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SD 988

An Act relative to creating a permanent affordability homeownership program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishes permanent affordability homeownership program using deed restrictions to maintain below-market home prices across future sales.

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Bill Summary · SD 988

Legislative bill overview

SD 988 establishes a permanent affordability homeownership program in Massachusetts designed to preserve long-term affordable housing by requiring or incentivizing deed restrictions that maintain affordability across property transfers. The bill aims to create a sustainable mechanism for homeownership accessibility rather than relying on temporary subsidies or one-time assistance programs.

Why is this important

Massachusetts faces severe housing affordability challenges, with median home prices far exceeding what middle and lower-income households can afford. A permanent affordability program could expand homeownership opportunities for working families while preserving public investment in housing over decades through successive owners, addressing both immediate access and long-term equity building for disadvantaged communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Property value restrictions: Deed restrictions limiting resale prices may discourage property improvement investments and reduce seller incentives, potentially affecting neighborhood development and owner equity accumulation
  • Market interference concerns: Critics may argue permanent price controls distort housing markets, reduce liquidity, and create administrative complexities for future buyers navigating restricted properties
  • Implementation costs: Establishing program infrastructure, monitoring compliance, and managing enforcement across many properties requires sustained public funding and bureaucratic capacity that may prove costly or difficult to maintain

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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