When selling a home in Massachusetts, you have the option to hire an attorney. While this is common for buyers as well, there are a few reasons why we recommend legal representation for sellers. Deed Preparation In Massachusetts, sellers are required to draft the deed that transfers ownership from seller to buyer. Though closing attorneys typically offer this service, it would …
Buying Your First Home and What to Expect
Many people enter the purchase of a home process with both excitement and trepidation. It is helpful and reassuring to know what to expect as go through the process in terms of expenses and the process. What is Included in the Closing Cost Closing costs generally cover the following services: Attorney’s fees (yours and your lender’s if applicable) Title insurance …
Is It Time to Refinance Your Home?
Homeowners who bought their home when mortgage rates were low may have no interest in refinancing their present loan. However, if you bought your home when rates were higher or have an adjustable rate loan you should consider refinancing to a loan that has more favorable terms and lower interest rates. Refinancing is similar to the process you went through …
Real Estate Terminology and Transactions: Do I Need a Lawyer?
Real Estate has a language all its own just an in many other industries. This language can be both confusing and intimidating. The following are some basic terms used when listing your home for sale or when you are in the market to purchase a home in Massachusetts. Listing agreement – the contract that’s signed between a person selling a …
2016 Updated FHA Loan Limits For Melrose MA
FHA adjusts their loan limits on an annual basis. If you are purchasing a property this season and would like to to use an FHA loan, it is essential to be familiar with the applicable limits and how they can fluctuate. The good news is, in many communities, the limits have gone up to reflect increasing property values. Below is …
MA Home Sale Closing Procedures
Every home buyer and home seller knows that a closing is basically the last step in the real estate process. It is often a day of both nervousness and excitement. There are critical tasks and milestones leading up to the big day. Below are a few of the important steps for MA home sale closing procedures. Clear to Close Although a buyer …
Bedroom Count in MA Homes for Sale
Everyone knows that the number of bedrooms in a home will affect its price. Sellers will naturally want to maximize that bedroom count. However, it is important to avoid some common mistakes when it comes to bedroom count in MA homes for sale. What Makes a Bedroom Simply adding a closet to a room will not make it a bedroom. First …
MA Neighbor Property Line Disputes
Disputes between neighbors can be extremely stressful. There’s nothing like going to war with someone who lives right next door and who you may see every single day. Your home should be a peaceful and happy place, so it is important to avoid disputes whenever possible. Here are a few ways that you can avoid MA neighbor property line disputes. …
MA Law on Rental Security Deposits
If you are a landlord or renter in Massachusetts, it is important to know the law when it comes to security deposits. Massachusetts law requires deposits to be handled in a specific manner. Here is an overview of the MA law on rental security deposits. What Are Rental Security Deposits Security deposits are usually required by landlords in Massachusetts. Deposits are …
MA Bill to Clear Title on Foreclosed Properties
On December 31, 2015, a MA bill to clear title on foreclosed properties was signed into law. This is great news for anyone who may have purchased a property that was previously foreclosed. Below, we provide some helpful information to understand the details of this law, its impact, and why it’s needed. The Foreclosure Title Issue It is common for mortgages to …