What to Expect in the Pioneer Valley and Hilltowns of Western Mass

For the Love of Farmhouses and Antique Homes

Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts are known for their historic farmhouses and antique homes. Many date back to the 1700s and 1800s and offer character and craftsmanship that modern homes rarely [...]

In Franklin County, a simple idea is creating a powerful ripple effect: bring people together, pool resources, and make meaningful, immediate impacts on local nonprofits. That’s exactly [...]

The Berkshire Highlands Pentathlon returns to Berkshire East Mountain Resort on Saturday, March 28, 2026, inviting runners, riders, paddlers, and skiers—as well as volunteers—to spend a full day playing outside for a good [...]

Massachusetts Maple Weekend returns on Saturday and Sunday, March 7–8, 2026, offering a sweet opportunity to explore working sugarhouses, learn how maple syrup is made, and bring home bottles of pure, locally produced maple goodness. In Franklin County, several family-run operations will welcome visitors for tours, tastings, and farm-fresh [...]

Tucked into the rolling hills of Western Massachusetts, the rural communities offer a lifestyle that feels worlds away from the pace of city living. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway, a seasonal escape, or a future retirement retreat, buying a second home in the Hilltowns provides scenic beauty, rural character, and a strong [...]

Franklin County offers plenty of ways for families to enjoy winter during school vacation week, from days on the slopes to indoor play, skating, and quiet walks in the woods. 

Hit the slopes at Berkshire East

Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont remains one of the region’s go-to winter destinations, with multiple lifts and a variety [...]

There are more homes for sale than there’s been in years.. But what you need to remember is, even with that shift, there’s still plenty of opportunity to be had if you’re thinking about selling – whether that’s next month or later this year. You just need to stay up to date on what’s happening in the market, and have a strategy that matches [...]

Here’s What’s Ahead in Real Estate for 2026

As the calendar turns and we step into 2026, I want to extend warm wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.

Looking back, 2025 was a solid year for real estate in the Pioneer Valley Region of Western Massachusetts. We continued to see strong interest from both local and out-of-state [...]

Franklin County CiderDays returns for its 31st anniversary from October 31 through November 2, 2025, offering a robust celebration of everything apple throughout western Massachusetts. This annual tradition attracts cider enthusiasts, families, and newcomers alike to the picturesque “413” region for an unforgettable autumn weekend filled [...]

Community Action Pioneer Valley (CAPV) stands as a central force for positive change in the Franklin and Hampshire Counties and the North Quabbin region of western Massachusetts. Founded on a mission to assist people with low incomes in achieving stability and security, CAPV ensures that everyone in the Pioneer Valley community has the [...]