Annual Report of the Norfolk County Registry Of Deeds - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Fiscal year 2021 was an extraordinary year in all our lives. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted all of us. Certainly, some were impacted worse than others. Lives were disrupted with some losing loved ones, small businesses scaled back or in worse case scenarios closed for good. While many sectors of our economy were impacted by the pandemic, I am pleased to report the Norfolk County real estate economy was able to remain viable following the COVID-10 state of emergency declared by Governor Baker on March 10, 2020.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, I am proud to report the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds was able to remain open operationally for the recording of land documents. While the Registry of Deeds building was closed to the general public, Registry personnel were able to continue recording land documents. We utilized social distancing, split work shifts, remote access, and used our disaster recovery site to record documents. We also utilized electronic recording for our institutional users such as banks, law firms and title companies. In addition to electronic recording, users had the option to submit documents via regular mail, Federal Express or placing documents in our drop-off box located just outside our main entrance at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.

The results of these efforts were a viable Norfolk County real estate market benefitting sellers and buyers of real estate, lending institutions, the real estate legal community and all others with a vested interest in the local real estate economy. By keeping the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds open, recording fees collected were forwarded to the state and county helping to pay for important public initiatives including education, health care, and police and fire expenses. We are so thankful to our partners in the real estate community and most importantly the citizens of Norfolk County. Their patience with us has been critical to the Registry of Deeds being able to continue its core mission of recording land documents in a safe and secure environment.

The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County. Its mission is to maintain and provide for accurate, reliable and accessible land records to all residents and businesses of Norfolk County. The Registry receives and records hundreds of thousands of documents annually. It houses more than 8.5 million land documents dating back to 1793 when George Washington was President. 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 the supervision of the elected Register, William P. O’Donnell, who has held the position since 2002.

2020 Registry Achievements

• 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.

• In calendar Fiscal Year 2021, the Registry collected approximately $81 million in revenue.

 

• The Registry of Deeds continues to address legislative issues to benefit consumers. In 2021, we again filed legislation to advocate for mortgage transparency by requiring mortgage assignments be recorded at the appropriate Registry of Deeds.

• This year saw a record number of electronic recording filers, approximately 2,320. The Registry is approaching 75% of its recorded land recordings being done electronically.

• Norfolk Registry of Deeds was the first registry in Massachusetts to record electronically registered land documents. This started in the Land Court section of the Registry of Deeds in 2017 and was crucial in remaining operational during the coronavirus pandemic. At the onset of the pandemic, 25% of the registered land documents recorded were done via electronic recording which has grown now to 60%.

• In Fiscal Year 2021 we hit a record high of recording our 38,889 Registry of Deeds book. For the sake of security and redundancy, we store our documents 3 different ways: hard copy, electronically and by microfiche.

• In Fiscal Year 2021, the Registry processed over 13,000 Homestead applications. The law Chapter 188 (M.G.L.) provides limited protection of one’s primary residence against unsecured creditor claims.

• The internet library of images, accessible to the public through the Registry of Deeds’ online research system at www.norfolkdeeds.org continues to expand. Today, all documents dating back to the first ones recorded in 1793 are available for viewing.

• Our website includes a genealogy page and a section highlighting land records of notable people – United States Presidents, military heroes, noted authors and leaders in their fields of education, environment and the law

• 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, we also write a monthly column for various Norfolk County newspapers and their online websites. We also distribute a weekly press release to alert residents of the latest happenings as well as to remind them of our consumer services.

• The Registry’s free Consumer 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. For more information, please see our website at: www.norfolkdeeds.org. Currently, over 2,130 Norfolk County residents are signed up for this program.

• Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Registry was forced to suspend its community outreach programs. We are hopeful that in 2021 we will be able to visit each of the Norfolk County communities for office hours and renew our partnerships with Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill’s & MainSpring of Quincy, the VA Boston Healthcare System, Voluntary Service Program and InnerCity Weightlifting on our ‘Suits for Success’ program, and New Life Furniture Bank of MA in Walpole to assist those who are in need of household items. We also look forward to renewing our Annual Holiday Food Drive and Toys for Tots campaigns in 2021.

 

Franklin Real Estate Activity Report July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021

During Fiscal Year 2021, Franklin real estate activity saw decreases in both total sales volume and average sales price.

There was an 29% increase in documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds for Franklin in Fiscal Year 2021, resulting in an increase of 2,236 documents from 7,630 to 9,866.

The total volume of real estate sales in Franklin during Fiscal Year 2021 was $46,187,001, a 15% decrease from Fiscal Year 2020. The average sale price of homes and commercial property was also down 18% in Franklin. The average sale was $775.828.23.

The number of mortgages recorded (2,763) on Franklin properties in Fiscal Year 2021 was up 37% from the previous Fiscal Year. Also, total mortgage indebtedness decreased 40% to $1,127,005,689 during the same period.

There were 2 foreclosure deeds filed in Franklin during Fiscal Year 2021, representing a 78% decrease from the previous year when there were 9 foreclosure deeds filed.

Homestead activity increased 13% in Franklin during Fiscal Year 2021 with 705 homesteads filed compared to 626 in Fiscal Year 2020.

Finally, our objective at the Registry will always be to maintain, secure, accurate and accessible land records for the residents and businesses of Norfolk County. It is a privilege to serve you.

Respectfully submitted by,

William P. O’Donnell

Norfolk County Register of Deeds 

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Register O’Donnell Discloses Norfolk County’s Most Expensive Real Estate Sales in first six months of 2022

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that between January 1 and June 30 in 2022, ten properties, all commercial, sold for more than $50,000,000.

The ten properties were:

 

1. 96-114 Worcester Street, Wellesley, the Sun-Life Assurance office park sold in June for $202,000,000;
2. 100 Rustcraft Road, Dedham, a 421,924 square foot office and warehouse complex adjacent to Legacy Place, sold in July for $134,100,000;
3. 160 Mechanic Street, Bellingham, a 345,000 square foot, newly renovated distribution center, sold in April for $96,700,000;
4. 95 West Squantum Street, Quincy, a twelve-story apartment building known as “Gamma North Quincy”, sold in April for $90,000,000;
5. 1000 Marriott Drive, Quincy, the “Marriott Boston Quincy Hotel”, sold in March for $82,200,000;
6. 135 Old Post Road, Sharon, a 192 unit apartment building known as “The Point in Sharon”, sold in January for $74,500,000;
7. 235 Gould Street, Needham, a senior and assisted living facility known as the “Wingate Residences at Needham”  sold in January for $73,848,192;
8. 300 Financial Park Drive, Franklin, a 300,000 square foot warehouse/distribution facility, sold in April for $73,600,000;
9. 130-150 Nahatan Street, Norwood, a 108,981 square foot retail complex known as “Norwood Plaza”, sold in May for $57,749,000; and
10. 1440 Beacon Street, Brookline, a 136 unit apartment complex located near Coolidge Corner, sold in February for $52,900,000.  

 

“Despite a slowdown in the residential real estate sector, the Norfolk County commercial real estate market remains vibrant”, noted Register O’Donnell. “It appears that the top sales consisted primarily of a mixed bag of residential apartments, retail space, industrial and warehouse space and distribution facilities. This activity bodes well for the Norfolk County economy in terms of employment and tax revenue. These ten sales generated over $4.2 million in excise taxes for the state and county. We hope 2022 continues in a positive trend”.

To learn more about the  Registry of Deeds, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 Discloses Norfolk County’s Most Expensive Real Estate Sales in first six months of 2022

Register O'Donnell Promotes Registry of Deeds Online Research

Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reminds Norfolk County residents that there is no need to spend time and money driving to the Registry to view land records since they are available online via the Registry’s internet-based document research system at  www.norfolkdeeds.org.

“Providing secure, accurate and accessible land record information, coupled with our on-site customer service center, is central to our work here at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds,” stated Register O’Donnell.

Elaborating on the Registry’s research capabilities, O’Donnell noted, “Users are able to research land record information by multiple options, including the name of the property owner and property address. Members of the public can access our internet-based document research system for many endeavors such as determining property ownership, researching land titles, reviewing land plans (only plans which are recorded at the Registry) and finally to confirm that documents affecting a person’s property, such as mortgage discharges, have been recorded.”

As a result of past Registry of Deeds modernization initiatives there is a massive amount of documents for viewing. The website  www.norfolkdeeds.org allows users to look up and view over 13 million scanned images with some 41 million pages of land documents dating back to the Registry’s beginnings in 1793.  The Registry Customer Service Center personnel work to help anyone in need of internet research help find what they are looking for.

“A few years back, the Registry of Deeds completed a project which transcribed all our hand-written land documents that were recorded from 1793 to 1900. Prior to this effort, these hand-written documents were in many cases difficult to near impossible to read. With the transcription project completed, over 450,000 hand written documents were transcribed.  Both the handwritten and the transcribed text can be viewed from the comfort of your home or business via our website www.norfolkdeeds.org.”

It should be noted that while the transcribers made a best effort to translate these hard to read documents, their accuracy is not guaranteed. “These transcribed documents,” noted O’Donnell, “are not legal documents in and of itself, and are not considered binding on the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds or its employees. It is considered merely a convenient reference for Registry users. For documentation purposes, users should refer to the scanned image of the original document instead of the transcribed image.”

The Registry’s website also provides information on how to obtain certified copies of land documents. The Registry’s certified copy charges are $1.00 per page plus an additional $1.00 per document for postage.

In conclusion, Register O’Donnell stated, “Our core mission here at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds includes providing our users with first-class customer service each and every day. Norfolk County residents and businesses deserve a Registry of Deeds that provides them with access to land record information in an easily accessible and consumer friendly manner. The Registry website www.norfolkdeeds.org does that by bringing the Registry records into your homes and businesses.”

All Registry users should be aware that as of July 1, 2021 the Norfolk County Commissioners, Peter Collins and Joseph Shea, voted to eliminate the on site direct report to the Register of Deeds Information Technology staff that has been so key to modernization initiatives like on line research. If as a user of Registry services you have an IT issue please let the Registry of Deeds know as soon as possible at 1-781-461-6116 in order to insure the quality delivery of Registry services that the Norfolk Registry of Deeds is known for can hopefully be continued. An email notification can be to registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org. 

 To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 Promotes Registry of Deeds Online Research

Register O’Donnell Reports on Last 12 Months of Norfolk County Real Estate Activity - FY 2022

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that the numbers relative to Norfolk County real estate activity for fiscal year 2022, from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, show a decrease in activity compared to the 2021 numbers but reflect a continued increase in the average sale price of Norfolk County properties.

“The 2021 Norfolk County real estate market was down from 2021 in a number of respects.” noted Register O’Donnell, “For the fiscal year ending June 30, there were 162,148 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, a 22% decrease from fiscal year 2021. The number of deeds which evidence real estate sales and transfers, both commercial and residential, decreased by 7% in fiscal 2022. However, the average sale price was $1,212,925, a substantial 26% increase compared to 2021. Total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales also showed solid gains, increasing 18% to well over $14 billion,” noted the Register. “The lack of inventory and the need for new construction continues to push up prices. There are more buyers and not enough inventory. Market conditions and rising interest rates are impacting real estate activity”

Overall lending activity decreased in FY 2022. A total of 33,861 mortgages were recorded during the year, a 36% decrease compared to FY 2021. “There’s no question that interest rate increases and the fact that many consumers have already refinanced are impacting these numbers,” noted O’Donnell. “The increase in mortgage interest rates have made consumers less inclined to borrow money.”

One concerning metric for 2022 in Norfolk County relates to foreclosures.  The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely tracking foreclosure activity. There were 66 foreclosure deeds recorded in Norfolk County in the last fiscal year, an increase of 65% from the same period a year ago when there were 40 foreclosure deeds recorded.  Of even greater concern is the fact that there were 199 Notices to Foreclosure Mortgages, the first step in the foreclosure process, recorded in Norfolk County in FY 2022, up substantially from 92 Notices recorded in FY 2021. “We are reminded that some of our neighbors continue to face financial challenges”, said O’Donnell.  “We will continue to monitor these numbers.”

 

For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950 to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Register O’Donnell stated, “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance.”

 

Homestead recordings by owners of homes and condominiums decreased in FY 2022 at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds.   There was an 8% decrease in homestead recordings in 2021 compared to 2020.  “The comparison from the prior fiscal year is not too surprising where the sales of homes have started to decrease”, noted O’Donnell, “but all homeowners, not just new purchasers, should understand that a recorded Declaration Homestead provides some protection against the forced sale of an individual’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000.  It is great to see folks protecting the biggest asset most of us have, our homes.  I would urge anyone who has not availed themselves of this important consumer protection tool to consider doing so.  Please visit the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org  to get more information on homestead protection.”

 

Register O’Donnell concluded, “Without question fiscal 2022 was a mixed bag for real estate activity in Norfolk County.  However, available real estate inventory continues to be a source of concern in Norfolk County. It’s especially a problem for first-time homebuyers attempting to crack the market. The Registry of Deeds continues to be open to the public for business. The drop-off box located at the main entrance of the Registry Building will continue to be available for use by those members of the public who may not be comfortable entering the Registry of Deeds building The volume of documents recorded electronically for many of our institutional users continues to increase.. We are also receiving documents in person, via regular mail, Federal Express, UPS and from our drop-off box located just outside our main entrance at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.” 

Attached is a link to a “Good Deeds” episode discussing the 2022 Norfolk County real estate statistics and other issues relating to the Registry of Deeds:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFkY5Jp7c4Y

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 Reports on  Last 12 Months of Norfolk County Real Estate Activity - FY 2022

Register O'Donnell Discusses How to Record a Land Document

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell today reminded residents that the Registry procedures to record their land documents are designed to make it as easy and seamless as possible. "Whether the document in question is a deed, homestead, mortgage discharge or any other type of land document, Registry staff have been trained to record the documents in as expeditious and accurate a manner as possible," noted O'Donnell.

Register O'Donnell further noted, "As the depository of over 8.5 million land documents, there are certain basic steps that need to be followed when submitting a document for recording. First and foremost, the document needs to be associated with one of the twenty-eight communities comprising Norfolk County. In addition, the document must be an original; we will not record photo copies or documents submitted via fax. Please note, many land documents require signatures be notarized before they are recorded. Several of our staff members are notary publics. We are more than happy to notarize any land document provided the person requesting the service appears before us and presents satisfactory proof of identification by showing either their driver's license or passport."

"It should also be noted that the Registry does not draft documents. The Registry of Deeds is in the business of recording land documents only. If an individual is unsure if a drafted land document, particularly a deed, is in proper order, it may be prudent to have a lawyer familiar with real estate law review the document for its accuracy. A simple mistake on a deed for example could lead to a major problem." 

Another important point to note is that there are various fees set by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts associated with the recording of land documents at the Registry. Recording fees vary depending on the specific land document type. The Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org has a fee schedule that can be consulted for specific recording fee amounts. The Registry accepts checks made out to the Norfolk Registry of Deeds. The Registry also accepts cash payment. Debit or credit cards cannot be used, however.  

"Once you have a land document ready for recording and know the fee and type of payment," stated O'Donnell, "you can then choose how to actually get the document delivered to the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.  The options to get an original document and payment to the Registry of Deeds for recording are via regular mail, Federal Express, or by coming into our building located at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA. There is free parking in the large parking lot behind our building."

Register O'Donnell concluded by stating, "Our trained recording staff is more than happy to record your land documents. Land documents are recorded in an expeditious manner once they arrive here at the Registry. It should also be noted that institutional users such as lending institutions and law firms have the additional option to submit documents electronically via our two e-file vendors, Simplifile and ePN. Finally, if you have any questions about land documents in general, please call our Customer Service Center at 781-461-6101, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30AM-4:30PM."

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 How to Record a Land Document

Register O’Donnell Delivers 2022 Second Quarter Real Estate Activity Report

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that second quarter (April-June 2022) Norfolk County real estate statistics shows a continued uptick in residential and commercial sales and sale prices, despite overall numbers trending downward. 

Register O’Donnell noted, “During the recently concluded second quarter of the 2022 calendar year, the average Norfolk County real estate sales price, both residential and commercial, increased 30% to $1,300,157. Total real estate volume, again both residential and commercial, was $4.09 billion, a 16% increase year over the same period in 2022.”

Register O’Donnell further stated, “The lack of inventory and new construction continue to push prices up. It remains to be seen if this trend continues as overall activity is slowing considerably.”

For the second quarter of 2022, the number of land documents recorded, (such as deeds, mortgages, homesteads, mortgage discharges, etc.) was 35,744, a 31% decline from the second quarter of 2021. Register O’Donnell noted, “This figure tells us while there is still a healthy real estate market, market conditions and rising interest rates are starting to have an impact. We are not seeing the volume we saw in 2020 and 2021.”

There were 6,809 mortgages recorded at the Registry during the second quarter of the calendar year 2022 compared to 12,041 for the same time period in 2021, a 43% decrease. Total mortgage borrowing was $5.06 billion for April through June compared to $6.63 billion during the same period in 2021. “With the increase in interest rates, consumers seem to be less inclined to borrow”, noted the Register.

Norfolk County homeowners continued to benefit from the Homestead Act. A total of 3,315 declarations of homestead were recorded during the second quarter of the calendar year, a 10% decrease over the same period a year ago. “The Homestead law provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. I urge Norfolk County residents to consider this important consumer protection tool,” noted O’Donnell.

A sharp increase in foreclosure activity in Norfolk County remains a cause for concern. Sixteen foreclosure deeds were recorded in the second quarter, the same number recorded during the second quarter of 2021. However, there was a significant increase in the number of recorded Notices to Foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process. There were 66 Notices recorded in the second quarter versus 33 recorded in the same period of 2021.

O’Donnell stated, “While the eastern Massachusetts economy remains on a solid footing, there are still those in Norfolk County experiencing economic hardship, in many cases through no fault of their own. The Registry continues to work with Quincy Community Action Programs, (617-479-8181 x376), and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, (508-587-0950) to help homeowners who may have received a Notice to Foreclose document. A third option is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400.”

Register O’Donnell concluded, “The economy, particularly the employment numbers in eastern Massachusetts, appears to be strong but, going forward, inflation, rising interest rates and the lack of inventory will likely result in a slowdown of the Norfolk County real estate market.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 Delivers 2022 Second Quarter Real Estate Activity Report

Register O'Donnell Announces the Processing of 1,500,000 Land Court Documents

Observing a significant milestone at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, Register William P. O’Donnell today announced the Registry recently processed its 1,500,000^th registered land document. Register O’Donnell noted, “The processing of the 1,500,00^th land registration document is a significant event in the life of the Registry and a testament to the volume of work completed each and every business day here at the Registry of Deeds.”

The Register explained that Massachusetts has two designations for recording property: recorded land and registered land/Land Court. “The majority of land is designated recorded land while a small percentage, approximately 20% here in Norfolk County, is defined as registered land. Land is considered registered land once a petition has been reviewed and adjudicated by the Massachusetts Land Court Department in Boston,” noted O’Donnell.

Registered land is also referred to as “Torrens” land. Purchasers of registered land have certain protections with respect to title issues and claims of adverse possession. Under this category, the Massachusetts Land Court issues a decree upon the submission of a petition and plan of land, and all subsequent owners of the land are issued numbered certificates of title describing the property and listing all encumbrances and rights affecting the property. Documents filed in the registered land section are carefully reviewed by a specially trained registry staff and if accepted are then assigned a document number and noted on the owner’s certificate of title.

“The Norfolk Land Court District is the second busiest in Massachusetts and our use of technology when it comes to improving the recording experience for our institutional users relative to electronic recording of Land Court documents is second to none”, noted O’Donnell. “We were the first Registry in Massachusetts to electronically record a registered land document on April 12, 2017”.

The electronic recording of recorded land documents has been in place since 2010 at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. However, due to the more stringent requirements associated with recording registered land documents, electronic recording of these particular documents could only take place with the passage of Chapter 404 of the Acts of 2016, an Act to Modernize Registries of Deeds, which eliminated the need to retain original registered land documents.

 “The Registry continues to embrace and utilize cutting edge technologies allowing us to record land documents instantaneously. Documents are scanned and available for viewing within 24 business hours of recording at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Our computer systems are backed up on a nightly and weekly basis. This redundancy allows the Registry to maintain a permanent record of all land document recordings in the event of a disaster affecting our building at 649 High Street, Dedham. Additionally, the Registry also microfilms all recorded land documents and ships the microfilm off-site to a secure location where it can be retrieved in the event of a catastrophe,” stated the Register.

 Residents and those with an interest in Norfolk County property are encouraged to visit the Registry of Deeds. Users of the Registry have options to view land documents by whichever means they are comfortable. Either hard copy via books or on-line by one of our many computer workstations available to the public or from the convenience of their home or work computer.

In conclusion, Register O’Donnell stated, “The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is first and foremost an organization that is focused on customer service. Electronically recording Land Court documents saves our customers considerable time and expense, along with allowing Registry staff to be utilized in a more efficient manner. It’s a win-win situation for us all.”

 To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and/or 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 Announces the Processing of 1,500,000 Land Court Documents

Good Deeds: History Comes Alive At The Norfolk Registry

As the dog days of Summer approach, it means some significant dates in History are also upon us.  One of these dates is June 20th, which is the day back in 1793 some 229 years ago, that Norfolk County was established.  Legislation that was signed by the first Governor of Massachusetts, John Hancock, established Norfolk County.  Yes, that is the same John Hancock who was made famous by the manner in which he signed the Declaration of Independence.

Communities South of Boston sought for many years to separate from Suffolk County. After years of unsuccessful petitions and continued negotiations, a grouping of towns led to the creation of a new Norfolk County by the General Court of Massachusetts.

The new Norfolk County went to the South, following the old boundary between Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth Colonies.  In the North, it encompassed Roxbury, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain and Roslindale, all sections of Boston today, as well as Brookline.  Norfolk County extended to the Rhode Island boarder.  Norfolk County consisted of twenty-one towns in 1793 with a population of 23,828.

All the land records of the Norfolk County towns, including those communities that would later become a part of Boston, are recorded at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.  All these records, back to 1793, are available for viewing and research whether by computer via the internet or by the old fashion way of going through the books at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds in Dedham.  The hand written records recorded at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds between 1793 and 1900 have all been transcribed to make the history and information in these land record readable.

What is the History that has come alive in these documents?  The best example involves another significant date in History, the 4th of July.  The second President of the United States, John Adams, predicted way back then, that this country would celebrate its Independence Day with “pomp and circumstance.” Ironically, President John Adams died on July 4, 1829.  There are land records at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds, of not just President John Adams, but three other Presidents of the United States;   6th  President, John Quincy Adams, 35th President, John F. Kennedy and 41st President, George H.W. Bush.  These four Presidents of the United States were all born in Norfolk County.  I would venture to say, there are not too many Counties in America that could claim 4 Presidents of the United States.  This is why Norfolk County is known as the “County of Presidents.”

Additional towns have been incorporated into Norfolk County since 1793.  One of these communities, Norwood, is celebrating its 150th Anniversary.  Norwood was incorporated as a town in 1872.  A June 22, 2022 event at the Norwood Town Hall will celebrate as part of Norwood’s 150th Birthday Celebration the stories and people behind the recorded documents found at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.  You can learn about the “housewright” who was the force behind the selection of the name of Norwood, Tyler Thayer.  There is a land record signed by an Air Ace, who flew over 258 combat missions over enemy territory – Colonel George T. Lee.  Learn about a member of the First African American family to settle in Norwood, who later became a long serving member of the Norwood School Committee and Blue Hill School Committee – Henry Diggs.  The land records at the Norfolk Registry tie in to a Governor from Norwood, a professional baseball player, an entertainer, and other people and places that make Norwood such a special and vibrant community.  Some folks find the information in the old land records interesting.  The Norwood, June 22, 2022 event will have the “pomp and circumstance” President John Adams talked about.  If the documents are not your thing, go on by the Norwood Town Hall on June 22, 2022 to listen to Retired Massachusetts State Trooper and United States Marine, Dan Clark, sing celebrating 150 years of the Town of Norwood in song.

Please watch this Public Service Announcement for details of this free event.  Norwood Notable Land Records:  People, Places and Properties event with the Singing Trooper on June 22, 2022 at 6:30p.m. at the Norwood Town Hall.

https://www.smore.com/hwvce1-ncm-this-week?ref=email

or use this YouTube link -> https://youtu.be/fCGxP880vjs

Sheriff's Summer Safety Fest - Quincy - Merrymount Beach - Jun 18

 A family fun day for all ages with games, activities, giveaways, informational tables, and a Touch-A-Truck! 

Food donations accepted to benefit the United Way through the Norfolk County Central Labor Council. 

Made possible through a generous grant from Save the Harbor/Save the Bay.

 When: June 18, from 10 - 1 PM

Sheriff's Summer Safety Fest - Quincy - Merrymount Beach - Jun 18

Download a copy of the Flyer as a reminder ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xBRhvumsaPD7ILKol-gdqnR-p1Z4XShv/view?usp=sharing

Register O’Donnell Highlights Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reminds consumers if they have a Registry related question, the answer is just a phone call away by dialing the Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101. The department is open Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM.

 

“The Customer Service Center is a one-stop shop for Norfolk County homeowners and institutional users who have land related document questions,” said O’Donnell. “These questions can vary such as confirming the current ownership of a particular property, or verifying if a discharge of a property’s mortgage has been filed after the loan has been paid off. We are glad to help with any inquiry, whether you come through our doors or call us by phone.”

 

Register O’Donnell further noted, “The department can also inform customers about the various cost for filing and receiving land documents. Upon a customer’s request -whether it’s by visiting us here at the Registry or by a direct mail request - we can provide copies of documents to you for a fee of $1.00 per page, plus an additional $1.00 per document to cover the cost of postage.”

 

The Registry only accepts cash or check payments. In addition, the Customer Service Center staff is happy to answer questions about the Homestead Act, a law which provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000.

 

O’Donnell went on to say, “For many, trying to ascertain information about land documents can be a very frustrating and intimidating experience. Please know our trained customer service staff is well-versed in all areas of land document research. By utilizing our state-of-the-art land document research system, which is also available via www.norfolkdeeds.org, people can get answers to their property questions.”

 

Notary services are also offered by the Customer Service Center. “Several staff members are notary publics. We are more than glad to notarize any land document provided the person requesting the service appears before us and presents satisfactory proof of identification by showing either their driver’s license or passport,” said O’Donnell.

 

In conclusion, Register O’Donnell stated, “Providing first-class customer service is a core objective of the Registry’s mission to serve the public. We strive to ensure our customers have a positive experience when interacting with us. The bottom line is: We are glad to be of service to you.”

 

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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 Highlights Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center

Register O’Donnell Reports on May 2022 Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County (activity continues decline, $$ continue to increase)

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that the May 2022 numbers relative to Norfolk County recordings indicate a continuing decrease in overall real estate activity compared to the May 2021 numbers but show a significant increase in average sale prices.

“Our data indicates that the Norfolk County real estate numbers in May signal a continued slowdown in the market compared to 2021 but show a slight uptick from last month,” noted Register O’Donnell. “There were 11,556 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in May, a 29% decrease from May, 2021 but an increase of 3% from April, 2022”.

“The number of deeds for May 2022, which reflect real estate sales and transfers, both commercial and residential, show a slight decrease of 3% from May, 2021 but an increase of 25% from April 2022. Sale prices continue to surge as compared to last year but may be starting to level off. The average sale price in May was $1,264,350, a 26% increase compared to May 2021 but down 18% from last month. Total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales also showed gains from one year ago, increasing 22% and up 3% from last month,” noted the Register.

Overall lending activity show a continued trend downward for the month of May. A total of 2,283 mortgages were recorded during the month, a significant decrease of 40% compared to a year ago. “It appears that the interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve Board and the fact that many consumers have already refinanced are impacting mortgage activity,” noted O’Donnell.

A continuing cause for concern in Norfolk County is the number of pending foreclosures. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely watching the foreclosure market. During May, there were 5 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, one more than in May, 2021 and one less than in April.  However, there were 21 Notices to Foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, recorded in May, up significantly from 14 recorded in May 2021. “The dramatic increase in the number of these notices is alarming. It indicates that more of our neighbors are facing financial challenges going forward”, said O’Donnell.  “We will continue to monitor these numbers.”
 
For the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950 to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Register O’Donnell stated, “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance.”
 
Homestead recordings by owners of homes and condominiums decreased again this month at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds.   There was a 8% decrease in homestead recordings in May 2022 compared to May 2021 but increased 16% from last month. “The comparison from last May is not too surprising where the sales of homes have started to level off, but all homeowners, not just new purchasers, should keep in mind that a recorded Declaration of Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000,” noted O’Donnell. “We want to see folks protecting the biggest asset most of us have, our homes.  I would urge anyone who has not availed themselves of this important consumer protection tool to consider doing so.  The recording fee is only $36. Feel free to visit the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org  to get more information on homesteads and to make sure you have taken advantage of this protection.”
 
Register O’Donnell concluded, “May real estate activity in Norfolk County continues to show a decline from last year. We still see the increase in sale prices from last year as indicating a continuing lack of available real estate inventory but looking at the numbers from last month, it appears the market may be starting to cool down a bit.”

The Registry of Deeds continues to be open to the public for business. Registry personnel are processing in-person recordings as well as electronically filed recordings.  The drop-off box located at the main entrance of the Registry building will continue to be available for use by those members of the public who may not be comfortable entering the Registry of Deeds building The volume of documents recorded electronically for many of our institutional users continues to increase. We are also receiving documents in person, via regular mail, Federal Express, UPS and from the outside drop-off box at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.”   
 
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and 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.

May 2022 Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County (activity continues decline, $$ continue to increase)