Is There a Missouri Real Estate Transfer Tax?
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- Joseph Gordon EditorCloseJoseph Gordon Editor
Joseph Gordon is an Editor with HomeLight. He has several years of experience reporting on the commercial real estate and insurance industries.
Selling your home in Missouri? You might have some questions about the Missouri real estate transfer tax.
Transfer taxes are fees that the state, county, or city imposes when property ownership is transferred from one party to another. These taxes can vary widely depending on where you’re located and the specifics of the property sale.
This guide will explain how the Missouri real estate transfer tax works, giving you insight into what to expect in the Show-Me State.
What are transfer taxes?
Real estate transfer taxes are assessed by state or local governments when a property changes hands. According to the Federal Trade Commission, these taxes are triggered once the title — or the legal rights to a property — is transferred from one person to another.
The actual tax rate and the responsibility for paying this tax can vary depending on the property’s location, reflecting different state, county, or city regulations.
Who pays for transfer taxes?
Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have a real estate transfer tax on real estate transactions, which can alleviate some of the financial burden on sellers or buyers.
According to the Tax Foundation, property taxes in Missouri are ranked 23rd in the nation, around the middle of the spectrum.
Other transfer fees
In addition to transfer taxes, there are possible fees, such as from a homeowner’s association or another local neighborhood organization. Again, as these can vary heavily based on location, it’s important to consult a professional.
If you’re selling your home for sale by owner, consulting a professional might help you understand some of the finer points of the process and give you a better idea of what to expect.
Estimating transfer taxes for your home sale
Despite not having to worry about the Missouri real estate transfer tax, you should get a preliminary estimate of what you could earn from selling your Missouri home. Try HomeLight’s Net Proceeds Calculator.
This helpful tool considers closing costs such as agent fees and any necessary home improvements to provide a comprehensive overview of your financial return from the sale.
Hiring a top real estate agent is highly recommended for a detailed and accurate evaluation of your transfer taxes and other related selling expenses.
These professionals can guide you through the nuances of local real estate regulations, including your tax obligations, disclosure requirements, and more.
Learn more about selling a house in Missouri
If you’re selling a home in Missouri, here are some helpful guides from HomeLight to help you on your home-selling journey:
Selling a House ‘As Is’ in Missouri
6 Top We Buy Houses for Cash Companies in Missouri
How to Sell a House By Owner in Missouri
Missouri Housing Market Overview
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Mentions of specific companies do not constitute endorsement.
Header Image Source: (Roger Starnes Sr/ Unsplash)