Selling costs vary by property, location, contract and transaction. Ask for an estimated net sheet early, then update it when you receive an offer and again as closing figures become available.
Mortgage and lien payoffs
Existing loans, home-equity balances and other recorded liens are generally paid from sale proceeds. The payoff can differ from the balance shown on a recent statement because of interest and fees.
Real estate compensation
The listing agreement and transaction documents explain the compensation you have agreed to pay. Review the amount, timing and services with your agent before listing.
Attorney, title and closing expenses
Depending on local practice, sellers may pay attorney fees, title-related charges, recording or transfer fees and other closing services. Your attorney or title company can estimate these items.
Property taxes and association charges
Taxes may be prorated or otherwise adjusted at closing. Condominiums and homeowner associations may charge for documents, processing, inspections, move coordination or unpaid balances.
Repairs and preparation
Cleaning, staging, moving, storage, repairs and pre-listing improvements happen before closing but still affect your net. Set a budget and track these costs separately.
Buyer credits or negotiated expenses
An accepted offer may include seller credits, repair concessions or other negotiated costs. Evaluate these alongside price rather than looking at the headline number alone.
Moving and overlap costs
Budget for movers, temporary housing, deposits, utility overlap and carrying costs if the homes do not close on the same day.
The bottom line
Clear information creates confident decisions.
A good net sheet turns a sale price into a practical planning number. Review it before listing and whenever the terms of a transaction change.