Real estate activity across Norfolk County slowed in May 2026 compared May 2025, with declines in several key indicators such as sales volume, average sales prices, and mortgage activity, said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell, who on Thursday, June 18th released the real estate recording statistics for last month.
In May 2026, the Registry of Deeds recorded 9,415 documents, representing a 1% decrease from April 2026 and a 2% decrease from May 2025. Although the Registry records other documents besides deeds -such as easements, foreclosures, liens, and mortgages, all of which factor into overall activity in the Norfolk County real estate market – a focus on real estate sales shows that 773 properties were sold in May 2026, a 6% decrease from the same measure in May 2025.
“While overall document recordings remained relatively stable, the year-over-year decline suggests a market that is adjusting to ongoing economic pressures and a limited inventory of available properties,” said Register O’Donnell. He pointed to elevated interest rates and affordability challenges as continuing obstacles for both buyers and sellers.
Lending activity also declined in May 2026. Mortgage recordings declined 8% compared to April 2026 and declined 2% compared to May 2025. Total mortgage indebtedness also decreased compared to May 2025. Register O’Donnell noted that the declines in mortgage activity and total mortgage indebtedness compared to last year “reflect[] a more cautious lending environment.”
The average sale price for all property types was approximately $1.19 million; a 14% decrease compared to May 2025. However, Register O’Donnell noted that Redfin market data shows that residential home prices “have remained relatively stable year-over-year.” Register O’Donnell attributed the sales price decrease to a combination of fewer high-value transactions, softness in the commercial real estate sector, and increased sensitivity to affordability among buyers.
Regarding foreclosures, there were only two foreclosure deeds recorded in Norfolk County in each month of May 2026 and May 2025. However, notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, increased to 28 in May 2026 compared to 26 in May 2025.
“While foreclosure deeds remain low, the increase in notices to foreclose is something we are watching closely,” said Register O’Donnell. “Foreclosure activity has a real impact on families and communities, and we want residents to know that resources are available if they are facing financial hardship.” Area homeowners having difficulty paying their mortgages can contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400.
Register O’Donnell summarized, “Overall, the May 2026 recording data shows a market that is moving at a slower pace than last year. Affordability challenges, higher borrowing costs, and a limited supply of available properties are all continuing to weigh on activity. At the same time, the drop in total sales value and average sale price seems to be driven more by fewer high-end and commercial transactions, rather than any broad decline in residential home values, which have remained relatively steady,” he said. “As we move into the summer months, we hope to see the homebuying season pick up steam.
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