New Hampshire Real Estate Laws Just Changed
Here’s What It Means for You in 2025
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Dear ,
If you own property, invest, or are planning a move in New Hampshire, several new laws took effect in 2025 that may directly impact your property rights, development options, and long-term value.
Below is a clear, practical breakdown of what changed, and why it matters for homeowners, buyers, sellers, and investors across the Lakes Region.
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✔ ADUs are easier to build
✔ Parking requirements are more flexible
✔ Rental rules are clearer (not stricter)
✔ HOA transparency has increased
✔ Waterfront owners gain new inspection flexibility
If any of these apply to you, keep reading.
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Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Homeowners may now have the right to add an attached or detached ADU up to 950 sq. ft., without extra lot size or setback requirements. Towns may still opt out, but the decision is now local.
💡 Why this matters:
Creates opportunities for rental income, multigenerational living, or downsizing, without leaving your property.
Residential Use in Commercial Zones
Multifamily housing is now permitted in certain commercial zones where infrastructure supports it. Adaptive reuse of existing buildings may also be approved.
💡 Why this matters:
Encourages more housing supply and revitalizes underused commercial spaces.
Two-People-Per-Bedroom Rule
Municipalities can no longer restrict occupancy below two people per bedroom, regardless of relationship or student status.
💡 Why this matters:
Provides clarity and consistency for landlords, renters, and larger households.
Only One Parking Space Per Unit
Towns may no longer require more than one parking space per residence.
💡 Why this matters:
Makes smaller lots and infill development more feasible.
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Property Rights & Ownership
Homestead Exemption Increased
Creditor protection for a primary residence increased to $400,000
($550,000 for jointly owned homes).
💡 Why this matters:
Stronger long-term protection for homeowners, retirees, and families.
Foreign Ownership Restrictions
Entities tied to certain countries of concern may no longer purchase or lease New Hampshire property.
💡 Why this matters:
Affects a limited number of transactions, but important for sellers to understand.
Old Mortgages Automatically Discharged (Starting 2028)
Mortgages will be removed from title after 35 years (or 5 years after maturity).
💡 Why this matters:
Reduces title issues and helps closings move more smoothly.
New Boathouse Restrictions
For boathouses over public waters:
• Maximum height of 18 feet
• No second floors
• Storage must be boat-related only
💡 Why this matters:
Especially important for Lakes Region and waterfront property owners.
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Third-Party Inspectors Allowed
Licensed professionals may now perform inspections instead of town officials.
💡 Why this matters:
Speeds up approvals and may reduce permitting costs.
Single-Staircase Buildings (Up to 4 Stories)
Certain residential buildings may now be constructed with one staircase under updated safety rules.
💡 Why this matters:
Enables more efficient building designs and lower construction costs.
Faster Driveway Permits for Large Projects
Projects with 20+ units must receive driveway permit decisions within 60 business days.
💡 Why this matters:
Helps new housing projects move forward faster.
Basements Excluded from FAR
Below-grade space used for parking or storage no longer counts toward floor-area limits.
💡 Why this matters:
Allows more usable space without zoning penalties.
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Lease End = Lawful Eviction (With Notice)
For leases of 12 months or longer, landlords may evict at lease end with 60 days’ notice.
💡 Why this matters:
Creates clearer expectations for both landlords and tenants.
Non-Electronic Rent Payments Required
Landlords must accept at least one non-digital form of rent payment.
💡 Why this matters:
Protects tenants who prefer checks or other non-electronic options.
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Increased Transparency in Resident-Owned Communities
Buyers may request financial and legal documents and must receive them within 10 days.
💡 Why this matters:
Reduces surprises in co-op and ROC purchases.
Subdivision Approvals Last Longer
Subdivision approvals now remain valid for 7 years, with 3 years to begin construction.
💡 Why this matters:
Gives builders and developers more flexibility and planning certainty.
Ban on Predatory Listing Agreements
Long-term commission liens on properties are now illegal.
💡 Why this matters:
Provides stronger consumer protections for sellers.
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These changes give property owners more flexibility, builders greater efficiency, and buyers stronger protections, all while supporting thoughtful growth across the Lakes Region.
👉 Have questions about how these laws affect your property or plans?
Reply to this email or call 603-273-616, I’m always happy to help.
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Owning a lakefront home in the Lakes Region is a lifestyle defined by beauty, privacy, and connection to the water. This section answers every question buyers ask about shoreline rules, docks, depth, boating access, and what makes each lake different, so you can choose the right waterfront experience with confidence.
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This Weeks Home Highlights
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598 Scenic Road Laconia, NH 03246
$1,200,000 | 3 BD | 4 BA | 2,698 SQ FT
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28 Vantage Point Drive Unit 2, Laconia, NH 03246
$909,900 | 3 BD | 3 BA | 2,000 SQ FT
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63 Commanders Helm Laconia, NH, 03246
$1,985,000 | 6 BD | 4 BA | 5,210 SQ FT
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164 Gardners Grove, Belmont, NH, 03220
$959,000 | 3 BD | 2 BA | 3,089 SQ FT
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Corina Cisneros – Broker | Entrepreneur | Aviator is a top-producing Real Estate Broker based in Gilford, New Hampshire, serving the Lake Winnipesaukee Region. Known for her dedication, local expertise, and personalized service, Corina consistently ranks among the top 1% of agents in the state. "Corina isn't just an agent. She is the Ethan Hunt (Mission: Impossible) of Real Estate. Strategic, unshakably calm under pressure, and relentlessly effective, she gets the job done!" Actual client testimonial. Zillow Reviews Google Reviews
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