Attention new homeowners! BE AWARE! The Team here at Downey Law Group LLC/DLG Closing recently learned from one of our valued clients about a new scam hitting our area involving fraud. Their recently purchased home was listed on apartment rental websites as being "VACANT" and "FOR RENT". Local law enforcement is investigating and hopefully charges will be brought against the fraudsters. If you recently bought a home, it is more important than ever to be sure to change the l

According to the American Bar Association, 64% of Americans do not have a Last Will and Testament or a Trust. These are pretty alarming stats. Many cite procrastination, discomfort, or the misconception that estate planning is only for the rich. Estate Planning Awareness Month is a reminder to break that cycle and to take action. It's time to shine a light on one of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of financial wellness. Whether you're 25 or 75, estate planning is

Effective November 1, 2025 The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has adopted a new withholding tax on the sale of real estate for sellers who meet the following requirements: 1) The seller is a nonresident of Massachusetts; and 2) The total sales price of the real estate meets or exceeds $1,000,000.00. Massachusetts is the next to join several states with similar withholding laws. The purpose of this withholding tax is to make certain non-resident, out-of-state selle

The new Massachusetts home inspection law protects the right to have a home inspected by a licensed inspector before choosing to finalize the purchase of the home. As such, sellers and agents cannot accept or request an offer that requires a buyer to waive their right to an inspection. This ensures the buyer has an opportunity to find and hire an inspector and then decide if they will proceed based on the results of the inspection. Even if the seller provides an inspection