts to consider for your vacation home. Each of these unique destinations offer something special for vacationers from all over the country. Choosing to purchase in any of these stunning locations can offer you the future of your dreams.

Cape Cod

This world famous peninsula on the eastern edge of Massachusetts has long been the top choice for homeowners looking for a second home. Made up of charming village towns that each hold their own personality, Cape Cod offers unparalleled variety in location. Do you want a shorter commute from Boston? Look no further than idyllic towns like Falmouth, Sandwich or New Seabury. Want to be in the heart of it all? Barnstable and Hyannis, located in the center of the Cape, are known for their bustling harbors and downtown scene. Want to live near some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S.? Check out Chatham, Brewster or Provincetown. 

As such a popular tourist destination, the Cape can get very crowded in the summer. It’s best to do your research to find your ideal location, whether you desire a peaceful escape or a thriving downtown community.  Since Cape Cod is made up of such a large collection of seaside villages, it offers a diverse range of housing opportunities. No matter where you settle down, you can rest assured that you’ve made a smart financial investment when you purchase in Cape Cod.

---

Preparing to buy a first or second home? Read these other articles from our blog for more tips and insights.

• 5 Reasons To Hire A Local North of Boston Realtor
• 5 Things to Consider to Get Your Offer Accepted
• How to Maximize the Value of Your Home Purchase

---

The Berkshires

This stunning region in Western Massachusetts attracts visitors throughout the year, ranking high for an abundance of outdoor pursuits and a rich cultural scene. Wherever you choose to live in the Berkshires, you are seemingly surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery or bubbling brooks. This highland region of the Appalachian mountains offers year-round recreation like skiing, hiking, golfing and fishing. 

The Berkshires is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, from live stage productions to dance performances and live music shows. The crown jewel, Tanglewood, acts as the summer home of the Boston Pops. Surrounding towns offer quaint shops and delicious restaurants including many local spots that source directly from area farms. Visitors flock here from all over the nation and it’s even better to call the Berkshires home.

South Coast

If you are looking to avoid Cape Cod traffic in search of a slower pace of life, you may find your happy place along the shoreline of southern Massachusetts. Towns like Marion, Mattapoisett and South Dartmouth sit along the shores of Buzzards Bay, offering access to spots like Appongansett Bay and Clark’s Cove while showcasing unparalleled water views.

Located near the larger cities of New Bedford and Fall River, these oceanside towns offer a quiet escape while still being within commuting distance of Providence and Boston. While these quaint towns do grow in population over the summer, their relaxed way of life remains relatively untouched throughout the year. The Southeastern shore can be an enticing alternative to the bustle of Cape Cod and or the distance of the Islands.

The Islands

Perhaps no location is as sought after in the summer months than the glorious islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. While an island purchase may be your most expensive option, it would also likely be the highest return on your investment. There is also much debate about which island is superior and, if you ask local residents, you’re likely to get a passionate argument in favor of the idyllic island that they call home. 

Nantucket, one of the country’s first whaling ports, is proud of the historical preservation that has allowed it to retain its original charm. If you buy on Nantucket, you’ll likely need to abide by local zoning bylaws and building codes in order to help maintain its historical integrity. Once you step foot on Nantucket, with its charming cobblestone streets, neatly shingled homes and overflowing hydrangea bushes, you’ll understand why this island prides itself on its unmatched reputation.

Martha’s Vineyard offers a mix of seclusion and exclusivity that makes it one of the most sought after summer locales in the U.S.. Its reputation, delightful towns and stunning beaches make it one of the most lucrative real estate investments you can make. Downtown areas are filled with amazing dining and shopping options. As you drive further from its center, the island offers miles of pristine shoreline, rolling hills and steep cliffs. If you choose to buy on the island, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant cultural scene, proud neighbors and lasting natural beauty. 

---

Curious about year-round life in the Boston suburbs? These blogs are full of helpful insights.

• Work in Healthcare? Here’s Why Living in Winchester, MA is Perfect For You!
• What Are the Top North of Boston Suburbs?
• What Are the Best School Districts in Arlington, MA?

---

Cape Ann

Often called the “other” Cape in Massachusetts, Cape Ann offers more than you would expect. First off, should you choose to buy your vacation home in this idyllic area, you’ll enjoy a much shorter commute from Boston or New Hampshire. The MBTA commuter rail line even goes directly from North Station up to Rockport. You’ll also likely find seaside towns just as quaint and beautiful as Cape Cod villages, but with less crowds and less expense.

Cape Ann is home to the nation’s oldest working fish port and comprises several gorgeous seaside communities.  Explore the famous antique shops in Essex, visit the renowned Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea or get a lobster roll in the Bear’s Neck shopping district of Rockport. Gloucester is home to some of Cape Ann’s best beaches as well as the freshest seafood you can eat. They’re also home to the hit TV show, “Wicked Tuna.” Cape Ann may be the “other” Cape but it is also a hidden jewel for potential second home buyers.

Looking to purchase the perfect summer home in Massachuesetts? Discover Andersen Group Realty’s unparalleled buying and advisory services today. Click here to send us an email or call 781-729-2329 to get started.