What Does It Cost to Sell a House in Danville?

What Does It Cost to Sell a House in Danville?

By Tiffany Stock, Real Estate Agent, CA DRE #01466776

Tiffany Stock is a real estate agent in Danville, CA helping sellers (including move-up families, luxury sellers, and those navigating a divorce or probate sale) get their home sold, personally, start to finish. Call 925-989-2138 or visit www.tiffstock.com.

Short answer

The main costs are real estate commissions, escrow and title fees, the county transfer tax, getting the house ready, and paying off anything you owe. Plus any credits you agree to give the buyer. Commissions are negotiable, and your agent should give you a written estimate of what you'll actually walk away with before you list.

The main costs

  • Real estate commission. Negotiable. Ask exactly what's included, and how buyer agent compensation will be handled.
  • Escrow and title fees. Fees for the escrow company and title insurance. Who pays which fees can depend on local custom and what's negotiated.
  • Transfer tax. California counties charge a documentary transfer tax when property changes hands. In Contra Costa County it's based on the sale price, and some cities add their own. Your escrow officer will calculate the exact amount.
  • Loan payoff. Your remaining mortgage, plus any home equity line or other liens.
  • Prep costs. Repairs, painting, cleaning, staging, and photos.
  • Buyer credits. If the inspection turns up something, you may agree to a repair credit.
  • Prorated costs. Property taxes and HOA dues are split up to the closing date.

Step-by-step: getting your real number

  1. Ask your agent for a seller's net sheet based on a realistic sale price.
  2. Get your current loan payoff from your lender.
  3. Get your prep plan and estimate before you list, not after.
  4. Ask your escrow officer to confirm the transfer tax and fees.
  5. Talk to your tax professional about capital gains before you sign anything.

Taxes to plan for

Many homeowners who have lived in their home for at least two of the last five years can exclude a large amount of gain from federal tax: up to $250,000 for a single person and up to $500,000 for a married couple filing jointly, if they qualify. Above that, capital gains tax may apply. Everyone's situation is different, so talk to a tax professional.

Common mistakes

  • Looking only at the price. What you net is the number that matters.
  • Skipping prep to save money. A few thousand in prep can make a real difference in the sale price.
  • Forgetting the timing. If you're buying your next home, know your net number before you write an offer.

FAQ

Are commissions set by law?

No. They're negotiable.

Does it cost anything to find out what my home is worth?

Not with Tiffany. Her home valuation is free, and it's the first step to a real net number.

Do I pay the buyer's closing costs?

Not by default. Sometimes sellers agree to credits as part of a negotiation.

Want a clear estimate of what you'd walk away with? Tiffany's home valuation is free. Call Tiffany Stock at 925-989-2138 or visit www.tiffstock.com.

Related reading: How much equity do I actually have in my Danville home right now? · Do I have to pay capital gains tax when I sell my Danville home?

Keller Williams Danville, CA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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