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| Norfolk County Sees Active Real Estate Market in August 2025 |
Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported that real estate activity in Norfolk County continued its upward trend in August 2025, with notable increases in mortgage recordings and property transactions compared to the same period last year.
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.
