Virginia Real Estate Transfer Tax (2026)
Virginia's real estate transfer tax is ~0.35% (recordation + grantor) at the state level, which comes to about $1,400 on a $400,000 home. It's customarily paid by the split 50/50 and collected at closing when the deed is recorded. A buyer-paid recordation tax + a seller-paid grantor tax; Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads add a regional tax.
Verified July 2026 from official sources. How we verify fees.
The transfer tax in Virginia
- Rate: ~0.35% (recordation + grantor) (state portion)
- On a $400,000 home: ~$1,400 (state-level)
- Who customarily pays: Split 50/50
- Local county/city add-on: Yes — check your city/county
Good to know
A buyer-paid recordation tax + a seller-paid grantor tax; Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads add a regional tax. The transfer tax is paid once, at closing, when the deed is recorded — it's separate from your annual property tax. Because counties or cities in Virginia add their own, your total can be higher than the state figure above — confirm the local rate for your city. Compare every state on our transfer tax by state ranking.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the real estate transfer tax in Virginia?
~0.35% (recordation + grantor) at the state level (plus any local add-on) — about $1,400 on a $400,000 home.
Who pays the transfer tax in Virginia?
By custom, the split 50/50, though it's usually negotiable in the purchase contract.
Does Virginia have local (city or county) transfer taxes?
Yes — some counties or cities in Virginia add their own transfer tax on top of the state rate, so confirm your specific city and county.