đ” What Youâll Actually Take Home When You Sell
A clear, realistic look at the true costs of selling your home.
One of the biggest questions every seller has â and one of the hardest to answer â is simple:
âWhat will I walk away with?â
Between commissions, prep work, taxes, and closing fees, the final number can look very different from the sale price. This guide breaks everything down so you can move forward with clarity instead of guesswork.
đ§Ÿ The Real Costs Most Sellers Can Expect
1. Agent Commission
Typically 5â6% of the sale price, shared between the listing agent and the buyerâs agent.This covers:
- Marketing
- Negotiation
- Contract management
- Guidance from start to finish
2. Prep, Repairs & Light Improvements
Most sellers invest a little to make their home shine.Think:
- Fresh paint
- Landscaping
- Minor repairs
- Preâinspection fixes
You control how much you spend â but smart prep often leads to a stronger sale price.
3. Seller Closing Costs
Depending on your state, expect 1â3% of the sale price.This may include:
- Title fees
- Transfer taxes
- Attorney fees
- Recording fees
4. Buyer Credits or Concessions
After inspections, buyers may request:
- Repair credits
- Closing cost assistance
These are negotiable, but they do impact your bottom line.
5. Mortgage Payoff
If you still have a loan, the remaining balance is paid directly from your proceeds.
6. Taxes
Capital gains taxes may apply if:
- Your home has appreciated significantly
- You donât meet IRS exclusion rules
- The property is an investment or inherited
Always consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
7. Moving Expenses
Whether youâre moving across town or across the country, plan for:
- Movers
- Packing supplies
- Storage
- Travel costs
đ Example Net Sheet
Sale Price: $450,000Commission (6%): $27,000Prep & Minor Repairs: $2,500Closing Costs (2%): $9,000Buyer Concession: $3,000Mortgage Payoff: $220,000Moving Costs: $1,500
Estimated Net Proceeds: $187,000
(Your numbers will vary â this is just a sample.)
đ The Hidden Costs You Wonât See on a Spreadsheet
Time on Market
The longer your home sits, the more holding costs add up.
Emotional Cost
Stress, uncertainty, or rushing can lead to accepting a lower offer.
Opportunity Cost
Pricing too high at the start can delay your next move.
â What Leads to a Smooth, Profitable Sale?
â Strategic pricingâ Clear expectationsâ A smart prep planâ An agent who walks you through every dollar and decision
đ Letâs Break Down Your Numbers
đ” What Youâll Actually Take Home When You Sell
A clear, realistic look at the true costs of selling your home.
One of the biggest questions every seller has â and one of the hardest to answer â is simple:
âWhat will I walk away with?â
Between commissions, prep work, taxes, and closing fees, the final number can look very different from the sale price. This guide breaks everything down so you can move forward with clarity instead of guesswork.
đ§Ÿ The Real Costs Most Sellers Can Expect
1. Agent Commission
Typically 5â6% of the sale price, shared between the listing agent and the buyerâs agent.This covers:
- Marketing
- Negotiation
- Contract management
- Guidance from start to finish
2. Prep, Repairs & Light Improvements
Most sellers invest a little to make their home shine.Think:
- Fresh paint
- Landscaping
- Minor repairs
- Preâinspection fixes
You control how much you spend â but smart prep often leads to a stronger sale price.
3. Seller Closing Costs
Depending on your state, expect 1â3% of the sale price.This may include:
- Title fees
- Transfer taxes
- Attorney fees
- Recording fees
4. Buyer Credits or Concessions
After inspections, buyers may request:
- Repair credits
- Closing cost assistance
These are negotiable, but they do impact your bottom line.
5. Mortgage Payoff
If you still have a loan, the remaining balance is paid directly from your proceeds.
6. Taxes
Capital gains taxes may apply if:
- Your home has appreciated significantly
- You donât meet IRS exclusion rules
- The property is an investment or inherited
Always consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
7. Moving Expenses
Whether youâre moving across town or across the country, plan for:
- Movers
- Packing supplies
- Storage
- Travel costs
đ Example Net Sheet
Sale Price: $450,000Commission (6%): $27,000Prep & Minor Repairs: $2,500Closing Costs (2%): $9,000Buyer Concession: $3,000Mortgage Payoff: $220,000Moving Costs: $1,500
Estimated Net Proceeds: $187,000
(Your numbers will vary â this is just a sample.)
đ The Hidden Costs You Wonât See on a Spreadsheet
Time on Market
The longer your home sits, the more holding costs add up.
Emotional Cost
Stress, uncertainty, or rushing can lead to accepting a lower offer.
Opportunity Cost
Pricing too high at the start can delay your next move.
â What Leads to a Smooth, Profitable Sale?
â Strategic pricingâ Clear expectationsâ A smart prep planâ An agent who walks you through every dollar and decision
đ Letâs Break Down Your Numbers
Selling is a major financial decision. Iâll help you understand the real costs and show you exactly what you could walk away with â based on your home, not a generic formula.
If youâd like a personalized net sheet or youâre just starting to explore your options, reach out anytime.
Call or Text: 912â414â4427Email: PennyRaffertyRealty@gmail.com
â
Call or Text: 912â414â4427Email: PennyRaffertyRealty@gmail.com
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