Bedford, New Hampshire, is situated in Hillsborough County, just outside of Manchester. The southeastern New Hampshire town has a modest population of around 23,000 but is growing due to its proximity to Manchester and being just 50 miles from Boston. The family-friendly town is dotted with all the amenities you’ll need but keeps a suburban feel with plenty of parks.
Overall, Bedford real estate is a great investment opportunity, and Angela Sullivan stands ready to help you navigate the changing market
A great location for families
Bedford is perfect for families. Almost half the households in town have children under 18. The highly educated population also values schools for their children. The number of people with bachelor’s degrees is above the national average, and a quarter of the population has a master’s degree or higher (compared to 13% nationally).
There are six highly rated schools in Bedford, including Memorial Elementary School, Peter Woodbury Elementary School, Riddle Brook Elementary, McKelvie Intermediate School, Ross A. Lurgio Middle School, and Bedford High School. For families, finding a home that provides top-notch educational opportunities for children is always a high priority. Bedford checks these boxes.
In addition to the highly rated school system, there are a number of family-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy Mel’s Funway Park for go-karts, batting cages, mini golf, arcades, and laser tag. Nearby Manchester also has plenty of family-friendly activities, including Livingston Park, a minor league baseball stadium, museums, and more.
A natural treasure
Along with great amenities and facilities, Bedford is visually stunning as well. The Lower Merrimack River spans 15 miles along the Bedford/Merrimack town line. The picturesque views allow for some truly stunning properties on the east side of town.
In addition, the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area is a 338-acre natural treasurer perfect for nature lovers. The area is known as “Bedford’s Natural Treasure.” A few of the most visited attractions in the conservation area are Pulpit Rock, Pulpit Brook, multiple waterfalls, and Indian Rock, as well as wildlife habitats like beaver lodges and wetlands. Hikers of all comfort levels will find trails on the sprawling property.
Changing market conditions
Like most other real estate markets in the country right now, market conditions are changing in Bedford. Overall, home sales are down 10% across the state compared to Fall 2021, and homes are staying on the market longer before selling. However, home prices are still up. The median home price in New Hampshire was $426,000 in October 2022, up 12% compared to October 2021.
In Hillsborough County, the statistics are even more pronounced. Closed sales were down 32% in October 2022 compared to the same time last year, and days on the market have decreased by 4.8%. In the sought-after area, the average home price was $440,000 in October 2022, an increase of almost 10% over the last year. The average list price in Bedford is above $700,000 as of October 2022.
Increasing mortgage rates are no doubt affecting these trends. However, for qualified buyers, Bedford real estate remains a good investment, and now may be the right time to buy. These changing market conditions favor the buyer as homes sit longer on the market, giving buyers more negotiating power. With the median home prices continuing to increase, it’s still a great time to buy in Bedford.
Bedford homes for sale
Home buyers looking in Bedford will be delighted by a number of sprawling and beautiful properties. The homes in Bedford offer spacious floor plans and large lots.
Many of the homes in Bedford are in the beautiful Colonial style typical of New England. That does not mean that they are dated, however, with many high-end properties in the area. There are plenty of contemporary designs as well as beautiful New England farmhouses.
The town is comprised of three main neighborhoods: Northeast Bedford, River Corridor, and Bedford Center. River Corridor is the most sought-after neighborhood featuring stunning properties along the Lower Merrimack River.
Bedford is known for being quiet and idyllic and is home to many luxury properties. For the high-end buyer, there are plenty of million-dollar properties that marry the scenic beauty of New Hampshire with a sprawling, luxurious home.
There are relatively few houses on the market in Bedford. While homes are staying on the market a little longer these days, buyers will need a knowledgeable and well-qualified real estate agent to help them land a property in this coveted town.
Ready to buy in Bedford?
If a quiet and charming town conveniently located near major cities like Manchester and Boston sounds appealing, then Bedford could be right for you! The great schools and affluent population are perfect to raise your family in, and New England’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s a wonderful place full of enjoyable amenities.
Are you convinced but unsure of the current market with changing mortgage rates and uncertainty? Real estate, particularly in Bedford, is still a great investment, and getting help from a professional in the field can make the process go smoothly. Contact an expert agent like Angela Sullivan to make your Bedford dreams a reality!