💰 Common Seller Fees in California
What You’ll Typically Pay When Selling a Home
Selling a home in California? Here’s a quick overview of the most common costs you’ll likely encounter—whether it’s a single-family home or a condo/townhome with an HOA.
🧾 Standard Seller Costs
1. Real Estate Commission
Typically 5–6% of the sale price, split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents
Negotiable, but often the biggest seller expense
2. Escrow Fees
Usually split 50/50 with the buyer
Around $2–3 per $1,000 of the sale price, plus a base fee
3. Title Insurance (Owner’s Policy)
Seller generally pays in Southern California
Protects the buyer against title issues
4. County Transfer Tax
Standard rate is $1.10 per $1,000 of the sale price
5. City Transfer Tax (if applicable)
Applies in some cities like LA, Culver City, Santa Monica
Can range from $3 to $15+ per $1,000 depending on location and laws (e.g., Measure ULA in LA)
6. Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) Report
Required by law
Typically costs $100–$150
7. Repairs or Buyer Credits
Negotiated after inspections
Paid as credits at closing or by completing repairs prior
8. Optional: Home Warranty
Usually $400–$700 if offered
Covers certain repairs for the buyer in the first year
9. Liens, Judgments & Property Taxes
Any unpaid taxes, liens, or fees must be cleared at closing
🏘 Extra Costs for Condos & Townhomes with HOAs
If your home is in an HOA community, you’ll likely have:
1. HOA Document Fees
Paid to your HOA to provide resale disclosures
Typically $300–$500+
2. HOA Transfer Fee
Covers the setup of the buyer’s account
Around $100–$250
3. HOA Clearance or Demand Fees
Confirms no outstanding dues or violations