What Selling a Home in Florida Actually Costs

"How much does it cost to sell a house in Florida?" This is one of the most common questions I get — and the answer is more nuanced than most online calculators suggest. Here's a clear breakdown of what sellers actually pay, so there are no surprises.

Real estate commission

The largest single cost is the real estate commission — typically 5% to 6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent. On a $500,000 home, that's roughly $25,000 to $30,000. Commission rates are negotiable, and I'm happy to discuss what makes sense for your situation.

Closing costs (seller side)

Beyond commission, sellers typically pay 1% to 3% of the sale price in closing costs. These may include:

• Title insurance (owner's policy) — often paid by the seller in Florida
• Documentary stamp taxes on the deed
• Escrow fees
• Outstanding HOA fees or assessments
• Prorated property taxes through the closing date

Home preparation costs

The cost to prepare a home for market varies widely. Some homes need minimal work; others need significant attention. Common preparation expenses include painting, minor repairs, deep cleaning, staging, and professional photography. I provide a detailed preparation plan with cost estimates before you commit to anything.

Inspection and repair negotiations

After the buyer's inspection, there are typically requests for repairs or credits. In Florida, common issues include roof age, AC condition, plumbing, and termite damage. These negotiations can affect your net proceeds, and it helps to be prepared for them before listing.

Florida-specific costs to know about

If you're selling a home in a flood zone, the buyer will need flood insurance, which can affect their willingness to pay your asking price. If your roof is over 15 years old, some buyers may require a roof inspection or replacement before closing. These are market realities in Florida that don't apply in most other states.

What this means for your net proceeds

On a typical home sale, sellers can expect to net approximately 85% to 92% of the sale price after all costs. On a $500,000 home, that's roughly $425,000 to $460,000. The exact number depends on your home's condition, the market, and the specifics of the transaction.

I provide a detailed net proceeds estimate before we list, so you know exactly what to expect. No guessing, no surprises.

Thinking about selling? I'll give you a straight answer on what your home is worth and what the real costs look like. Let's talk.