In short
Kent County (unincorporated) charges a local tax on a home sale: Kent County realty transfer tax. This rule covers a group of places, so the table below uses typical prices.
What you pay at different prices
| Price | Kent County realty transfer tax | Delaware state tax | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| $300,000 | $4,500 | $7,500 | $12,000 |
| $500,000 | $7,500 | $12,500 | $20,000 |
| $1,000,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 | $40,000 |
| $2,000,000 | $30,000 | $50,000 | $80,000 |
Before exemptions and credits (first-time buyers, transfers between relatives…), which are listed below when the source gives them. The tax due on your deed is the one the recorder computes.
The rates, tax by tax
Kent County realty transfer tax
1.5% county rate; state 2.5%. First-time home buyers exempt from the county tax.
Exemptions: Kent County rate row: First Time Home Buyer 'Exempt'.
In force: Rate sheet KCROD-10.0 dated 5/23/2025. Source: Kent County Recorder of Deeds - Realty Transfer Tax Rates (KCROD-10.0, 5/23/2025).
Questions
Is the local tax on top of the Delaware tax?
Yes. The local taxes listed here are added to the Delaware state transfer tax.
General information drawn from the official sources cited and dated on this page. It is not legal, tax or financial advice: for your own situation, ask a licensed professional.