Pre-registration is recommended for the Children's Museum Franklin pop up on Sunday, Jan 21 at the Elks

Visit childrensmuseumfranklin.org/register to streamline check-in to Mobile Museum events!  

First pop-up coming this Sunday, Jan 21!

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If you missed the listening to the Erin & Meg of the Children's Museum, you can catch up on what their plans are here ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/01/the-childrens-museum-of-franklin-to.html

 Pre-registration is recommended

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success" Program Donates to Boston's St. Francis House

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell donated a carload of smart casual clothing, business attire, and wool coats totaling more than 100 articles of clothing to St. Francis House in Boston through the "Suits for Success" program.

The often-taken-for-granted suit or dress clothes hidden away in the back closet and only occasionally seeing the light of day may seem to some like an unfortunate necessity. However, for those looking to regain self-sufficiency, quality clothing can be that extra push they need and help them on the path to success. 

"These clothes will be put to good use and appreciated by the thousands who come to St. Francis House each year for a fresh pair of clothes in times of need," said Keri Thomas, St. Francis House Vice President of Programs and Services. "It is so valuable and necessary in getting individuals ready for the next step and help them to become more independent."

St. Francis House's mission is to rebuild lives by providing refuge and pathways to stability for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty. They aim to transform lives using a holistic approach to understanding and addressing behavioral health, housing, and employment needs.

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"

 

Register O'Donnell's "Suits for Success"

Register O'Donnell remarked, "It is my great pleasure to deliver these clothing donations to Boston's St. Francis House on behalf of the residents of Norfolk County. I thank all those who donated to our 'Suits for Success' program, and I hope other local residents and businesses will consider making a clothing donation to their local nonprofit organization. Organizations like the St. Francis House are truly needed and are a great resource for the community."

St. Francis House has been aiding the community since 1984. They provide a range of services, including clinical care, behavioral health services, and job counseling. They also offer food, clothing, and affordable and low-threshold housing to those in need.

"Donations like this help ensure the physical and emotional safety of our guests and assist in the process of changing the trajectory of their lives and moving beyond homelessness," said Thomas. "It offers choices to people who have had total control of their lives taken away, and this is the final touch that can help individuals land a job and help them on their path to becoming self-sufficient.  

Since the Registry started the "Suits for Success" program in February 2009, it has distributed more than 11,200 articles of clothing to local charitable organizations.

The "Suits for Success" program, developed by Register O'Donnell, partners with groups like Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill's & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish's Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville, St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, InnerCity Weightlifting and New Life Furniture Bank of Massachusetts in Walpole to assist those who are in need of clothing as well as household items. The mission of "Suits for Success" is to collect donations of suitable clothing to be distributed to individuals who may need appropriate attire for employment interviews.

"During the past decade, we have learned that programs like 'Suits for Success' work," said O'Donnell. "This program has given many people a valuable resource to help them on the path to success and may ultimately help them achieve self-sufficiency. It is rewarding just to help others in our community who may be looking to take that next step in a search for a job or just have a suit to go to a wedding or other event."

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.org.

Franklin Fire schedules a free hands only CPR class for Jan 16, 2024 - register now!

Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) posted on Thu, Dec 21, 2023:

We are offering a free hands only CPR class on January 16, 2024.  

Registration is required as there are only a limited amount of spots available:  https://t.co/XZfrphxPOc

 

LINK TO SIGN UP ->  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0945ACAF2EAAF9C25-46898760-hands

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Franklin Fire schedules a free hands only CPR class for Jan 16, 2024 - register now!

Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz

By William P. O’Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

It’s that time of season. So, let’s admit. We all love a good Christmas movie! And there are plenty of good ones.  

Now I’ll let you in on a little secret, some of my favorite Christmas films deal with the home and the holidays. Maybe that is because here at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds my fine staff and I are handling land record documents for the biggest asset most of us have - Our home. Or maybe it’s just a coincidence!

Anyway, “Home is where the heart is.” A memorable holiday movie can make you laugh and pull on your heartstrings. Here are two of my favorite classic Christmas movies. Although I must say the Christmas movie “Elf" is one of my favorite Christmas films. It is uplifting and funny.

So, pour yourself an eggnog, munch on a holiday cookie, sit by a roaring fire, and take this year’s holiday movie quiz.

Good Deeds: Holiday Movie Quiz

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

1  George was going to be an adventurous bachelor and travel the world, but instead, he wound up with a wonderful family and lived life in the old….

A.) Bedford House    B.) Granville House   C.) Hatch House  

2  What was the name of the fictional town in It’s a Wonderful Life called?    

A.) Breading Hills   B.) Seneca Falls   C.) Bedford Falls  

3  What’s the bank’s name that was a thorn in the side of the villain Potter?

A.) Bailey Bank B.) Bailey Brothers Building & Loan   C.) Bank of Bedford Falls 

 

4  What was George Bailey’s wife's name?

A.) Mary   B.) Charlotte   C.) Martha

5  What was the fixture in George Bailey's house that always came unglued?

A.) A picture falling off the wall   B.) A knob of a banister   C.) Kitchen tile

6  What was the first name of the angel sent to help George?

A.)  Peter   B.) Gabriel   C.) Clarence

7  At the movie’s end, the townspeople sing what song in George’s parlor?

A.) Joy to the World   B.) Auld Lang Syne   C.) Jingle Bells

8  For helping George through his crisis what did the angel earn?

A.) Wings   B.) Halo   C.) His own cloud

 

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

9  What’s the one present the little girl in the movie wished for that would

make her believe Kris Kringle was the real Santa Claus?

A.) Doll   B.) Pony   C.) House

10  Who played the little girl Susan in the movie?

A.)  Shirley Temple   B.) Natalie Wood   C.) Doris Day

11  What was the department store's name where Kris Kringle worked?

A.) Macy’s   B.) Gimbels   C.) Bloomingdales

12 When a sad little girl sat on Kris Kringle’s lap who couldn’t speak English, he made her happy when he was able to converse with her. What was the language?

A.) French   B.) Polish   C.) Dutch

13 When Santa (Kris) got into a confrontation with Macy’s psychologist where did they send him?

A.) Bellevue Hospital   B.) Jail   C.) North Pole

14 What government agency declared Kris Kringle, Santa?

A.) FBI   B.) U.S. Treasury   C.) Post Office

15 When little Susie ran into a house for sale on Christmas Day believing it was her new home, what made the viewer think Santa was there?

A.) A cane left   B.) A half-filled glass of milk   C.) Santa’s stocking

As Buddy the Elf says “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” From all of us here at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds a happy holiday season and a healthy new year to all.

 

Answers 1.) B   2.) C   3.) B    4.) A.   5.) B   6.) C   7.) B   8.) A   9.) C   10.) B   11.) A  12.) C   13.) A   14.) C   15.) A

 

Note: if you got at least 12 correct answers you’ve earned your wings, 6 to 11 correct answers there’s a gift under the tree for you, 3 to 5 correct answers a Christmas cookie is on your plate.

Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for November 2023 show indicators of less real estate activity. However one real estate activity on a steady trend compared to November 20222 recordings was an increase in the number of deeds recorded.

“Despite the challenges posed by limited inventory and higher interest rates, the Norfolk County housing market has managed to maintain steady activity,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “Notwithstanding a slight dip in the number of recordings this month, the housing market in Norfolk County remains resilient, with steady demand from buyers and stable property values.”

Norfolk County Housing Market Remains Steady in November 2023

The Registry of Deeds recorded 8,587 documents in November 2023. This was 5% less than in November 2022 and a 7% decrease compared to October 2023.

Register O'Donnell noted, “Higher mortgage interest rates have an impact on the number of mortgages and deeds recorded at the Registry. Higher interest rates affect seasoned homebuyers' eagerness to refinance, which means fewer mortgages. It also affects a homeowner’s willingness to sell, which results in fewer homes on the market that can be bought. Higher interest rates also impact a buyer’s ability to find a potential home within their budget.”

The total number of deeds recorded for November 2023, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,266, up 3% from November 2022 but down 3% from October.

“The slight increase in the total number of deeds this month compared to last year shows that despite difficult market conditions and a housing market that has been slow for over a year, Norfolk County and its communities remains a desirable place to both live and work in,” noted Register O’Donnell.

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for November 2023 was $959,272, a 1% decrease compared to November 2022 and a decrease of 1% from October 2023. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing 2% from last year but showed less than a 1% change from last month.

“For the second month in a row, prices have remained close compared to last year's property values, and compared to 2021, costs are down 36% and down 8% from 2020,” stated Register O'Donnell. “While prices have come down compared to previous years, high interest rates, relative to what they were in 2020 and 2021, make it difficult for homebuyers in general, but especially for first-time homebuyers looking to purchase property.”

For the month of November, lending activity overall continued to decline from last year. A total of 1,175 mortgages were recorded, which is 13% less than last year but 1% more than last month.

Register O’Donnell noted, “Those who locked in lower interest rates in 2020 and 2021 are less inclined to refinance at current mortgage interest rates, and buyers looking for new property may be hesitant to take on a new mortgage with average interest rates still above 7%. These are some of the factors that have resulted in decreased mortgage recordings.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In November 2023, there were 5 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in November 2023, there were 4 recorded. There were 27 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which was less than the 30 recorded this month last year.

“These numbers suggest that a significant number of our neighbors are struggling, and more may have financial difficulties in the future," said O'Donnell. "We will continue to monitor these figures, and 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.

Register O’Donnell Concluded, “The current housing market climate that the country is in has a ripple effect on several aspects of the local real estate market, impacting buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and others whose livelihood is tied to the real estate sector of our economy. However, Norfolk County has shown a high level of resilience this month and saw some positive market indicators despite these challenges.”

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.

Winter registration is open for classes, workshops, etc. at Lifelong Learning

So many classes to choose from...

Browse our many Winter classes and sign up now! For information and to register, visit: Lifelong Community Learning Classes

Lifelong Learning Institute - Franklin Public Schools | 218 Oak Street, Room 137, Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by lcl@franklinps.net powered by Try email marketing for free today!

Norfolk County Register Wins law suit filed against the County

The Norfolk Registry of Deeds announced that judgment has been entered in favor of the Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell, in his legal action against the Norfolk County Director, John Cronin, and the County Commissioners, Peter H. Collins, Joseph P. Shea, and Richard R. Staiti. 

At issue in the case is the Register's ability to access funds in an approved and funded Registry of Deeds budget without the unlawful interference of the County Director and the County Commissioners under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 35, Section 32. Given the Register of Deeds' undisputed role as the "authorized official" of the Registry of Deeds, the Norfolk Superior Court in its ruling stated, "the statute recognizes that the Register is in the best position to understand the daily needs of the Registry of Deeds and to take certain actions in the interests of the public that elected him." 

The Defendants were ordered by the Norfolk Superior Court to refrain from interfering with the Register's ability to lawfully access funds pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 35, Section 32 – Follow this link to read the Judgment on the case and Memorandum of Decision and Order: https://files.norfolkdeeds.org/file/Judgment-On-County-Law-Suit.pdf

The lawsuit was initiated by the Register in October of 2022 in response to Norfolk County Director John J. Cronin's refusal to allow the Register to access funds for legal fees. County Director John Cronin also interfered and refused to allow the Register of Deeds to access approved budget funds for other Registry operations. Register O'Donnell commenced the instant action pro se, on his own, without the assistance of counsel.  County Director John Cronin and the County Commissioners are represented by Attorney Scott Lopez from the Boston law first of Lawson & Weitzen, LLP. The fees of Attorney Lopez are paid for from the Norfolk County Budget.

This lawsuit was instituted in the Register's fiduciary duty to property owners that own homes and businesses, Registry operations, and all Registry users. The Taxpayers did not pay the costs of this legal win for the Norfolk Registry of Deeds, as the case was litigated by the Register on his own. However, the Norfolk Commissioners and County Director John Cronin, who blocked the Registry transfers that led to this lawsuit, have spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars on County legal fees.

"Any time an official, a county commissioner, or a bureaucrat oversteps their bounds legally, you have got to stand up to that abuse of power," stated Register O'Donnell in response to the Norfolk Superior Court's favorable ruling.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at www.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.

Norfolk County Register Wins law suit filed against the County

Register for the fall 5-week kids cooking classes from Lifelong Community Learning

Our late fall 5-week kids’ cooking classes are here! 

Register at tinyurl.com/4r8z88ua

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Register for the fall 5-week kids cooking classes from Lifelong Community Learning

GOOD DEEDS: “We Remember Our Veterans”

By William P. O’Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

Many Americans will never know what it is like to serve in the armed forces, risking our lives for our country and facing the harsh realities of combat. The men and women who choose to join the military make incredible sacrifices, leaving behind their families and putting their own lives on the line to protect our freedom and way of life. This is something that we, as Americans, can sometimes take for granted. However, it is important to recognize and appreciate the immense courage and dedication that these individuals possess.

Having worked with the Veteran Affairs Boston Healthcare System in Brockton, West Roxbury, and Jamaica Plain through the "Suits for Success" program, I have seen first-hand how much it means to veterans when we do show our appreciation for their selflessness and commitment to serving our nation and recognize the sacrifices they and their fellow veterans have made for our collective well-being. It is our duty as citizens to honor and support our military members in any way we can.

On Wednesday, November 8, 2023, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds will celebrate the veterans of Norfolk County with an open house and the release of our third volume of Notable Lands Records titled “We Remember Our Veterans.” The open house will run from 4:30-6:30 in the evening at the Registry of Deeds building in downtown Dedham at 649 High Street.

This edition of Notable Lands Records is a tribute to the brave men and women of Norfolk County, from the Revolutionary War to present-day peacekeepers. The booklet features detailed stories of veterans all throughout the 28 communities that make up Norfolk County. These individuals have led remarkable lives: several are Medal of Honor recipients; one was an experimental aircraft pilot; another served in three wars. The booklet outlines a history of the military branches as well as the four United States Presidents born in Norfolk County who served as commander-in-chief.

There will be much to celebrate that evening. Patriotic music will fill the air. Guests can stroll the Registry's Great Hall and view the fascinating storyboards detailing the history of the

various branches of the armed services, the contributions of veterans, and the significant ways a grateful nation honors its veterans. There is also a storyboard that lists the Norfolk County Medal of Honor recipients.

We hope you can make this event. It should be a memorable time. Admission is free. Each person attending the open house will receive a free copy of the Registry’s “We Remember Our Veterans.” This booklet and event are dedicated to all veterans – past, present and future – for their patriotism and sacrifices for the United States of America. The service of all veterans needs to be honored and acknowledged.

These veteran stories are important because they provide valuable insights and perspectives on the lives of some of the past and present veterans of Norfolk County. These stories allow us to honor the sacrifices made by veterans and gain a deeper understanding of why it is crucial to support and care for our veterans today. These narratives serve as a reminder of the bravery and resilience displayed by these individuals, highlighting the significance of their contributions to our country's history.

Please come by the Norfolk Registry of Deeds to this free event which is open to the public. If you have any questions about the event, please contact Jonathan Thomas at (781) 234-3305 or by email at jthomas@norfolkdeeds.org. The Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham Center.

GOOD DEEDS: “We Remember Our Veterans”

Preparations Underway for the 12th Annual Franklin Turkey Trot to Benefit the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry is pleased to announce the 12th annual Franklin Turkey Trot, a 5K fun run to benefit The Pantry, will take place on Nov. 23, 2023, at 8 a.m. Walkers and runners of all ages and abilities are invited to register for the Thanksgiving morning tradition which begins and ends at 91 Jordan Rd., Franklin, Massachusetts. 

Franklin Turkey Trot

Runners will receive a light breakfast, and category medals and door prizes will be awarded following the race. Registration fees are $20 per person prior to Oct. 18, and $25 thereafter, with a family cap of $100. Food donations are no longer accepted at the event. 

Proceeds from the race help provide supplemental food assistance and programs to those facing food insecurity. To register, visit www.franklinturkeytrot.org through Nov. 21, or register in-person at the race location on Nov. 22, between 7 and 9 p.m., or the morning of the race between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. 

Race day sponsors are needed to make this year’s event a success. Funds received from sponsorships support The Pantry and cover costs associated with the event including the race registration company, timing technology, insurance, and security details. Sponsorship levels are:

• Presenting Sponsor $2,000 

• Platinum Sponsor $750 

• Gold Sponsor $500 

• Silver Sponsor $250 

• Friend Sponsor $100 

• Door Prize Sponsor

Preparations Underway for the 12th Annual Franklin Turkey Trot

A complete list of sponsorship benefits is listed on The Pantry’s website www.franklinfoodpantry.org. Potential sponsors are encouraged to sign up prior to Nov. 9. 

To date, the following organizations and individuals have graciously committed to sponsoring the event:

Platinum Sponsors: MyFM 101.3, Next9Up, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Gold Sponsorship:  Franklin Knights of Columbus #1847, Paul A. Longobardi & Sons Trucking

Silver Sponsorship: Franklin Matters, Vendetti Motors, Emmons LLC, Starr and Glick Orthodontists, Mike and Maureen Sabolinski, Nutrify Performance Nutrition for Women, LLC 

For more information on the 12th annual Franklin Turkey Trot, please visit http://www.franklinturkeytrot.org/.

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.

The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to more than 1,300 individuals per year. The Franklin Food Pantry is not funded by the Town of Franklin. We are grateful for our many partnerships, including that with the Greater Boston Food Bank, that allow us to achieve greater buying power and lower our costs. 

Donations and grants fund our food purchases, keep our lights on, and put gas in our food truck. Programs include home delivery, a weekend backpack program for Franklin school children in need, mobile pantries, emergency food bags, and holiday meal packages. The Pantry is located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, Massachusetts on Route 140. Visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.

GOOD DEEDS: Finding Your Roots!

By William P. O’Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

You may not wear a Deerstalker cap, smoke a pipe, or have a best friend named Watson, but you still might have something in common with the great detective named Sherlock Holmes. And that’s the ability to solve a good mystery.

Today, millions of Americans are on the hunt for clues to find out more about themselves and their family’s background. And the search for answers may just lead you right to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. Thanks in part to our History Comes Alive program.

As we all know, the subject of genealogy is growing by leaps and bounds. According to an ABC News report, genealogy is ranked the second most popular hobby in the United States. Genealogy websites get more than 100 million hits per year. But its popularity doesn’t end there. There are also genealogical television shows, college courses, and DNA tests. So, therefore, we really shouldn’t be surprised by a survey that showed 78% of people want to explore their roots.

GOOD DEEDS: Finding Your Roots!

One of the first places you can start your genealogical travels is the Registry of Deeds. We have a wealth of information with cutting-edge technology to help you. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds possesses approximately 10,000,000 land records, recorded in 41,416 Registry books dating back to when the county was created in 1793. Some of these records include deeds, liens, foreclosures, mortgages, conveyances, trusts, and mortgage discharges.

What can you learn from these documents? Plenty. You can discover where a family member lived. What they generally paid for the property by looking at the mortgage (be prepared for sticker shock)! When they sold it and to whom. And if while owning the property they faced any financial burdens such as an attempted foreclosure or having a lien placed on their home. However, you might also say “That sounds like great information, but it's impractical for me to get to the Registry given my work schedule.” Well, thanks to technology that’s no longer a problem, you can do it from the comfort of your home computer or cell phone 24/7. Just go to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds website www.norfolkresearch.org hit the Search for Your Deed button and type in the name you are looking for. If they had owned property in Norfolk County you will find records all the way back to the 1700’s. We make this research process even easier for you through our History Comes Alive Transcription Program where all the Registry documents from 1793 to 1900 are transcribed from old cursive writing into clearly readable and easy-to-read and print.

And how invaluable is this first in New England transcription program to a researcher? Well, here are the words of the late Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough, “I say this as one who has spent a great deal of my working life struggling to read original letters, and other old documents…. you are making an important contribution and I send to you my warmest congratulations.”

The future will hold even greater opportunities for those who want to explore their family’s trees. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has plans to open up a Genealogy Research Center where patrons can come in to use our free databases such as Ancestry. Com, American Ancestors, and the digital records from the Massachusetts Archives. It’s our hope to continue to add local historical databases to the collection when up and running. At the Norfolk Registry of Deeds, we love a good mystery. We hope we can help you on your genealogical adventure.

Harvest Festival Registration Closing - Friday, Sept 15 at 10 PM

Harvest Festival Registration Closes Friday, September 15 at 10 PM

Reminder: All vendors need to register online (this includes, downtown businesses and sponsors).

Payment needs to be received by Saturday, September 16 to secure your space. Go to the FDP website (https://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/). Look for the yellow "Donate" button to pay online or mail your check to Franklin Downtown Partnership, 9 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038 so it arrives by September 16.

If you have any questions, please contact our Vendor Relations Coordinators at fdpevent@gmail.com.

Please note: Set-up and maps will be emailed to vendors on Friday, September 22.

We look forward to a wonderful event!

Harvest Festival Registration Closing - Friday, Sept 15 at 10 PM

Average Property Prices Reach Record Highs in August 2023

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings indicate average property sales prices rose to a record high for the month of August as compared to previous years. This increase can likely be attributed to a limited inventory of new housing up for sale and a lack of existing houses on the market.

 

“Average property prices in August are up significantly this year compared to the same month in previous years,” stated Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. “Seasoned homebuyers and those looking to purchase their first home are faced with the challenge of property values that are 19% higher than 2022 prices, 34% higher than 2021 prices, and 37% higher than 2020 prices, in addition to a mortgage interest rate that for some exceeds 7%.”

 

Average August Property Prices Reach Record Highs

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for August 2023 was $1,212,694, a 19% increase compared to August 2022 but a decrease of 17% from July 2023. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing 6% from last year and 12% from last month.

 

“Looking at the numbers from August 2022, 2021, and 2020 shows that average property prices fell seasonally by 12% to 17% in August compared to July,” noted Register O'Donnell. “This means that while prices remain high, the seasonal fluctuations in the housing market month over month have remained constantly steady when you compare them to the ebbs and flows of previous years.”

 

Notwithstanding the increase in average property sales prices, the total number of deeds recorded for August 2023, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,478, down 12% from August 2022 but up 16% from July.

 

“Overall real estate activity is on a downward trend compared to the previous year, driven by two likely factors: limited inventory and high interest rates, resulting in a reduction of the number of deeds and mortgages, which make up a large portion of the total document volume at the Registry.” Register O'Donnell continued. “A slight increase in the number of deeds from last July may suggest that some sellers are taking advantage of higher property values, increasing the number of existing homes on the market.”

 

The Registry of Deeds recorded 9,527 documents in August 2023. This was 18% less than in August 2022 but an 11% increase compared to July 2023.

 

Register O'Donnell noted, “Higher mortgage interest rates have an impact on the number of mortgages and deeds recorded at the Registry. Higher interest rates affect seasoned homebuyers' eagerness to refinance, which means fewer mortgages. It also affects a homeowner’s willingness to sell, which results in fewer homes on the market that can be bought. Higher interest rates also impact buyers.”

 

For the month of August, lending activity overall continued to decline from last year. A total of 1,328 mortgages were recorded, which is 33% less than last year but 6% more than last month.

 

“In addition to fewer people refinancing, the decline in lending activity can also be attributed to fewer first-time home loans,” said Register O'Donnell “High property prices and increased mortgage interest rates make it more challenging for first-time homebuyers to afford a mortgage and to keep up with payments.”

 

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In August 2023, there were 4 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in August 2022, there were 7 recorded. Additionally, this month, there were 25 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, less than the 33 recorded in August 2022.

 

“We hope to see this trend continue into the fall season, especially as the weather gets cooler. 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.

 

Register O’Donnell concluded, “We have seen some increases in the number of property sales and in the total number of documents compared to last month, but with record property prices for this month and a limited housing inventory, we are seeing significant decreases in overall real estate activity compared to 2022.” 

 

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.

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