Baltimore County, Maryland charges a 1.5% transfer tax and a recordation tax of $2.50 per $500, according to Baltimore County Budget and Finance, and requires most rentals to hold a three-year county license.
Baltimore County is separate from Baltimore City, with its own tax rates and its own rental license. Investors buying on either side of the line should check which jurisdiction a property is in. For the Maryland rules that apply statewide, see DSCR loans in Maryland.
What closing taxes apply in Baltimore County?
Baltimore County's transfer tax is 1.5% of consideration and its recordation tax is $2.50 per $500 or fraction of consideration.
| Tax | Baltimore County rate |
|---|---|
| County transfer tax | 1.5% |
| County recordation tax | $2.50 per $500 |
Exception: The county page does not state who pays or list exemptions. Confirm the figures with the title company.
According to Baltimore County, Deed Transfer and Recordation, as of October 2026.
Do Baltimore County rentals need a license?
Yes. Most rental property in Baltimore County must be registered for a county rental license, valid three years, at $60 per unit for non-owner-occupied rentals, under County Code 35-5-201.
- Rentals with six or fewer units must be inspected by a state-licensed home inspector.
- Homes built before 1978 need a lead inspection certificate.
Exception: Owner-occupied properties with one or two tenants pay a different fee. Check the county's registration page for your property.
According to Baltimore County, Rental Housing Registration and Registration, as of October 2026.
What is Baltimore County's property tax rate?
The Maryland Department of Legislative Services lists Baltimore County's real property tax rate at $1.10 per $100 of assessed value for fiscal year 2026, county rate only.
- On a $250,000 assessment, $1.10 per $100 equals $2,750 a year in county property tax.
- State and any municipal rates are separate.
Exception: Rates are set annually. Check the current year's rate and the property's assessment.
According to the Maryland DLS local tax rates table, as of October 2026.
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Disclaimer
This page is general education about business-purpose real estate financing and state law as published by official sources on the date shown. It is not legal, tax or lending advice, not an offer to lend and not a rate quote. Laws and lender guidelines change; confirm current rules with the lender, the title company and your own attorney or tax adviser.