Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Monday, March 25, 2024
Register O'Donnell’s “Suits for Success” Expands Partnership
Monday, March 11, 2024
Norfolk County Monthly Property Sales Increase for 2nd Month
Sunday, March 3, 2024
Norfolk Deeds wishes the Town of Franklin a Happy Birthday! (video)
"Happy Birthday to the Town of Franklin, Incorporated, March 2, 1778. The Town of Franklin was named after United States Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.
Follow the link to watch Good Deeds: History Comes Alive, Franklin Public Library. https://t.co/a5bmZ4TkA3 or -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHCJUQDye2Y
@TOFranklinMA
Shared from -> https://t.co/FUgmoDqyWp
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Norfolk County Deeds: "History Comes Alive" on the Franklin Public Library (video)
Good Deeds: History Comes Alive, Franklin Public Library https://t.co/A98m9NOrFL via @YouTube or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHCJUQDye2Y
Shared from -> https://t.co/eKCN8v8snC
Monday, February 26, 2024
Register O’Donnell Brings the Registry of Deeds Directly to Norfolk County Residents - Franklin, May 7, 2024
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell announced today that he and his outreach team will resume holding office hours in communities throughout Norfolk County as part of his ongoing efforts to bring the Registry of Deeds directly to the residents of Norfolk County.
The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County, cataloging and housing more than 10 million land documents dating back to 1793. The office hours will be held to assist residents in locating their property records and provide them with certified copies of land documents, such as deeds and mortgage discharges.
The Register expressed his strong belief in the benefits of bringing the Registry directly to residents. "These office hours," noted Register O'Donnell, "allow us to bring Registry services directly to the residents of Norfolk County without the inconvenience of having them travel to the Registry's central office in Dedham."
By offering office hours, the Register aims to make it more convenient for residents to access and inquire about real property records. This initiative reflects the Register's commitment to providing efficient and accessible services to the residents of Norfolk County.
Although Registry staff cannot provide legal advice, they will be on hand along with the Register to answer basic questions, transport documents for recording, and assist in the filling out of a Declaration of Homestead form that provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. They will also assist a person in signing up for the Registry of Deeds Consumer Notification Program, which alerts a homeowner when a transaction has been made against their property to alert them against potential cases of fraud.
Register O'Donnell concluded by stating, "I understand that not everyone has the ability to travel to the Registry. By offering office hours in different locations throughout Norfolk County, we hope to accommodate those who may have difficulty making it to our main location. Additionally, residents can also utilize our online services at www.norfolkdeeds.org to access and request real property records from the comfort of their own homes. Our goal is to ensure that all Norfolk County residents have convenient and flexible options for accessing and inquiring about their real property records."
2024 Winter and Spring Scheduled Office Hours |
If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
Monday, February 19, 2024
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: President's Day Quiz
GOOD DEEDS: Quiz in Honor of Presidents' Day
By William P. O'Donnell
Norfolk County Register of Deeds
One of the many prominent reasons that Norfolk County is considered a destination community to live and work can be attributed to its rich history. It is one of the oldest counties, founded in 1793, in the United States just five years after George Washington became president.
Talking about presidents, did you know that Presidents' Day is Monday, February 19th? And that Norfolk County is known as the County of Presidents? That's right, four Presidents of the United States of America were born here: John Adams and John Quincy Adams (Braintree or Quincy depending on what community you are from), John F. Kennedy (Brookline), and George H.W. Bush (Milton).
So, I thought a great way to salute these four Norfolk County Presidents was to know a little bit more about each of them. This is a fun quiz, so everybody gets an "A" for taking the time to learn more about these four Norfolk County-born leaders who held the highest office in our land.
Presidents' Day Quiz
1.) He was considered by some historians to be the "Father of the Navy."
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H. W. Bush
2.) He is the only U.S. president to have won a Pulitzer Prize.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
3.) He was the only U.S. president to serve in the Congressional House of Representatives following his presidency.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
4.) He was the only president of the four who picked a "Chief Justice" of the U.S. Supreme Court. Hint: It was considered by historians as a great selection.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
5.) He enrolled in the service on his 18th birthday, immediately after graduating from high school, and was the recipient of multiple medals at the age of 20.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
6.) He was the U.S. president who uttered the famous line, "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country."
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
7.) He was the only U.S. president to head a spy agency.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
8.) He said, "Liberty once lost is lost forever."
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
9.) He was the second-youngest U.S. president to be elected to office.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
10.) He created the U.S. Marine Corps Band.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
11.) He was famous for his work and advocacy of the Monroe Doctrine.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
12.) He was the only president among the four not to attend Harvard.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
13.) Famed historian David McCullough won a Pulitzer Prize for his biography.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
14.) He once said, "Read my lips: no new taxes."
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
15.) Daily, he read six newspapers at his morning breakfast.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
16.) He stated, "The four most miserable years in my life were my four years in the presidency."
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
17.) He was the President during the reunification of Germany.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
18.) His administration was known as the "New Frontier."
A.) John Adams B.) John Q Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
19.) He was Secretary of State before his presidency and is considered a great one.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
20.) This president and wife exchanged more than 1,100 letters from the time of their courtship to the end of his presidency.
A.) John Adams B.) John Quincy Adams C.) John F. Kennedy D.) George H.W. Bush
_________
Answers: 1A, 2C, 3B, 4A, 5D, 6C, 7D, 8A, 9C, 10A, 11B, 12D, 13A, 14D, 15C, 16B, 17D, 18C, 19B, 20A
four Presidents of the United States of America were born in Norfolk County |
If you would like to stay up to date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs and real estate information you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds. Our Customer Service Center is also available to assist you at (781) 461-6101.
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success" Program Donates to Boston's St. Francis House
The often-taken-for-granted suit or dress clothes hidden away in the back closet and only occasionally seeing the light of day may seem to some like an unfortunate necessity. However, for those looking to regain self-sufficiency, quality clothing can be that extra push they need and help them on the path to success.
"These clothes will be put to good use and appreciated by the thousands who come to St. Francis House each year for a fresh pair of clothes in times of need," said Keri Thomas, St. Francis House Vice President of Programs and Services. "It is so valuable and necessary in getting individuals ready for the next step and help them to become more independent."
St. Francis House's mission is to rebuild lives by providing refuge and pathways to stability for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty. They aim to transform lives using a holistic approach to understanding and addressing behavioral health, housing, and employment needs.
Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success" |
Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success" |
Register O'Donnell remarked, "It is my great pleasure to deliver these clothing donations to Boston's St. Francis House on behalf of the residents of Norfolk County. I thank all those who donated to our 'Suits for Success' program, and I hope other local residents and businesses will consider making a clothing donation to their local nonprofit organization. Organizations like the St. Francis House are truly needed and are a great resource for the community."
St. Francis House has been aiding the community since 1984. They provide a range of services, including clinical care, behavioral health services, and job counseling. They also offer food, clothing, and affordable and low-threshold housing to those in need.
"Donations like this help ensure the physical and emotional safety of our guests and assist in the process of changing the trajectory of their lives and moving beyond homelessness," said Thomas. "It offers choices to people who have had total control of their lives taken away, and this is the final touch that can help individuals land a job and help them on their path to becoming self-sufficient.
Since the Registry started the "Suits for Success" program in February 2009, it has distributed more than 11,200 articles of clothing to local charitable organizations.
The "Suits for Success" program, developed by Register O'Donnell, partners with groups like Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill's & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish's Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville, St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, InnerCity Weightlifting and New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts in Walpole to assist those who are in need of clothing as well as household items. The mission of "Suits for Success" is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals who may need appropriate attire for employment interviews.
"During the past decade, we have learned that programs like 'Suits for Success' work," said O'Donnell. "This program has given many people a valuable resource to help them on the path to success and may ultimately help them achieve self-sufficiency. It is rewarding just to help others in our community who may be looking to take that next step in a search for a job or just have a suit to go to a wedding or other event."
If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
Saturday, December 16, 2023
Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz
Monday, December 11, 2023
Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023
Wednesday, November 22, 2023
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds wins lawsuit against County Commissioners
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
Norfolk County Register Wins law suit filed against the County
Monday, November 6, 2023
Norfolk Deeds: October 2023 shows "a slight increase in the total real estate activity"
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings in October 2023 show a slight increase in the total real estate activity compared to October 2022 recordings. This tight margin of closeness in October 2023 activity and statistics to October of 2022 activity and statistics can be attributed to a housing market that has been slow for over a year and the ability of Norfolk County to maintain steady real estate transactions despite the challenging conditions.
“Despite the challenges posed by limited inventory and higher interest rates, the Norfolk County housing market has managed to maintain steady activity,” noted Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “The recording for October 2023 compared to October 2022 shows some of the closest margins to each other that we have seen all year.”
The Registry of Deeds recorded 9,214 documents in October 2023. This was 2% more than in October 2022 and a 13% increase compared to September 2023.a slight increase in the total real estate activity
“To get these numbers to keep moving in a positive direction, new home construction will need to increase its pace, because what we have in housing inventory is still not enough to keep home prices in check,” said Register O’Donnell. “Particularly when you consider that high interest rates, relative to what they were in 2020 and 2021, makes finding an affordable home difficult for homebuyers in general but especially for first-time homebuyers.”
The total number of deeds recorded for October 2023, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1299, down 1% from October 2022 but up 4% from September.
“The increase in real estate activity this month compared to last month shows that despite difficult market conditions, Norfolk County remains a desirable community to both live and work in,” noted Register O’Donnell.
The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for October 2023 was $967,836, a 9% decrease compared to October 2022 but an increase of 12% from September 2023. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing 20% from last year but up 12% from last month.
“While prices have come down compared to last year, they are only down 1% compared to 2020 and 2021, when mortgage interest rates were lower than 3%,” said Register O'Donnell. “The lack of available real estate inventory is likely one reason why property prices are still higher than they were before the pandemic.”
“Seasoned homebuyers are doubly affected by current market conditions, as they not only face higher borrowing costs but also have limited options to choose from. Additionally, with home loan interest rates exceeding 7%, these same home owners are also less likely to refinance, leading to a decrease in the number of mortgages being recorded,” said Register O’Donnell.
For the month of October, lending activity overall continued to decline from last year. A total of 1,165 mortgages were recorded, which is 21% less than last year and 1% less than last month.
“Those who took advantage of the lower interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are also less likely to refinance at current rates, and with property sales going down, this results in a more pronounced decline in the number of mortgages recorded,” said O’Donnell. “For individuals who are struggling to keep up with payments now, refinancing at a higher interest rate is not going to help, which is one factor contributing to the increase in notices to foreclose and foreclosure deeds. Also, many potential sellers who would need to borrow to purchase a new property have elected not to sell given the higher interest rates.”
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In October 2023, there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in October 2023, there were 4 recorded. However, there were 21 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, less than the 25 recorded this month last year.
“We cannot begin to know all the causes that have contributed to these foreclosures and notices to foreclose, but what we do know is that a number of our neighbors have lost their homes, and even more are dangerously close to losing their homes,” said Register O'Donnell. “We all experience unforeseen events in our lives, and sometimes events beyond our control can have devastating emotional and financial effects, so I would urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage or who knows someone who is struggling to contact one of the non-profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org.
For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs (617-479-8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (508-587-0950) to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400.
Register O’Donnell Concluded, “While current market conditions may be frustrating to some, especially for first-time homebuyers, Norfolk County has shown a high level of resilience this month and saw some positive market indicators despite the challenges faced in the housing market. We will continue to track these market trends as we move further into the fall season.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.
Saturday, November 4, 2023
Register O'Donnell Announces 2023 Holiday Food Drive November 14th through December 14th
The cost of living has become increasingly challenging for many individuals and families across Norfolk County, making it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food, which can be especially difficult during the holiday season when the pressure to provide for loved ones is heightened. Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is asking people to take a moment to contribute to the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, starting Tuesday November 14th and running through Thursday December 14th.
“There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and to work. However, there are people throughout the county who are truly hurting. This year, we, as a community, have seen a rising demand for food assistance, and it is crucial that we come together to support those in need. By participating in the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, we can make a significant impact this holiday season,” said Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell.
Register O'Donnell Announces 2023 Holiday Food Drive
November 14th through December 14th
Today, according to the latest Project Bread statistics, 18.8% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Furthermore, 21.9% of children in the state are also considered food insecure. The increasing cost of housing and food are likely factors that contribute to the rising rates of food insecurity.
Register O'Donnell noted. “As the holidays approach, there is definitely a need for more food assistance. Household expenses are higher due to the cost of home heating fuel, food bills, and increased interest rates. Some Norfolk County families are hit harder by these increased costs and worry about putting food on the table this holiday season. So, let us be mindful during this Thanksgiving season that others may need our help.”
Non-perishable food items can be brought directly to the Registry of Deeds, which is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. A donation bin will be set-up in the Registry's lobby and food can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Suggested donations include canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products.
“We (Interfaith Social Services) are experiencing a 30% increase in the demand for food assistance which is the heist it has been in our 53 years of operation,” said Rick Doane, Executive Director for Interfaith Social Services in Quincy. “We would be extremely grateful for any assistance that the local community could provide.”
If you can't get to the Registry of Deeds building to drop off food, you can check the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org for a pantry location in your community.
“Working together, we can truly make a huge difference this holiday season,” concluded Register O'Donnell. “By supporting each other and being mindful of those in need we can help those struggling with food insecurity, because no one should go hungry, especially during this time of year. I ask that we all embrace the true meaning of the Thanksgiving by showing compassion and generosity towards all.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.