The Hidden Costs Of Selling A Home
Introduction to Hidden Costs
Selling your home can feel like an exciting fresh start but if you’ve never sold before (or it’s been a while), you may be surprised by how many extra costs pop up along the way. Between fees, repairs, and logistics, even well-prepared sellers can underestimate what it takes to get from “listing” to “closed.”
At The Mavins Group, we believe in transparency. When you understand the full picture, you can plan ahead, make smarter choices, and protect your bottom line.
Let’s break down some of the hidden costs of selling and how we help our clients reduce stress and surprises
1️⃣ Agent Commissions
This is the most visible cost for sellers, typically ranging between 5–6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.
💡 Tip: A skilled, experienced agent earns their fee by helping you price strategically, attract qualified buyers, and negotiate the best terms. The right representation can often net you more than trying to sell on your own.
At The Mavins Group, we provide full-service representation through Keller Williams Realty, with the added advantage of our in-house move management and staging expertise meaning you get marketing and logistics seamlessly handled.
2️⃣ Closing Costs
Many sellers are surprised to learn that closing costs apply to them, too. These can include:
Title insurance
Transfer taxes
Attorney or settlement fees
Escrow adjustments and local recording fees
💰 Typical range: 1–3% of the home’s sale price.
💡 Tip: We help our clients estimate these expenses upfront so there are no last-minute surprises at the closing table.
3️⃣ Repairs and Pre-Sale Fixes
Buyers today expect move-in-ready homes. Even small cosmetic updates like fresh paint, minor carpentry, updated lighting can make a big difference in how fast (and how high) your home sells.
💡 Tip: The Mavins Group can walk through your home before you list and identify which repairs and improvements will provide the best return.
Our trusted local vendors can help with touch-ups, painting, and quick refreshes saving you time and headaches.
4️⃣ Staging and Presentation
Professional staging is no longer optional in a competitive market — it’s an investment. Staged homes consistently sell faster and for more money because they help buyers see the potential.
💰 Typical range: Depending on home size and needs, staging may cost a few hundred to several thousand dollars — but it often increases sale price by far more.
💡 Tip: Our in-house Mavins staging team provides flexible, budget-friendly solutions — from partial styling using your existing pieces to full staging packages that transform the look of your home.
5️⃣ Moving and Transition Costs
Packing, movers, storage, and new home setup are often overlooked — but they add up quickly, especially when the timeline between closings is tight.
💡 Tip: That’s where Moving Mavins, our move-management division, shines.
We help clients plan every detail: sorting, packing, coordinating movers, even unpacking and setting up your new home. With a clear plan, you’ll save both time and stress.
6️⃣ Unexpected Variables
Finally, there are always wild cards:
Appraisal-related repairs
Buyer credit requests
Temporary housing if your next home isn’t ready
Having a plan in place for contingencies means you’ll stay calm and in control if something unexpected arises.
How The Mavins Group Helps You Plan Ahead
Our approach to Real Estate Planning looks beyond the sale price to help you anticipate and manage every step of the process. We guide clients through:
✅ Pricing strategy and preparation
✅ Staging and presentation
✅ Move-management and vendor coordination
✅ Timeline planning from listing to closing day
Selling your home should be exciting, not overwhelming. With the right plan (and the right partner), you can navigate the process confidently and come out ahead.
The Bottom Line
The hidden costs of selling a home don’t have to catch you off guard. With clear expectations, expert guidance, and a coordinated plan, you can protect your profit and your peace of mind.
👉 Ready to start your next move the smart way? Contact The Mavins Group today to schedule a Real Estate Planning consultation.
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