Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for the month of May, 2025, indicate an increase in overall real estate activity, with increases in property sales and mortgage activity as compared to May, 2024.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded a total of 9,628 documents in May, 2025. This represents a 4% increase from May, 2024, and an 11% increase compared to April, 2025.

“Spring is always a pivotal time for real estate, and this year is no exception,” Register O’Donnell said. “The increase in real estate activity particularly in the number of property sales and mortgages highlights the strong demand for property in Norfolk County.”

The total number of deeds recorded for May, 2025, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,494, slightly down 1% from May, 2024, but up 13% from April, 2025. Looking at commercial and residential real estate sale prices, the average sale price in Norfolk County for May, 2025, was up 11% from May of 2024.

“Despite some broader economic concerns, the total number of commercial and residential property sales in May, 2025, showed a vibrancy,” Register O’Donnell stated. “There is still an inventory issue on the residential side that is having an effect.”

The average sale price for commercial and residential properties in May, 2025, rose to $1,386,599, an 11% increase compared to May, 2024, and nearly the same as the average sale price from April, 2025. Additionally, the total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is up, increasing 18% from last year and up 33% from last month.

“Norfolk County continues to be a sought-after location to both live and work, thanks to its vibrant communities and the dedicated efforts of municipal staff and leaders,” Register O’Donnell remarked. “However, a limited supply of available properties on the market means that any increase in demand will inevitably push property prices higher. This creates significant hurdles for all homebuyers, particularly those looking to purchase their first home.”

For the month of May, lending activity showed an increase compared to the same month a year ago. A total of 1,542 mortgages were recorded in May, 2025, up 11% from May, 2024, and 7% more than last month. According to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the average mortgage interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage in May, 2025, was between 6.76% and 6.89%, a decrease compared to May of 2024, when interest rates were between 6.94% and 7.22%.

“The rise in mortgage recordings, coupled with a slight easing of interest rates compared to last year, indicates a renewed confidence among buyers in securing financing,” Register O’Donnell commented. “This positive trend in lending activity is a key aspect of the overall health of our local real estate market.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In May, 2025, there were 2 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in May, 2024, there were 3. Additionally, in May, 2025, there were 26 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, less than the 32 recorded in May, 2024.

“There is no question that this reduction in the number of foreclosures and notices to foreclose is good news,” Register O’Donnell said. “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. 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 May, 2025, real estate data for Norfolk County shows a competitive real estate market driven by strong demand and increasing lending activity,”  Register O’Donnell concluded. “While this growth highlights the desirability of our communities, it also underscores the challenges of limited inventory and rising prices. As we move into the summer months, we remain hopeful for continued growth and look forward to seeing how the market develops.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” them on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, or follow 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 [email protected].