Dedham, MA - Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell today released the real estate recording statistics for May 2026, which indicate a slowdown in real estate activity across Norfolk County compared to May 2025, with declines seen in several key indicators including sales volume, average sale prices, and mortgage activity.

The Registry of Deeds recorded 9,415 documents in May 2026, a 2% decrease compared to the 9,628 documents recorded in May 2025, and a slight 1% decrease from April 2026.

"May 2026 reflects a lower level of real estate activity compared to last year," noted Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "While overall document recordings remained relatively stable, the yearoveryear decline suggests a market that is adjusting to ongoing economic pressures and a limited inventory of available properties."

The total number of deeds recorded for May 2026, representing both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,462, a 2% decrease from the 1,494 deeds recorded in May 2025, but a 3% increase from April 2026. Looking at just real estate sales, 773 properties were sold in May 2026, representing a 6% decrease compared to May 2025.

"Although transaction volume improved over April of 2026, this spring market has not matched the level seen in May of 2025," stated Register O'Donnell. "Elevated interest rates and affordability challenges continue to restrict both buyers and sellers."

Lending activity also declined in May. A total of 1,511 mortgages were recorded in May 2026, a 2% decrease from the 1,542 mortgages recorded in May 2025, and an 8% decrease from April 2026. Total mortgage indebtedness was approximately $1.25 billion, a 14% decrease compared to May 2025, but a 10% increase from April 2026.

"The decrease in mortgage activity, along with a significant drop in total mortgage indebtedness compared to last year, reflects a more cautious lending environment," stated Register O'Donnell. "Interest rates and overall borrowing costs remain key factors affecting financing decisions."

The total value of commercial and residential sales recorded in May 2026 was approximately $926 million, a 19% decrease from the $1.14 billion recorded in May 2025, but a 17% increase from April 2026. The average sale price for all property types was approximately $1.19 million, a 14% decrease compared to May 2025, but a 4% increase from April 2026.

"While overall property values remain historically elevated, the decrease appears to reflect a combination of fewer high-value transactions, softness in the commercial real estate sector, and increased sensitivity to affordability among buyers," said Register O'Donnell.

For more information, visit the Registry's website www.norfolkdeeds.org, call 781-461-6101, or email [email protected].