What does it cost to sell a house in Massachusetts?

Question 1

Kathleen Militello · Accepted Answer

The two big costs are the agent commission and the Massachusetts deed excise tax, plus a handful of smaller closing fees. I will always give you a net sheet before we list, so you know your realistic walk-away number, not a guess. Commission is usually the largest line item and it is negotiable, which is why it is worth understanding exactly what coverage you are buying for it: pricing, marketing, showings, negotiation, and the paperwork that keeps a deal together. The state deed excise tax comes to roughly $4.56 per $1,000 of sale price, and it is typically paid by the seller at closing. Smaller seller costs include the attorney's fee, a municipal lien certificate, prorated property taxes, and deed recording. If you owe a mortgage or home equity loan, paying those off is also part of the closing math. None of this should be a surprise at the closing table. I put the numbers in front of you early and update them as the deal comes together. Massachusetts requires an attorney at the closing, and homes on septic systems add a Title 5 inspection to the paperwork. Both are standard parts of a North Shore sale, and I walk sellers through them all the time.

Question 2

How much money will I actually walk away with after selling my house?

Kathleen Militello · Accepted Answer

The two big costs are the agent commission and the Massachusetts deed excise tax, plus a handful of smaller closing fees. I will always give you a net sheet before we list, so you know your realistic walk-away number, not a guess. Commission is usually the largest line item and it is negotiable, which is why it is worth understanding exactly what coverage you are buying for it: pricing, marketing, showings, negotiation, and the paperwork that keeps a deal together. The state deed excise tax comes to roughly $4.56 per $1,000 of sale price, and it is typically paid by the seller at closing. Smaller seller costs include the attorney's fee, a municipal lien certificate, prorated property taxes, and deed recording. If you owe a mortgage or home equity loan, paying those off is also part of the closing math. None of this should be a surprise at the closing table. I put the numbers in front of you early and update them as the deal comes together. Massachusetts requires an attorney at the closing, and homes on septic systems add a Title 5 inspection to the paperwork. Both are standard parts of a North Shore sale, and I walk sellers through them all the time.

What does it cost to sell a house in Massachusetts?

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