The term recording fee refers to an expense charged by a government agency for registering or recording the purchase or sale of a piece of real estate. The transaction is recorded so it becomes a matter of public record.

Who pays the recording fee?

Recording fees: These fees may be paid by you or by the seller, depending upon your agreement of sale with the seller. The buyer usually pays the fees for legally recording the new deed and mortgage.

What is recordation tax in Maryland?

What is recordation tax? The Recordation Tax is an excise tax that was previously imposed by the State for the privilege of recording an instrument in the Land Records. Although imposed by the State, the recordation tax, to the extent collected by each clerk or city fiscal office, goes to such city's treasury.