Register O'Donnell Discusses Type of Land Plan Available at Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reminded homeowners that only certain types of land plans are recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, and that those plans are not plot plans.

“One of the questions we hear frequently from homeowners at the Registry of Deeds is, ‘Can I get a copy of my plot plan?’” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “Plot plans are not recorded at the Registry of Deeds. What is recorded are land plans, which generally show the overall dimensions and boundaries of a property. On occasion, a recorded land plan may depict a structure on the lot, but more often than not, structures are not shown.”

land plans recorded at the Registry are not plot plans

There are times when homeowners need a plot plan, particularly when undertaking a capital improvement such as building an addition or installing a swimming pool. A plot plan, also referred to as a site plan, typically shows existing and proposed structures, along with their locations and dimensions relative to the property lines. These types of plans, however, are not recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds.

In some communities, local Building Departments may have plot plans on file that show the location of structures and various measurements, including distances between buildings and property boundaries.

“Plot plans are not always available to the general public,” Register O’Donnell explained. “In some cases, access may be limited to the property owner or a licensed surveyor. It is also important to remember that a plot plan may not be up to date or fully accurate if changes have been made to the property since the plan was filed. Homeowners should always consult with a licensed surveyor or other qualified professional before relying on any plot plan for legal or construction purposes.”

In many instances, a mortgage plot plan is prepared as part of a real estate transaction or a mortgage refinancing. Homeowners in need of such a plan should first check their personal records from when they did their real estate closing. Additionally, some town building departments may have a copy of a property’s plot plan or an as‑built plan on file. If no such plan is available, the homeowner would need to hire a licensed surveyor to create one.

Land plans, which are recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, provide the overall dimensions and boundaries of a property.

“Property deeds include a section that describes the land using metes and bounds,” noted Register O’Donnell. “Most deeds also contain a reference to a recorded land plan by book and page number. These land plans can be helpful when there are questions between neighbors about property lines or when addressing other boundary‑related issues.”

Register O’Donnell concluded, “The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has documents and plans available for viewing dating back to the Registry’s establishment in 1793. Non‑certified copies of recorded documents and plans can be viewed and printed free of charge through our website at www.norfolkdeeds.org.”

Copies of land plans that do not contain non‑certified copy language are available for a fee of $1.00 per plan for 8½ x 11-inch copies, plus an additional $1.00 per plan for postage. Larger plans, including 11 x 17 inch or 18 x 24-inch sizes, cost $2.00 per plan, plus an additional $1.00 per plan for postage. Requests should be mailed to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026, along with a check made payable to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds for the appropriate amount.

If the land plan book and page number is unknown, or if there are additional questions regarding land plans, the Registry’s Customer Service Center may be contacted in person or by phone at 781‑461‑6101, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

“As always,” Register O’Donnell said, “the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is ready and willing to assist our customers and the citizens of Norfolk County.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us on Facebook at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds, or follow us on X at x.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram at instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

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.

Spring-Cleaning Your Title: Online Property Records Review

As spring arrives and homeowners begin their annual "spring‑cleaning," Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is reminding residents that it is also a good time to review their property records and title information using the Registry's free, online document research system at www.norfolkdeeds.org.

"Spring-cleaning is not just about closets and garages," said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "It is also an ideal time for homeowners to take a few minutes to review what is on record for their property, especially since, for most of us, a home is our most valuable asset. Our online system makes it easy to do so from the comfort of home."

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds' website allows the public to search and view more than 14 million recorded land documents, dating back to the Registry's founding in 1793. Records can be searched by property owner name, property address, or other criteria, and are available 24 hours a day at no cost.

"Providing secure, accurate, and accessible land record information is central to our mission," Register O'Donnell said. "Our website brings the Registry into residents' homes and businesses, eliminating the need to travel to the Registry for most research needs."

What can Homeowners check online by using the Registry's online research tools:

• Look up their deed to confirm ownership details, land description, and how title is held
• Verify that mortgages have been properly discharged after being paid off
• Review other documents affecting their property, such as Mortgages or plans
• Confirm whether a Declaration of Homestead has been recorded
• Monitor activity on their property records by signing up for the Registry's free Consumer Notification Service

"Many homeowners are surprised by how much useful information they can find with just a few clicks," said Register O'Donnell. "You do not need a lawyer, and you do not need to be an expert. A little knowledge can go a long way toward peace of mind."

One of the most important items homeowners should check is whether old mortgages have been properly discharged. Once a mortgage is paid off, a discharge must be recorded to clear the property's title.

"As a consumer, you want to make sure a discharge has been recorded, which tells the world that the mortgage has been paid off," Register O'Donnell noted. "Not having a mortgage discharged can create a title issue and delay or complicate the sale or refinancing of a home."

Homeowners can confirm that mortgage discharges are on file by reviewing their property records online at www.norfolkdeeds.org.

Homeowners frequently ask whether they need a copy of their deed. While it is not required, Register O'Donnell recommends keeping one on hand.

"A deed can tell you who owns the property, how it is owned, and the description of the land," Register O'Donnell said. "For many people, having that information brings peace of mind."

Non‑certified copies of deeds can be printed for free from the Registry's website. Certified copies are available through the Registry's Customer Service Center for $1 per page in person or by mail for $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, per document.

Homeowners are also encouraged to check whether a Declaration of Homestead has been recorded on their primary residence. Recent changes in state law increased the homestead protection amount from $500,000 to $1,000,000, with the increase applying retroactively to valid homesteads already on record.

"If you own a home and it is your primary residence, filing a Declaration of Homestead can significantly increase the level of protection for that property," Register O'Donnell said. "Given that most people's homes are their greatest financial asset, this is something every homeowner should consider."

Information and forms related to Homestead Protection are available at no cost on the Registry's website. For residents who need assistance, the Registry's Customer Service Center is available to help with online research, document questions, and certified copies.

"Our goal is first‑class customer service," Register O'Donnell said. "Norfolk County residents deserve a Registry of Deeds that is accessible, consumer‑friendly, and responsive. Our online system does exactly that." 

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us on Facebook at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds, or follow us on X at x.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram at instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

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.

Register O'Donnell Reveals Norfolk County’s Top Real Estate Sales of 2025

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that during 2025, ten properties, a mix of commercial and residential, each sold for more than $46.4 million with an average price of $108.2 million.

 

The following prices pertain to real estate sales from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

 

The ten properties were:

 

10. 44 Harvard Street, Westwood, a 127,278‑square‑foot luxury fitness center known as Life Time Athletic, sold in December for $46,487,429 to No Sweat LLC as part of a sale‑leaseback transaction, with Life Time remaining as the long‑term tenant.

 

9. 1779 Central Street, Stoughton, the five-floor, 311,064-square-foot, 300-unit apartment complex known as Stō Apartments, sold in December for $62,500,000;

 

8. 625 Burgin Parkway, Quincy, the six‑story, 180‑unit apartment complex built in 2016 and known as Alister Deco by Mill Creek, sold in November for $67,600,000, or approximately $375,500 per unit.

 

7. 2 Presidential Drive, Quincy, built in 1971, this three‑story, 276‑unit apartment complex known as Presidential Estates sits on more than 12 acres of land and sold last March for $74,000,000. The community includes amenities such as a pool, tennis courts, and clubhouse.

 

6. 50 Woodview Way, Franklin, situated on approximately 21 acres of land, this four‑story, 280‑unit luxury apartment complex now known as Halstead Franklin sold in May for $101,000,000. Built in 2017, the property features one‑, two‑, and three‑bedroom units with resort‑style amenities.

 

5. 200 Trotter Road, Weymouth, The Commons at SouthField, a four‑story, 298‑unit rental community built in 2012, sold in January of last year for $103,100,000. Located at Union Point near the South Weymouth commuter rail station.

 

4. In July 2025, Herb Chambers sold his Massachusetts‑based dealership group, consisting of 33 dealerships, to Asbury Automotive Group of Georgia in a transaction valued at approximately $1.45 billion. As part of that broader deal, the Herb Chambers dealership properties along Commonwealth Avenue in Brookline were included, with the real estate component for those locations selling that same month for $109,300,000.

 

3. 140 Kendrick Street, Needham, a 440,000‑square‑foot workplace campus comprising three interconnected office buildings along with a café, coffee bar, and fitness center, sold in December for $132,000,000.

 

2. 275 2nd Avenue, Needham, a 178,700‑square‑foot, four‑story, 390‑unit apartment building built in 2018 and known as The Kendrick, sold in April for $181,750,000, or roughly $466,000 per unit.

 

1. 550-552 Victory Road, Quincy, Windsor Marina Bay Apartments, a 343,130‑square‑foot, five‑story, 352‑unit waterfront apartment complex at Marina Bay, sold in November for $205,000,000. Built in 2017, the property offers direct harbor views, resort‑style amenities, and proximity to ferry and transit service into downtown Boston.

 

The top sales appear to have been a combination of apartment complexes, car dealerships, and office space. The state and Norfolk County collected excise taxes totaling more than $4,937,000 from these 10 sales.

 

“The variety in these real estate transactions bodes well for the Norfolk County economy, with high-value properties selling in both commercial and residential sectors,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “This indicates that Norfolk County is not only a desirable place to live and work but also a magnet for business, industry, and trade. Overall, the strength of the local real estate market underscores the county’s attractiveness and its potential for continued growth and prosperity.”

 

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us on Facebook at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds, or follow us on X at x.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram at instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

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.

Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Mixed Results in February

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.

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.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us on Facebook at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds, or follow us on X at x.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram at instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

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.

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 ???

Wednesday, March 11

1:00pm    Writer's Group session moved to March 18

7:00pm Smarty Pants Trivia (Raillery Public House)

For additional details on Library events -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

Note: Senior Center checking on why their events are suddenly being shown as "All Day". You can use the monthly newsletter for specific program/event times

***  Town Meetings today   ***

Norfolk County Commissioners Public Hearing Notice

Wednesday, March 11 Time: 1:00 PM

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03112026-2159

Public view budget for Norfolk County - https://cms5.revize.com/revize/norfolkcountyma/FY27%20BUDGET%20PUBLIC%20VIEWING%20COPY%203%205%2026.pdf?t=202603060812320&t=202603060812320 

Finance Committee Meeting

Wednesday, March 11 Time: 6:00 PM

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03112026-2176

Franklin Cultural Council Meeting

Wednesday, March 11 Time: 7:00 PM

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03112026-2167

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Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

GOOD DEEDS: Celebrating Women’s History Month

By William P. O’Donnell ,Norfolk County Register of Deeds

As Women’s History Month arrives each March, it offers a chance to reflect on the strength, vision, and lasting impact of the women who have shaped our communities, country, and our lives. Recognizing these achievements is essential to understanding the nation we live in today.

I’m reminded of an afternoon last September here at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, when our Great Hall in Dedham Center filled with friends, families, and neighbors from across our 28 communities to celebrate the release of the “We Remember Our Women” booklet, the fourth volume in our Notable Land Records series. 

Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kimberley L. Driscoll delivered heartfelt keynote remarks, speaking about the importance of remembering those who came before us and acknowledging the challenges they faced in stepping into leadership roles during times when such paths were far more difficult. She emphasized how storytelling preserves these contributions and inspires new generations to lead, serve, and uplift others.

Guests received complimentary copies of the booklet and were invited to explore exhibits that brought these profiles to life. Historical storyboards, timelines, and displays showcased achievements across medicine, environmental advocacy, journalism, literature, public service, military leadership, and civic engagement. Some of the honorees attended the event in person, giving visitors the opportunity to meet the trailblazers whose stories appear in the pages of the “We Remember Our Women” booklet.

The afternoon also included meaningful moments. Marianne Peak, Superintendent of the Adams National Historical Park, led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Norwood High School Madrigals, under the direction of choir director Jennifer Hartnett, performed a beautiful musical selection that added warmth and depth to the celebration. These elements together created a setting that honored not only the stories told in the booklet but also the spirit of the event.

The We Remember Our Women booklet itself grew out of the Registry’s History Comes Alive Transcription Project, which has transcribed more than 450,000 handwritten land records dating back to 1793. With both the original legal cursive and easily readable print text now available at www.norfolkresearch.org

This edition highlights 44 women from our 28 communities, including a pioneering physician among the first in the United States, a conservationist from Canton who helped spark a national movement to protect wildlife, two female Army generals whose service exemplifies duty and leadership, a gold‑medal gymnast whose dedication inspired a generation, and an astronaut whose journey carried Norfolk County’s spirit into space. These are only a few of the many remarkable accounts that bring our local history into vivid focus.

Women’s History Month invites us to celebrate both the well-known and the quietly extraordinary, and our communities offer no shortage of examples. Across Norfolk County, the stories of women who shaped our history continue to inspire us today. In Quincy, Mary Pratt stood tall on the pitcher’s mound of the All‑American Girls Professional Baseball League, throwing a no‑hitter in 1944 and later dedicating her life to teaching and coaching, opening doors for generations of young women who followed her into athletics. Just a few towns away in Westwood, Jackie MacMullan carved out her place in a predominantly male profession of sport journalism, her work encouraged countless other women to pursue careers in media and to claim their place in the industry.

Further north, in Bellingham, Bathsheba Benedict showed how the generosity of a single individual can echo across generations. Her support helped found Benedict College in 1870, an historically Black college in South Carolina that has been providing educational opportunity for more than 150 years. In Brookline, Florida Ruffin Ridley an educator, writer, suffragist, and civil rights leader used her pen and her presence to insist upon equality and justice. Her advocacy reached far beyond her own community, and today her name graces a local school, a daily reminder of her enduring influence and pioneering spirit.

And in the Town of Norfolk, Charlotte Barrell Ware shaped the future through science and public health. At a time when foodborne illness posed a serious threat to families, she developed and taught innovative methods in dairy science at the Warelands Dairy School, setting new standards for safety and sanitation. Her unwavering commitment to improving the health of her community helped establish practices still echoed in today’s food safety measures.

Each of these stories is distinct, shaped by different talents, backgrounds, and eras. Yet together, they reveal a common thread perseverance, leadership, and service that continue to knit themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. They remind us that progress is built not by any one person alone, but by the collective impact of individuals whose courage and dedication leave a mark on their communities and on the generations that follow.

Our celebration also carries forward the spirit of Abigail Adams of Weymouth, who urged her husband future president of the United States John Adams during the Continental Congress to “Remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors.” Her call resonates across our communities, to remember, to recognize, and to ensure that contributions by women are visible, valued, and preserved. It is important to recognize and be mindful of the women in our contemporary society and all they have accomplished. Let us take a moment to thank all women who have made a difference in our communities and in our own lives. Our lives would not be what they are today without all of you.

During the month of March, the Registry of Deeds will display storyboards highlighting notable women throughout history who have ties to Norfolk County. Residents interested in receiving a free copy of the “We Remember Our Women” booklet may pick one up at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located in downtown Dedham across from the gold‑domed Superior Court. To request a mailed copy, contact the Registry of Deeds by telephone at (781) 234-3305, or by email at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Thank you to all the women who have made, and continue to make, a difference in our communities, our Commonwealth, and our country.

Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Shows Steady to Start 2026

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported that real estate activity in Norfolk County remained steady in January 2026, with slight fluctuations among key indicators compared to the same period last year.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 7,907 documents in January 2026, a slight uptick of 1% from January 2025, though 22% lower than activity levels seen in December 2025.

"Document recordings for January held close to last year's levels," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds, William P. O'Donnell. "Real estate activity typically slows at the start of the year following December's end‑of‑year surge. Even so, the steadiness in year‑over‑year document volume demonstrates that engagement in the real estate market remains consistent throughout Norfolk County."

A total of 1,124 deeds were recorded in January, representing a 2% decrease compared to January 2025. Despite fewer transactions, overall sales volume demonstrated a notable increase. Total commercial and residential real estate volume reached $710 million, a 10% increase compared to January 2025.

"With the overall volume of real estate sales increasing even as fewer transactions took place suggests that higher‑value properties continue to play a significant role in the market," noted Register O'Donnell. "With a limited inventory of available property, the transactions that do occur tend to involve higher‑value properties, which is reflected in the overall sales volume. These numbers also reveal higher prices for real estate due to limited sales inventory in the Norfolk County communities."

The average sale price for all commercial and residential properties in January 2026 was $1,498,107, a 21% increase compared to January 2025 and a 4% increase compared to December 2025.

"Sale prices at the start of the year remained elevated," said Register O'Donnell. "While this continues to present challenges for some prospective buyers, it also reflects the desirability of living and doing business in Norfolk County."

Lending activity also saw encouraging growth when compared to last year. The Registry recorded 1,251 mortgages in January, an increase of 10% from January 2025, but down 29% from December 2025. Total mortgage indebtedness for the month amounted to $929 million, a 19% rise from the same period last year.

"The increase in mortgage activity indicates that many residents are securing financing for purchases or refinancing existing loans," said Register O'Donnell. "This level of activity suggests that homeowners and buyers remain willing to invest, supported in part by borrowing costs easing from the highs seen in 2023."

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In January 2026, there were 3 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down from the 4 recorded in January 2025. However, there were 24 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which is an increase from the 20 recorded in January 2025.

"Unforeseen events can happen to any of us, and sometimes these events can have severe emotional and financial impacts. I urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage, or who knows someone in this situation, to reach out to one of the non‑profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org," said Register O'Donnell.

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.

"The stable start to the year, combined with growth in document volume and mortgage activity, reflects the continued resilience and desirability of the real estate market in Norfolk County," said Register O'Donnell. "As the year moves forward, we hope to see last year's positive trends continue."

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us on Facebook at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds, or follow us on X at x.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram at instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

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.

GOOD DEEDS: Heartfelt Commitment to Public Safety

By William P. O’Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

Every February, America marks American Heart Month, a tradition that began when President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed it in 1964. It remains a call to action sixty years later: learn CPR, know where the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED) is, and be ready to step in. The stakes remain sobering. More than 350,000 people suffer out‑of‑hospital cardiac arrest in the United States each year, and roughly 90% do not survive. In many cases, the difference between life and death is simply whether help arrives in time and whether someone nearby has the tools and training to act.

 

Walk through the main doors of the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds and into the Recording Hall, and you’ll notice a glass cabinet on the wall with three familiar letters: AED. We weren’t required to install automated external defibrillators back in 2010, but we did, placing units on every floor, maintaining them, and training staff to use them because minutes matter when a life hangs in the balance.

 

Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death, striking without warning and often without time to wait for professional help. An AED is a portable medical device that can recognize life‑threatening arrhythmias and deliver a shock to restore a normal heartbeat. When CPR and defibrillation begin immediately, survival improves dramatically; when they do not, survival can fall by 7–10% with each passing minute. 

As Chris Feeney of the American Heart Association testified to lawmakers in 2025, “Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death, but quick action can save lives. Sudden cardiac arrest victims need CPR and defibrillation within minutes as survival chances drop by seven to 10% each minute. Automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, which are simple and portable, can restore the heart’s normal rhythm and are life‑saving tools.”

 

That’s the purpose behind An Act requiring automatic external defibrillators in Norfolk County public buildings, filed this session as Sen Bill 1473 and House Bill 2349, sponsored by Senator Michael F. Rush and Representative Marcus Vaughn, with Representative Richard G. Wells, Jr. as a co‑sponsor. The bill would require at least one AED in each county‑owned public building and ensure a trained employee or authorized volunteer is present during business hours. The legislation, filed January 16, 2025, was heard on May 13, reported favorably by the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government on June 18, and then advanced to Senate Rules and House Ways and Means for further review.

 

This initiative has deep roots. The Registry of Deeds, in partnership with State Representative and registered nurse Denise Garlick, filed this legislation every session from 2019 until her retirement in 2024. Since then, Senator Rush in the Senate and Representative Vaughn in the House have continued the effort. Their dedication in keeping attention on this public‑health issue has been invaluable, and as similar laws advance across the Commonwealth, we remain hopeful that this bill will make it to the Governor’s desk.

 

If you want a reminder of why preparedness matters, think back to January 2023, when Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a game. Immediate CPR and an AED helped save his life, a nationally televised example of how decisive action can change an outcome. That moment prompted renewed emphasis on CPR and AED readiness not only in professional sports, but in communities, workplaces, and public buildings nationwide.

 

There are many responsibilities that come with being your Register of Deeds, including safeguarding 14 million land records that protect the ownership of your homes and businesses. But there is one responsibility I take especially to heart: doing what we can, with our partners in state government, to ensure lifesaving tools are close at hand and that someone nearby knows how to use them. American Heart Month may have begun as a presidential proclamation, but its strength comes from neighbors, colleagues, and citizens willing to act when seconds count.

 

So, if you are looking to make a difference this heart month, contact your local state legislators and let them know you support SB1473 and HB2349.

Register O’Donnell Reports on 2025 Annual Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reports that Norfolk County recordings for 2025 show greater real estate activity compared to 2024, with increases in both the total number of deeds and mortgages recorded.

In 2025, a total of 110,561 documents were recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, a 7% increase from 2024. July was the busiest month of the year, with 10,696 documents recorded. When comparing each month of 2024 to the same month in 2025, December showed the largest year‑over‑year increase in document volume, rising 16%.

Norfolk County recordings for 2025 show greater
real estate activity compared to 2024

Follow this link to watch the Good Deeds: 2025 year in review segment on Quincy Access Television: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/news-event/good-deeds-qatv-2025-year-in-review

“In 2025, we saw a steady return of activity across multiple parts of the real estate market,” said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “The increase in overall document recordings shows that residents, lenders, and businesses continued to move forward with transactions throughout the year, even as market conditions shifted.”

The number of deeds recorded in 2025, reflecting commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 16,906, an increase of 7% from 2024. Property sales also rose, up 3% from the previous year. June recorded the highest number of property sales, with 1,012 transactions, and it also had the largest year‑over‑year increase, rising 13% from June 2024.

“The rise in deed recordings across most months of the year reflects a real level of resilience in our local housing market,” noted Register O’Donnell. “Buyers and sellers remained engaged and in many communities we saw consistent movement in both sales and transfers. These trends demonstrate that demand for property in Norfolk County continues to be strong.”

Property sale prices in 2025 appear to have increased slightly compared to 2024. The average sale price countywide, both commercial and residential, was $1,216,895, a 6% increase from 2024. November 2025 showed the largest year‑over‑year price increase, rising 46%. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales in 2025 also increased, up 9% from the previous year.

“Norfolk County remains an attractive place to live and work, and that continued interest is reflected in the sales prices we recorded in 2025,” stated Register O’Donnell. “At the same time, limited inventory in many communities continues to make the market challenging, particularly for first‑time homebuyers. While we did see a few signs of price moderation in certain months, overall demand remains high, and that demand continues to outpace available housing.”

Overall lending activity in Norfolk County increased in 2025 compared to 2024. A total of 17,652 mortgages were recorded, up 14% from the previous year. December recorded the largest year‑over‑year increase in mortgage recordings, rising 29%.

“Mortgage activity increased noticeably in 2025, helped in part by modest declines in interest rates during the fall,” said Register O’Donnell. “Even though rates remain higher than what we saw a few years ago, many homeowners and buyers still found opportunities to refinance or secure financing for new purchases, which contributed to higher mortgage recording numbers by the end of the year.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In 2025, there were 56 foreclosure deeds recorded, as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in 2024, there were 87 recorded. Also in 2025, there were 274 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, compared to the 380 recorded in 2024.

“The considerable reduction in foreclosure activity during 2025 is an encouraging sign. With that said, we must remember that foreclosure activity has a human impact, and there are still a number of our neighbors who have lost their homes, and even more are dangerously close to losing their homes,” said Register O'Donnell. “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.

“The trends we saw throughout 2025 reflect a real sense of stability and continued interest in Norfolk County’s real estate market,” said Register O’Donnell. “Even with shifting economic conditions and economic uncertainties, residents and businesses continued to invest, refinance, and participate in property transactions at a strong pace. As we move into 2026, we remain hopeful that this momentum will continue.”

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.org.

Good Deeds: State Of The Registry

By William P. O’Donnell

Norfolk County Register of Deeds

 

This year marked another chapter of progress and resilience for the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. We were proud to release our fourth volume of Notable Land Records, titled “We Remember Our Women,” honoring the extraordinary contributions of women throughout Norfolk County’s history. The release of this booklet was commemorated with a special open house featuring keynote speaker Lieutenant Governor Kimberly Driscoll, who spoke about the importance of preserving and celebrating women’s stories. The fourth edition of Notable Land Records highlights trailblazing women who shaped Norfolk County, from early advocates for education and civic engagement to modern leaders in public service and the arts. It features stories from all 28 communities in the county.

Good Deeds: State Of The Registry

2025 also brought a significant legal victory for the Registry of Deeds. On October 1, 2025, the Norfolk Superior Court entered a Judgment and Order in favor of Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell, reaffirming an earlier ruling from June 28, 2024. These decisions struck down unlawful actions by the Norfolk County Commissioners—Joseph P. Shea of Quincy, Peter H. Collins of Milton, and Richard R. Staiti of Canton—and County Director John J. Cronin, who violated Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 64D, Sections 11 and 12 by interfering with Registry operations and misappropriating funds designated for Registry use.

The court win above for the Norfolk Registry of Deeds follows up a separate court decision on February 14, 2025 by the highest state court in Massachusetts in favor of Register O’Donnell and the Norfolk Registry of Deeds. The seven member Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that Norfolk County Director John J. Cronin and the Norfolk County Commissioners unlawfully interfered in Registry operations. Furthermore, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the Norfolk County Register of Deeds is the authorized official of the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds not County Director John J. Cronin nor the three County Commissioners.

These litigations were prosecuted by Register O’Donnell on his own. Thus is did not cost the taxpayers monies when Register O’Donnell did this in a pro se capacity. Unlike the Norfolk County Commissioners who have spent in excess of six figures in a calendar year on legal fees.

This year also marked an important moment of statewide collaboration among Registries of Deeds and legislators. Plymouth County Register of Deeds John Buckley and Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell submitted testimony in support of House Bill 3971, sponsored by Representative Dennis C. Gallagher of Bridgewater, legislation that would establish a study on the feasibility of placing registries of deeds for county government that have not been abolished under the oversight of the secretary of the commonwealth. This testimony was delivered before the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, emphasizing the need for consistent standards, transparency, and a necessary check on bureaucratic overreach across the Commonwealth’s registries.

 

This Bill, House Bill 3971, was filed in part because of actions taken by the Norfolk County General Government led by the 3 County Commissioners have been found to be illegal by Massachusetts state courts. Also there have been a number of unsound management and fiscal decisions by Norfolk County General Government that has lacked transparency, common sense and accountability. A study as proposed in this bill has come about due to the lack of collaboration with the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds by the three elected Norfolk County Commissioners and their staff bureaucrat County Director John J. Cronin.

I greatly appreciate the voices and efforts of so many attorneys, real estate brokers, assessors, engineers, trade organizations, and concerned citizens, who spoke out against poor County decision-making. After more than a decade of maintaining a dedicated Registry Disaster Recovery Office in Dedham, the three elected Norfolk County Commissioners—Joseph P. Shea of Quincy, Peter H. Collins of Milton, and Richard R. Staiti of Canton—along with County Director John J. Cronin, unilaterally closed the Registry’s disaster recovery site and attempted to relocate it to Walpole without consulting the Registry and without securing an occupancy permit from the Town of Walpole. This failure left Norfolk County residents without a functioning disaster recovery office for the first time in 15 years. The lack of compliance with accessibility and permitting requirements not only violates basic standards but also jeopardizes the security of land records that protect homeownership and property rights. In an era of cybersecurity threats and scams, this decision is unacceptable and underscores the urgent need for sound management and accountability in County operations.

The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County. The Registry receives and records hundreds of thousands of documents annually. It houses more than 14 million land documents dating back to 1793. These land documents and the integrated Registry indexes to these land documents, are available to the public for on-line research at www.norfolkdeeds.org. The Registry is a primary and indispensable resource for title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipal officials, homeowners, title examiners, real estate attorneys, genealogists, and others with a need for land record information.

The Registry operates under my supervision and management as the elected Register. I have held the position since 2002. In continuous operation dating back to President George Washington’s administration, the Registry’s mission has remained the same: to maintain and provide for accurate, reliable, and accessible land records to all residents and businesses of Norfolk County. The modernization initiatives implemented during my administration have created a sound business operation oriented toward quality customer service at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.

The Registry of Deeds Customer Service and Copy Center continues to provide residents and businesses with quality service. These requests included the filing of Homesteads, accessing deeds, verifying recorded property documents, and assisting those in need of obtaining a mortgage discharge notice. Customers can contact the Customer Service and Copy Center at 781-461-6101, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30AM to 4:30PM. Folks in need of services from our Customer Service Center can also come by the Registry of Deeds Building located at 649 High Street in downtown Dedham across from the gold domed Norfolk Superior Court.

In calendar year 2025, the Registry collected approximately $ 59.4 million in revenue. Out of that money, more than $ 53.1 million was apportioned to the Commonwealth, and more than $6.3 million was disbursed to Norfolk County in the form of deeds excise taxes, recording fees, and surcharges. There was $5,343,975 collected pursuant to the Community Preservation Act (CPA).

The Norfolk Registry of Deeds was the first registry in Massachusetts to electronically record registered land documents in the Land Court section of the Registry of Deeds in 2017. Electronic recording was crucial to remaining operational during the coronavirus pandemic. This year saw a record number of electronic recording filers, approximately 2,993. Nearly eighty percent of document volume is recorded electronically by these users.

In 2025, we shelved Registry of Deeds Book 42824. At the end of 2025, we were processing the documents for Book 42863. For the sake of security and redundancy, we store our documents in three different ways: hard copy, electronically, and on microfiche. There is a state law mandating that recorded documents be microfilmed.

The internet library of images, accessible to the public through the Registry of Deeds’ online research system at norfolkdeeds.org, continues to expand. Today, all documents dating back to the first ones recorded in 1793 are available for viewing. This digital collection also consists of more than 450,000 handwritten documents recorded between 1793 and 1900 that were transcribed and are available to the public for viewing and research.

Our website includes a genealogy page and a section highlighting land records of notable people, including United States Presidents, military heroes, noted authors, and leaders in their fields of education, environment, and law. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds also has a Genealogy Research and Resource Center where patrons can come in to use our free databases such as Ancestry.com, and American Ancestors.

The Registry’s website, www.norfolkdeeds.org, routinely updates the public on such news as real estate statistics, answers to frequently asked questions, along with detailing of our consumer programs. Additionally, a monthly column for various Norfolk County newspapers and their online websites is written. We also distribute a weekly information release to alert residents of the latest happenings as well as to remind them of our consumer services. If you are interested in receiving a Registry newsletter please sign up on the Registry’s website.

The Registry’s free Consumer Anti Property Fraud Notification Service allows any county resident to opt in to this free notification service and be alerted when any land document – fraudulent or otherwise – is recorded against their name. Over 4,500 Norfolk County residents have signed up for this free service. For more information, please see our website at: www.norfolkdeeds.org.

In 2025 we continued our partnerships with, among others, Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill’s & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Needham Community Council, 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, New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts in Walpole, The Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity of Boston, and Mass Hire South West. The mission of “Suits for Success” is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals and nonprofit organizations who are in need of appropriate attire and clothing.         

Our Annual Holiday Food Drive continues to support food pantries in Norfolk County. On our website, there is a list of Norfolk County food pantries, as our local food pantries have a need for donations throughout the year. It was a privilege to partner up with the United States Marine Corps on our 18th Annual Christmas Toys for Tots campaign at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. Thank you to all of the residents and staff who helped make these programs a success.

It is a privilege for me and my fine Staff to serve each and every one of you. Be well and healthy in this new year.