State DOR Update: Withholding Rules for Massachusetts Real Estate Sales of $1 Million or More
Massachusetts has adopted new withholding and filing requirements for certain real estate sales involving non-resident sellers. For transactions with a gross sales price of $1 million or more, buyers and other withholding agents may now need to submit forms and withhold a portion of the proceeds at closing.
The...
What Happens If a Title Problem Is Discovered Before or After Closing in Massachusetts?
Title problems can delay a closing, change deal terms, or, in some cases, stop the transaction altogether. If an issue is discovered after closing, it may affect ownership rights, marketability, or your ability to refinance or sell, depending on the defect and whether title insurance applies.
What Is...Easements, Rights of Way, and Shared Driveways in Massachusetts: What Homeowners Need to Know
Easements, rights of way, and shared driveways give someone the legal ability to use part of another person’s property for a specific purpose. If you own property in Massachusetts or plan to buy or sell, these rights can affect access, maintenance costs, and even property value.
What Is...Buying a Home With a Partner or Family Member in Massachusetts: How to Structure Ownership
When you buy a home with a partner or family member in Massachusetts, you must decide how you will legally hold title. Most co-owners choose either joint tenancy or tenancy in common, and that choice determines what happens if someone dies, breaks up, or wants to sell. The wording on your deed...
Avoiding Legal Pitfalls in Massachusetts Real Estate Deals
Real estate transactions in Massachusetts can stall or fall apart when common legal issues go unnoticed. Title defects, financing delays, boundary questions, and inspection disputes are among the problems that most often disrupt closings. With early planning and careful review, many of these issues can be identified and addressed before they delay...
What Every Landlord Should Know About Tenant Rights in 2026
In 2026, enforcement remains active, tenant advocacy continues to shape litigation, and courts still expect strict compliance. Landlords must follow strict rules for security deposits, adhere to procedural requirements before and during evictions, and communicate clearly about rent increases. These obligations affect not only day-to-day property management but also broader business planning,...
Condo Living and the Law: What Massachusetts Unit Owners Should Know
Massachusetts condo owners must follow the community’s bylaws, pay required fees, and comply with rules that govern common areas, while also having clear rights to fair enforcement, financial transparency, and participation in major decisions. Understanding how associations handle repairs, special assessments, and disputes helps you protect your investment and respond confidently when...
Why Is Title Insurance Important?
Buying real estate is one of the most significant financial decisions many people make, but property ownership can come with hidden risks. Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from losses tied to defects in the property’s title, including undisclosed liens, filing errors, or ownership disputes that could threaten ownership rights. Understanding how...
Why Is My Home Inspection Taking So Long?
Buying or selling a home in Massachusetts is a significant step, and the home inspection is one of the most important parts of the process. It helps buyers understand the condition of the property and gives sellers the opportunity to address issues before closing. Still, many people are surprised when the inspection...
Why Do I Need a Title Review?
Buying or selling a home in Massachusetts is one of the biggest financial decisions most of us will make. While many people focus on inspections, financing, and closing dates, one of the most important steps in the process is often overlooked: the title review. A clear title protects your rights as an...