Video: Home Seller's Costs | yael + co. real estate

Understanding Seller Costs: What to Expect When Selling Your Home

If you’re thinking about selling your property, one of the first things you need to consider is the various costs involved. While the goal is to earn equity and make a profit, understanding these expenses will help you estimate how much you’ll walk away with after closing—and how much you’ll have available for your next home purchase.

The costs of selling a home can be broken down into four main categories:

Real Estate Commissions
Legal Fees
Property Preparation
Closing Costs

Let’s break down each of these seller costs in detail.

1. Real Estate Commissions

When you hire a Realtor, you’ll sign a Listing Agreement that outlines the agreed-upon commission. The total commission amount varies depending on the services provided but typically ranges from 3.5% – 6% of the sale price, plus HST.

This total commission is split between:

Your Realtor and their brokerage
The buyer’s Realtor and their brokerage

Commission fees are an important factor to consider, as they cover marketing, negotiations, and guidance throughout the selling process.

What does a listing agent do? Watch our video here for a full breakdown of the role of a listing agent.

2. Legal Fees

You’ll also need a real estate lawyer to handle the legal aspects of the sale. Their fees include service charges and disbursements for required paperwork and filings.

You can expect to pay somewhere between $1,200 – $3,000, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the lawyer you hire.

3. Property Preparation Costs

Before listing your home, you may need to invest in improvements or services to maximize its appeal. Some of these costs may be necessary, while others are optional based on your Realtor’s recommendations.

Common property preparation expenses include:

Repairs & Upgrades (fixing minor issues, updating fixtures, painting)
Landscaping (enhancing curb appeal)
Storage & Moving Costs (temporarily relocating excess furniture or personal items)
Pet Boarding (if necessary during showings)

Additional optional costs may include:

Cleaning Services
Professional Staging & Styling
Photography & Videography

While some Realtors include these services in their commission, others may not—so be sure to clarify what’s included upfront.

Learn more about selling your home with these videos next:

4. Closing Costs

Beyond Realtor and preparation costs, sellers should also account for potential closing costs, which may include:

Mortgage Discharge Fees (if applicable)
Repairs for Property Damage (to meet buyer requirements)
Junk Removal Services
Moving Costs

Final Thoughts: Budgeting for a Successful Sale

By understanding these expenses in advance, you can budget effectively and ensure you have a clear picture of your net proceeds from the sale.

Whether it’s Realtor commissions, legal fees, or property prep, knowing what to expect will help you make informed decisions and maximize your profit.

If you’re considering selling your home, consult with an experienced Realtor to ensure you’re prepared for all potential costs—allowing for a smooth and profitable transaction.