MA H1544

Creates a municipal local option allowing cities and towns to give tenant associations the first right to purchase their residential building when an owner intends to sell, with 30 days to submit an offer and 60-120 days to close depending on property size

Requires owners to notify tenants and the municipality in writing of intent to sell, and provide copies of any third-party purchase contracts within 7 days of execution

Tenant associations must have participation from at least 51% of occupied units to exercise purchase rights, and may designate a nonprofit, housing authority, or developer to purchase on their behalf

Properties purchased under this section must be used as long-term affordable housing (40% of units affordable to households at or below 60% AMI for rentals, with 30-year deed restrictions) or owner-occupied cooperative/condominium housing

Exempts properties with fewer than 10 units owned by natural persons, owner-occupied 1-4 unit buildings, publicly-assisted housing, college dormitories, family transfers, and newly constructed buildings less than 3 years old