Most sellers should budget somewhere around 7–9% of the sale price in total selling costs, but the exact figure depends on your commission agreement, repairs, and concessions.
What's typically in the math
- Commissions: negotiable and now decoupled — listing and buyer-side terms are set separately.
- Title & escrow: fees split by local custom and your contract.
- Transfer taxes: county and sometimes city documentary transfer tax.
- Prorations & payoff: property taxes, HOA dues, and your remaining loan balance.
- Concessions: buyer credits, repairs, or a home warranty you agree to.
Run your own estimate with my Simi Valley seller net sheet calculator, or see the full picture on my seller resources page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are real estate commissions still 6%?
No single number is standard. Since the 2024 NAR settlement, commissions are openly negotiable and the listing and buyer-agent sides are negotiated separately. I'll walk you through your options in plain English.
Do I pay the buyer's agent?
It's negotiable. In some deals the seller offers buyer-agent compensation; in others the buyer pays their own agent or asks for it as a concession. We decide your strategy before listing.
What's the single biggest cost?
Usually the commission, followed by any buyer concessions or repair credits. Title, escrow, and transfer taxes are real but smaller. A net sheet shows you the full breakdown.
