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
Massachusetts has one of the most expensive and competitive housing markets in the country, driven by a concentration of world-class universities, healthcare systems, and a thriving biotechnology and technology sector. The greater Boston area is the epicenter, where intense demand and limited supply have pushed prices to levels that challenge even high-income households. Western Massachusetts (Springfield, Northampton, the Berkshires) offers dramatically more affordable options, but with fewer employment opportunities. Massachusetts has strong tenant and buyer protections, and the state uses a unique system where some properties have registered land titles (Torrens system) that provide additional title certainty. An attorney is required at closing.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
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.
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Find a Real Estate Agent
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
Get a Home Inspection
Secure Your Financing
First-Time Buyer Programs in Massachusetts
MassHousing First-Time Homebuyer Program
Affordable mortgages with down payment assistance
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 |
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. |
