MA H4193

Authorizes Amherst to impose a real estate transfer fee of up to 2% of the purchase price on property transfers, including transfers of controlling interests in entities holding residential property

Exempts transfers involving government entities, affordable housing properties, corrections to prior transfers, transactions under $100, and transfers between family members

Requires the first $250,000 collected each fiscal year to be deposited in the Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund, with remaining funds going to the capital stabilization fund, general fund, or housing trust as determined by bylaw

Hampshire District Registry of Deeds cannot record a deed without a certificate from Amherst confirming the fee was paid or the transfer is exempt

Filed with local approval by Representative Mindy Domb and Senator Joanne Comerford on May 30, 2025; takes effect upon passage