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.
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| 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.
