Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that real estate activity in Norfolk County presented a mixed picture in February 2026, with several key indicators rising year‑over‑year while others showed declines compared to both last year and last month.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 7,083 documents in February 2026, a 3% increase from February 2025 but a 10% decrease from January 2026.
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| Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Mixed Results in February |
“Document recordings in February continued to trend slightly ahead of last year,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds, William P. O’Donnell. “Even with the typical late-winter seasonal slowdown, the year‑over‑year increase shows that overall engagement with real estate remains steady across Norfolk County.”
A total of 952 deeds were recorded in February, an 8% decrease from February 2025 and a 15% decrease from January 2026. Deeds recorded with consideration totaled 379, representing an 11% decline year‑over‑year and a 20% decline month‑over‑month.
“The decrease in deeds compared to last year reflects the ongoing shortage of available properties coming onto the market,” said Register O’Donnell. “Persistent low inventory, even as it shows signs of improvement, combined with homeowners remaining reluctant to give up low‑rate mortgages, continues to limit sales activity. Additionally, harsh winter conditions may have further discouraged some would‑be sellers and buyers, contributing to fewer transactions countywide.”
The average sale price for all commercial and residential properties in February 2026 was $1,104,109, a 4% increase from February 2025 but a 26% decrease from January 2026. Total commercial and residential real estate sales volume reached $418 million, a 7% decrease from February 2025 and a 41% drop from January 2026.
“While the average sale price remains higher than last year, the month‑to‑month decline indicates some moderation after January’s elevated numbers,” noted Register O’Donnell. “Even so, property values remain strong, reflecting the desirability of Norfolk County.”
Lending activity showed notable year‑over‑year gains. The Registry recorded 1,219 mortgages in February, a 24% increase from February 2025 and a 3% decrease from January 2026. Total mortgage indebtedness for the month amounted to $1.51 billion, a 7% decrease year‑over‑year but a 62% increase compared to January 2026.
“The year‑over‑year increase in mortgage activity demonstrates that many residents remain active in securing financing for purchases or refinancing,” said Register O’Donnell. “Even as some homeowners remain locked into lower‑rate mortgages and choose not to enter the market, the lending numbers show that those who are looking to buy or restructure their loans continue to participate steadily in the real estate market.”
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In February 2026 there were 3 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down from the 7 recorded in February 2025. However, there were 27 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which is an increase from the 19 in February 2025.
“Life can change unexpectedly, and financial hardship can affect anyone,” Register O’Donnell emphasized. “If someone is having trouble paying their mortgage, or knows someone who is, I strongly encourage them to reach out to one of the non‑profit agencies listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org.”
For those seeking help, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds partners with Quincy Community Action Programs (617‑479‑8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (508‑587‑0950) to assist residents facing mortgage challenges. Homeowners may also contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617‑727‑8400.
“February’s mixed results, with documents and mortgage recordings rising while deeds and sales volume fell, underscore the resilience of the Norfolk County real estate market, which continues to show growth in key areas despite both severe winter weather and the ongoing challenges affecting today’s real estate environment,” said Register O’Donnell. “As we move further into the year, we remain hopeful that greater inventory and continued buyer activity will strengthen the market.”
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The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, 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 via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
