As the founder and broker of Tverdov Housing, with over a decade specializing in New Brunswick's real estate—particularly multi-family and investment properties near Rutgers University—I've helped sellers calculate and minimize the impact of the Realty Transfer Fee (RTF) on hundreds of transactions. This state-imposed fee is a key closing cost for sellers across New Jersey, including New Brunswick, and understanding it ensures accurate net proceeds planning in our current balanced market as of January 2026.
The Realty Transfer Fee is a New Jersey state fee paid by the seller when recording the deed, calculated on the sale price (consideration). New Brunswick follows the exact same state RTF schedule—there are no additional city-specific transfer taxes or fees beyond the standard state requirements (like the local Certificate of Continued Occupancy inspection, which is separate).
Current RTF rates (unchanged for the base fee as of 2026):
- It's graduated, typically ranging from $2.00 to $7.65 per $500 of consideration, depending on the price tier and exemptions.
- For most standard sales (no partial exemptions), the full rate applies in brackets:
- Up to $150,000: Lower rates.
- Higher amounts: Up to about 1% effective rate for typical homes.
- Example: On a median New Brunswick home around $440,000, the base RTF is roughly $3,000-$4,500.
Additionally, for sales over $1,000,000, the Graduated Percent Fee (formerly called the "mansion tax") applies on top of the base RTF. Since changes effective July 2025:
- Fully paid by the seller.
- Tiered rates on the entire consideration:
- $1M–$2M: 1%
- $2M–$2.5M: 2%
- $2.5M–$3M: 2.5%
- $3M–$3.5M: 3%
- Over $3.5M: 3.5%
- Rare in New Brunswick's market but important for high-value properties.
Partial exemptions exist for seniors, blind/disabled persons, or low-income housing, reducing the fee significantly. At Tverdov Housing, we always run precise calculations using the latest state guidelines and help explore exemptions.
For Central Jersey insights, check The New Jersey Real Estate Investor podcast.
Selling in New Brunswick? Contact Tverdov Housing for a free net sheet including your exact RTF—we'll maximize your proceeds with local expertise.
