Here in Ipswich, MA as well as across the north shore, we have a high number of septic systems and Title V is commonly part of most real estate transactions. We make it a priority to be well-informed and current on all changes by having regular sessions with our board of health director and constant information sharing. There are many nuances to managing a transaction with a septic system and I highly recommend you hire an agent who truly understands Title V. Thank you to the Massachusetts Association of Realtors for sharing these important facts:
Q. I am selling a home that has a failed Title 5 inspection. What are my seller’s options?
A. Aside from very limited circumstances, a property must have a passing Title 5 inspection within 2 years before a transfer takes place. An inspection is not required before a transfer in the following situations:
1. Refinancing or any situation where no new parties are introduced;
2. a transfer between spouses;
3. a transfer between parents and child(ren);
4. a transfer between full siblings; and
5. where the property is held in a trust.
A property owner or buyer of a property with a failed inspection may also enter into an enforceable agreement with the Board of Health requiring them to upgrade the system or connect to the public sewer within 2 years following the transfer of title. If a property owner has entered into this type of agreement, they must disclose it to prospective buyers, and it must be binding on subsequent owners.
The most straightforward option available to sellers with a failed Title 5 inspection is to repair or replace the system prior to transfer. However, this may not be a viable option for all sellers because of the expense involved. In these situations, the seller and buyer may negotiate a resolution that satisfies both the requirements of the law as well as the financial well-being of all parties involved.
Have you heard the term "
Mayor Marty Walsh said Monday that after months of working with the City Council, he signed a home rule petition that would give Boston the ability to implement a transfer fee of up to two percent on the purchase price of any private real estate sale over $2 million. .jpg)
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Born and raised in Ipswich, Tracey can appreciate the beauty of the North Shore and all it has to offer. Keeping her thumb on the pulse of Ipswich through work and play has kept her close to home and tied to the community. Once employed by Hills Family Store, The Clam Box, Agawam Diner and lifeguarding at Pavilion Beach, you could say Tracey has the local landmarks covered! She also has a unique insight into the Ipswich school system as a volunteer and substitute teacher. Also, her humor and wit will undoubtedly make your buying and selling experience with her unforgettable!
Together with the North Shore Association of REALTORS® and this amazing community project, team Windhill pitched in and built a bed for a child. The recipient was an 11 year old girl from Swampscott and she will receive not only the bed frame, but a mattress and bedding set! It was an amazing experience to participate in something so basic yet so profound. 
