Real Estate Transfer Data

Under state law, a Real Estate Transfer Return (RETR) must be electronically filed (e-filed) with the County Register of Deeds when recording a conveyance of real estate.

RETR Data

RETR information may be used to determine a property's market value. The best indicator of market value is a transfer representing an arm's-length transaction.

Characteristics of an arm's-length sale:

  • Property must have been on the open market for a period of time typical of the turnover time for that property type
  • Both buyer and seller must be knowledgeable about the real estate market and the uses (present and potential) of the property
  • Must be a willing buyer and a willing seller, with neither compelled to act
  • Payment for the property must be in cash, or typical of normal financing and payment arrangements for the property type

Not all Real Estate Transfer Returns represents arm's-length sales:

  • Examples include: family sales, correction deeds and delinquent tax sales generally are not considered arm's-length transactions. However, with these transactions, you must still file a RETR.
  • Note: The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) is not responsible for the accuracy of the data contained on the RETR, and will not aid in its application or analysis

Search RETR data or Download Historical RETR Data

Note: DOR is not available to provide technical assistance and support in opening compressed files.

2024

Real Estate Transfer Data Fields for above files

Questions?


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