Massachusetts Updated the Homestead Act: Here’s What That Means for Homeowners

A U.S. flag on the porch of a white house with a cannon in front.

In August 2024, Massachusetts enacted the Affordable Homes Act, which provided $5.1 billion in funding for affordable housing, made it easier for homeowners to create accessory dwelling units (ACUs), and created policies encouraging housing production. The law also included significant updates to the state’s Homestead Act. This change has far-reaching implications for homeowners across the state, offering enhanced protection for their most valuable asset: their homes. Here, we’ll explore what it means to file under the Homestead Act and why it’s such a significant development for Massachusetts homeowners.