
New Massachusetts Home Inspection Law Takes Effect: What Brookline Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
A sweeping new home inspection law taking effect October 15, 2025, will dramatically reshape the home-buying process across Massachusetts. Enacted as part of the 2024 Affordable Homes Act, the regulation ensures that every buyer has the right to a professional home inspection before purchasing a residential property — and makes it illegal for sellers or agents to pressure buyers into waiving that right.
The change comes after years of record competition in the housing market, when “no-inspection” offers became common as buyers sought to gain an edge in bidding wars. State officials say the new rules are designed to restore fairness, transparency, and consumer protection in real estate transactions.