Effective October 1, 2020, the Frederick County State Recordation Tax Rate for residential and commercial transactions will see an increase from $12 per $1,000 of consideration to $14 per $1,000 pursuant to County Bill No. 20-03. The increase in tax applies to commercial and residential transactions. This increase continues a trend across Maryland as local jurisdictions struggle with budget shortfalls.
The increase is being implemented for agricultural preservation and purchase conservation easements and development rights to preserve land in the County. In addition to land preservation, the increase will also be used for park acquisition, school construction, and the Housing Initiatives Fund.
Please note that deeds must be presented to the clerk for recording before October 1st to still be taxed at the current lower rate. For example, presenting a deed for recordation after September 30th will increase the cost to record by $1,000 for a $500,000 home. The increase will increase closing costs and may be an impediment to home buying in the County.
About Liff, Walsh & Simmons
Liff, Walsh & Simmons is a full-service business law firm serving the legal needs of small businesses and privately held middle-market companies, their owners and operators, and individuals throughout their business and family life cycles in the mid-Atlantic region. From helping entrepreneurs bring their business visions to market, to representing middle-market companies in business transactions and disputes, to preserving the wealth that a family business has worked so hard to earn, we take pride in providing value-driven solutions and great results. Our responsive service is focused on general and transactional business advice, commercial and civil litigation, real estate, land use, finance, and estate planning and administration. At Liff, Walsh & Simmons, we are Experienced, Innovative, and Entrepreneurial.