The Registry of Deeds is one of the most important, yet lesser-known, institutions in our
Commonwealth. The Registry processes hundreds of thousands of documents each year and
is a key resource for homeowners, real estate professionals, financial institutions, and
municipalities.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has 21 registry districts, each directed by an
elected Register of Deeds. The Register oversees the day-to-day and longterm responsibilities
of the Registry, including receiving and tracking all real estate documents in the district.

A successful Register of Deeds must have a strong understanding how real estate
transactions are carried out and experience solving complicated problems at the interaction of
law and public policy. Under strong leadership, each Registry of Deeds is a valuable and
trusted resource for residents.