Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell today released the real estate recording statistics for August 2026, which indicate continued stability in the Norfolk County real estate market compared to August 2025, particularly in overall document recordings and property values.
The Registry of Deeds recorded 10,209 documents in August 2026, a 2% increase compared to the 10,035 documents recorded in August 2025, but an 8% decrease from July 2026.
“August's recording activity reflects a Norfolk County real estate market that continues to demonstrate resilience despite ongoing affordability challenges and a limited supply of properties available for sale,” noted Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. “The increase in overall document recordings compared to one year ago indicates that buyers, sellers, lenders, and property owners remain active participants in the market. However, the statistics related to recorded deeds bears watching.”
The total number of deeds recorded for August 2026, representing both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,528, a 1% decrease from the 1,549 deeds recorded in August 2025. Furthermore, compared to July 2026, deeds recorded decreased 11%. Looking at just real estate sales, 848 properties were sold in August 2026, a 4% decrease compared to the 881 properties sold in August 2025, and a 15% decrease from July 2026.
“While the number of property sales declined slightly compared to August of last year, Norfolk County continues to be one of the most desirable places to live and work in Massachusetts,” stated Register O'Donnell. “However, affordability challenges and a limited supply of properties available for sale continue to affect the market. Norfolk County continues to attract individuals and families who value the strong communities and quality schools found throughout the region, making the need for additional housing inventory increasingly important. But there have been less deeds being recorded when you examine these statistics”
The average sale price for both commercial and residential real estate in August 2026 was $1,177,803, a 15% increase compared to August 2025 and essentially unchanged from July 2026. The total value of commercial and residential sales recorded in August 2026 was approximately $999 million, a 10% increase from the $906 million recorded in August 2025.
“The data suggest that while some progress has been made in increasing property inventory, the supply of properties remains insufficient to meet buyer demand throughout Massachusetts. While affordability challenges and interest rates continue to influence purchasing decisions, the limited number of properties available for sale remains one of the primary factors affecting both property values and sales activity in Norfolk County,” said Register O'Donnell.
Lending activity was relatively stable compared to the same month last year. A total of 1,508 mortgages were recorded in August 2026, a 2% decrease from the 1,534 mortgages recorded in August 2025, but a 27% decrease from July 2026. Total mortgage indebtedness was approximately $1.55 billion, an 11% decrease compared to August 2025.
“Mortgage activity remained relatively stable compared to one year ago. The slight decrease in the number of mortgages recorded is consistent with the modest decline in property sales during the month. Despite ongoing affordability challenges and higher interest rates, buyers and businesses continue to obtain financing and invest in real estate throughout Norfolk County, however this statistic on mortgage activity also bears watching,” stated Register O'Donnell.
The Registry continues to closely monitor foreclosure activity. In August 2026, there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, compared to 4 foreclosure deeds recorded in August 2025. Notices to foreclose, which represent the first step in the foreclosure process, increased to 34 in August 2026 from 26 in August 2025.
“Although foreclosure activity remains relatively low by historical standards, the increase in both foreclosure deeds and notices to foreclose is something we continue to watch carefully,” said Register O'Donnell. “Economic pressures, including household expenses, housing costs, and debt obligations, can create financial challenges for some homeowners. We encourage anyone experiencing difficulties meeting mortgage obligations to seek assistance as early as possible.”
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, “August's real estate activity reflects a market that remains fundamentally strong. While the pace of sales softened modestly compared to last year, increases in overall recording activity, total sales volume, and average sale prices demonstrate continued confidence in Norfolk County real estate. As one of the Commonwealth's most sought-after regions, Norfolk County continues to attract homeowners, businesses, and investors who recognize the value of living and investing in our communities.”
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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@norfolkdeeds.org.
