What You Need to Know About Philadelphia’s Updated Transfer Tax & Recording Fees  

What You Need to Know About Philadelphia’s Updated Transfer Tax & Recording Fees 🏙️📝 

If you’re buying, selling, or refinancing property in Philadelphia, there have been important changes to the city’s transfer tax and recording fees that could affect your bottom line. Knowing these updates before you get to the closing table can save you from surprise costs—and help you plan smarter. 💡

📊 Updated Transfer Tax
Philadelphia’s total real estate transfer tax is now 4.578%, broken down like this:

• 3.578% → City of Philadelphia
  
  
• 1% → State of Pennsylvania
  
  

That’s a 0.3% increase from the previous rate. It might sound small, but it adds up quickly.
💰 Example: On a $500,000 home, this means $1,500 more in taxes than before.

📄 Recording Fee Increases
Recording fees are also up by $3 each, affecting common real estate documents like:

• Deeds → $277.75
  
  
• Mortgages → $247.75
  
  
• Satisfactions → $230.75
  
  

These changes apply to all real estate transactions—residential, commercial, and refinances—so double-check your numbers early.

✅ What You Should Do Now

• 📋 Review your closing disclosures to make sure they reflect the new rates
  
  
• 🏛 Confirm your title company is using updated fees
  
  
• 📢 Educate your clients so they aren’t caught off guard
  
  

💡 Why This Matters
Small percentage changes can make a big difference in your costs. Being informed means you can budget accurately, avoid delays, and even negotiate better.

And remember—you don’t have to navigate it alone. Having an experienced guide can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.