Canton, MA Real Estate: A Local Guide

Canton at a glance

A short history

Canton was set off from Stoughton and incorporated on February 23, 1797; the name reflects a local belief that it lay opposite Canton, China, on the globe. Paul Revere opened a copper rolling mill here in 1801 and rolled copper sheathing for the USS Constitution. The stone Canton Viaduct, built in 1834–35 for the Boston and Providence Railroad, still carries trains.

Getting around

Canton Junction and Canton Center stations serve the MBTA Providence/Stoughton Line, and Interstates 93 and 95 and Route 138 meet nearby. Check mbta.com for current schedules and parking.

Parks and open space

Part of the Blue Hills Reservation lies in Canton. The Trustees’ Bradley Estate has walking trails and gardens.

Records to check for a Canton property

• The assessor’s record and current tax bill from the Town of Canton; compare the assessed value, rate and any exemptions.
• Wetland and conservation records from the conservation commission, for any lot near water.
• Permits for additions, finished basements and decks from the building department.
• The Canton school district profile on the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education site, if schools matter to your decision.

Massachusetts requirements for every sale

Homes built before 1978 need the state lead paint notification. Every sale needs a smoke and carbon monoxide compliance certificate from the local fire department. Homes not on public sewer generally need a Title 5 septic inspection.

This guide covers places, history and public records. Under fair housing law it does not describe neighborhoods by who lives in them. Confirm facts with the Town of Canton and the agencies named before relying on them.

Sources: Britannica: Canton; Canton Viaduct; The Trustees: Bradley Estate.