How long does it take to close on a house in Massachusetts?

The typical closing process takes 30-60 days from accepted offer to closing day. This includes time for inspections (7-10 days), the Purchase & Sale agreement (typically signed 10-14 days after offer acceptance), mortgage processing (3-4 weeks), and final preparations. Cash purchases can close faster.

Do I need an attorney to buy a house in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts is an 'attorney state' where real estate attorneys handle closings. Your attorney will review the P&S agreement, conduct the title search, review your closing disclosure, and represent you at closing. Expect to pay $800-$1,500 for attorney fees.

What is an IOLTA account?

IOLTA (Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts) is where your escrow deposits are held during the transaction. In Massachusetts, either the listing broker's IOLTA or your attorney's IOLTA account will hold your earnest money and P&S deposit. These are segregated trust accounts that protect your funds.

Massachusetts First-Time Home Buyer Guide 2026

Find What You Need

Where would you like to start?

Use the complete process guide, research a specific question, or find professionals for your Massachusetts purchase.

Home Buying Guide

Follow 17 Massachusetts-specific guides from pre-approval through closing day.

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Buyer Resources

Research financing, assistance programs, costs, contracts, laws, and property decisions.

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International Home Buyers

Plan for visa documentation, overseas assets, international transfers, and family funds.

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Find Professionals

Browse Massachusetts home inspectors and real estate attorneys as you build your team.

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Getting Ready

Before You Begin

Your team consists of 4 key people: a lender, an agent, an inspector, and a closing attorney. Take time to interview each and choose professionals you feel comfortable working with.

Find a Lender

Get pre-approved to understand your budget and make stronger offers

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Find a Real Estate Agent

Partner with an experienced buyer's agent who knows Massachusetts

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Find a Home Inspector

Research and select a qualified inspector before you need one

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Find a Closing Attorney

Required for all Massachusetts closings—find yours early

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Finding Your Home

The House Hunting Process

Once your team is in place, it's time to start looking. Open houses and private showings each have their place in a competitive Massachusetts market.

Open Houses

Visit on your own during scheduled open house times, typically on weekends. No appointment or agent needed.

Private Showings

Your buyer's agent schedules private viewings at a time that works for you and must accompany you at the showing.

Massachusetts moves fast. Desirable homes often have an offer deadline within one to two days of the first open house. Have your pre-approval ready so you can move quickly.

House Hunting Tips

The Process

The Home Buying Timeline

Once you find a home you love, these 12 steps will guide you from offer to closing.

Making an Offer

Understand the contract and submit your offer

Offer Acceptance

Your next steps after acceptance

Earnest Money Deposit

Make your initial escrow payment

Home Inspection

Discover what you're buying

Purchase & Sale Agreement

Review and sign the detailed contract

P&S Deposit

Submit your larger deposit (typically 5%)

Mortgage Application

Complete your loan application

Mortgage Appraisal

Lender assesses the property value

Clear to Close

Final mortgage approval from your lender

Closing Disclosure

Review final loan terms and costs

Final Steps

Complete walkthrough and final preparations

Closing Day

Sign documents and receive your keys

Each step explained in depth — MA-specific details, contracts, and what to watch out for.

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