How Much Does It Really Cost to Sell a House?

Did you know that in 2020, 5.64 million existing residences were sold? Moving to a new place or having a new business owner certainly comes with many perks.

However, selling your property comes with a lot of responsibilities too. It’s no secret that a lot of money needs to go into properly marketing and selling your home, like paying a real estate agent, for example.

But how much does it cost to sell a house? We’re here to fill you in on all the details, so keep reading!

Home Repairs and Improvements

Home selling prices depend on the condition of your house and how much work needs to be done. If your home is in good condition and only requires a few decorative updates, you can expect to spend a few thousand dollars.

However, if your house needs significant repairs, such as a new roof or foundation work, you could spend tens of thousands of dollars. Ultimately, it will depend on the condition of your house and how much you are willing to spend on repairs and improvements.

Professional Cleaning

The answer to this question depends on how big and dirty your house is. A professional cleaning company charges anywhere from $200 to $400 for a standard-size home. The price will be higher if your house is messy or cluttered.

You will be on the lower end if you have a smaller home or it is already relatively clean. Keep in mind this is just for basic cleaning. The price will increase if you need anything extra, such as carpet cleaning, window washing, major appliances, etc.

Generally, it is best to expect to spend at least a few hundred dollars to have your home professionally cleaned before listing it on the market. If you don’t have any idea about home selling prices, you can just sell your house as is.

Home Warranty

A home warranty will typically cover significant systems and appliances in your home, but it is essential to read the fine print to see what is included. Home warranties can sometimes be a waste of money, so it is necessary to do your research before making a purchase.

Real Estate Agent Commission

It varies depending on your area’s real estate market conditions, the agent you choose, and the price of your home. Generally, real estate agents will charge a commission that is a percentage of the final sale price of your home.

This commission is typically split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. So, if you are selling a $200,000 home and the commission is 6%, the total commission would be $12,000, and each agent would get $6,000.

Home Staging

Home staging prepares a house for sale by making it look its best. This can involve minor cosmetic updates, decluttering, and rearranging furniture to highlight the home’s features.

While it is not required, home staging can be a valuable tool in helping to sell your house quickly and for the best possible price. If you decide to stage your home, work with a professional to ensure it is done correctly.

Understanding the Cost to Sell a House

How much does it cost to sell a house? It depends on how you look at it. If you’re the seller, you’re interested in making as much money as possible.

Ultimately, it comes down to how much works need to be done and how much the two parties are willing to negotiate.

Check out more of our guides for tons of tips and advice!