How to Buy a House in North Dakota
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$289,622
Closing Costs
$12,307
4.25% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.94%
$2,092/yr median
Days on Market
55
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Judicial
Transfer Tax
None
None
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Key Facts About Buying in North Dakota
- ✓No transfer tax
- ✓Attorney required at closing
- ✓Judicial foreclosure state
- ✓Oil-region markets (Williston) can vary significantly
The Home Buying Process in North Dakota
Buying a home in North Dakota follows a 10-step process. As an attorney state, you'll need legal representation at closing.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in North Dakota
NDHFA FirstHome Program
Below-market rate mortgages
Below-market rates + DPA grantIncome: Up to $97,600
Cost of Buying a Home in North Dakota
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $10,137 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $57,924 |
| Average Closing Costs | $12,307 |
| Transfer Tax | None |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $2,722/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in North Dakota
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $150,000
Licensing Authority
North Dakota Real Estate Commission
North Dakota Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty deed |
| Security Instrument | Mortgage; deed of trust sometimes used |
| Foreclosure Process | Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | Yes |
| Deficiency Judgment | Conditional |
| Redemption After Sale | Yes |
| Reinstatement Available | Yes |
| Seller Disclosures | North Dakota follows caveat emptor; no disclosure form is required except for federally mandated lead-paint disclosures, but sellers may not commit fraud. Courts can rescind a sale or award restitution for deceptive nondisclosures. |
