Massachusetts
Massachusetts Real Estate Exam: Complete 2026 Prep Guide
Massachusetts' real estate salesperson exam covers national content plus MA-specific law including unique requirements like Title 5 septic disclosure and the HOMES Act. The first-time pass rate is around 65%. MA uses 'salesperson' as the entry-level title.
Massachusetts Exam Requirements at a Glance
Pre-licensing education: 40 hours
Exam provider: PSI Services
Exam format: 120 questions — 80 national + 40 Massachusetts state-specific
Time limit: 4 hours
Passing score: 70% on each portion (must pass both)
Exam fee: approximately $85
License title: salesperson (under sponsoring broker)
Age requirement: 18 years old
Confirm current rules with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons.
What Makes Massachusetts Different
Massachusetts has unique disclosure requirements that don't appear in other states. Title 5 (septic system inspection) is required for properties using septic systems. The Lead Paint Law (Chapter 111, Section 197) imposes strict requirements for properties built before 1978 with children under 6. The state is also a judicial foreclosure jurisdiction under specific Massachusetts procedures.
Massachusetts-Specific Topics You Must Know
These appear on the state portion and are not covered by generic national prep materials.
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons — regulatory body.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 112, Sections 87PP-DDD — real estate licensing law.
Title 5 septic regulations — required septic inspection before transfer for systems serving residential properties.
Lead Paint Law (Chapter 111, Section 197) — strict requirements for pre-1978 residential properties with children under 6.
HOMES Act (Home Owner's Energy Score) — energy disclosure requirements.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Certification — required for transfers.
Stigmatized property — MA disclosure rules around homicide, suicide, and other psychologically affecting events.
Continuing education — 12 hours per 2-year cycle.
Study Plan for the Massachusetts Exam
Week 1: Diagnostic + national content. Strong on contracts, agency, finance.
Week 2: National continued — property ownership, fair housing, valuation, math. Target 70%+.
Week 3: MA law — Board rules, Title 5, Lead Paint Law, HOMES Act, smoke/CO certification. 40+ MA practice questions.
Week 4: Full-length timed practice exams. Review missed questions. Target 75%+.
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Massachusetts Resources
Massachusetts Exam FAQ
What is Title 5 in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts' septic system regulation. Properties served by septic systems typically require a Title 5 inspection before transfer to ensure the system meets state standards.
What is the Massachusetts Lead Paint Law?
Chapter 111, Section 197 — requires lead paint disclosure and abatement for pre-1978 residential properties where children under 6 will reside.
Is Massachusetts a judicial foreclosure state?
Massachusetts allows both judicial and non-judicial foreclosure. Most residential foreclosures use the Statutory Power of Sale (non-judicial), but judicial foreclosure is also available.
What is smoke/CO detector certification?
MA requires sellers to obtain a certificate from the local fire department confirming working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before residential property transfer.
Does Massachusetts require disclosure of stigmatized properties?
Massachusetts has specific rules about disclosing certain stigmatizing events (e.g., homicide, suicide) only when directly asked. Agents should know the disclosure framework precisely.