How much will you really make when you sell your home?
Selling your house in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, or Fuquay Varina can be exciting—especially if you’ve built up equity. But many sellers are surprised when their final check at closing is smaller than expected. That’s because there are hidden costs involved in the selling process.
While most homeowners still walk away with a profit, it’s important to understand these expenses up front so you can plan confidently for your next move. Here are eight common costs to watch for:
1. Repairs
Most sellers tackle at least a few repairs before listing. While you could sell as-is, fixing issues can help you achieve a stronger price.
A pre-listing inspection (usually $300–$500) can reveal hidden problems, giving you the chance to fix them before buyers do.
2. Staging
Professional staging makes your home appeal to the widest range of buyers. Costs typically range from $500 to $2,000+, depending on your home and contract length.
DIY staging can reduce expenses, but you may still need to budget for furniture rentals, décor, or a storage unit.
3. Professional Photography
First impressions matter online. Professional real estate photography (usually $200–$400) helps your listing stand out. Some sellers also invest in drone photos or video tours for extra impact.
4. Landscaping
Curb appeal sets the tone for buyers. Small upgrades may cost a few hundred dollars, while full landscaping projects can exceed $3,000. Even modest improvements can make your home feel more inviting.
5. Agent Commission
Agent commissions are typically the largest expense. Sellers usually pay 5%–6% of the sale price (split between listing and buyer’s agents).
Some agents negotiate lower rates, but always weigh the trade-offs—strong marketing and negotiation skills often earn you more than you save by reducing commission.
6. Taxes
Two main taxes can affect sellers:
Transfer Taxes: These vary by state and range from 0.1% to 2% of the sale price.
Capital Gains Tax: If you’ve lived in the home at least 2 of the last 5 years, you can exclude up to $250,000 in profit ($500,000 if married). Anything beyond that may be taxable.
7. Closing Costs
While buyers usually pay most closing costs, sellers are often responsible for certain items, such as:
Buyer’s title insurance (in many areas)
Property taxes or HOA fees up to the closing date
Negotiated concessions or repair credits
Some prepaid expenses (like property taxes) may be refunded back to you, depending on timing.
8. Moving Expenses
Relocating isn’t free. Professional movers cost around $2,000 for local moves and $5,000+ for long-distance. Even DIY moves come with costs—truck rentals, gas, and packing supplies add up quickly.
Final Takeaway
Selling your home can still be highly profitable, but understanding the hidden costs helps you plan with confidence. By factoring in repairs, commissions, taxes, and moving expenses, you’ll have a clearer picture of your true proceeds.
Next Step
I’m Paul Huber, REALTOR® with Huber Real Estate, helping homeowners sell across Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay Varina. Before you list, let’s connect—I’ll help you calculate your net proceeds so you know exactly what to expect.