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Monday, November 24, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Shows Strong Growth in October 2025
Monday, October 27, 2025
Register O’Donnell Delivers 2025 Third Quarter Real Estate Activity Report
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reports that real estate recordings for the third quarter of 2025 (July, August, September) show continued growth in overall market activity, with increases in total documents, deeds, mortgages, and property values compared to the same period in 2024.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 30,209 documents during the third quarter of 2025, a 9% increase from the 27,799 documents recorded in the third quarter of 2024. July was the busiest month in the third quarter of 2025 for real estate activity, with 10,696 documents recorded, marking a 9% increase from July 2024.
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| Register O’Donnell Delivers 2025 Third Quarter Real Estate Activity Report |
“The third quarter of 2025 continued the upward trend we’ve seen throughout the year,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. “This increase in overall recordings reflects sustained engagement in the real estate market across Norfolk County.”
The number of deeds recorded in the third quarter of 2025, which reflect both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 4,612, marking a 7% increase during the same period in 2024. The number of deeds recorded for consideration (actual sales) also rose by 4% to 2,497 in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the third quarter of 2024.
“In the third quarter of 2025, we saw positive trends in real estate recording activity, with all three months showing a rise in deed recordings compared to 2024 which suggests that buyers and sellers remain active despite broader economic concerns,” noted Register O'Donnell. “This indicates a healthy level of activity in the real estate market and we hope to see similar increases in real estate sales and transfers as we close out the year in the fourth quarter.”
The total volume of commercial and residential sales for the third quarter of 2025 reached $2.83 billion an 11% increase compared to the third quarter of 2024. The average sale price for commercial and residential properties climbed to $1,137,238, reflecting a 7% increase from the same time period in 2024. While the overall average sale price increased for the quarter, August 2025 saw a notable dip, with the average sale price coming down to $1,028,481, a decrease of 18% from August 2024.
“The average sale price of property which is a mix of commercial and residential sales increased over the third quarter due to a steep rise in prices in July 2025 compared to the previous year and Norfolk County’s desirability as a place to both live and work,” stated Register O'Donnell. “However, anecdotal reports suggest properties may have been staying on the market slightly longer in July and September, which could be an indication that prices will continue to stay in check going into the next quarter, but only time will tell.”
Mortgage activity also showed notable growth in the third quarter. A total of 4,697 mortgages were recorded in the third quarter of 2025, up 11% from the 4,231 recorded in the same period last year. The total mortgage indebtedness rose to $4.71 billion, an 86% increase compared to $2.53 billion in the third quarter of 2024.
“The increase in mortgage recordings in the third quarter indicates that individuals are actively securing loans.” Register O'Donnell continued, “While rates may not be as low as in previous years, they are not preventing people from taking out new property loans. Additionally, the significant increase in mortgage indebtedness indicates that residents are making substantial financial commitments, whether purchasing new homes or refinancing existing ones.”
The foreclosure market in Norfolk County saw positive developments during the third quarter of 2025. There were 12 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down 50% from the 24 recorded in the third quarter of 2024. Notices to foreclose also declined by 7%, with 81 notices recorded compared to 87 during the same time period last year.
“The reduction in foreclosure activity during the third quarter 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 positive growth we have seen during the third quarter highlights the resilience and continued desirability of Norfolk County as a place to live, work, and invest,” said Register O'Donnell. “Despite fluctuations in the broader economy, the local real estate market has shown consistent strength across key indicators including sales volume, mortgage activity, and property values. This sustained momentum reflects the confidence of residents and businesses in our communities. As we move into the fourth quarter we hope to see this momentum 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.
Monday, October 13, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Continues to Rise in September 2025
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| Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Continues to Rise in September 2025 |
Monday, September 8, 2025
Norfolk County Sees Active Real Estate Market in August 2025
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| Norfolk County Sees Active Real Estate Market in August 2025 |
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded a total of 10,035 documents in August 2025. This represents a 7% increase from August 2024, and down 6% from July 2025.
"The August data is a positive indicator of the Norfolk County real estate market's resilience," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds, William P. O'Donnell. "The activity, from deed recordings to lending, reflects increased engagement and momentum in the market compared to this time last year."
The total number of deeds recorded for August 2025, which includes both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,549, up 3% from August 2024, but down 8% from the previous month of July 2025. Looking at just real estate sales, 881 properties were sold in August, representing a 5% increase compared to the same time last year.
"The increase in the total number of deeds recorded compared to last August is a positive sign," noted Register O'Donnell. "It shows that buyers and sellers continue to move forward with property transactions despite broader economic conditions."
In addition to increased deed recordings, lending activity also saw growth. A total of 1,534 mortgages were recorded in August 2025, up 6% from August 2024, though down 9% from July 2025.
"The growth in mortgage recordings suggests that, despite broader economic factors, a large number of people are still successfully navigating the market to secure financing," said Register O'Donnell. "This robust lending activity shows that residents are still committed to making significant investments in their properties as well as buying new properties."
The average sale price of commercial and residential properties in August 2025 was $1,028,482, a decrease of 18% from August 2024, and down 24% from July of this year. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales in August was $906 million, a 15% decrease compared to August of last year.
"This reduction in overall real estate prices may offer some relief to those looking to purchase property in Norfolk County going into the fall months," said Register O'Donnell. "Lower average sale prices could present new opportunities for buyers who were previously priced out of the market."
Foreclosure activity in August 2025 remained low. There were 4 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down from the 10 recorded in August 2024. Additionally, 26 notices to foreclose were filed, a decrease from the 34 notices recorded in August of 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 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."
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to partner with local non-profits such as Quincy Community Action Programs (617-479-8181 x376) and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions (508-587-0950), as well as the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400, to assist residents in need.
Register O'Donnell concluded, "The August 2025 data shows meaningful increases in several key areas compared to August 2024. These trends reflect a market that remains both active and resilient. We hope to see this momentum continue through the fall."
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.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth RE Welcomes Experienced Broker Kelley Byrnes-Benkart to Franklin Office
Commonwealth Real Estate is a full-service real estate brokerage providing high-performing agents with expert industry knowledge, cutting-edge tools and technology, comprehensive marketing and training programs, and local and worldwide relocation support to improve their services and experience. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate is a division of Commonwealth Realty Group, LLC. Visit www.commonmoves.com.
Commonwealth Realty Group, LLC is the parent company of Boston-based Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Robert Paul Properties. With 31 offices and more than 667 agents, the firm serves home buyers and sellers across Greater Boston, Cape Cod, the South Coast, South Shore, and Rhode Island. At Commonwealth Realty Group, we believe people are the difference. Through trust, experience, and meaningful relationships, and with the strength of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brand, we create value beyond real estate and build lifelong partnerships, guiding our clients through every step of their real estate journey. The company is currently ranked in the top 5% of brokerages in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global network.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a global real estate brokerage franchise with a bold focus on building a personally connected future through relationship-driven business, supported by best-in-class leadership, mentorships, business tools, and a worldwide network that is committed to making a lasting impact through lifelong relationships. With approximately 45,000 real estate professionals and more than 1,400 offices with locations spanning North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia, the network completed more than USD$127.7 billion in real estate sales in 2024. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com.
Monday, August 11, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Continued Growth in Summer
Monday, July 28, 2025
Register O'Donnell Delivers 2025 Second Quarter Real Estate Activity Report
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reports that Norfolk County real estate recordings for the second quarter of 2025 (April-June 2025) indicate a significant increase in overall real estate activity, with growth observed in both the total number of deeds and mortgages recorded compared to the second quarter of 2024.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 28,732 documents during the second quarter of 2025, representing an 8% increase compared to the 26,623 documents recorded in the same period in 2024. June was the busiest month in the second quarter of 2025 for real estate activity, with 10,433 documents recorded, marking a 15% increase from June 2024.
| Register O'Donnell Delivers 2025 Second Quarter Real Estate Activity Report |
"In the second quarter of 2025, we saw positive trends in real estate recording activity, with all three months showing a rise in document recordings compared to 2024," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "This higher volume of activity in the second quarter is largely due to an increase in the number of deeds and mortgages recorded compared to 2024."
The number of deeds recorded in the second quarter of 2025, which reflect both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 4,493, marking a 6% increase during the same period in 2024. The number of deeds recorded for consideration (actual sales) also rose by 6% to 2,456 in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the second quarter of 2024.
"The overall number of deeds recorded in the second quarter compared to the same period last year reveals a consistent positive trend," noted Register O'Donnell. "This indicates a healthy level of activity in the real estate market and we hope to see similar increases in real estate sales and transfers as we move into the third quarter."
The total volume of commercial and residential sales for the second quarter of 2025 reached $3,166,444,793, a 14% increase compared to the second quarter of 2024. The average sale price for commercial and residential properties climbed to $1,289,269, reflecting an 8% increase from the same time period in 2024. April 2025 saw a notable increase, with the average sale price reaching $1,381,678, up 33% from April 2024. However, June 2025 saw virtually no change in the average property price from June 2024.
"The average sale price of property which is a mix of commercial and residential sales increased over the second quarter due to Norfolk County's desirability as a place to both live and work," stated Register O'Donnell. "However, anecdotal reports suggest properties may have been staying on the market slightly longer in June, which could be an indication that prices will stay in check going into the next quarter, but only time will tell."
Overall lending activity was up in the second quarter. The total number of mortgages recorded was 4,692, marking a 16% increase compared to the same period last year. Total mortgage indebtedness also increased by 56% to $4,226,032,103 in the second quarter compared to 2024. June 2025 recordings saw the largest increase in mortgages compared to the same month in 2024, up 22% from last year.
"The increase in mortgage recordings in the second quarter indicates that individuals are actively securing loans," noted Register O'Donnell. "While rates may not be as low as in previous years, they are not preventing people from taking out new property loans."
The foreclosure market in Norfolk County saw positive developments during the second quarter of 2025. There were 11 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, a 38% decrease from the second quarter of 2024. Notices to foreclose also declined by 33%, with 74 notices recorded compared to 112 during the same time period last year.
"The reduction in foreclosure activity during the second quarter 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 positive growth we have seen this quarter underscores the resilience and desirability of Norfolk County as it continues to attract residents and businesses. While the national economy can affect the local property market, we hope to see this increased real estate activity continue its momentum into the next quarter and beyond."
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.
Monday, July 14, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Market Shows Notable Growth
Monday, June 9, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Sees Growth in May 2025
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| Norfolk County Real Estate Sees Growth in May 2025 |
Monday, May 26, 2025
Register O'Donnell Reveals Norfolk County's Top Real Estate Sales of 2025's 1st Quarter (2 in Franklin)
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported that during the first quarter of 2025, ten properties, a mix of commercial and residential, sold for total of $272.4 million, with an average price of $27,240,000. These high-value transactions highlight the strength and diversity of the local real estate market, reflecting continued economic activity across various sectors.
| Top Real Estate Sales of 2025's 1st Quarter (2 in Franklin) |
The following prices pertain to real estate sales from January 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025.
The ten properties were:
- 44 Vanderbilt Avenue, Norwood – A 44,406-square-foot industrial manufacturing facility built in 1980, sold in March for $7,875,000.
- 20 Sears Road, Brookline – A 7-bedroom, 9-bath, 9,300-square-foot mansion built in 1930, sold in March for $8,000,000.
- 121 Grove Street, Franklin – A 6-bedroom farmhouse and 26.26 acres of land, sold in January for $9,100,000.
- 1199 West Central Street, Franklin – In March, Dairy Farmers of America bought the 300,000-square-foot milk processing facility, formerly owned by Garelick Farms, which sold for $9,611,188.
- 9 Andem Place, Brookline – Extra Space Storage purchased a six-floor self-storage facility, the oldest full-service self-storage property in Brookline, in January for $11,250,000.
- 40 Industrial Drive, Canton – A 59,400-square-foot industrial warehouse renovated in 2005, sold in February for $11,775,000.
- 200 Grossman Drive, Braintree – In February, the 34-acre shopping plaza known as The Marketplace at Braintree sold for $29,900,000.
- 2 Presidential Drive, Quincy – The 276-unit Garden-style apartment complex, built on 12 acres of land and known as Presidential Estates, sold in March for $74,000,000.
- 200 Trotter Road, Weymouth – In January, the 298-unit apartment community known as The Commons at SouthField sold for $103,100,000.
These transactions reflect a combination of apartment complexes, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and residential properties, emphasizing Norfolk County's attractiveness to investors across multiple industries. The state and county collected excise taxes totaling more than $1,242,195 from these ten 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 dynamic real estate market in Norfolk County underscores its attractiveness and 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. 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.
Monday, May 12, 2025
Norfolk County Real Estate Recordings Show Continued Increase in April 2025
Monday, April 28, 2025
Register O'Donnell Delivers 2025 First Quarter Real Estate Activity Report
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported that Norfolk County real estate recordings for the first quarter of 2025 (January–March 2025) indicate an increase in overall real estate activity, with increases in both the total number of deeds and mortgages recorded as compared to the first quarter of 2024.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 22,752 documents during the first quarter of 2025, representing a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Register O'Donnell Delivers 2025 First Quarter Real Estate Activity Report
The number of deeds for the first quarter of 2025, which reflect both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 3,409, up from 3,262 deeds in the same period of 2024, marking a 5% increase.
"This rise in deed recordings reflects a healthy level of activity in the real estate market, indicating continued interest and transactions despite economic pressures," stated Register O'Donnell.
The total volume of commercial and residential sales for the first quarter of 2025 reached $1,663,020,938, a 9% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024. The average sale price for commercial and residential properties climbed to $1,146,911, reflecting a 12% increase from the same time period in 2024.
"I can understand the frustration some homebuyers may be feeling because right now it is a more complicated process for individuals, especially first-time homebuyers, looking to purchase a home," said Register O'Donnell. "It is more expensive for homebuyers because prices are still high relative to past home values, and to add to this difficulty, there may be multiple people competing for the same property as well as increased costs due to higher interest rates on monies borrowed."
Overall lending activity was up in the first quarter. The total number of mortgages recorded was 3,279, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. However, total mortgage indebtedness declined significantly, falling 41% to $3,082,620,534.
"The increase in mortgage recordings is likely due to first-time homebuyers securing loans to step into homeownership and existing homeowners refinancing to take advantage of more favorable mortgage rates," noted Register O'Donnell.
The foreclosure market in Norfolk County saw notable improvements during the first quarter of 2025. There were 18 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, a 38% decrease from the first quarter of 2024. Notices to foreclose also declined by 23%, with 69 notices recorded compared to 90 during the same time period last year.
"The reduction in foreclosure activity is an encouraging sign. 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 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.
"Norfolk County remains a highly desirable location for both residential and commercial real estate," noted Register O'Donnell. "However, affordability challenges and limited inventory continue to create hurdles for prospective buyers. As we move into the spring homebuying season, we hope to see a continued increase in activity that reflects the strength and resilience of our local communities."
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.








