During MA real estate transactions, a buyer may ask permission from a seller to start moving some of their belongings to the property, usually into a garage or similar location. Likewise, a seller may ask to store some of their belongings beyond the Read More
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Negotiating Home Repairs in MA Real Estate Contracts
The home buying process in Massachusetts typically involves a home inspection. Negotiating home repairs in MA real estate contracts is common, and there are a few different ways that it can occur. It ultimately depends on the preferences of both Read More
MA Home Ownership Tax Deductions at Risk
The tax benefits of homeownership are one of the many reasons that people buy a home. For MA taxpayers, owning a home makes a huge difference in their tax liability. Individuals comparing renting versus buying will actually include the tax advantages Read More
When You Get Keys After a Home Closing in MA
Buyers often wonder when you get keys after a home closing in MA. The fact is, it's not always when you're done signing paperwork. This can be surprising to some home buyers who plan to start moving immediately after leaving the closing. There are a Read More
Should You Pay Points on a Mortgage?
If you're looking to purchase a home, you're probably considering a few different loan options including those with points. Should you pay points on a mortgage? There are several factors to consider before deciding. What Are Points? Points are Read More
Property Safety Requirements for FHA Loans | MA Home Buyer Tips
Homes financed with an FHA loan must meet certain safety requirements. During an appraisal, an appraiser will inspect a property to identify any issues that may not meet FHA’s minimum standards. It is important for home buyers and home sellers to be Read More
Closing Costs vs. Pre-paid Expenses for MA Mortgages
Home buyers commonly ask their lenders for closing cost estimates, but are surprised to find that the money due at closing is much higher. This is because pre-paid expenses are also due at closing. What is the difference between closing costs vs. Read More
Easement & Restrictions | Seminar
Melanie Hagopian (along with Elizabeth J. Young and Erica Bigelow) will be presenting a seminar on Easements & Restrictions - Maximizing Benefits and Minimizing/Avoiding Burdens. Most properties in Massachusetts are subject to some type of Read More
FHA Mortgage Insurance Changes January 2017
UPDATE January 20, 2017: Unfortunately, the Trump Administration cancelled this planned rate reduction! There's some great news for FHA home buyers. FHA mortgage insurance rates are changing in January 2017. The new reduced rates will save home Read More
Protecting Escrow Money During MA Home Purchases
As a homebuyer purchasing a property in the Greater Boston area, you will be submitting a deposit with your home purchase contract. It's not uncommon for the amount to be up to 5% of the purchase price. This is a significant amount of Read More