Selling a home is often seen as a profitable move, but many homeowners are surprised to discover how much it can actually cost to sell a house. Between commissions, repairs, closing costs, and other fees, your bottom line may be smaller than expected.
At John Medina Buys Houses, we’re here to help homeowners like you understand the true cost of selling—and how you can skip the hassle and hidden fees by selling your house fast for cash.
Let’s walk through the most common expenses that come with a traditional real estate transaction, so you can answer the big question: “How much will I get if I sell my house?”
1. Real Estate Agent Commission
The largest and most well-known cost is the real estate agent commission. Typically, this fee is split between the listing agent (who represents the seller) and the buyer’s agent.
How much does it cost?
- Average total commission: 5% to 6% of the sales price
- Who pays: The seller
For example, if your home sells for $500,000, you could pay up to $30,000 just in agent’s commission. That’s a huge chunk of your profit.
Alternative?
You could use a flat fee listing service or sell by owner, but that comes with extra work and risk. Or—sell directly to a cash buyer like John Medina Buys Houses and pay zero commission.
2. Sellers Closing Costs
Wondering, “Do sellers pay closing costs?” Yes, they do—just a different set than the buyer.
Sellers closing costs usually include:
- Escrow fees
- Title insurance
- Transfer taxes
- Prorated property taxes
- HOA fees (if applicable)
How much does it cost?
- Average seller closing costs: 1% to 3% of the sales price
- Who pays: The seller
- Amount varies depending on your location and agreement with the buyer
These costs can eat away at your proceeds and are often overlooked during planning.
With John Medina Buys Houses?
You don’t pay any closing costs. We’ll cover the cost of all fees, making your net earnings more predictable.
3. Repairs and Pre-Sale Updates
Before listing, many sellers need to make repairs or upgrades to attract buyers and pass inspections. From fixing broken appliances to patching drywall and updating finishes, it adds up fast.
How much does it cost?
- Minor repairs: $500–$5,000
- Major updates: $10,000–$50,000+
Homeowners often invest in kitchens, bathrooms, floors, or landscaping—all in the hope of getting a better sales price.
But here’s the catch: the profit from selling the house after repairs isn’t guaranteed. Some updates may increase the sale price, but many won’t offer a full return on investment.
With Us?
When you sell your home to John Medina Buys Houses, we buy as-is. No repairs. No cleaning. No inspections. Save thousands and skip the stress.
4. Staging and Photography
Want your house to look market-ready? Most sellers invest in staging and professional photography to stand out online and impress during showings.
Common costs:
- Staging: $1,000 to $3,000
- Photos: $200 to $500
- Deep cleaning: $300 to $600
All of these are out-of-pocket costs you’ll incur before your house even hits the market.
Our Way?
With us, there’s no need for showings, staging, or marketing. We make a direct cash offer, so you don’t need to impress anyone or pay to make your house look “perfect.”
5. Seller Concessions
Sometimes, buyers will ask for seller concessions to help with their own costs—especially in a buyer’s market. These may include:
- Paying part of the buyer’s closing costs
- Covering repair credits
- Offering a home warranty
These concessions can cut into your profit even more.
6. Attorney Fees (in some states)
In some areas, especially on the East Coast, sellers are required to hire a real estate attorney to oversee the sale and contracts.
Cost:
- $500 to $1,500
- Varies widely by location
While California doesn’t require this for every transaction, it can still be recommended—and it’s another line item to budget for.
7. Capital Gains Taxes
If your home has significantly appreciated in value, you could be on the hook for capital gains taxes—especially if it wasn’t your primary residence.
How it works:
- Exclusion: Up to $250,000 in profit (or $500,000 for married couples) may be excluded
- Beyond that: You may owe taxes on the additional profit from selling house
Check with a tax professional to see where you stand.
Moving Expenses: Budget for Local & Long-Distance Moves
Once the house is sold, you still have to move! And that comes with its own costs:
- Local move: $1,000–$3,000
- Long-distance move: $5,000+
And if the house sells before you’re ready to leave, you may also pay for temporary housing or storage.
So, How Much Will I Get If I Sell My House?
After all is said and done, your net proceeds depend on your sales price, minus all the costs above:
- Real estate commission
- Seller closing costs
- Repairs and upgrades
- Staging, cleaning, and marketing
- Seller concessions
- Taxes
- Moving expenses
It’s not uncommon for home sellers to walk away with 10%–15% less than expected.
Skip the Costs and Sell for Cash Instead
Here’s the good news: At John Medina Buys Houses, we do things differently.
When you sell to us:
- No agent commission
- No closing costs
- No repairs, staging, or cleaning
- No delays or surprises
- No fees at all
You get a fair, transparent cash offer, and you choose your closing date. We can even let you stay in the home after closing if you need time to move.
It’s simple, fast, and you walk away with more money in your pocket.
The Bottom Line: Choose the Path That Fits Your Needs
If you’re not in a rush, have cash to invest in updates, and are comfortable navigating the traditional market, then working with a real estate agent might make sense.
But if you need a fast, reliable way to sell your home without all the costs and uncertainty, we’re here to help.
Contact John Medina Buys Houses today for a no-obligation, cash offer on your home. Let’s skip the fees—and get you moving forward.
