The NJ Realty Transfer Fee

The Realty Transfer Fee (RTF) is a state tax required to be paid upon the recording of deeds for real property transfers in New Jersey. In our market, this is traditionally a Seller's closing cost and is a prerequisite for recording your deed.

IMPORTANT 2026 UPDATE FOR SELLERS: As of the most recent New Jersey state budget, the tax structure for homes sold over $1 million has changed significantly.

  1. The "Mansion Tax" Shift: What was previously a 1% fee paid by the Buyer has been renamed the Graduated Percent Fee and is now the responsibility of the Seller.

  2. New Tiered Rates: For homes sold over $2 million, the fee is no longer a flat 1%; it now scales up to 3.5% of the total sale price.

Standard Realty Transfer Fee (Paid by Seller)

This fee applies to all property transfers and is calculated based on the sale price:

For Sales NOT in Excess of $350,000:

  • $2.00 per $500 of consideration up to $150,000

  • $3.35 per $500 of consideration from $150,001 to $200,000

  • $3.90 per $500 of consideration from $200,001 to $350,000

For Sales IN EXCESS of $350,000:

  • $2.90 per $500 of consideration up to $150,000

  • $4.25 per $500 of consideration from $150,001 to $200,000

  • $4.80 per $500 of consideration from $200,001 to $550,000

  • $5.30 per $500 of consideration from $550,001 to $850,000

  • $5.80 per $500 of consideration from $850,001 to $1,000,000

  • $6.05 per $500 of consideration for any portion over $1,000,000

Graduated Percent Fee (Seller Paid)

For residential properties sold for more than $1,000,000, the Seller must pay this additional fee in addition to the standard RTF. This fee is calculated as a percentage of the entire sale price:

  • $1,000,001 – $2,000,000: 1.0% of total price

  • $2,000,001 – $2,500,000: 2.0% of total price

  • $2,500,001 – $3,000,000: 2.5% of total price

  • $3,000,001 – $3,500,000: 3.0% of total price

  • Above $3,500,000: 3.5% of total price

Partial Exemptions

Reduced RTF rates are available for sellers who are Senior Citizens (62+), Blind, or Disabled, provided the property is their primary residence. A notarized Affidavit of Consideration (Form RTF-1) must be submitted with the deed.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page regarding the New Jersey Realty Transfer Fee and Graduated Percent Fee is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tax laws, rates, and responsibilities are subject to change by the State of New Jersey. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified real estate attorney or tax professional to determine the exact impact on your specific transaction.