The Burning Question: How Much Does This Little Piece of Paper Cost in Bean Town, Anyway?
So, you're diving into the wonderful world of Boston real estate (or maybe you're just wading in knee-deep). Congratulations! You're about to encounter a delightful cast of characters: enthusiastic realtors, inspectors with a keen eye for chipped paint, and... Municipal Lien Certificates (MLCs).
Yes, the MLC. This mysterious document might seem like it emerged from a filing cabinet fueled by dark magic, but fear not, intrepid homeowner (or hopeful homeowner)! We're here to unveil the secrets of the MLC, specifically how much it'll set you back in the land of Dunkin' Donuts and Fenway Park.
The Great MLC Price Reveal
Now, before you start budgeting for a small fortune, here's the good news: An MLC in Boston isn't going to break the bank. But wait, there's a twist (because life, and real estate, rarely goes according to a perfectly predictable script). The price actually depends on the Property Class.
Hold on to Your Hats: Property Class Breakdown
- Property Class R1 (Single-family homes): This is your classic Boston brownstone or cozy suburban haven. The MLC for this category will set you back a cool $25. That's less than a roundtrip on the T, so you can breathe a sigh of relief.
- Beyond R1 (Embrace the Unknown!): If you're venturing into the world of multi-unit dwellings, commercial properties, or anything that isn't a single-family home, then buckle up. The MLC fee jumps to a slightly steeper $150. Still not a bank-breaker, but definitely more than a grande latte.
Important MLC Side Note: These prices are straight from the City of Boston's official website, so you can trust them like you trust a perfectly toasted Boston cream pie (you wouldn't settle for anything less, would you?).
Still Have MLC Questions? We Got You Covered
Even with this handy guide, you might still have some lingering MLC mysteries. Fear not, for we've compiled a rapid-fire FAQ section to extinguish those burning questions.
MLC FAQ: Your Mini Guide to Municipal Lien Certificate Mastery
How to Get an MLC in Boston?
The City of Boston offers a few options: you can mail in a request, drop it off in person, or head over to
How Long Does it Take to Get an MLC?
Allow the City of Boston 10 business days to process your request. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to navigating the wonderful world of paperwork.
Is There Anything Else I Need to Know About MLCs?
Yes! The MLC is a snapshot in time, showing any outstanding taxes or assessments on the property at the time it was issued. It's not a guarantee that there won't be future charges, so make sure you do your due diligence.
Do I Need an MLC if I'm Renting?
Nope! This is typically required by lenders or buyers during a property sale.
Can I Haggle on the MLC Price?
Unfortunately, the City of Boston has a set price for each Property Class. So, while you might be able to score a deal on a dozen cannolis at Mike's Pastry, the MLC price is non-negotiable.
