Customary Seller Fees

What fees do I pay in escrow?

Closing costs for sellers can reach 8% to 10% of the sale price of the home. Fees and taxes for the seller are an additional 2% to 4% of the sale. However, seller closing costs are deducted from the proceeds of the sale of the home at closing, so you rarely need to bring cash to closing.

Common fees paid by the seller include ...

Real estate commissions for listing agent
Real estate commissions for buyer's agent, if specified in purchase agreement
Owner's title insurance policy
One-half of the sub-escrow fee
Seller's escrow fee and processing fee
Homeowner's transfer fee
Documentary transfer tax
City transfer or conveyance tax
Loan fees required by the buyer's lender (FHA/VA only)
Document preparation fee for deed
Payoff all loans in seller's name
Interest accrued to lender being paid off, statement fees, reconveyance fees and prepayment penalties
Termite inspection, if specified in contract
Termite work, if specified in contract
Home warranty, if specified in contract
Any judgements, tax liens, etc. against the seller
Tax proration (for any taxes unpaid at the closing)
Any unpaid homeowner's dues
Recording charges to clear all documents of record against seller
Any bonds or assessments, if specified in contract
Any and all delinquent taxes
Notary fees
Natural Hazards Report
Messenger fees

Some of these fees can vary depending on the contract, so it's important to have a trusted agent by your side when selling your home and negotiating the contract.