🎁 What Are Seller Concessions?

Seller concessions are costs you agree to pay on behalf of the buyer to help the deal move forward. They’re common, negotiable, and can make your home more competitive depending on market conditions.

💵 1. Buyer Closing Costs (Including Buyer’s Agent Compensation)

Buyers often ask for help covering their upfront expenses. These may include:

• Lender fees 🏦
• Title insurance 📜
• Attorney fees ⚖️
• Prepaid taxes & insurance 🧾
• Escrow deposits 💼
• Buyer’s agent compensation 🤝 (in markets where buyers request the seller to contribute)

How this impacts your net:

Every dollar you agree to cover reduces your net dollar‑for‑dollar.If you agree to $8,000 in closing cost help (including buyer’s agent compensation), your proceeds drop by $8,000.

🔧 2. Repair Requests After Inspection

Once inspections are complete, buyers may ask for:

• Repairs (HVAC, roof, plumbing, electrical)
• Service calls (pest, HVAC tune‑up, septic)
• Credits instead of repairs

Impact on your net:

• Paying for repairs = direct cost
• Offering a credit = reduces your net
• Declining repairs may risk losing the buyer

🧹 3. Appraisal‑Required Repairs

For FHA, VA, or USDA loans, appraisers may require:

• Peeling paint fixes
• Handrails
• Safety repairs
• Missing flooring
• Roof or structural concerns

Impact:

These repairs are required for the loan to close. Usually minor, but time‑sensitive.

🏷️ 4. Price Reductions After Appraisal

If the home appraises below contract price, the buyer may ask for:

• A price reduction
• A split of the difference
• Concessions to offset the gap

Impact:

Any reduction directly lowers your proceeds.This is one of the most significant unexpected seller costs.

🏠 5. Home Warranty for the Buyer

Buyers sometimes request a 1‑year home warranty for peace of mind.

Typical cost: $500–$800  Impact: Small but still reduces your net.

🧽 6. Cleaning or Move‑Out Requests

Buyers may ask for:

• Professional cleaning
• Carpet cleaning
• Trash/junk removal

Impact: Usually $150–$400, depending on size and condition.

🏘️ 7. HOA/POA Fees & Transfer Costs

If your home is in an HOA/POA, expect:

• Transfer fees
• Capital contributions
• Prorated dues
• Resale package fees

Impact varies widely — some communities charge $150, others $1,500+.

💡 8. Seller‑Side Title, Taxes & Attorney Fees

Sellers typically pay:

• Title fees
• Deed preparation
• Transfer taxes
• Prorated property taxes

Impact: Usually 1–3% of the sale price depending on the state.

🧮 9. Mortgage Payoff & Liens

Your remaining mortgage balance is paid at closing, along with:

• Home equity loans
• HELOCs
• Judgments or liens

Impact: These reduce your net but are not “costs” — they’re payoffs.

🚚 10. Moving Costs

Often overlooked but very real:

• Movers
• Storage
• Truck rental
• Travel

Impact: Typically $500–$2,500 depending on distance and size.

⭐ What Ultimately Shapes Your Net Proceeds

Your final number depends on:

• Sale price
• Commission
• Buyer concessions
• Repairs
• Appraisal outcomes
• HOA fees
• Seller closing costs
• Mortgage payoff
• Moving expenses

A personalized net sheet gives you clarity before you list — and helps you make confident decisions.

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