How to Buy a House in Massachusetts
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$685,886
Closing Costs
$15,995
2.33% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.97%
$5,361/yr median
Days on Market
28
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
0.456%
$2.28 per $500
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Key Facts About Buying in Massachusetts
- ✓Attorney required at closing
- ✓Very competitive and fast-moving market
- ✓Strong $500,000 homestead exemption
- ✓Non-judicial foreclosure despite attorney closing requirement
The Home Buying Process in Massachusetts
Buying a home in Massachusetts follows a 10-step process. As an attorney state, you'll need legal representation at closing.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in Massachusetts
MassHousing First-Time Homebuyer Program
Affordable mortgages with down payment assistance
Up to $50,000 in assistance (ONE Mortgage program)Income: Varies by city/town
Cost of Buying a Home in Massachusetts
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $24,006 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $137,177 |
| Average Closing Costs | $15,995 |
| Transfer Tax | $3,128 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $6,653/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in Massachusetts
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $500,000
Licensing Authority
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers
Massachusetts Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Quitclaim deed |
| Security Instrument | Mortgage |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | Yes |
| Deficiency Judgment | Yes |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | Massachusetts follows caveat emptor; however, sellers must disclose lead paint (for pre-1978 homes) and provide septic-system inspection results. Fraud and misrepresentation are prohibited. |
