"Higher property taxes in Boston, including a potential 13% increase for homeowners in 2026, are set to significantly push affordability pressures higher for condo owners and prospective buyers. This is a consequence of falling commercial property values, which shifts a greater tax burden onto residential properties. A 13% hike translates to an average annual increase of $780 for single-family homeowners, adding approximately $65 per month to housing costs."
"Mortgage Qualification: Lenders consider a borrower's debt-to-income (DTI) ratio when approving mortgages. Higher property taxes increase the total monthly housing expense, which can push DTI ratios higher, making it harder for some buyers to qualify for a mortgage or a desired loan amount. Market Dynamics: The increased costs may suppress demand for owner-occupied housing, potentially cooling certain segments of the market. Despite falling rents in some sectors, overall housing cost burdens remain high in Greater Boston, and rising taxes exacerbate this issue."
"Policy Debate: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu's proposals to shift the tax burden to commercial properties have stalled in the state legislature, meaning the current tax structure, and the resulting residential increases, are likely to continue. For homeowners facing financial stress, recent changes in Massachusetts housing law include expanded protections such as mandatory mediation with lenders before foreclosure proceedings can begin, and more state/local grants to help avoid foreclosure."
Falling commercial property values in Boston are shifting a larger share of the tax burden onto residential properties, producing potential homeowner tax increases of about 13% in 2026. A 13% rise equates to roughly $780 annually ($65 monthly) for single-family homeowners and will substantially affect condo owners. Higher property taxes raise monthly housing expenses, increase debt-to-income ratios used by lenders, and can make mortgage qualification and desired loan amounts harder to obtain. Increased costs may suppress demand for owner-occupied housing and further strain Greater Boston affordability. Recent Massachusetts law changes expand foreclosure protections and increase state and local grant availability. Official city resources list assessment and relief options.
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