Sacramento is the state capital of California and the county seat of Sacramento County. Real estate transactions here are subject to two transfer taxes: (1) the Sacramento County Documentary Transfer Tax at $1.10 per $1,000 (0.11%); and (2) the City of Sacramento's own transfer tax at $2.75 per $1,000 (0.275%). Combined, the total transfer tax is $3.85 per $1,000 (0.385%) of the sale price for properties within city limits.
Both the county and city transfer taxes in Sacramento are customarily paid by the seller at closing. The allocation is negotiable, however, and may be structured differently depending on the purchase agreement. Buyers and sellers should confirm their respective obligations through their escrow officer or real estate attorney before finalizing the transaction.
Certain Sacramento real estate transactions may qualify for exemptions from the transfer taxes. Common exemptions include interspousal transfers, transfers to domestic partners, gifts without monetary consideration, transfers to or from revocable living trusts, and qualifying corporate reorganizations. Contact a title company or real estate attorney to determine whether your transaction qualifies for an exemption.