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Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings in November 2025 showed mixed results compared to November 2024, with fewer transactions but higher overall dollar volume of property sales and an increased number of mortgage recordings.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds recorded 8,221 documents in November 2025, down 1% compared to November 2024 and a 21% decrease from October 2025.
“November marked the first month since March of this year that document recordings fell below the same month last year,” said Register O’Donnell. “This decline is largely due to fewer deed recordings compared to November 2024. Whether this is a temporary seasonal shift or the beginning of a broader market change is something only time will tell.”
The average sale price for commercial and residential properties in November was $1,415,648.74, a 46% increase from November 2024 and up 38% from October 2025. This figure was significantly influenced by a single high-value commercial property sale of approximately $205 million, which skewed the average upward. The total dollar volume of sales reached $840.9 million, up 32% year-over-year and 4% from October.
“The increase in average sale price and total dollar volume compared to last year was driven by one major commercial transaction,” said Register O’Donnell. “However, even without that sale prices remain higher than last year. According to RealtyTrac, the median home price in Norfolk County for October 2025 was $739,200, up from $671,700 in October 2024.”
The total number of deeds recorded in November, including commercial and residential transfers, was 1,233, an 8% decrease from November 2024 and down 23% from October 2025.
“Total deed recordings were lower than last November, which may reflect affordability challenges and buyers being more cautious when faced with increased property prices,” noted Register O’Donnell. “While interest rates are slightly lower than a year ago, high property prices and limited inventory seem to be a driving influence in purchasing decisions.”
Mortgage recordings totaled 1,400 in November, up 2% compared to last year and down 23% from October. The total mortgage indebtedness recorded was $999 million, down 5% from November 2024 and an 11% decrease from October.
“Mortgage recordings were slightly higher than last year, but the total dollar amount was lower,” stated Register O’Donnell. “This could indicate smaller loan sizes or fewer large refinances, as borrowers adjust to current market conditions.”
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to closely monitor the foreclosure market. In November 2025, there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, whereas in November 2024, there were 2 recorded. Additionally, there were 18 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, less than the 26 recorded this month last year.
“We cannot begin to know all the causes that have contributed to these foreclosures and notices to foreclose, but what we do know is that a number of our neighbors have lost their homes, and even more are dangerously close to losing their homes,” said Register O'Donnell. “We all experience unforeseen events in our lives, and sometimes events beyond our control can have devastating emotional and financial effects, so 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.
November’s data shows a mix of trends, with lower total deed recordings but higher overall dollar volume of property sales and an increased number of mortgage recordings compared to last year,” said Register O’Donnell. “As we move into the final month of the year, we will continue to monitor whether these changes represent a short-term adjustment or a longer-term shift in the Norfolk County real estate market.”
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.
