Selling your home is often considered one of life’s most stressful experiences—and it’s not just the emotional toll. The financial side can also present significant challenges, with both expected and unexpected expenses to consider. Here’s what you need to know to prepare for the costs involved in selling a home. 

Get your home in top shape

First impressions matter, and if your home needs repairs, it may struggle to attract buyers or command your asking price. Addressing issues like a leaky roof, cracked windows, or peeling paint can go a long way toward ensuring a successful sale. 

For minor fixes, you might be able to tackle them yourself, but for larger repairs, it’s best to hire a professional. Be sure to get multiple quotes to find a reliable contractor within your budget. Websites like Angi or Thumbtack can help you find and compare local contractors. 

Real Estate Agent fees

Hiring a real estate agent is one of the largest expenses when selling a home. Traditional agents typically charge a commission of 5-6% of the sale price, split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. For a $300,000 home, this could mean $15,000-$18,000 in fees. 

If you’re looking to save money, consider discount brokers or flat-fee real estate services like Redfin or Clever Real Estate. These companies often charge lower fees but be sure to understand exactly what services are included before making your decision. 

Legal and closing costs

You’ll also need to budget for legal and closing costs, including title transfer fees, escrow fees, and more. These fees can range from 2-5% of your home’s sale price. While you typically won’t need to hire a separate attorney unless required by your state, working with a reputable title company is essential. 

To save, shop around for a title company or escrow service with competitive rates. Ask for itemized quotes upfront to understand exactly what you’ll be paying. 

Moving costs

Moving expenses are another cost that can add up quickly. The cheapest option is renting a truck and handling the move yourself, but this can be stressful and time-consuming. 

Hiring a professional moving company can make the process smoother, but prices vary widely depending on the size of your home, the distance of the move, and the time of year. Use comparison tools like Moving.com or U-Pack to get multiple quotes, and book as early as possible to lock in the best rates. 

Home inspection and repairs

While buyers often pay for their own home inspections, it’s wise to conduct a pre-inspection before listing your property. This allows you to address potential issues upfront and avoid surprises during negotiations. A home inspection typically costs $300-$500, depending on the size and location of your home.

Energy efficiency disclosures

In many states, sellers are required to disclose their home’s energy efficiency, often through an energy audit or certification. While not federally mandated, this requirement varies by state and can cost $100-$300. If applicable, check with your real estate agent to understand your obligations. 

Staging and curb appeal

While optional, staging your home can significantly impact its appeal to buyers and the final sale price. Staging costs can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on whether you hire a professional or rent furniture. Simple improvements like fresh landscaping or a new coat of paint on the front door can also boost your home’s curb appeal for a fraction of the cost.  

Mortgage payoff and potential penalties

Don’t forget to account for the remaining balance on your mortgage, including any early repayment penalties or fees. Request a payoff statement from your lender to understand exactly what you owe. 

Resources to help you prepare

• Moving cost comparison: Use CompareMyMove.com or Moving.com to get quotes from multiple companies. 
• Home repair services: Websites like Angi or Thumbtack can help you find local contractors. 
• Title and closing services: Shop around for title companies using tools like Zillow Closing Services for transparent pricing. 

If you need financial assistance to cover selling costs log into your FinFit account by visiting MyFinFit.com for more details. 

Selling a home can be expensive, but with careful planning and budgeting, you can reduce stress and keep costs under control. By understanding these common expenses and leveraging available resources, you’ll be better prepared for the road ahead.