Andrew Mazur

Andrew Mazur

RealtorĀ® | DRE: 02224479

Specialties

Condominium, Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Multifamily

Education

Loyola University Maryland
About Andrew

Andrew spent the first part of his career managing condo and apartment buildings for premier property and asset management firms. He oversaw more than five hundred units throughout Cambridge, Somerville, South End, Beacon Hill, Back Bay and Brighton throughout due diligence, sale, management transition, renovation and re-lease up.


Today, Andrew services buyers, sellers, and investors with The Mazur Team in the Boston area and Mark Schwartz Elite Real Estate Group in San Diego California. Andrew is the bridge between these beautiful regions with their own unique, rich history and shared concentration of biotechnology and education institutions.


Andrew appreciates developing a strong relationship with his clients to assist and advise them on achieving their goals. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, relocating, or considering dipping your toes into real estate investing, Andrew brings a wide breadth of resources and a sense of calm to the ever-evolving market conditions.

Spotlight

Cambridge’s Zoning Reform: What It Means for Housing (and What Austin Can Teach Us)

Cambridge, has just taken a bold step to combat its housing crisis. By eliminating single-family-only zoning and allowing multifamily housing citywide, the city aims to expand its housing supply and improve affordability.

This move echoes recent reforms in cities like Austin, which offers valuable insights into what Cambridge can expect.

What’s Changing in Cambridge?

Many cities and towns have exclusionary zoning laws, restricting land use in large portions of the city, limiting new housing supply in high-demand markets. Cambridge's new zoning policies aim to fix that by:

•Allowing multifamily buildings citywide — property owners can now build up to four units by right on lots that were previously restricted to single-family or two-family homes. 

•Raising building heights — Most residential areas can now have up to four-story buildings, or six stories if affordable units are included.

•Incentivizing affordability — Projects with 10+ units still must set aside 20% as affordable housing. Developments that include the required 20% affordable units can build up to six stories (74 feet) instead of the standard four-story (45 feet) limit providing developers with clear incentive to include affordable units in their plans.

•Eliminating density limits — Developers can build more units within a given space.

•Removing parking mandates — Lowering development costs and encouraging walkability.

The goal? Boost housing supply to help stabilize Cambridge’s rising home prices and rents.

Austin’s Housing Boom: A Preview for Cambridge?

Austin recently adopted similar zoning reforms — and the results have been impressive.

In 2023, Austin approved changes allowing up to three units per lot and reduced the minimum lot size from 5,750 sq ft to 1,800 sq ft. These moves unlocked thousands of new development opportunities.

The impact was swift:

•Rents dropped 22% from their peak in mid-2023.

•Nearly 50,000 new rental units were added in just two years, expanding supply by 14%.

•Home prices fell 10% in 2023, stabilizing after years of steep increases.

Austin’s rapid growth offers a clear lesson: More homes = less pressure on prices.

Can Cambridge Expect the Same?

Cambridge’s reforms are even more ambitious than Austin’s — with taller buildings permitted and greater density encouraged. Given the city’s intense demand (fueled by tech jobs, universities, and limited land), these changes could unlock thousands of new homes.

Like Austin, Cambridge’s success will depend on how quickly developers respond. If enough new housing comes online, prices should stabilize, and rents may even decline — especially for smaller, mid-priced units.


Balancing Growth with Affordability

Critics of Cambridge’s zoning overhaul worry about gentrification and displacement. However, Cambridge’s inclusionary zoning requires developers to include affordable units in larger projects, ensuring a steady pipeline of below-market housing.

Austin’s experience shows that pairing zoning reform with affordability incentives can create new housing without overwhelming communities.

The Bottom Line

Cambridge’s zoning reform is a bold attempt to ease the city’s housing crisis. By following Austin’s lead — expanding housing options, encouraging density, and reducing development barriers — Cambridge is poised to increase supply and improve affordability.

While these changes won’t bring overnight rent cuts, Austin’s success shows that strategic zoning reforms can slow price growth, stabilize rents, and create more housing choices. If Cambridge achieves similar results, it could become a model for other cities seeking to unlock growth while keeping their communities livable and accessible.

Spotlight

Understanding the Massachusetts MBTA Communities Law

The MBTA Communities Law is a recent housing initiative that requires cities and towns served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to create zoning districts that allow multifamily development near public transit. The goal is to encourage smarter growth patterns, reduce reliance on cars, and address the state’s housing shortage by increasing the supply of transit-oriented, multifamily units.


Implementation and Requirements

Under this law, each affected city and town must ensure that a designated zoning district allows multifamily housing ā€œas of rightā€ (meaning no special permit is needed). These districts must meet specific density and size requirements set by the state, typically within a half-mile radius of a transit station. Municipalities that fail to comply risk losing access to certain state funds and grants.


Impact on the Real Estate Market

By expanding zoning for higher-density housing, the MBTA Communities Law is sparking a wave of new development opportunities. Developers are eyeing areas near train, subway, or bus stations for multifamily projects, and property owners in those neighborhoods may benefit from rising land values. At the same time, increased housing supply could eventually help moderate soaring home prices and rental rates which is especially critical in Boston’s tight market.


What to Watch Going Forward

Local Revisions: Towns and cities may need to amend existing zoning codes, which can lead to debates over building heights, parking requirements, and preserving neighborhood character.

Infrastructure Demands: As more people move closer to transit, demand for improved public transportation, walkability, and amenities will grow. One thing to watch will be how this new wave of housing will create greater accessibly to some of Massachusetts and the country's best public school systems.

Market Shifts: While more housing could ease shortages, it also creates competition for existing homes in these commuter neighborhoods.


The MBTA Communities Law will take some time to be implemented and see results. Overall, it geared to create a balanced approach to housing, sustainability, and economic growth. Do you think this will create positive growth in the Commonwealth?

Check out more updates and details here!

Understanding the Massachusetts MBTA Communities Law
Spotlight

Bunker Hill Housing Redevelopment Plan: Transforming Charlestown’s Future

The Bunker Hill Housing Redevelopment Plan is set to reshape Charlestown, one of Boston’s historic neighborhoods. This ambitious project focuses on replacing the aging Bunker Hill public housing project with modern, mixed use and mixed-income residences, along with enhanced green spaces, improved infrastructure, and new community facilities. By blending housing with retail and recreational opportunities, the redevelopment aims to create a more vibrant, inclusive environment for current and future residents.

What to Expect

Multi-Phase Construction

Preliminary site work began in 2022, with full-scale construction on the first phase ramping up starting in 2023 and into 2024. The project is completing building M and expecting move-ins to begin in the coming months! Because this is a long-term, multi-phase effort, full completion may extend up to a decade. Delays aren't uncommon in large scale development like this. 

The project’s official website provides regular news, including construction timelines, community event announcements, and any expected road closures or traffic changes. Staying informed through these updates ensures residents and stakeholders can anticipate any short-term disruptions and track overall progress.

Community-Centered Design

Updated streetscapes, walkable paths, and public gathering spots will continue to enhance Charlestown’s charm and livability.

Economic & Social Benefits

New retail options, job opportunities, and diverse housing choices are expected to attract buyers, sellers, and investors looking to tap into Charlestown’s growth.

Where Housing Values May Rise

Immediate Vicinity of the Complex

Properties nearest to the redevelopment site could see heightened demand as new housing and amenities come online.

Main Transit Corridors

Easy access to public transportation and improved infrastructure often leads to stronger property values.

Adjacent Residential Blocks

Bordering streets may see strong appreciation as the neighborhood is revitalized and will have easy access to new amenities with more curb appeal.

Charlestown Waterfront & Navy Yard

Already popular for its waterfront appeal, this area could see even more competition and value growth.

Historic Center Near Bunker Hill Monument

Limited inventory and renewed interest may boost premiums for historic homes.

As these phases unfold, expect increased buyer interest in this already hot neighborhood, potential property value appreciation, and an ever-evolving Charlestown real estate market. If you have questions about buying, selling, or investing in this dynamic area, reach out—we’re here to help you navigate these exciting changes.

Bunker Hill Housing Redevelopment Plan: Transforming Charlestown’s Future
Spotlight

Navigating Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your Home: Understanding the Section 121 Exclusion

Selling your primary residence can be a bittersweet experience, often marking a new chapter in life. While excitement for the future may fill the air, and you are excited you just hired me to get the most value out of your home, the thought of capital gains tax can dampen the mood. Thankfully, the Section 121 exclusion offers a valuable shield for homeowners, potentially reducing their tax burden.


What is the Section 121 Exclusion?


In simple terms, the Section 121 exclusion allows homeowners to exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains from their taxable income when selling their main home. Married couples filing jointly can double that amount, excluding up to $500,000 in gains. This essentially means a significant portion of your profit escapes taxation, boosting your net proceeds.

Qualifying for the Exclusion:


While the exclusion offers a welcome tax break, it comes with specific requirements:


  • Ownership and Use Test: You must have owned and used the property as your primary residence for at least 2 out of the past 5 years before the sale date. This means the property served as your principal place of abode, not a vacation home or investment property.

  • Lifetime Exclusion: You can only use the exclusion once in your lifetime, regardless of your marital status. However, if you're married and filing jointly, your spouse may also qualify for their own exclusion if they haven't previously used it.


Important Considerations:


  • Partial Use: If you rented out a portion of your home, only the gain attributable to the non-rented portion is eligible for the exclusion. You'll need to calculate the gain accordingly.

  • Record keeping: Meticulously document your ownership and residency timeline to ensure you meet the requirements. Keep closing documents, tax returns, and other relevant paperwork readily available.

  • Seeking Professional Advice: Navigating tax implications can be complex. Consult a qualified tax professional to confirm your eligibility, understand potential limitations, and optimize your tax strategy.


The Takeaway:


Selling your home is a significant financial decision, and understanding capital gains tax implications is crucial. The Section 121 exclusion offers a valuable tax break for qualified homeowners, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. You should consider talking to a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.


By staying informed and seeking professional advice, you can ensure a smooth and financially advantageous home sale experience. Let the excitement of your new chapter shine through without unnecessary tax burdens!
Navigating Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your Home: Understanding the Section 121 Exclusion

Andrew Mazur’s Transactions

Past Sales
a front view of a house with a yard and potted plants

$1,839,000

Bedrooms
5
Bathrooms
4
Square Feet
4,350
Acres
0.36
a front view of a house with garden

$1,794,000

Bedrooms
4
Bathrooms
4
Square Feet
3,556
a front view of a house with garden

$1,550,000

Bedrooms
3
Bathrooms
3
Square Feet
3,214
Acres
0.55
$1,385,000 | 321 North Road, Bedford, MA 01730

$1,385,000

Bedrooms
5
Bathrooms
3
Square Feet
2,860
Acres
2.62
a front view of a house with a sitting area

$1,250,000

Bedrooms
4
Bathrooms
2
Square Feet
1,749
Acres
0.11
$1,248,000 | 3 School Avenue, Unit 2, Waltham, MA 02453

$1,248,000

Bedrooms
4
Bathrooms
4
Square Feet
3,010
a front view of a house with a garden

$717,000

Bedrooms
3
Bathrooms
1
Square Feet
1,023
Past Rentals
$3,995 | 12 Princeton Street, Unit 12, Medford, MA 02155

$3,995

Bedrooms
2
Bathrooms
3