The Hidden Costs of Selling Your Home—and How to Prepare

by Michelle Brown, CNE, SRS, SFR, RENE

When most homeowners think about selling, the first thing that comes to mind is the sale price. While that number is important, what really matters is what you walk away with at the end of the transaction. Too often, sellers are surprised by the hidden costs of selling a home.

The good news? With the right planning, you can prepare for these expenses and even reduce them—so you maximize your profit and move forward with confidence.

1. Pre-Listing Expenses

Before your home ever hits the market, there may be costs to get it ready:

Repairs and touch-ups – Fixing leaky faucets, patching drywall, or refreshing paint
Landscaping – First impressions count, and curb appeal matters
Professional cleaning or staging – While optional, these can make a home stand out and often speed up the sale

Even small improvements can make a big difference in how buyers perceive value.

2. Closing Costs

Sellers are often surprised to learn they, too, have closing costs. These can include:

Title insurance fees
Escrow and transfer fees
Outstanding property taxes or HOA dues

These expenses vary but typically account for 1–3% of the home’s sale price.

3. Agent Commissions

Real estate commissions are usually the largest expense for sellers, but they’re also what makes the process run smoothly. A skilled agent not only handles negotiations and paperwork but also ensures your property reaches the right buyers—often resulting in a higher final sale price.

4. Moving Costs

It’s easy to forget about the cost of actually moving. Whether you’re hiring professional movers or renting a truck, be sure to factor this in as part of your selling budget.

How to Be Prepared

Selling a home is about more than just putting up a “For Sale” sign. It’s about understanding the full picture so you can plan ahead. Here are a few tips to stay prepared:

Request a net sheet early in the process to see an estimate of your bottom line
Set aside a small budget for pre-listing improvements
Work with an agent who communicates clearly about costs and timelines

💬 Thinking about selling your home in Durango or Southwest Colorado?
I take the time to walk my clients through every step—including what to expect financially—so there are no surprises along the way. Let’s talk about how to position your home for the best results.

📞 Michelle Brown – Blackmore Group Real Estate
Your Southwest Colorado Real Estate Expert