You’ve decided to sell your home—congratulations! Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, it’s an exciting time. But before the “Sold” sign goes up, there’s one important thing every homeowner should be prepared for: the cost of selling.

Yes, even though you’re the one handing over the keys, selling isn’t free—and many sellers are surprised by just how many costs they’re responsible for at the closing table. From agent commissions to closing fees and repairs, the final tally can impact your bottom line in a big way.

As Peter Klein, Team Leader of Tress Homes, puts it:

“A smart seller plans not just for the sale price—but for the net proceeds. Understanding the costs upfront means no surprises later.”

In this article, we’ll break down the most common expenses associated with selling a home and provide tips to help you maximize your profit and minimize headaches.

Why This Matters Now

In a shifting market, where competition, interest rates, and buyer expectations are changing rapidly, knowing your costs ahead of time can be the difference between a smooth transaction and last-minute stress. Whether you’re using your home equity to buy your next place or simply want to walk away with the most money possible, every dollar counts.

The Real Costs of Selling a Home

Let’s break down the typical costs sellers encounter:

This is the largest expense for most sellers. Typically, real estate agents charge a total commission of 5–6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.

Example:
If your home sells for $400,000, a 6% commission would be $24,000—split between two agents.

Pro Tip: Some agents offer flexible commission structures depending on your needs. Talk to your agent early to understand how their fees work and what services are included.

While buyers usually carry the bulk of closing costs, sellers are still responsible for a few key items, such as:

• Title insurance (owner’s policy)

• Escrow fees

• Outstanding property taxes

• HOA transfer fees (if applicable)
  
  

These can add up to 1–3% of the home’s sale price.

Even if your home is in good shape, buyers today expect move-in ready. That means cosmetic touch-ups, landscaping, staging, or fixing minor issues can go a long way—but they come at a price.

• Pre-listing repairs: Think plumbing leaks, roof patches, or HVAC service.

• Staging costs: $500–$2,000+ depending on your home size and staging level.

• Inspection repairs: After a buyer’s home inspection, you may be asked to cover the cost of unexpected issues like mold, foundation cracks, or electrical upgrades.
  

To make a deal more appealing, especially in a buyer’s market, some sellers offer concessions such as:

• Covering part of the buyer’s closing costs

• Offering a home warranty

• Agreeing to post-inspection repair credits
  

“Concessions can help your home stand out,” says Peter Klein.
“But they should be strategic—always balance what’s offered with your bottom line.”

Don’t forget the outstanding balance of your mortgage. If you’ve refinanced or taken out a HELOC (home equity line of credit), those will need to be paid off as well.

Also, if there are any property liens, those must be cleared before the sale can close.

How to Prepare: A Seller’s Cost Checklist

Want to be ready before you list? Here’s a quick checklist of things to do:

✅ Get a net proceeds estimate from your agent
✅ Request a pre-listing inspection to uncover hidden issues
✅ Review your mortgage payoff statement
✅ Price out minor repairs or upgrades
✅ Talk with your agent about flexible commission options
✅ Discuss closing timelines to avoid double-moving or storage costs

Common Questions Sellers Ask

“Can I sell my home without an agent to save on commission?”

Yes—but it can be risky. You’ll be handling everything from pricing and legal paperwork to marketing and negotiations on your own. A good agent can often net you more than you'd save by skipping the commission.

“What if I don’t have money to make repairs?”

You may be able to sell “as-is” or offer credits instead. However, you’ll likely attract fewer buyers or get lower offers. A real estate agent can help you weigh your options.

“Are there any tax costs I should be aware of?”

Potentially. If you’ve made a significant profit, you could be subject to capital gains tax—though many homeowners are exempt up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples), depending on how long you’ve lived in the home. Always consult a tax professional.

Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Not Surprised

Selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people make. Knowing your costs ahead of time is like packing a suitcase with the weather in mind—you’ll be ready for anything that comes your way.

“The smartest sellers are the ones who plan, prepare, and partner with the right agent,” says Peter Klein.
“When you know what to expect, you’re in control of the process—and the profit.”

Ready to Sell Smarter?

Get personalized guidance, a free home value estimate, or start your home search today at HomeOnward.com or email Peter Klein and the team directly at tresshomes@gmail.com. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence.