What Is a Recording Fee in Real Estate?

A recording fee is a government fee paid to the county clerk or recorder’s office to officially record real estate documents—such as the deed, mortgage, or lien—into the public record. Recording fees make the sale legally recognized and protect property ownership.

💡 How Recording Fees Work

  • The county reviews the document for accuracy (e.g., deed, mortgage release).
  • The document is entered into the official public record.
  • The recorded document is assigned a book/page or digital image number.
  • The county stores the document permanently for legal reference.
  • The buyer receives a recorded copy of the deed after closing.

Recording fees vary widely by county but generally range from $25 to $150+ depending on document type and page count.

🏡 Why Recording Fees Matter in a Home Sale

  • They finalize ownership: A deed isn’t “official” until recorded.
  • They protect buyers: Prevents future ownership disputes.
  • They ensure liens are properly recorded or released.
  • Lenders require recording: Mortgages must be recorded to be enforceable.
  • Counties rely on recording to maintain property tax records.

📌 Who Pays Recording Fees?

It depends on the state and the contract, but typically:

  • Buyers usually pay to record the new deed and mortgage.
  • Sellers may pay to record lien releases (mortgage payoff, satisfaction, etc.).
  • Some states split fees or follow local custom.

Learn how title companies handle these fees: What Is a Title Company?

💵 Typical Recording Fees by Document Type

  • Deed recording: $25–$150
  • Mortgage recording: $35–$200+
  • Lien release / satisfaction: $10–$75
  • Assignment of mortgage: $10–$75
  • Additional page fee: $2–$15 per extra page (varies by county)

Learn how these fees appear on the closing forms: What Is a Loan Estimate?

❗ FSBO Tip: Recording Fees Are Not Negotiable

Unlike many closing costs, recording fees are government-set and cannot be negotiated. However, you can reduce other seller closing costs such as:

  • Settlement fees
  • Title insurance (depends on state)
  • Commissions
  • Junk fees added by closing companies

See the full guide: The Ultimate Guide to Seller Closing Costs

Looking for more real estate terms? Visit our Real Estate Dictionary.

Ready to Save on Closing Costs?

List your home FSBO on the MLS and eliminate the 3% listing commission. Keep control, get full exposure, and save thousands.

View Flat Fee MLS Plans →