What Are the Total Costs of Selling Your Home? (Commissions, Closing, Repairs, Staging & More)

One of the biggest surprises for homeowners—especially first-time sellers—is learning how many different costs are involved in selling a home. And if you’re relocating, transitioning out of the military, or purchasing another property, knowing these numbers upfront helps you plan without stress.

Let’s break down the true cost of selling your home in Cumberland County so you know exactly what to expect and how to protect your profit.

1. Agent Commissions

Commissions are typically the largest seller expense, and they’re usually paid out of your proceeds at closing—not upfront.

In North Carolina, the total commission is commonly 5–6% of the sale price, split between:

• Listing agent (your agent)

• Buyer’s agent

This commission covers:

• Professional marketing

• Listing prep

• Photography/videography

• Negotiation

• Showing coordination

• Market strategy

• Contract-to-close management

A strong listing agent often pays for themselves many times over by securing a higher sale price and stronger terms.

2. Seller Closing Costs

In Cumberland County, most sellers can expect 1–2% of the sale price to go toward closing costs. These may include:

• Attorney fees

• Title fees

• Recording fees

• Transfer taxes

• HOA document fees (if applicable)

• Buyer concessions (if negotiated)

Your exact number depends on your offer terms, HOA requirements, and the attorney/title company used. I provide a net sheet so you can see your estimated profit before we list.

3. Repairs and Pre-Listing Updates

Every home needs a little TLC before hitting the market—but the key is spending money only where it counts.

Typical low-cost, high-impact seller expenses:

• Paint touch-ups or whole-home repaint

• Light fixture updates

• Cleaning or replacing worn flooring

• Minor plumbing fixes

• Power washing

• Landscaping refresh

• HVAC service

Estimated range: $200 – $2,500(Some homes need more, some need almost nothing.)

I walk through each home to help sellers avoid unnecessary expenses.

4. Home Inspection Repairs (After You’re Under Contract)

Once a buyer completes their inspection, they may request repairs or concessions. Common items include:

• GFCI outlets

• Leaky plumbing

• Loose handrails

• Minor wood rot

• HVAC servicing

• Roof repair (if needed)

Estimated range: $200 – $1,500 on average, but major repairs (roof, HVAC, electrical) can be more.

Good negotiation here makes a huge difference—that’s part of the strategy I handle for you.

5. Staging or Preparation Costs

In Cumberland County, most sellers do light staging rather than full staging. Think:

• Decluttering

• Rearranging furniture

• Adding neutral décor

• Enhancing curb appeal

Full staging is optional and is most common for vacant homes or luxury listings.

Estimated range:

• Light staging: $0–$300

• Full staging (optional): $1,200–$2,500+

I help sellers determine whether staging will actually increase their sale price enough to justify the cost.

6. Professional Photography & Marketing

When you list with me, professional photography is included—you don’t pay out of pocket.

This typically includes:

• HDR photos

• Drone imagery

• Lifestyle shots

• Listing websites

• Social media promotion

• Open house marketing

• Paid advertising (if needed)

A strong marketing plan increases exposure and shortens days on market, which usually results in higher offers.

7. Your Mortgage Payoff

This isn’t a “cost,” but it does come out of your proceeds at closing.

Most sellers see:

• Remaining loan balance

• Daily interest

• Potential home equity line payoff

• Prorated property taxes

Your attorney will calculate this during closing.

8. Your Estimated Total Selling Costs

Every home is different, but most sellers in our area spend 7–10% of their home’s sale price on the selling process, including:

• Commissions

• Closing costs

• Prep work

• Inspection repairs

I prepare a custom seller net sheet so you know your estimated profit before you decide to list.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much should I expect to walk away with after selling?

Your net depends on your mortgage payoff, pricing strategy, closing costs, and repair budget. I can run a net sheet for you based on your home and neighborhood.

2. Can I avoid making repairs?

Yes—some buyers will accept the home “as-is,” but that may reduce your offer pool or sale price. I’ll help you determine whether repairs are worth it.

3. Do I have to pay anything upfront?

Typically no. Most costs come out of your proceeds at closing. Optional upgrades or repairs are your only upfront expenses.

4. Who pays the buyer’s closing costs?

Usually the buyer pays their own, but in some cases buyers may request seller-paid concessions. It depends on the strength of the offer.

5. Is staging required?

No. Most homes only need light staging or professional decluttering. Vacant homes may benefit from full staging, but it’s not required.

6. What if I need to sell quickly?

We can price strategically and pair buyers with a preferred lender who can close in as little as 15 days—a huge advantage for sellers with tight timelines.

If you’d like me to run a personalized breakdown of your estimated selling costs and net profit, I’d be glad to prepare it.

Ready to make your move? I’ll help you craft a smart, competitive offer that aligns with your goals. Call or text me at 910-916-9315, or visit closewithcassienc.com to start your home search today. Close with Cassie – where service meets strategy.