Berkshires Real Estate Law Blog

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Buying Land in the Berkshires? Avoid Pitfalls!

If you’re buying land in the Berkshires, you almost certainly want to be able to build on that land. It’s important to have the opportunity to sufficiently evaluate the land for your needs before you buy. You don’t want to ask after the purchase, “How close to the property line can I build?” or “How […]

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What to Know About Septic Systems in the Berkshires

If you’ve had a sewer line connected to your home, the whole concept of a septic system might be new to you. You might think that it’s just another kind of sewer. However, the problem is that rules about septic systems in the Berkshires are very detailed and, if there are problems, you own them—not […]

What Are Common Closing Costs in Massachusetts?

“What are common closing costs in Massachusetts?” This is perhaps the most common question we get from prospective buyers and sellers. Every transaction is different, so the question is not always easy to answer. However, there are some standard fees that one should expect. Read our list! Massachusetts Buyer Closing Costs Massachusetts Seller Closing Costs […]

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What is Title Insurance in Massachusetts?

One of the most common questions we get from buyers is, “what is title insurance and why do I need it?” Although most homeowners in Massachusetts have title insurance, it remains a mystery to many people. Read on for clarity…and a real life scenario—one property owner had title insurance, one did not. Quick Overview Title […]

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What Are a Realtor’s Responsibilities When Talking About Zoning?

What ARE a realtor’s responsibilities when talking about zoning with a client here in the Berkshires? It makes sense for a successful realtor to describe all aspects of a featured property. Prospective buyers are likely interested in the interior design, the layout, the exterior appearance, landscaping, outbuildings, and numerous other aspects of the property. One […]

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What is a Nominee Trust in Massachusetts?

It is common for home buyers in Massachusetts to take title to property with a nominee realty trust (sometimes simply called a “realty trust” or “nominee trust”). What is a nominee realty trust? A nominee trust is an entity unique to Massachusetts, and despite its name, it’s not a true trust. It does, however, provide […]