Massachusetts § 14 - Public or private sale of realty
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 14 — Public or private sale of realty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14. Public or private sale of realty
Section 14. Upon a petition of an executor or administrator for a license to sell real estate of the deceased or of a guardian or conservator to sell real estate of his ward, the court may, if the petitioner so requests, authorize him to sell such property at public auction and to convey to the purchaser all the estate, right, title and interest which the deceased had therein at his death and which was then chargeable with the payment of his debts or which the ward has at the time of the sale. If the petitioner requests that such property may be sold by private sale and the court, upon a hearing, finds that an advantageous offer for the purchase thereof has been made to the petitioner, and that the interests of all parties will be promoted by an acceptance thereof, it may authorize a conveyance by private sale in accordance with such offer or upon other terms; but the petitioner so authorized may nevertheless sell such property by public auction in accordance with this chapter. The court, if satisfied that such action will not be prejudicial to the interests of the estate, may authorize the petitioner to become the purchaser of such real estate at public or private sale.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 14
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 14 cover?
Section 14 ("Public or private sale of realty") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 14?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 14" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 14 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.