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Browse our most frequently asked questions about renting, buying, selling, and student housing in Massachusetts — or search for anything specific below.

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General

Common questions about Colonial Realty

2 Q&As
Use our Contact page or call our office. A member of our team will respond as soon as possible during business hours.
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Buyer-agent compensation is negotiable and explained in your written agreement. Depending on the transaction, it may be paid by the seller or listing broker, covered through a negotiated seller concession, or paid directly by the buyer. We will explain the terms before you commit.
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Rent

Questions about renting a property

4 Q&As
Use the “Book a Visit” option on a listing, call us, or send us a message. Our team will follow up to coordinate a time based on property and agent availability.
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Requirements vary by property and housing provider. Common requests include a government-issued photo ID, documentation of income or other lawful income sources, and rental history or references. Confirm the specific requirements before submitting an application.
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A landlord may request a security deposit, but it is not required for every rental. In Massachusetts, a security deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent and must be handled and returned according to state law, subject to lawful deductions.
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Pet policies vary by property. Review the individual listing or contact our team for help finding pet-friendly options. Assistance animals are not pets, and reasonable-accommodation requests are handled separately under applicable fair-housing laws.
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Buy

Questions about buying a property

3 Q&As
We begin with an initial consultation to understand your goals and budget. We then guide you through financing preparation, property searches, offers, inspections, due diligence, and closing.
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Many financed purchases close within 30–60 days after an offer is accepted, but timing varies based on financing, inspections, appraisal, title work, negotiations, and the agreed closing date.
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You can begin exploring properties before obtaining a mortgage pre-approval, but becoming pre-approved early helps clarify your budget and can strengthen an offer. Requirements vary by seller and transaction.
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Students

FAQs for student housing inquiries

4 Q&As
Pricing varies considerably by neighborhood, property type, bedroom count, lease dates, and whether costs are shared with roommates. Review current listings or contact our team for property-specific rent and fee information.
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Many renters begin searching several months before their intended move, especially for September leases. Availability differs by neighborhood and property, so contact us early for guidance based on your preferred location and dates.
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Requirements vary by housing provider and applicant. A guarantor may be requested when an applicant does not independently meet a property’s documented income, credit, or rental-history criteria. Confirm the requirements before applying.
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We cannot guarantee or characterize a neighborhood’s safety. Consider reviewing official local information, visiting the area at different times, evaluating transportation and building access, and choosing a location that meets your individual needs.
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