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Bill

HD 1925

An Act to guarantee a tenant’s first right of refusal

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 20 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill grants rental tenants right of first refusal to purchase properties before landlords can sell to outside buyers, aiming to prevent displacement.

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Bill Summary · HD 1925

Legislative bill overview

HD 1925 would grant tenants a right of first refusal when their landlord intends to sell a rental property, requiring landlords to offer the property to existing tenants before marketing it to outside buyers. The bill aims to preserve tenant occupancy and prevent displacement caused by property sales and subsequent rent increases or evictions under new ownership.

Why is this important

Housing instability and displacement represent growing concerns in Massachusetts, particularly in high-cost markets. Granting tenants purchase opportunities could enable wealth-building through homeownership while reducing homelessness and community disruption, though implementation depends heavily on tenants' access to financing and the bill's specific terms around pricing and timelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Financing barriers: Tenants may lack access to mortgages or down payment capital to exercise purchase rights, limiting the practical benefit unless paired with subsidized financing programs
  • Property valuation disputes: Disagreement over fair market pricing for tenant purchases could create litigation and discourage legitimate sales, or conversely, undervalue landlord assets
  • Market impact on housing supply: Restrictions on property sales may reduce new construction investment or conversions of non-residential buildings, potentially worsening housing shortages depending on economic conditions
  • Small landlord burden: Individual property owners managing single or few units may face administrative complexity or financial pressure from delayed sales

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

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