Jul 17, 2025 | Real Estate, Real Estate Agent Information, Real Estate Tips, Real Estate Trends, Realtors
Ah, the “Big Beautiful Bill”—sounds like something out of a fairy tale, doesn’t it? But this recent tax mega-bill, passed just last week, is very real and packs a punch for home buyers in high-tax havens like Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Let’s break it down, shall we? No crystal balls here, just solid impacts on your next closing adventure.
First off, the bill cranks up the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap from $10,000 to a whopping $40,000. In states like MA and NH, where property taxes can feel like a dragon hoarding gold, this means buyers can shield more of those taxes from Uncle Sam. For instance, homeowners could save thousands annually, making that dream house a tad more affordable without stretching the budget to fairy-tale proportions
Then there’s the expanded mortgage interest deduction, allowing folks to deduct interest on larger loans. This tweak benefits high-end buyers and real estate pros by trimming the effective cost of borrowing, especially in pricey markets like Boston or the Seacoast.
For Granite Staters in NH, where property taxes reign supreme, that SALT boost is like finding an extra room in your new home—pure relief for middle-income families.
In MA, with its blend of high property and income taxes, the changes could mean an average tax cut, helping first-timers edge into the market
Now, here’s where a trusty real estate lawyer like us at The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C. swoops in like a knight in shining armor. Navigating these tax twists during closings? We’ve got you covered with expert title exams, escrow magic, and settlement services tailored to MA and Southern NH. We ensure your deals stay compliant, safe, and legally sound—keeping surprises at bay so you can focus on the happily ever after.
Curious how this bill plays into your next transaction?
Give The Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr., P.C. a shout today. Let’s make your closings as big and beautiful as the bill itself!
Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire
“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.”
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.”
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!”
Jun 19, 2025 | Around The Home, Around The Hoome, Artificial intelligence, Buying Real Estate, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Consumer Tips, Credit Scoring, Fair Housing, Federal Reserve, FHFA, Financial Crisis, Financial Fraud, Financial Reports, Foreclosure, Happy Thanksgiving, Holidays, Home Building Tips, Home Buyer Tips, Home Buying Tips, Home Care, Home Care Tips, Home Closings, Home Decorating, Home Financing Tips, Home Maintenance, Home Mortgage, Home Mortgage Tips, Home Seller Tips, Home Selling Tips, Home Tips, Home Values, Homebuyer Tips, Homeowner Tips, Housing Analysis, Housing Market, Interesting Stuff, Investment Properties, Legislation, Market Outlook, Mortagage Tips, Mortgage, Mortgage Guidelines, Mortgage Lenders, Mortgage Rates, Mortgage Tips, mortgage-rates-whats-ahead-september-17-2012, News, Organization Tips, Personal Finance, Probate Law, Rankings, Real Estate, Real Estate Agent Information, Real Estate Definitions, Real Estate Tips, Real Estate Trends, Realtors, Selling Real Estate, Selling Your Home, Short Sales, Statistics, Success, Taxes, The Economy, Title Insurance
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.
Is Big Brother Watching Your Home Sale?
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.
Your Closing Packet Could Be a Federal File
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.
Caught in the Crosshairs? What Triggers Federal Interest in Your Home Sale
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.
Follow the Money: How the IRS Tracks Financial Crimes Through Real Estate
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
“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!”
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!”
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.”
Buzzards Bay, MA
Feb 14, 2025 | Buying Real Estate, Consumer Tips, Home Buyer Tips, Home Buying Tips, Home Mortgage, Home Mortgage Tips, Home Seller Tips, Home Selling Tips, Home Tips, Housing Market, Investment Properties, Mortagage Tips, Mortgage, Mortgage Lenders, Mortgage Tips, News, Real Estate, Real Estate Agent Information, Real Estate Tips, Real Estate Trends, Realtors, Selling Real Estate, Selling Your Home
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.
The bill aims to ensure that buyers have the right to home inspections when purchasing residential properties, including houses and condominiums.
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.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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
“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.”
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.”
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!”
Nov 20, 2024 | News, Real Estate, Real Estate Trends, Statistics
Natural disasters such as floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and rising temperatures are impacting decisions in the real estate market. Here’s how:
Many buyers now consider flood-risk data before making offers. Research shows that buyers viewing high-risk homes are increasingly shifting their focus to safer properties, with some even abandoning purchases due to flood-risk concerns.
Rising disaster frequency has led to increased home insurance premiums, particularly for flood and wildfire protection. This added expense can influence home affordability and appeal.
Homeowners are investing in climate-resilient upgrades, such as fireproofing, flood barriers, and durable roofing, to protect property value and safety.
Coastal and disaster-prone areas like Florida and California are seeing the most significant impact. Meanwhile, regions with fewer natural disasters, like the Midwest, remain less affected.
Governments and policymakers are encouraged to use climate data for better zoning and disaster mitigation strategies. These measures could help safeguard at-risk communities while maintaining the stability of the housing market.
Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire
“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.”
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.”
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!”
Nov 10, 2020 | Real Estate Trends
During the past few months, everyone has been going through unprecedented times. Every industry has been impacted and this includes the real estate sector. There are lots of people who are still trying to buy and sell a home during an era of social distancing. This can make it hard to look at a prospective property in person. The good news is that there are still ways for people to buy a house virtually. There are a few tips that everyone should keep in mind.
Go On A Virtual Tour
Of course, everyone wants to take a close look at a home before they decide to buy it. Even though it is challenging to schedule live tours, virtual tours can still be helpful. With virtual real estate software, it is possible to take a virtual, walking tour the home. Furthermore, if tours have been recorded using drones, then a virtual tour might provide everyone with a new perspective on a potential home.
Ask The Right Questions
It is important for everyone to make sure they ask the right questions. Even if someone is not going on a tour of a home in person, it is still important to ask the same questions. For example, ask about the age of the roof, the age of the HVAC system, and other pertinent questions to the property. This will help everyone make sure they understand exactly what they are buying.
Know What Is Not Seen Virtually
When it comes to asking questions, it is also important to think about items that cannot be seen virtually. For example, it might be difficult to judge noise levels outside of the home from a virtual tour. It might also be challenging to figure out where puddles tend to form during thunderstorms. These are important topics that have to be discussed as well.
Prepare Early To Buy A Home Virtually
Even if people cannot see a property in person, the real estate market can still be relatively active. Therefore, anyone who is looking to buy a house in this market has to make sure they stay on top of their information. This will help them remain competitive when they are trying to buy the perfect house for their needs.
Dec 4, 2019 | Real Estate Trends
Case-Shiller’s National Home Price Index showed 3.20 percent national home price growth in September, which was 0.10 percent higher than August’s reading of 3.10 percent. The 20-City Home Price Index showed the continued impact of exorbitant home prices on both coasts as home price growth slowed in high-cost areas and smaller markets experienced upward pressure on home prices as home buyers were seeking affordable homes.
Phoenix, Arizona led the 20-City Home Price Index with 6.00 percent year-over-year growth in September. Charlotte, North Caroline had 4.60 percent growth in home prices and Tampa, Florida rounded out the three cities with highest year-over-year home price growth with 4.50 percent growth. The 20-City Home Price Index has documented migration of home buyers away from prime metro areas to interior and southern states. Analysts said that lower mortgage rates helped affordability in some cases, but home price growth outpaced stagnant wage growth and inflation.
FHFA Data Shows Home Buyers Leaving High Priced Areas
Federal Housing Finance Agency reporting for the third quarter of 2019 supported Case-Shiller’s trends. Home prices in mid-sized cities are rising as buyers relocate to areas where home prices are accessible to moderate-income buyers. FHFA reported year-over-year price growth for homes owned or financed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac slipped to 4.90 percent. This was the first time home price growth dipped below 5.00 percent growth since 2015.
FHFA reported home prices in Boise, Idaho grew by 11.10 percent year-over-year; home prices in Tucson, Arizona grew by 10.30 percent year-over-year in the third quarter. Lynn Fisher, a senior economic advisor for FHFA, said that home price growth rates in California and New York were lower than the national average.
The top three states with the largest year-over-year home price growth rates in the FHFA 20-City HPI were Idaho with 11.60 percent; Maine and Arizona tied with Utah with 7.90 percent home price growth. States with the lowest rates of home price growth were Illinois with 1.90 percent year-over-year growth, Connecticut reported 2.20 percent home price growth and Maryland home prices rose by 2.40 percent. FHFA reported that home prices have risen for 33 consecutive quarters; this is good news for homeowners, but also creates affordability challenges for would-be buyers facing high home prices and strict mortgage qualification standards.
Be sure to consult with your trusted Realtor and home mortgage professionals regarding your real estate concerns and transactions.
