To calculate notary fees for buying or selling houses in the United States, first determine the state-specific regulations. Most states allow notaries to charge either a flat fee per transaction or a percentage of the property value, typically ranging from $10 to $50 for standard services. Additional costs may apply for complex documents like power of attorney or warranty deeds. Always verify local guidelines, as some states cap fees (e.g., California limits notary compensation to $10 per transaction). Notaries must also adhere to federal laws, such as the Notary Public Act of 1994, which mandates proper identification verification.

The variability in notary fees stems from state autonomy and consumer protection laws. For instance, the National Notary Association (NNA) reports that 48 states permit value-based fees, while 23 states enforce flat rates. A 2022 NNA survey found that the average notary fee for real estate transactions in the U.S. was $35, with states like Texas ($22–$50) and Florida ($10–$20) offering lower rates compared to California ($10 flat fee) and New York ($1–$15 per document). These differences reflect states prioritizing affordability versus revenue generation. Additionally, the American Bar Association emphasizes that notary fees should not exceed the actual cost of verification and certification to avoid exploitation. For example, in 2023, New York updated its notary laws to cap fees at $1 per notarized document, addressing concerns about excessive charges in high-value transactions. This regulatory framework ensures transparency and fairness, protecting buyers and sellers from unexpected costs during property transfers.