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Ron Carpenito, Prime Property Team at Keller Williams Realty AndoverRon Carpenito, Prime Property Team at Keller Williams Realty Andover

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What is a Betterment and What Does it Mean in a Home Sale?

Every Friday we give fast answers to quick questions about home selling, buying, anything about real estate!

Today’s Question: What is a betterment and what does it mean in a home sale?

You’ve just found the home of your dreams. When you read the listing sheet, it says, “Betterment passes on to the buyer.” What does that mean? In any town, when there is an improvement to the neighborhood, the town will assess a dollar amount called a betterment to the homeowner that they must pay.

Usually, it is a substantial amount of money that is added into their annual taxes that they pay over a period of time. Some people take 10-20 years to pay it off, while others pay it off all at once. However, usually towns give time to pay it off with some interest for those who can’t afford to pay it off all at once. A betterment does become somewhat of a lien on the property, and has to either convey to the new buyer or be paid off at closing. It is something that can be negotiated between the buyer and seller, and it usually varies depending on what kind of marketplace you are in.

We hope that helps! If we can help further, give us a call at 978-494-0346!

Got a quick Real Estate question? Send it to us today!


Moving On With Ron

Episode 1: What Does the Assessed Value of a Home Mean?
Episode 2: Does Finishing the Basement Add Value to My Home?
Episode 3: What are the Types of Home Valuations and Which One is Correct?
Episode 4: How to Successfully Buy and Sell a Home at the Same Time
Episode 5: 2019 Housing Market Outlook
Episode 6: Should I Remodel My Home Before Selling?

Ron's Real Estate Minute

Episode 1: How Much Will it Cost To Sell My Home?
Episode 2: How Do I Get My Home Ready To Sell?
Episode 3: 4 Questions Everyone Asks About Home Inspections
Episode 4: What are Sellers Looking for in the Offers They Receive This Spring?
Episode 5: What are Some Tips for Buyers Going to Open Houses?
Episode 6: What is a Psychologically Impacted Property?
Episode 7: What is the Difference Between a Deposit and a Down Payment?
Episode 8: How Do I Deal With a Subject to Suitable Housing Condition?
Episode 9: What Defines a Legal Bedroom?
Episode 10: What Does it Mean to Launch a Listing?
Episode 11: What is an As-Is Home Sale?
Episode 12: What is a Betterment and What Does it Mean in a Home Sale?

 

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