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Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

How affordability challenges and shifting demographics are reshaping homeownership

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time buyers make up only 24% of the market. This generational shift isn’t just a national trend — it’s reshaping local markets, too. Let’s explore why fewer young buyers are entering the game and what it means for buyers, sellers, and lenders alike.

The Shrinking First-Time Buyer Pool

In 2010, first-time buyers represented half the housing market. By 2024, that number dropped to less than a quarter. It’s not because younger generations don’t want to buy — surveys show they do — but the financial barriers are higher than ever.

For Massachusetts and New Hampshire buyers, the challenge is particularly acute. Both states rank among the nation’s most expensive housing markets, with limited inventory and bidding wars still common in desirable areas. That leaves many would-be buyers sidelined, even when mortgage rates dip slightly.

Why It’s Harder Than Ever

Income vs. Home Prices

The income needed to buy a median-priced home has soared to over $126,000 a year, nearly 60% higher than in 2021. Meanwhile, household incomes in the region have barely budged. That mismatch has locked many younger buyers out of the market.

Rising Debt Loads

Millennials and Gen Z carry heavy financial baggage, from student loans to credit card balances. With Gen Z’s average personal debt topping $94,000, saving for a down payment feels more like a marathon than a sprint.

Limited Starter Homes

Entry-level homes — once the natural first step into ownership — are scarce. Many builders in New England focus on higher-margin luxury units, while affordable starter homes are either aging or quickly snapped up.

Demographic Shifts

Younger generations are delaying marriage, children, and long-term settling, which historically drove first-home purchases. Add in higher rent burdens and inflation, and the dream of ownership is being pushed later into life.

What This Means for Sellers

If you’re selling in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, this trend could mean fewer young families competing for your property. That may soften demand in some price brackets, especially for entry-level homes. On the flip side, it also means that when younger buyers do show up, they’re highly motivated — and often well-prepared with family support, FHA financing, or cash gifts.

What This Means for Lenders

Lenders can’t assume yesterday’s products will work for today’s market. Winning over first-time buyers requires:

  • FHA and low down payment options to lower the entry barrier
  • Alternative credit scoring (including rental and utility history) to qualify more applicants
  • Digital-first lending to meet younger buyers where they are
  • Educational resources to guide cautious, debt-burdened buyers through the process

The lenders who succeed won’t just hand out mortgages — they’ll provide tools, trust, and guidance.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re a first-time buyer in MA or NH, you’re not alone in feeling like the deck is stacked against you. But there are pathways forward:

  • Explore FHA or MassHousing programs that reduce down payment hurdles
  • Work with a closing attorney early to understand costs and risks
  • Consider expanding your search beyond major metros into more affordable towns or suburbs

Final Word

The shrinking pool of first-time buyers isn’t just a statistic — it’s a reality that shapes how homes are bought, sold, and financed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. For buyers, it means persistence and planning. For sellers, it means understanding who your likely buyers really are. And for lenders, it means rethinking old playbooks to stay relevant.

At The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C., we help buyers, sellers, and lenders adapt to today’s challenges and keep closings on track.

Ready to navigate the new landscape? Contact us today

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“I would highly recommend David as a closing attorney. I have known David and have been using his office for many years. David’s professionalism when dealing with me, my closing department and most especially my clients has been always exemplary.”
DAVID BREMER

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SHAMROCK FINANCIAL SERVICES

“The Law Office of Attorney David R. Rocheford, Jr. is by far the most exceptional real estate law office that I have had the pleasure of working with. The professionalism is by far second to none.”
JACQUI KEOGH

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SALEM FIVE MORTGAGE SERVICES

“Attorney David Rocheford has provided settlement and title services for me and Greenpark Mortgage several years. He has assisted all of my clients, including my family and friends with mortgage closings. Always providing excellent service. Reliable and trustworthy!”
SANDRA MALDONADO

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Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time...

Federal Eyes on Real Estate: A 4-Part Insider’s Guide for Buyers and Sellers

Federal Eyes on Real Estate: A 4-Part Insider’s Guide for Buyers and Sellers

Federal Eyes on Real Estate:

A 4-Part Insider’s Guide for Buyers and Sellers

We are pulling back the curtain on how — and why — federal agencies like FinCEN, the FBI, Homeland Security, IRS-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), and CFIUS monitor real estate transactions in the U.S.

Whether you’re buying with cash, investing from abroad, transferring property to a family member, or just trying to close without a headache, you’ll want to know what can trigger federal scrutiny — and how to stay off the radar.

From flagged wire transfers and shell companies to gift-of-equity sales and land near military zones, this isn’t your average title-and-keys situation.

It’s real estate with a side of national security, tax enforcement, and financial crime prevention.

4-Part Series

PART 1

Is Big Brother Watching Your Home Sale?

fbi office

What Buyers and Sellers Should Know About Federal Oversight

You’re Not Paranoid — They Might Actually Be Watching
What you didn’t know on how federal agencies keep tabs on select real estate transactions.

PART 2

Your Closing Packet Could Be a Federal File

homeland security paperwork

How Your Paper Trail Might Raise Red Flags — And What You Can Do About It

What the FBI, IRS, and Homeland Security
Could See in Your Closing Docs
We’re unpacking what agencies might spot inside your deal’s fine print.

PART 3

Caught in the Crosshairs? What Triggers Federal Interest in Your Home Sale

cross hairs

The Top Red Flags That Could Invite a Closer Look from Washington

Cash, LLCs, or Land Near a Base? You Might Just Be a Target
The warning signs that put your deal on the government’s radar — and how to stay clear.

PART 4

Follow the Money: How the IRS Tracks Financial Crimes Through Real Estate

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From Unreported Income to Shell Game Schemes
— What IRS-CI Is Looking For

Your Closing Could Be an Audit Trigger — Here’s How the IRS Sees It
Explore the patterns, documents, and loopholes that turn ordinary deals into criminal cases.

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“As a realtor, the Rocheford team went above and beyond to make sure my client was not only protected from a legal standpoint but also operated in a timely manner to execute the sale of my client’s dream home.

Thank you for the great experience for myself and my client! Looking forward to our next deal together!”

Viktor Ryan

Realtor®

“I don’t usually use attorneys that often. But if an attorney is needed, I couldn’t recommend this law office enough. I always pride myself on responding quickly to emails and calls, but I was in awe of how fast paralegal Robert Heckman would respond to us. We sold our house a couple months ago and then did a two-part land swap with neighbors and my folks, and both transactions were seamless, including coming in to sign paperwork.

In short, if you need a law office that is responsive and attentive to detail, definitely consider them!”

John P.

Leominster, MA

“Excellent, conscientious and professional.

The communication throughout our Real Estate transaction was better than expected. We thought the fee to be very reasonable considering the work accomplished on our behalf. The law office handled the entire closing without us having to be in attendance….as we requested. I have had experience with very competent lawyers and law firms as the result of my previous profession. I would place this law office right up there among the best in their real estate field of expertise and surprisingly at very reasonable and affordable rates/fees.”

Tom M.

Buzzards Bay, MA

Recent News

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

First-time buyers now account for 58% of agency purchase lending, and Gen Z makes up a growing 25% of those loans. But winning their business requires a fresh approach: digital-first experiences, alternative credit scoring, and tailored loan products. For mortgage...

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

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Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time...

Understanding Transfer Taxes (Tax Stamps) in Massachusetts

Understanding Transfer Taxes (Tax Stamps) in Massachusetts

Understanding Transfer Taxes (Tax Stamps) in Massachusetts

Massachusetts home sale paperwork including transfer tax terms and contract clauses.

When it comes to selling real estate in Massachusetts, one fee tends to catch sellers off guard: transfer taxes, also known as real estate tax stamps. At The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C., we get a lot of questions about these costs — and we’re here to make sure you (and your clients) understand what to expect.

Who Pays the Transfer Tax in Massachusetts?

In nearly all cases, the seller is responsible for paying the transfer tax. However, during the negotiation process, the parties can agree to split the fee — or shift it entirely to the buyer. Like most things in real estate: it’s all negotiable.

How Much Is It? 

The current transfer tax rate is $2.28 per $500 of the property’s sale price — that’s $4.56 per $1,000. This fee is paid to the state by purchasing tax stamps from the Registry of Deeds when the new deed is recorded.

Example: On a $500,000 home sale, the transfer tax would be $2,280.

You can review current rates and exemptions on the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website.

Massachusetts home sale paperwork including transfer tax terms and contract clauses.

Is It Deductible? 

Not exactly — transfer taxes are not tax-deductible on your income tax return. However, they do get added to the cost basis of the property, which may reduce your capital gains tax when the property is sold in the future.

Who’s Exempt? 

Some nonprofit organizations and federal agencies are exempt. Veterans Affairs (VA) and HUD transactions, for example, often qualify for exemption — but always confirm with the Registry and your closing attorney.

Additional Notes: 

  • The tax applies to any sale over $100.
  • The tax is separate from municipal excise taxes or local fees (if applicable).
  • The stamps are literally affixed to the deed — old school, but legally required.
Massachusetts home sale paperwork including transfer tax terms and contract clauses.

Small details. Big difference.

Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding transfer taxes is a small detail that can make a big difference at the closing table. We help our clients plan ahead and avoid last-minute surprises every step of the way.

REFERENCES

Contact

(255) 352-6258

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Copyright © 2025 Divi. All Rights Reserved.

Title Trouble: 5 Hidden Red Flags That Could Derail Your NH or MA Deal

Title Trouble: 5 Hidden Red Flags That Could Derail Your NH or MA Deal

Title Trouble:

5 Hidden Red Flags That Could Derail Your NH or MA Deal

Sometimes it’s not the financing or the walkthrough that breaks a real estate deal — it’s a quiet little surprise hiding in the title report. At The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C., we’ve seen more than our share of these red flags crop up at the worst moment. The good news? Most of them are preventable when you know what to look for.

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Here are five title issues that can stall or kill a closing — and how Realtors®, loan processors, and mortgage teams can flag them early.

Undischarged Mortgages

This is more common than you’d think. A loan may have been paid off years ago, but the discharge (release of lien) was never recorded with the Registry of Deeds.

Solution: Ask the title attorney to verify discharges during the title search. If one is missing, the payoff lender must provide documentation. MA’s Land Court resources can help untangle trickier cases.

Estate Sales with Unclear Authority 

When a property is sold from an estate, the seller must have legal authority to transfer title — usually as executor or personal representative. But if probate is still open or not finalized in MA or NH, the sale could be delayed.

Solution: Confirm probate status early. Request Letters Testamentary (or equivalent) and verify proper legal authority before listing or lending.

Old Liens or Judgments 

From unpaid contractor bills to child support liens, old claims can resurface. Some are valid, some are mistakes — all are problems.

Solution: Make sure a title search goes back far enough. NH and MA each have lien recording rules; liens must be cleared or bonded off to close.

Boundary or Easement Disputes

A shared driveway or unclear fence line may seem minor — until one party refuses to sign off. Title insurance may exclude coverage unless it’s resolved.

Solution: Review surveys and legal descriptions. If easements or encroachments appear, bring in a real estate attorney early to negotiate terms or resolution.

Fraudulent Transfers or Forged Deeds

Rare, but real. Massachusetts and New Hampshire have both seen forged deeds or transfers from people impersonating owners, especially in vacant or investment properties.

Solution: Require in-person or verified remote notarization. Use MyOwnDeed or local registry alert systems to monitor activity tied to property titles.

Proactive Title Work. Peace of Mind at the Closing Table.

Spotting these red flags early keeps everyone out of panic mode — and ensures your deal closes clean. Our team knows how to dig deep into a title report and help you keep the path to closing crystal clear.

REFERENCES

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“As a realtor, the Rocheford team went above and beyond to make sure my client was not only protected from a legal standpoint but also operated in a timely manner to execute the sale of my client’s dream home.

Thank you for the great experience for myself and my client! Looking forward to our next deal together!”

Viktor Ryan

Realtor®

“I don’t usually use attorneys that often. But if an attorney is needed, I couldn’t recommend this law office enough. I always pride myself on responding quickly to emails and calls, but I was in awe of how fast paralegal Robert Heckman would respond to us. We sold our house a couple months ago and then did a two-part land swap with neighbors and my folks, and both transactions were seamless, including coming in to sign paperwork.

In short, if you need a law office that is responsive and attentive to detail, definitely consider them!”

John P.

Leominster, MA

“Excellent, conscientious and professional.

The communication throughout our Real Estate transaction was better than expected. We thought the fee to be very reasonable considering the work accomplished on our behalf. The law office handled the entire closing without us having to be in attendance….as we requested. I have had experience with very competent lawyers and law firms as the result of my previous profession. I would place this law office right up there among the best in their real estate field of expertise and surprisingly at very reasonable and affordable rates/fees.”

Tom M.

Buzzards Bay, MA

Recent News

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

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First-time buyers now account for 58% of agency purchase lending, and Gen Z makes up a growing 25% of those loans. But winning their business requires a fresh approach: digital-first experiences, alternative credit scoring, and tailored loan products. For mortgage...

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

They may represent just 3% of all buyers, but Gen Z is determined to change the game. Armed with FHA loans, side hustles, and family support, these resourceful buyers are targeting affordable regions — not Boston, but places like Grand Rapids and Salt Lake City. In...

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time...

2025 Real Estate Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

2025 Real Estate Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

2025 Real Estate Trends

WHAT BUYERS AND SELLERS NEED TO KNOW IN MASSACHUSETTS AND NEW HAMPSHIRE

The real estate market is always shifting, and 2025 is shaping up to be no different. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your fifth, staying informed on emerging trends can help you make smarter decisions. Here’s what to watch for in Massachusetts and New Hampshire this year:

AI in Real Estate: Smarter Searches, Faster Decisions

Artificial intelligence isn’t just for sci-fi movies anymore. In 2025, AI-powered tools are taking center stage in real estate. Automated property valuations, predictive analytics, and smart contract systems are helping both buyers and sellers make better-informed decisions.

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Check out Zillow’s AI-powered Zestimate tool for automated property valuations.

Remote Closings and Digital Notarization: Convenience at Your Fingertips

Gone are the days of scrambling to find a babysitter or leaving work early to sign documents in person. With digital notarization and remote closings gaining popularity, finalizing a real estate transaction can often be done from the comfort of your couch.

Note: Remote closings are determined by state and local allowances, please defer to your Closing Attorney for any questions regarding the closing process and options.

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Learn more about secure e-closings with Notarize.com.

Eco-Friendly Features in Demand

Today’s buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable living. Homes with solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and improved insulation are becoming top contenders. In New England’s chilly winters, these upgrades can mean real savings (and warmer toes).

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Explore energy-saving home upgrades at Energy Star’s Home Improvement Resources.

Market Shifts in Coastal Areas

With rising insurance costs and climate risks, coastal properties in Massachusetts and New Hampshire may see shifts in demand. Buyers are becoming more cautious, and sellers are exploring ways to make their properties more resilient.

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 See how FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center helps homeowners assess flood risks.

Tips for Navigating a Competitive Market

If you’re buying in 2025, expect some competition. Here’s how to stand out:

  • Get pre-approved for your mortgage to show sellers you’re serious.
  • You can choose a trusted closing attorney to work with ensuring your paperwork is airtight.
  • Don’t skip the home inspection, even in a bidding war—it’s your best defense against post-closing surprises.

For sellers: Highlight energy-efficient upgrades, emphasize flexible spaces like home offices, and work with an experienced real estate attorney to ensure a smooth closing process.

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Discover mortgage pre-approval tips from Rocket Mortgage.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The 2025 real estate landscape may feel unpredictable, but with the right guidance, you can confidently navigate the market. Whether you’re buying or selling in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr. P.C. is here to help ensure your closing process goes smoothly.

Ready to take control of your closing experience? Contact us today to learn more about your rights and how we can help you through the process.

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“I would highly recommend David as a closing attorney. I have known David and have been using his office for many years. David’s professionalism when dealing with me, my closing department and most especially my clients has been always exemplary.”
DAVID BREMER

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SHAMROCK FINANCIAL SERVICES

“The Law Office of Attorney David R. Rocheford, Jr. is by far the most exceptional real estate law office that I have had the pleasure of working with. The professionalism is by far second to none.”
JACQUI KEOGH

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SALEM FIVE MORTGAGE SERVICES

“Attorney David Rocheford has provided settlement and title services for me and Greenpark Mortgage several years. He has assisted all of my clients, including my family and friends with mortgage closings. Always providing excellent service. Reliable and trustworthy!”
SANDRA MALDONADO

Recent News

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

First-time buyers now account for 58% of agency purchase lending, and Gen Z makes up a growing 25% of those loans. But winning their business requires a fresh approach: digital-first experiences, alternative credit scoring, and tailored loan products. For mortgage...

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

They may represent just 3% of all buyers, but Gen Z is determined to change the game. Armed with FHA loans, side hustles, and family support, these resourceful buyers are targeting affordable regions — not Boston, but places like Grand Rapids and Salt Lake City. In...

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time...

Bill H.245: Chapter 93 of the General Laws Amended

Bill H.245: Chapter 93 of the General Laws Amended

Bill H.245: Chapter 93 of the General Laws (Amended)

An Act protecting consumer rights in purchasing safe and habitable homes

PDF: HOUSE No. 245 Filed

Below is our summary of significant legislative development that impacts our industry. The Massachusetts General Court has introduced a bill titled “An Act protecting consumer rights in purchasing safe and habitable homes.” This bill, presented by Representative Brian M. Ashe and others, aims to enhance consumer protection by ensuring that buyers have the right to conduct home inspections when purchasing residential properties. Below, I have provided a detailed summary of the key provisions and implications of this bill for real estate professionals.

KEY POINTS

Purpose:

The bill aims to ensure that buyers have the right to home inspections when purchasing residential properties, including houses and condominiums.

Inspection Definition:

An inspection involves a licensed home inspector evaluating various components of the property, such as heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical systems, structural components, foundation, roof, and more.

Buyer’s Rights:

  • Buyers have the right to have the property inspected within 10 days of the seller accepting their offer, unless a different period is agreed upon in writing.
  • Sellers cannot condition the acceptance of an offer on the buyer waiving their right to an inspection, except in certain cases like auctions or sales to close family members.

Offer to Purchase:

Every offer to purchase must include a clause informing the buyer of their right to an inspection and the conditions under which they can revoke the offer if significant defects are found.

Seller’s Obligations:

  • Sellers must comply with the inspection rights and cannot accept offers that waive these rights unless specific exceptions apply.
  • Violations by sellers can result in damages to the buyer and civil penalties.

Enforcement:

An inspection involves a licensed home inspector evaluating various components of the property, such as heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical systems, structural components, foundation, roof, and more.

This bill is designed to protect consumers by ensuring they have the opportunity to identify any significant issues with a property before finalizing the purchase.

Implications:

The legislation has several implications for for real estate agents, brokers and Realtors:

Disclosure and Compliance:

  • Real estate agents must ensure that all offers to purchase include the required language informing buyers of their right to a home inspection.
  • Agents must be aware of the 10-day inspection period (or longer if agreed upon) and ensure that this is communicated clearly to both buyers and sellers.

Offer Conditions:

  • Agents cannot advise or encourage sellers to condition the acceptance of an offer on the buyer waiving their right to an inspection, except in specific cases like auctions or sales to close family members.
  • They must ensure that sellers do not accept offers from buyers who indicate an intention to waive the inspection right, unless the exceptions apply.

Legal and Financial Implications:

  • If a seller violates the provisions of this bill, the real estate agent could be implicated in any resulting legal actions or penalties. This includes potential civil penalties and damages to the buyer.
  • Agents need to stay informed about the legal requirements and ensure their practices comply with the new regulations to avoid liability.

Consumer Protection:

  • The bill enhances consumer protection, which may increase buyer confidence in the real estate market. Agents can use this as a selling point to assure buyers that their rights are protected.
  • Agents should be prepared to guide buyers through the inspection process and help them understand their rights and options if significant defects are found.

Overall, real estate professionals will need to adapt their practices to ensure full compliance with the new regulations, prioritize transparency, and protect the interests of their clients. This may involve additional training and adjustments to standard operating procedures.

Statutory Offer to Purchase Language

According to the bill each offer to purchase a residential structure or residential condominium unit shall include the following language:

“Buyer is entitled under section 115 of chapter 93 of the General 33 Laws to choose to have the premises inspected at Buyer’s expense within 10 days, or longer as Seller and Buyer may agree in writing, of Seller’s acceptance of Buyer’s offer to purchase. Unless one of the exceptions in said section 115 applies, neither Seller nor Buyer may make acceptance of this offer to purchase contingent upon waiver, limitation or restriction of Buyer’s right to choose to obtain a home inspection. Should Buyer choose to have the premises inspected, if it is the inspector’s opinion that the premises contain serious structural, mechanical or other defects and if the repair of such defects would cost Buyer in the aggregate more than the amount indicated by the Buyer herein ($________), then Buyer shall have the option of revoking this offer to purchase by written notice to the Seller or Seller’s agent within 5 business days of the date of the inspection, or longer as Seller and Buyer may agree in writing. Such notice shall be accompanied by a copy of the inspector’s opinion and a copy of cost estimates obtained by Buyer.”

Understanding and complying with this new legislation is crucial for all real estate professionals. By staying informed and adapting practices, we can better serve our clients and uphold the integrity of our industry. If you have any questions or need further clarification on this bill, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our Real Estate Attorneys.

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“I would highly recommend David as a closing attorney. I have known David and have been using his office for many years. David’s professionalism when dealing with me, my closing department and most especially my clients has been always exemplary.”
DAVID BREMER

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SHAMROCK FINANCIAL SERVICES

“The Law Office of Attorney David R. Rocheford, Jr. is by far the most exceptional real estate law office that I have had the pleasure of working with. The professionalism is by far second to none.”
JACQUI KEOGH

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SALEM FIVE MORTGAGE SERVICES

“Attorney David Rocheford has provided settlement and title services for me and Greenpark Mortgage several years. He has assisted all of my clients, including my family and friends with mortgage closings. Always providing excellent service. Reliable and trustworthy!”
SANDRA MALDONADO

Recent News

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

Lender Playbook: How to Reach the New Generation of Homebuyers

First-time buyers now account for 58% of agency purchase lending, and Gen Z makes up a growing 25% of those loans. But winning their business requires a fresh approach: digital-first experiences, alternative credit scoring, and tailored loan products. For mortgage...

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

Gen Z Homebuyers: Small in Numbers, Big in Determination

They may represent just 3% of all buyers, but Gen Z is determined to change the game. Armed with FHA loans, side hustles, and family support, these resourceful buyers are targeting affordable regions — not Boston, but places like Grand Rapids and Salt Lake City. In...

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Why Fewer First-Time Buyers Are Entering the Market in MA & NH

Once upon a time, the path to homeownership started in your late 20s. Today, the median age of a first-time buyer has climbed to 38 — the highest in U.S. history. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where prices remain high and incomes haven’t kept pace, first-time...