To bear notary fees and transfer taxes in real estate inheritance, the inheritor or estate typically covers these costs. Notary fees, ranging from $50 to $500 depending on the state, are paid to a notary public to authenticate the transfer documents. Transfer taxes, varying by location, are usually calculated as a percentage of the property’s assessed value or sale price, often between 0.1% and 2.2%. Inheriting parties may negotiate responsibility for these fees with the estate or the seller. Probate court may also allocate costs if the property passes through probate, which can add 3–5% of the estate’s value in legal and administrative fees.

The responsibility for fees hinges on state laws and inheritance agreements. For example, California imposes a 1.1% transfer tax on properties up to $2 million, while Florida charges $0.70 per $1,000 of assessed value. Texas requires a conveyance fee of $0.10–$1.00 per $500. Notary fees in New York average $200–$300, whereas Massachusetts caps them at $200. Probate costs in California average 4% of the estate value, while Texas limits fees to 2–4% of the property value. These variations reflect states’ differing priorities: some prioritize inheritance simplicity (e.g., community property states like California), while others focus on revenue generation (e.g., Florida’s stamp taxes). Inheriting parties should consult a local attorney to navigate jurisdiction-specific requirements and minimize tax burdens. Data from the National Association of Realtors (2022) shows that 65% of inheritance-related transactions face unexpected fee costs, underscoring the need for proactive planning.