The North Dakota State Legislature's House Industry, Business and Labor Committee convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 2356, a proposed measure aimed at streamlining the process of recording property deeds. The bill, introduced by Senator Scott Meyer, seeks to alleviate delays that can occur when property transactions are hindered by the requirement for surveys, particularly when the same legal description is used for subsequent sales.

Senator Meyer emphasized that the bill addresses significant hurdles faced by buyers and sellers, which can lead to costly delays of weeks or even months before a property can be officially closed. He noted that the current system often requires additional surveys, which can impose unnecessary financial burdens on parties involved in real estate transactions.

Key testimonies from industry professionals highlighted the real-world implications of these delays. Nick Hacker, president of the North Dakota Land Title Association, explained that the bill would strengthen property rights by allowing deeds to be recorded without the need for a new survey if the legal description remains unchanged. He provided an example of a transaction that incurred $3,200 in surveying costs and a two-month delay due to a rejected deed, underscoring the urgency for legislative reform.

Paula Bachmeier, a veteran in the real estate industry, shared her experiences with failed transactions caused by the current recording requirements. She recounted a case where a buyer lost their deed due to a seller's death before the deed could be recorded, resulting in a lengthy probate process and significant hardship for all parties involved. Bachmeier advocated for the bill, stating it would simplify the process and prevent similar issues in the future.

The committee also heard from Blaine Johnson, chair of the real property section of the State Bar Association, who acknowledged the bill's potential to improve the timely recording of deeds while cautioning that it may not eliminate all risks associated with property transactions.

Overall, Senate Bill 2356 aims to create a more efficient and less burdensome process for recording property deeds in North Dakota, addressing a pressing need in the real estate market. The committee's discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing property rights and facilitating smoother transactions for residents across the state. As the bill moves forward, it could significantly impact how property sales are conducted, ultimately benefiting buyers and sellers alike.