From left Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell, Jeanette Rose-Gutshall, a Gold Star wife from Weymouth, and Massachusetts Veterans' Services Secretary Jon Santiago |
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Saturday, May 18, 2024
GOOD DEEDS: The True meaning of – "Support the Troops"
Friday, May 17, 2024
Norfolk County Register of Deeds Visits Franklin Town Hall
Monday, May 13, 2024
2024 Home Buying Season Springs to Life in April per Norfolk County Register of Deeds
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for the month of April 2024 indicate an increase in overall real estate activity, with significant increases in property sales and mortgage activity as compared to April 2023.
The Registry of Deeds recorded 8,312 documents in April 2024. This was 9% more than in April 2023 and an 8% increase compared to March 2024.
“Spring is the first half of the traditional home-buying season and typically marks the beginning of a busy period for the real estate market," said Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “The rise in property sales and mortgage activity compared to last year reflects a strong demand for housing in Norfolk County.”
The total number of deeds recorded for April 2024, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,250, up 12% from April 2023 and up 6% from March 2024. Looking at just commercial and residential real estate sales, the number was up 15% from last year.
2024 Home Buying Season Springs to Life in April
“Despite some difficult market conditions, the total number of commercial and residential property sales in April 2024 showed a significant increase compared to the previous year,” stated Register O’Donnell. “This may be an indication that March's increase in property listings, while still not enough to counteract the overall lack of available property inventory is beginning to attract more buyers, leading to more property sales."
The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for April 2024 rose to $1,036,735, a 12% increase compared to April 2023 but a decrease of 1% from March 2024. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is up, increasing 28% from last year and up 13% from last month.
O’Donnell noted, “With a limited supply of available properties on the market, any increase in demand is likely to cause an increase in the average property sales price. Unfortunately, when prices rise without an equivalent rise in inventory, it may result in increased competition among buyers. This makes it harder for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers.”
For the month of April, lending activity showed an increase compared to the same month a year ago. A total of 1,243 mortgages were recorded in April 2024, up 12% from April 2023 and 14% more than last month.
“The increase in lending activity this month is likely a product of the increase in the number of property transactions compared to 2023,” stated O’Donnell. "This may suggest that while some homeowners are still hesitant to make moves with average mortgage interest rates above 7%, others are not dissuaded by current interest rates, but time will tell if this trend holds out."
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In April 2024, there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in April 2023, there were 10 recorded. However, in April 2024, there were 43 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, more than the 30 recorded in April 2023.
“The substantial increase in the number of these notices is troubling. It suggests that more of our neighbors may have financial difficulties in the future,” said O'Donnell. “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance,” said Register O’Donnell.
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.
O’Donnell concluded, “It is good to see that the increase of property listings in March resulted in an increase in property sales which is an indication that the desire for individuals to live in Norfolk County communities remains strong. As we move further into the home buying season we hope to see similar real estate 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.
Friday, May 10, 2024
Summer STAR Classes open for registration with Lifelong Learning
Grab a spot in one of these fun classes! Like and follow FPS Lifelong Learning to stay informed.
More info at -> tinyurl.com/za68ea8m.
Summer STAR Classes open for registration with Lifelong LearningSummer STAR Classes open for registration with Lifelong Learning |
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Register now for the free craft workshop at Franklin Senior Center - May 10
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Quite a variety of programs to register for at Fairmont Fruit Farm
Also don’t miss our Popup vendors this weekend: @edwardscoffeecompany @bstseafood and possibly a few more! ☕️🐠🐟
Quite a variety of programs |
Yoga:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yoga-nights-at-the-farm-tickets-886222243587?aff=oddtdtcreator
Goat yoga:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/875283304927?aff=oddtdtcreator
combo pots:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/combo-pots-spring-workshop-tickets-880229408857?aff=oddtdtcreator
gnome homes
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gnome-homes-spring-workshop-tickets-880791469997?aff=oddtdtcreator
Charcuterie boards
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diy-charcuterie-boards-tickets-880794649507?aff=oddtdtcreator
Sourdough Starter:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sourdough-starter-workshop-tickets-893749748557?aff=oddtdtcreator
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Registration for Tri-County summer camp is open now
Check out Tri-County's summer camp offerings for students in grades 6 - 8 (during the 2024-25 school year)!
Each camper gets a t-shirt and their choice of one of our amazing experiences!
Use the link to register today ! https://ow.ly/qW7l50RvF1c
Use the link to register today ! https://ow.ly/qW7l50RvF1c |
Friday, May 3, 2024
HSE Franklin registration is open for the Class of 2028
"HSE for the Class of 2028 is 3 months away! August 6 & 7.
Register at https://t.co/DqlvmzxqTA
@RMS_Remdawgs @HMMSLightning @sullythehusky @FranklinHS @FPSLearning @FHSPantherbook @FranklinMatters @FranklinPSNews @FPSHealthPE @franklinpolice"
Shared from -> https://twitter.com/HseFranklin/status/1786051855702745300
Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3-Xyacb8RE
Monday, April 29, 2024
GOOD DEEDS: Spring is here – The Community Preservation Act
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Register O’Donnell to Visit Franklin Town Hall - May 7
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell and his outreach team will hold office hours Tuesday, May 7th, from 10 AM to 12 PM at Franklin Town Hall in the Council Chambers as part of his ongoing efforts to bring the Registry of Deeds directly to the residents of Norfolk County.
The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk County, cataloging and housing more than 13.1 million land documents dating back to 1793. The office hours will be held to assist residents with any questions or concerns regarding real property records or land documents.
Register O’Donnell to Visit Franklin Town Hall - May 7
The Register expressed his strong belief in the benefits of bringing the Registry directly to Franklin. “These Registry office hours,” noted the Register, “allow us to bring the services of the Registry of Deeds directly to the citizens of Norfolk County without the inconvenience of having them travel to the Registry’s central office in Dedham.”
By offering office hours in Franklin, the Register aims to make it more convenient for residents to access and inquire about real property records. This initiative reflects the Register's commitment to providing efficient and accessible services to the citizens of Norfolk County.
Registry staff are able to provide local residents with certified copies of land documents, such as deeds and mortgage discharges. They can also bring original land documents for residents back to the Registry for recording.
Register O’Donnell concluded by stating, “I understand that not everyone has the ability to travel to the Registry. By offering office hours in Franklin, we hope to accommodate those who may have difficulty making it to our main location. Additionally, residents can also utilize our online services to access and request real property records from the comfort of their own homes. Our goal is to ensure that all Norfolk County residents have convenient and flexible options for accessing and inquiring about their real property records.”
If you would like to stay up-to-date on upcoming Registry of Deeds events, programs, and real estate information, you can sign up for our Registry email updates at www.norfolkdeeds.org, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/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.
Sunday, April 21, 2024
Norfolk County Register of Deeds schedule office hours in Franklin, May 7 from 10 AM to 2 PM
Monday, April 15, 2024
Register O'Donnell Promotes Massachusetts Homestead Act
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell today reminded homeowners about the importance of filing for Homestead Protection.
In 2023 there were 9,693 decelerations of Homestead filed at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 14% less than in 2022.
"If you own a home, and it is your primary residence, you have an automatic homestead exemption of $125,000. However, if you file a Declaration of Homestead at the Registry of Deeds, the exemption increases to $500,000. The Homestead Law provides a homeowner with limited protection against the forced sale of their primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000 if they have filed. This is especially important when you consider that for most of us, a home is our most valuable asset. Consumers should take steps to protect that asset," noted Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell.
Register O'Donnell Promotes Massachusetts Homestead Act
Another feature of the Homestead Law is the allowance for the filing of an Elderly Homestead Declaration, which defines an elder as a person who is 62 years of age or older and provides protection of $500,000 for each qualified person.
The Register further noted, "In March of 2011, the Homestead Law was updated so that a valid Homestead is not terminated when refinancing a mortgage. Other changes that took place back in 2011 state that a Homestead can provide protections for a primary home even if it is held in a trust. The definition of a primary residence was also expanded to include a manufactured or mobile home."
A Declaration of Homestead also protects the sale proceeds if the home is sold for up to one year after the date of the sale or on the date when a new home is purchased with the proceeds, whichever comes first. Additionally, if the home is damaged by a fire, for example, the insurance proceeds are protected for two years after the date of the fire or on the date when the home is reconstructed or a new home is purchased, whichever is earlier.
While the Homestead Statute provides important protections for homeowners, it is important to note that certain debts are exempt from protection under the Homestead Act. These include federal, state, and local tax liens, as well as mortgages contracted for the purchase of a primary home and nursing home liens. Most other mortgages, debts, and encumbrances existing prior to the filing of the Declaration of Homestead, along with probate court executions for spousal and child support, are also not covered under the Homestead Protection Statute.
Declarations of Homestead are recorded at the Registry of Deeds for a state-imposed fee of $36.00. Additional information about the Homestead Law and the forms are available at no cost by going to the Registry’s website at www.norfolkdeeds.org.
Register O’Donnell concluded, "I want to reiterate that a Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. While the debt is still owed, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that with a Declaration of Homestead recorded at the Registry of Deeds, their primary residence cannot be forcibly sold to satisfy some debts."
If you have any questions about a Homestead, please contact the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at 781-461-6101, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
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 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@
Friday, April 12, 2024
Great Night @ The Museum Gala (photo essay)
The Dean College vocal ensemble provided some musical entertainment |
THE BLACK BOX served the mobile museum and gala purpose delightfully. Space was allocated for tables for guest to eat, drink and converse. There was a delicious spread of food from 3 Restaurant Catering, accompanied by desserts from Birchwood Cafe & Bakery. A few of the mobile creative play stations were set up for the adults to try out.
The table centerpieces were in the fancy and playful theme. My grandson would have been playing with the magna tiles all night had he been there |
Friday, April 5, 2024
ECDC Registration is open for three-year-olds in the 4-day afternoon sessions
Monday, April 1, 2024
Good Deeds: A Deed in Hand
Monday, March 18, 2024
Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry
"On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry's food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Franklin Food Pantry," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season."
Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry
The Registry collected more than 280 pounds of food during the drive, including items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, and fruits.
"Community donations are a big help and give us a good deal of variety that we wouldn't otherwise have," said Anne McGillis, Operations Director for the Franklin Food Pantry.
Last year, the Franklin Food Pantry helped more than 1,324 individuals in more than 650 households. Of those who received food assistance, more than one in four were children, and 36% were 65 or older.
"The food pantries throughout Norfolk County provide a valuable and much-needed resource for residents facing both long-term and temporary hardships, including children, families, and individuals, and I am grateful to be able to help in this small way," said Register O'Donnell.
According to Project Bread, household food insecurity in Massachusetts has been fluctuating between 20 and 26%. Many Norfolk County food pantries have seen a significant increase in demand in the last year.
"It is a great feeling to be able to help the community and to know that other members of the community understand that there is a need for this," said McGillis.
Franklin residents in need of assistance can register for services, schedule shopping appointments, or schedule home delivery by contacting the Franklin Food Pantry Client Services Coordinator at 508-528-3115.
Register O'Donnell concluded, "Hunger does not stop after the holidays it is a persistent issue affecting many of our neighbors. I encourage residents to consider dropping off food supplies at their local pantry. Pantries are requesting canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products. Dropping off a food donation at a local pantry can make a world of difference in helping a family in need."
To see a list of Norfolk County food pantries, visit the Registry of Deeds website: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/FAQs/where-are-the-norfolk-county-food-pantry-locations-142. Donations are needed all year long.
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. 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.