Register O’Donnell Delivers 2026 First Quarter Real Estate Activity Report

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reports that real estate recording activity for the first quarter of 2026 (January, February, and March) reflected continued stability across the Norfolk County real estate market, with increases in overall document recordings, sales volume, average sale prices, and mortgage activity compared to the same period in 2025.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 23,802 documents during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 5% increase during the same period in 2025. March was the busiest month of the quarter for real estate activity, with 8,812 documents recorded, marking a 15% increase from March 2025. However a concern is that the number of deeds recorded during the first quarter of 2026 was lower than during the same period in 2025.

“The first quarter showed steady engagement in real estate activity across Norfolk County,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “While activity typically fluctuates at the beginning of the year, these figures demonstrate that residents and businesses continue to buy, sell, refinance, and invest in property throughout the county. The activity in March overcame a sluggish start in the real estate market in January and February of this year.”

The number of deeds recorded during the first quarter of 2026, which reflect both commercial and residential real estate transfers, was 3,252, marking a 5% decrease during the same period in 2025. Deeds recorded for consideration, representing actual sales, totaled 1,346, marking a 7% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2025.

“The decline in deed recordings associated with property sales continues to reflect the limited number of homes coming to market,” said Register O’Donnell. “Homeowners may be reluctant to sell and give up favorable mortgage rates obtained in prior years, particularly as rising fuel prices and higher day‑to‑day living costs place added strain on household budgets.”

The total volume of commercial and residential real estate sales during the first quarter of 2026 reached $1.75 billion, marking a 5% increase during the same period in 2025. The average sale price for commercial and residential properties rose to $1,301,355, marking a 13% increase compared to the first quarter of 2025.

“Even as the number of sales declined slightly, overall sales volume and average prices increased during the first quarter,” stated Register O’Donnell. “This reflects continued demand for both commercial and residential property across Norfolk County and reinforces the desirability of our communities as places to live, work, and do business. Limited supply with this overall demand contributes to increased sale prices.”

Mortgage activity showed notable growth during the first quarter of 2026. A total of 4,137 mortgages were recorded, marking a 26% increase during the same period in 2025. According to The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the average mortgage interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage during the first quarter of 2025 ranged between 6.6% and 6.9%, while rates during the first quarter of 2026 ranged between approximately 5.98% and 6.38%.

“The increase in mortgage filings indicates that residents continue to actively secure financing for property purchases and refinancing,” Register O’Donnell continued. “Improved lending conditions compared to last year during the same time period appear to be encouraging continued participation in the real estate market, even as affordability challenges remain.”

The foreclosure market in Norfolk County saw positive developments during the first quarter of 2026. There were 11 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down 39% from the 18 recorded in the first quarter of 2025. Notices to foreclose also declined by 4%, with 66 notices recorded compared to 69 during the same time period last year.

“The reduction in foreclosure activity during the first quarter is an encouraging development,” said Register O’Donnell. “At the same time, we must remember that foreclosure activity has a human impact, and there are still individuals and families facing serious financial challenges. I would 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.”

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 first quarter results highlight a real estate market that continues to show resilience and stability across Norfolk County,” Register O’Donnell concluded. “Higher sale prices driven by demand with limited inventory as well as increased mortgage activity demonstrate folks want to live in our Norfolk County communities. As we move further into the 2026 home buying season, we hope to see an increase in available property inventory and continued market activity.”

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.

Boston Globe: "Mass. sheriffs pitch budget fix after spending scrutiny"

via the Boston Globe:

Boston Globe: "Mass. sheriffs pitch budget
fix after spending scrutiny"

"Massachusetts’ county sheriffs are conceding what lawmakers and a state watchdog have been warning for months: The system used to fund and oversee their offices is “opaque, chaotic, and deeply flawed” — and they have their own suggestions for how to change it as the annual budget debate gets underway.

In a letter sent last week to top budget writers, the 14 sheriffs outlined a series of reforms they said would begin to address the “real problems” that Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro flagged in the review published earlier this year of their budgeting practices.

“We recognize that the current budget process is not working for our Offices and for the Legislature. This letter is our commitment to change that,” the sheriffs wrote in the letter sent to Senate Ways and Means chair Michael Rodrigues and House Ways and Means chair Aaron Michlewitz last Thursday and obtained by the Globe."

Continue reading the article with this share link -

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/04/23/metro/mass-sheriff-spending-budget/?s_campaign=sharetool_copypaste_view

GOOD DEEDS: Spring is Here – The Community Preservation Act

Dear Friends of the Registry, Registry Stakeholders, and Norfolk County Residents, Spring is here, and as many of us take this opportunity to enjoy the wonderful public spaces our Norfolk County communities have to offer, I wanted to share a bit of background and updated information about the Community Preservation Act (CPA) that you may find of interest.

The Community Preservation Act is the result of more than two decades of work to create legislation that provides all 351 Massachusetts cities and towns with a locally controlled tool to help preserve their unique natural, community, and historic resources in the face of ongoing growth and development.

 

The CPA allows cities and towns to establish a Community Preservation Fund dedicated to four eligible purposes: the preservation of open space, historic resources, affordable housing, and outdoor recreation. In addition, the law created a statewide Community Preservation Trust Fund, overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR), which provides annual matching distributions to communities that have adopted the Act. 

 

Signed into law on September 14, 2000, the Community Preservation Act has since been adopted by 201 Massachusetts communities. Here in Norfolk County, 19 of our 28 cities and towns have chosen to participate since the Act’s inception. Effective December 31, 2019, CPA recording fees were increased to $50 for most land documents and $25 for municipal lien certificates. At no additional cost to the Commonwealth or to local communities, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds collects these fees at the time of recording and forwards the funds monthly to the Department of Revenue. Those funds are then redistributed directly back to the municipalities that have adopted CPA. 

 

The CPA recording fees are established by the Massachusetts Legislature and apply to land documents recorded here at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. The accompanying chart illustrates the funds generated from each community based on real estate documents recorded during calendar year 2025, demonstrating how local activity helps support preservation projects throughout the Commonwealth and Norfolk County.

 

COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT (CPA)

SURCHARGES BY TOWN FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2025

 

TOWN		TOTAL
AVON		$32,225.00
BELLINGHAM		$144,900.00
BRAINTREE		$225,750.00
BROOKLINE		$323,375.00
CANTON		$168,725.00
COHASSET		$86,275.00
DEDHAM		$183,975.00
DOVER		$47,675.00
FOXBOROUGH		$120,575.00
FRANKLIN		$233,250.00
HOLBROOK		$91,700.00
MEDFIELD		$92,025.00
MEDWAY		$98,375.00
MILLIS		$78,300.00
MILTON		$181,650.00
NEEDHAM		$222,250.00
NORFOLK		$92,425.00
NORWOOD		$165,550.00
PLAINVILLE		$58,175.00
QUINCY		$481,850.00
RANDOLPH		$185,875.00
SHARON		$113,425.00
STOUGHTON		$202,350.00
WALPOLE		$190,775.00
WELLESLEY		$211,025.00
WESTWOOD		$114,775.00
WEYMOUTH		$378,375.00
WRENTHAM		$97,400.00

 

I hope you find this data informative and helpful in understanding the impact the Community Preservation Act has in allowing cities and towns to ensure that their unique characteristics and assets are preserved for years to come.  In the meantime, if I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me at 781-461-6116 or by email at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

By William P. O’Donnell

Norfolk County Register of Deeds

 

Norfolk County Real Estate Market Remains Resilient in March

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that real estate activity in Norfolk County in March 2026 showed positive movement in several key areas, particularly sales volume and mortgage activity, even as limited housing inventory and broader economic pressures continued to shape the market.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 8,812 documents in March 2026, a 15% increase compared to March 2025 and a 24% increase from February 2026.

“Document recordings remain strong, reflecting continued engagement with the real estate market across Norfolk County,” stated Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “Despite broader economic uncertainty, people continue to buy, sell, refinance, and invest in property throughout the county.”

A total of 1,176 deeds were recorded in March, the same number as in March 2025 and up 24% from February 2026. Deeds recorded with consideration, which represent property sales, totaled 493, a 14% decrease compared to March 2025, though up 30% from the previous month of February 2026.

“The decline in deeds involving a sale compared to last year continues to be tied to the limited number of homes coming onto the market,” said Register O’Donnell. “Inventory constraints remain the primary factor affecting sales activity, as many homeowners are reluctant to sell and give up favorable mortgage terms secured in prior years, particularly at a time when rising fuel prices and other household costs are placing additional pressure on family budgets.”

The average sale price for all commercial and residential properties in March 2026 was $1,263,819, a 21% increase compared to March 2025 and 14% higher than February figures. Total commercial and residential real estate sales volume reached $623 million, representing a 5% increase from March 2025.

“These figures continue to show strong demand for property in Norfolk County,” Register O’Donnell noted. “Competition for a limited supply of available homes and commercial properties continues to drive prices higher, as buyers remain active in the market despite affordability challenges and increased pressure on household budgets. Norfolk County continues to be a highly desirable place to live and do business.”

Mortgage activity remained solid in March. The Registry recorded 1,667 mortgages, a 53% increase compared to March 2025 and 37% higher than February of 2026. According to The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the average mortgage interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage during March 2025 ranged between 6.63% and 6.67%, while rates in March 2026 ranged between approximately 6.00% and 6.38%.

“Mortgage activity continues to demonstrate confidence among buyers, investors, and property owners,” said Register O’Donnell. “With interest rates lower than they were a year ago, financing conditions improved for some buyers and homeowners, which likely played a significant role in the increase in mortgage filings.”

The Registry continues to closely monitor foreclosure activity. In March 2026 there were 5 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down from 12 in March 2025. Additionally, there were 15 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which is a decrease from the 28 recorded last year.

“There is no question that this reduction in the number of foreclosures and notices to foreclose is good news. With that said, we cannot forget that foreclosure activity has a human face associated with it, and there are still a number of our neighbors who have lost their homes, and even more who 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.

“Overall, March’s results reflect a resilient real estate market in Norfolk County,” Register O’Donnell concluded. “Strong prices, increased mortgage activity, and steady overall registry activity highlight sustained demand, even as limited inventory and broader cost‑of‑living pressures continue to influence market conditions. We will continue to monitor these trends closely as the spring real estate season progresses.”

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 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