Sellers are required to disclose property information to the realtor and potential buyers based on state and local laws. A disclosure document details a property's condition and what might negatively affect its value. Sellers who willfully conceal information can be sued and potentially convicted of a crime.
Although a disclosure statement is not required, the state does mandate the disclosure of two types of information to any prospective buyer: the existence and hazards of lead paint, and the presence of a septic system on the property. Sellers in Massachusetts must disclose the presence of lead to prospective buyers.
If you're selling your home in Massachusetts, you legally do not have to disclose asbestos either, but you do have to disclose formaldehyde foam insulation and lead paint.
In most states, you must disclose any known mold issues when selling your home. In Massachusetts, that is not the case. Massachusetts is a Caveat Emptor state, which means “buyer beware.” Realtors, however, are held to much higher standards than home sellers.
Massachusetts is a buyer-beware state, which means Massachusetts doesn't require sellers to fill out a disclosure form.
Massachusetts law does require an attorney to be present to oversee a real estate closing.
You don't have to use a real estate agent to sell your Massachusetts home, but managing the sale yourself can be quite demanding. Sellers who don't use an agent save on a listing agent's commission. However, they may still be responsible for paying the buyer's agent.
The entire process from accepted offer to closing usually spans four to six weeks. This timeline can vary based on various factors, including the specifics of the transaction and the parties involved.