Massachusetts Real Estate FAQs
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Does the sale/purchase become final when we signed the purchase and sale agreement?
Not yet. First, the terms of the purchase and sale agreement have to be performed by each of the seller and the buyer. The offer to purchase and/or the purchase and … more -
Why should I spend the money for a home inspection when my mortgage company is going to inspect the property?
According to one area broker/owner of a realty office, the chief confusion for consumers these days is that many believe an appraisal and a home inspection are the … more -
What happens if we can't get a mortgage after we've signed the agreement of sale and the inspections are completed?
The first step to homeownership should be to get preapproved (not just prequalified) in writing for a mortgage. As a buyer, it defines your price range and … more -
We're buying a "fixer-upper" and plan on having someone do extensive remodeling, is there anything we should keep in mind?
Massachusetts has very little in the way of protections against parties who buy "fixeruppers". We have a law that requires that there be smoke detectors installed … more -
What happens at the closing?
Massachusetts recognizes that lawyers and not closing companies or title companies are qualified to do real estate closings. Thus, in the vast majority of cases a … more -
What are comprehensive permits, and how are they used to create affordable housing?
A comprehensive permit is issued by a municipality to a developer who proposes to build housing in which at least 25% of the units are affordable to lowincome … more -
How does DHCD differ from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development?
DHCD is a state agency, and HUD is a federal agency. Both agencies are concerned with public and assisted housing as well as community development. In many instances, … more -
What resources are available to developers of affordable housing?
A variety of resources are available to stimulate the private production of affordable housing. These include the Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program, the HOME … more
