First-time homebuyers are often prepared for the first few steps of buying a home: looking at properties, making an offer and even a home inspection. But one step that Massachusetts home buyers may overlook is the home appraisal. Here is some information about what a...
Year: 2022
How to improve the tenant-landlord relationship
Leasing a property to a tenant is far from a one-time business transaction. To maintain the obligations in the contract, there is an ongoing relationship between a landlord and tenant that must be maintained. While the landlord-tenant relationship is known to be...
Will a special needs trust complete your estate plan?
Your estate planning needs are unique to your individual situation, including your objectives, the size of your estate and the needs of your beneficiaries. Your plans should reflect what you require for security now and in the future, and this may mean ensuring your...
What buyers should know about buying a foreclosed home
Many buyers see foreclosed homes as a smart investment or perhaps as a good way to get into a market that may be otherwise difficult to enter. While there can certainly be ample payoff in buying a foreclosed home, there are some challenges to consider. Here are some...
What does “fee simple” mean?
When entering a real estate transaction, there are many legal terms that may arise which could be unfamiliar. It is worthwhile for Massachusetts buyers and sellers to understand all the terms being used in the contracts and proceedings when dealing with a real estate...
How executors can protect themselves from legal exposure
Maryland estate executors have a serious responsibility before them, often managing a great deal of wealth and being responsible to many people. This can present some risk, both legally or financially, if the executor fails to fulfill his or her duties appropriately....
Do you want to leave an inheritance to your grandkids?
You may have specific goals for what happens to your estate after you pass, and that may include leaving money to your grandchildren. This is an objective for many Massachusetts grandparents, and through thoughtful estate planning, you can accomplish this goal. You...
Estate planning steps to take after getting married
When two people get married, their lives become more intermingled. Conversations about finances, plans and goals are a critical part of many partnerships. Estate planning is certainly among the issues worth going through for a newly married couple. Here are three...
Massachusetts’ spring residential real estate market heating up
In Massachusetts and other states, the spring months are typically the busiest times for home sales. The state’s residential real estate market is heating up, and the past two years have seen record prices for homes in the desirable suburbs surrounding Boston. The...
What does it mean to sell a house as-is?
In preparing to sell a piece of real estate, it is common to do small fixes or to stage the house so it is more appealing to buyers. However, particularly in this “sellers market,” many may wonder if preparing their house for sale is really worth the hassle. Selling a...