Maine Transfer Tax Changes Effective November 1, 2025

If you’re planning to buy or sell property in Maine, it’s important to be aware of upcoming changes to the Maine Real Estate Transfer Tax that take effect on November 1, 2025.

What is the Transfer Tax?

The transfer tax is a fee the State of Maine charges whenever real estate is transferred from one party to another. This tax is calculated based on the property’s sale price and is split evenly between the buyer and seller. The tax is reported and paid at closing, with details documented on the Real Estate Transfer Tax Declaration (RETTD), which is filed with the deed to the state.

What’s Changing in November 2025?

Until now, all property sales in Maine have been taxed at the same flat rate. Beginning November 1, 2025, the state will introduce a two-tiered transfer tax system:

Tier 1: Up to $1,000,000

No changes from the current system.

Sales up to $1,000,000 will continue to be taxed at $2.20 per $500 of the sales price.

The buyer and seller will continue to split the cost 50/50.

Tier 2: Above $1,000,000

Any portion of the sales price over $1,000,000 will now be taxed at a higher rate.

The new rate will be $6.00 per $500 on the portion above $1,000,000.

As always, the cost will be split evenly between the buyer and seller.

Example:

A property sells for $1,200,000.

The first $1,000,000 is taxed at the standard $2.20 per $500.

The remaining $200,000 is taxed at the new $6.00 per $500 rate.

Both buyer and seller will share the responsibility for both tiers.

Exemptions

Certain transactions may be exempt from the transfer tax under 36 M.R.S. §4641-C. To qualify for an exemption, it must be clearly stated on the Real Estate Transfer Tax Declaration filed with the deed.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For most transactions - those at or below $1,000,000 - nothing will change. But for high-value properties, buyers and sellers should prepare for increased costs on the portion of the sales price above the $1,000,000 threshold.

At RE/MAX Shoreline, our team is here to help you understand how these changes may impact your real estate plans. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a multi-million-dollar property, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure you’re informed every step of the way.

Have questions about how the new transfer tax may affect your next move? Contact us today to connect with a local RE/MAX Shoreline agent and get expert guidance tailored to your situation.