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The True Cost of Selling a House: What Homeowners Need to Know

Selling your home is a major decision that comes with many considerations—one of the most important being the cost. While it's easy to focus on the potential profits, understanding the expenses involved in selling a home is crucial to making an informed decision. At LowCommission.ca, we aim to demystify the process and help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Let’s break down the typical costs of selling a house and show you how you can save.

1. Real Estate Agent Commissions

The most significant cost in selling a home is typically the real estate agent commission. Traditionally, sellers pay around 5-6% of the sale price, which is split between the buyer's and seller's agents. On a $500,000 home, that could mean $25,000 to $30,000 in commission fees alone.

How LowCommission.ca Saves You Money:
At LowCommission.ca, we offer full-service real estate solutions at a fraction of the cost. Our 1% commission rate can save you thousands—allowing you to keep more of your equity.

2. Home Repairs and Staging

Before listing your home, you may need to invest in repairs or upgrades to make it more appealing to buyers. This could range from minor fixes to larger projects like kitchen or bathroom updates. Additionally, staging your home to make it look its best can also add to your expenses. Staging costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the level of service.

Pro Tip:
Prioritize repairs that offer the best return on investment. At LowCommission.ca, we can help you identify key areas to focus on, ensuring your home is market-ready without unnecessary spending.

3. Closing Costs

When you close the sale of your home, there are additional costs to consider, including legal fees, title insurance, and any remaining property taxes or utility bills. These costs typically add up to about 1-3% of the sale price.

Our Advice:
It’s important to budget for these expenses early on to avoid any surprises at closing. We can connect you with trusted professionals who offer competitive rates.

4. Mortgage Payoff Penalties

If you're paying off your mortgage early, you might face prepayment penalties. These penalties can vary depending on the terms of your mortgage, so it's essential to check with your lender.

What to Do:
Review your mortgage terms and speak with your lender about any potential penalties. Sometimes, negotiating with your lender can reduce or eliminate these fees.

5. Moving Costs

Once your home is sold, you’ll need to factor in the cost of moving. Whether you're hiring professional movers or renting a truck, moving costs can add up quickly. Don’t forget to include costs for packing supplies and potential storage fees if your new home isn’t ready yet.

Money-Saving Tip:
Plan your move during off-peak times to save on costs, and consider doing some of the work yourself to reduce expenses.

6. Marketing and Listing Fees

While many traditional real estate agents charge extra for premium marketing services, including professional photography, virtual tours, and online advertising, these fees are often necessary to attract the right buyers.

LowCommission.ca Difference:
We include comprehensive marketing services in our low commission rate, ensuring your home gets the exposure it needs without the additional costs.

Conclusion: Sell Your Home for Less with LowCommission.ca

Selling a house comes with various costs, but with the right approach, you can minimize these expenses and maximize your profit. At LowCommission.ca, we believe in providing exceptional service at a fair price, helping you sell your home without breaking the bank.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about our 1% commission rate and how we can help you sell your home with confidence.