Property sales across Norfolk County jumped 14% in June while average prices fell 15%, a combination that Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell said could benefit buyers who have been priced out of the market.

The Registry recorded 1,151 property sales in June 2026, up from about 1,010 in June 2025, O'Donnell reported Friday, July 17. The average sale price dropped to approximately $981,000, down from roughly $1.15 million a year earlier.

"Lower average sale prices could create new opportunities for first-time homebuyers and current homeowners looking to move who were previously priced out of the market," O'Donnell said. "However, purchase prices remain high relative to past years."

Key numbers at a glance

  • Property sales: 1,151 in June 2026 (+14% year-over-year, +49% from May)
  • Average sale price: ~$981,000 (−15% from June 2025)
  • Mortgages recorded: 1,855 (+9% year-over-year)
  • Total mortgage indebtedness: $2.91 billion (+95% from June 2025; cause not explained)
  • Foreclosure deeds: 5 (up from 3 a year ago)
  • Notices to foreclose: 17 (down from 28 in June 2025)

Context: a reversal from spring

The June numbers mark a sharp turnaround. In May, only 773 properties changed hands countywide, a 6% year-over-year decline. O'Donnell had attributed sluggish volume earlier in 2026 to limited inventory, saying in the Registry's April 24 quarterly report that homeowners were "reluctant to sell and give up favorable mortgage rates obtained in prior years."

The falling average price doesn't necessarily mean homes are cheaper. O'Donnell noted in the Registry's May report that the decline likely reflects fewer high-end commercial deals rather than a broad drop in residential values, which Redfin data showed remained relatively stable.

Local angle

The June report does not break out sales by town. Milton and Canton are among the county's more active real estate markets based on prior recording volumes. The Registry's next monthly report, covering July activity, is expected in mid-August.

Residents facing mortgage difficulty can contact Quincy Community Action Programs at 617-479-8181, ext. 376, or NeighborWorks Housing Solutions at 508-587-0950.