{"id":40704,"date":"2025-08-28T02:00:48","date_gmt":"2025-08-28T09:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/?p=40704"},"modified":"2025-08-29T17:15:38","modified_gmt":"2025-08-30T00:15:38","slug":"how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-house-by-owner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-house-by-owner\/","title":{"rendered":"How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House by Owner?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Selling your home by yourself, known as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) listing, can seem like a cost-effective way to bypass real estate agent fees. However, there are many expenses associated with selling FSBO that go beyond the Realtor commissions. If you\u2019re considering a DIY sale, it\u2019s important to determine, \u201cHow much does it cost to sell a house by owner?\u201d<\/p>\n

In this guide, we’ll break down the key expenses you’ll encounter, providing a clearer picture of what to expect. Whether you’re considering FSBO<\/a> to save money or for more control over the selling process, being well-informed will help you navigate this journey with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

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How Much Is Your Home Worth Now?<\/h3>\n

Home values have rapidly increased in recent years. How much is your current home worth now? Get a ballpark estimate from HomeLight’s free Home Value Estimator.<\/p>\n \n

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How much does it cost to sell a house by owner?<\/h2>\n

FSBO sales come with various expenses, from listing fees to marketing costs, each playing a pivotal role in the success of your sale. When you use a Realtor<\/a>, they typically cover many \u201cbackground costs\u201d and invest additional time and money that clients may not be aware of. When you sell by owner, you\u2019ll pay the background costs and may still be on the hook to pay a commission to the buyer\u2019s agent<\/a> if the buyer negotiates. Combined, we estimate most typical FSBO sellers spend $7,750 to $20,200 or more. Let\u2019s unpack this estimate.<\/p>\n

The following nine sections will outline the essential costs associated with selling your home by yourself, providing a roadmap for what lies ahead so you can make informed decisions.<\/p>\n

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Expense 1: Real estate attorney – $300 to $1,000<\/h2>\n

Navigating the legal landscape of selling your home by owner can be complex, making the expertise of a real estate attorney invaluable. These professionals assist with drafting and reviewing contracts, ensuring compliance with local real estate laws, and guiding you through the closing process. Their fees typically range from $150 to $400<\/a> per hour, depending on their experience and your location.<\/p>\n

For a FSBO sale, you might need a real estate attorney for a few hours to handle specific tasks, leading to total expenses ranging from $300 to $1,000. In some states, having an attorney at closing is required by law<\/a>. But whether required or not, this cost is a wise investment in safeguarding your sale, preventing legal issues, and ensuring a smooth transaction.<\/p>\n

While it might seem like a significant upfront cost, having professional legal assistance can save you from potential pitfalls and costly mistakes in the long run.<\/p>\n

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Expense 2: Home preparations – $1,500 to $3,000<\/h2>\n

Preparing your home for sale is a critical step in attracting buyers and securing the best possible price. This process, often referred to as staging<\/a>, involves making your house look its best through various enhancements and repairs. The goal is to present a home that buyers can envision themselves living in. The cost of preparing your home can range between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the extent of the work needed. Here are some typical expenses involved in this process:<\/p>\n