How Much Will I Get When I Sell My House?

When selling a house, the final amount you take home is often much lower than the sale price. 

Various costs—such as agent commissions, closing fees, and mortgage payoffs—can significantly impact your net proceeds. Understanding these expenses can help you estimate how much you’ll actually receive after the sale is complete.

This guide breaks down the key factors that determine your net proceeds and how different selling methods can affect your final payout.

Home Sale Price vs. Net Proceeds

The sale price of a home is the total amount a buyer agrees to pay, but the net proceeds are the actual amount the seller takes home after all selling costs are deducted. Many homeowners assume they will receive the full sale price, but various expenses—such as commissions, closing costs, and mortgage payoffs—can significantly reduce the final payout.

Key Differences:

• Home Sale Price: This is the agreed-upon purchase price of the home, determined through negotiations between the buyer and seller. It reflects the market value but does not account for selling expenses.
• Home Sale Net Proceeds: This is the amount the seller receives after subtracting all costs associated with the sale. These deductions can include real estate commissions, closing costs, outstanding mortgage balances, repairs, and taxes.

Because these costs can add up, it is important for sellers to calculate their estimated net proceeds from a sale before listing their home to avoid unexpected financial surprises at closing.

Major Costs That Impact Your Net Proceeds

Several costs can reduce the amount you take home when selling your house. Understanding the expenses that will be subtracted from the proceeds from the sale of your home can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises at closing.

1. Agent Commissions and Fees

If you sell your house through a real estate agent, you’ll typically pay 5-6% of the sale price in commissions. This fee is usually split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents.

Additional expenses may include:

• Home staging and professional photography
• Marketing costs (advertisements, open houses)
• Potential price reductions if the home sits on the market

2. Closing Costs

Sellers generally pay 2-5% or more of the sale price in closing costs, which may include:

• Title insurance
• Transfer taxes
• Escrow and attorney fees
• Home warranty (if offered to the buyer)

3. Mortgage Payoff and Liens

If you still owe money on your mortgage, the remaining balance must be paid off from the sale proceeds. Additionally, if you’re selling a house with any outstanding property liens (e.g., unpaid taxes or contractor debts) they must be cleared before closing.

4. Repairs and Renovations

Many buyers request repairs after the home inspection, which can further reduce your net proceeds. Some sellers also invest in pre-sale renovations to attract higher offers, such as:

• Painting and landscaping
• Roof and HVAC repairs
• Kitchen or bathroom updates

5. Taxes and Additional Expenses

In addition to commissions and closing costs, taxes and other expenses can further impact your net proceeds.

• Capital Gains Tax: If your profit exceeds federal exemption limits ($250,000 for single filers, $500,000 for married couples), you may owe capital gains tax.
• HOA Fees & Utility Costs: Any unpaid homeowner’s association (HOA) fees or utility bills must be settled at closing.
• Moving Costs: Hiring movers or renting storage can also add to your expenses.

How to Calculate Home Sale Estimated Net Proceeds

To estimate home sale proceeds, or how much you will take home after selling your house, you need to subtract all selling costs from the sale price. While exact amounts vary based on location and circumstances, you can use a simple formula to get a general idea of your net proceeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a seller get paid at closing?

At closing, the seller typically receives their proceeds via wire transfer or cashier’s check after all selling costs, mortgage balances, and fees have been deducted. The title company or escrow agent handles the distribution of funds.

What if I can't afford closing costs?

If you can’t afford closing costs, you may negotiate for the buyer to cover them or explore assistance programs that help with selling expenses.

What factors affect my home’s sale price?

Market conditions, location, home condition, and buyer demand all play a role in determining your final sale price.

Maximize Your Home Sale Profits with 800CashToday

Selling a house comes with many costs that can significantly reduce your final payout. From agent commissions and closing fees to repairs and taxes, these expenses add up quickly. However, selling to 800CashToday allows you to keep more money in your pocket by eliminating many of these costs.

With 800CashToday, you can:

• Skip agent commissions. Pay no realtor fees, saving you 5-6% of your sale price.
• Avoid closing costs. We cover the closing fees, reducing your expenses by 2-5%.
• Sell as-is. There’s no need for costly repairs, renovations, or staging.
• Get a fast cash offer. There’s no waiting months on the market or dealing with uncertain buyers.
• Close in as little as 10 days. Avoid ongoing mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility costs.
• Get free local moving assistance. We help cover the cost of your move, making your transition even easier.

If you’re looking for a simple, stress-free way to sell your home for cash and maximize your net proceeds, 800CashToday can help. Get a free, no-obligation cash offer today and see how much you can take home!