New York Transfer Taxes Overview

New York has multiple transfer taxes that apply to real estate transactions, and understanding them is essential for both buyers and sellers.

New York State Transfer Tax

  • Rate: 0.4% of sale price
  • Higher rate: 0.65% for residential properties over $3 million
  • Paid by: Typically the seller

NYC Transfer Tax

Additional tax for properties in New York City:

  • $500,000 or less: 1.0% of sale price
  • Over $500,000: 1.425% of sale price
  • Paid by: Typically the seller

The Mansion Tax (Buyer Pays)

A graduated tax on residential purchases of $1 million or more:

Purchase Price Tax Rate
$1M - $2M1.00%
$2M - $3M1.25%
$3M - $5M1.50%
$5M - $10M2.25%
$10M - $15M3.25%
$15M - $20M3.50%
$20M - $25M3.75%
$25M+3.90%

Mortgage Recording Tax

Paid by the buyer when financing a purchase:

  • NYC: 2.05% on mortgages under $500K; 2.175% over $500K
  • Outside NYC: Varies by county, typically 0.5-1%
  • CEMA option: May reduce tax by assuming existing mortgage balance

Example: $2M NYC Condo Purchase

  • Mansion Tax: $25,000 (1.25%)
  • Mortgage Recording Tax ($1.6M loan): $34,800
  • Title Insurance: ~$10,000
  • Attorney: $3,000
  • Buyer's Total: ~$72,800