How to Sell a House in Massachusetts: A County-by-County Guide

Danny Kattan
November 6, 2025

Key Takeaways


- Average Total Closing Costs: ~1%–3% of the sale price (Source: https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/average-closing-costs/)
- Average Timeline for a Traditional Sale: 95–120 days total (10–15 days prep, 45–60 days on market, 30–45 days closing) (Sources: Zillow, Redfin)
- Disclosure Requirements: Sellers in Massachusetts must disclose structural or environmental issues and any other material facts. (Source: https://www.mass.gov/guides/selling-your-home)
- Alternatives: As-is and sale-leaseback options are gaining popularity for faster, less disruptive sales.
    

How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Massachusetts?


Selling a home in Massachusetts typically takes 95–120 days. Here's the breakdown:
- Preparation: 10–15 days to clean, repair, and stage.
- Days on Market: 45–60 days (Source: Redfin Market Data)
- Closing: Around 30–45 days once under contract.
    

Top Counties: Quick Insights

County/Metro

Market Insights

Middlesex

Suburban homes move fast, staging helps.

Suffolk

Urban condos dominate, walkability boosts value.

Worcester

Affordable homes, active investor interest.

Essex

Historic homes, buyers expect updated systems.

Plymouth

Coastal appeal, longer listing periods in winter.

 

Steps to Selling in Massachusetts

Step 1: Set the Right Price

Use a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Pricing too high can lead to extended days on market. Pricing too low may leave money on the table.

Step 2: Complete Required Disclosures

Massachusetts requires disclosure of structural issues, plumbing/electrical systems, and environmental concerns. Failure to comply may result in legal action. (Source: https://www.mass.gov/guides/selling-your-home)

Step 3: Decide Between Traditional, Wholesale, or Sale-Leaseback

Method

Pros

Cons

Traditional Sale

Max exposure; market competition

~60–90 days total; staging & prep required

Wholesale

Rapid close (often <30 days); no prep

Offers may land ~30% below market value

Sale-Leaseback

Sell as-is, stay in your home, avoid staging/showings

Requires ≥20% equity to qualify

 

Step 4: Understand Closing Costs


Typical seller costs in Massachusetts include:
- Agent commissions: ~5–6%
- Title and escrow fees: ~0.5%
- Seller concessions and HOA fees (if applicable)
(Source: https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/average-closing-costs/)
    

Want to Sell Fast but Stay in Your Home?


Sell2Rent offers:
- As-is sale with no showings
- 24-hour cash offer
- Close in as little as 15 days
- Stay as a renter after selling your home

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Final Thoughts


Whether you're aiming for top dollar, a fast sale, or the ability to stay in your home, Massachusetts homeowners have options.
Explore traditional, wholesale, or leaseback strategies depending on your financial goals and personal needs.

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Illustration of two men shaking hands in the front yard of a house, symbolizing the successful closing and final agreement of a sale leaseback transaction or investment partnership.