Expert guidance for Florida home sellers.
Understanding closing costs helps you negotiate better and avoid surprises at the closing table.
Typical Seller Closing Costs (2-5% of sale price):
• Real Estate Commission: 5-6% (split between listing and buyer's agent). With FSBO/flat-fee MLS, you save the listing agent portion (2.5-3%).
• Title Insurance: In Florida, the custom is for the SELLER to pay for the owner's title insurance policy. This protects the buyer against title defects. Cost: $5.75 per $1,000 of the first $100K + $3.50 per $1,000 above $100K.
• Documentary Stamps: $0.70 per $100 of sale price (paid to the county).
• Owner's Title Insurance: Varies by sale price — approximately $1,500-$3,000 for a $400K home.
• Settlement/Closing Fee: $500-$1,000 (title company or attorney).
• Prorated Property Taxes: You pay your share of property taxes through the closing date.
• HOA Document Fees: If applicable, $200-$500 for estoppel letter and transfer fees.
Total Estimate: For a $400K home, expect $12,000-$20,000 in seller closing costs (before commission).