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HD 4363

An Act relative to funding housing and mitigating investor real estate in seasonal communities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill restricts investor real estate purchases and funds affordable housing in seasonal tourism communities to preserve resident housing access.

Senate concurred
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Bill Summary · HD 4363

Legislative bill overview

HD 4363 establishes funding mechanisms and regulatory measures to address housing affordability in Massachusetts seasonal communities while restricting investor real estate purchases in these areas. The bill aims to preserve housing stock for year-round residents and limit speculative property investment that drives up costs in communities heavily impacted by seasonal tourism economies.

Why is this important

Seasonal communities in Massachusetts face acute housing crises where investment properties and short-term rental conversions dramatically reduce affordable housing availability for local workers and permanent residents. The bill addresses a documented problem: investors purchasing properties in high-tourism areas, converting them to vacation rentals, and pricing out the workforce that sustains these communities year-round. This policy attempts to balance property rights with community stability and economic viability.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. community control: Restrictions on investor purchases raise constitutional questions about limiting who can own property and may face legal challenges from real estate industry groups
  • Funding source clarity: The bill's funding mechanism for housing initiatives is not detailed in available information, raising questions about whether it requires new taxes, bonds, or budget reallocation
  • Defining "seasonal communities": The criteria for which communities qualify and how investor restrictions apply across different property types needs clear definition to avoid unintended consequences or arbitrary enforcement

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

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