Before finalizing your San Antonio home sale with a real estate agent, it’s crucial to evaluate your options and understand the costs involved. Direct selling might be a more profitable alternative for you. Make sure to explore every possible scenario before committing to an agent with a binding listing agreement.
Below are some potential costs you may face when working with an agent:
Commissions – Generally over 6% of the sale price (3% for the selling agent, 3% for the buyers agent)
Commission rates typically hover around 6% and are usually paid by the seller. There might also be additional fees for administration and notary services handled by the agent handling the closing.
Inspections – Usually several hundred dollars
Inspections are often paid for by the buyer within their closing costs. Nevertheless, to facilitate negotiations, sellers are increasingly covering this expense. The requirement for repairs identified during inspections is typically negotiated between the buyer and seller.
Appraisals – Several hundred dollars
While generally the buyer’s responsibility, especially if a lender is involved, appraisal costs can be transferred to the seller during negotiations. It’s advantageous for sellers to have their own appraisals conducted to strengthen their position during sales negotiations and keep a copy for their records.
Cleaning – From free to several hundred dollars
A pristine home is crucial for successful showings. Whether done professionally or by yourself, thorough cleaning is essential. For busy schedules, hiring cleaning services might be necessary, with costs typically starting at $100 based on the home’s size and cleanliness level.
Staging – Can range from minimal to several hundred dollars
If you’ve already added touches like fresh towels and decorative pillows, you’re set. Otherwise, staging might require some effort and creativity, which doesn’t have to be expensive. You can stage your home effectively with DIY projects or affordable purchases, ensuring it appears welcoming and cohesive.
Repairs – Varies greatly
Repairs are usually a point of negotiation post-inspection. Acknowledging known issues upfront and factoring them into your pricing strategy, possibly offering repair credits, can reassure buyers about the integrity of the home. Any additional necessary repairs discovered during inspections need to be addressed prior to finalizing the sale.
Expenses While The Home Is Listed – Can vary widely
Maintaining utilities in your unoccupied home is essential even after you move out. The time it takes to sell the property can significantly affect cumulative costs like utilities, property taxes, and insurance, which accumulate until the closing day and can become substantial.</ {p}>