How much will I net from selling my home?
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Your net proceeds = Sale Price minus: Agent commissions (5-6%), Closing costs (1-3%), Mortgage payoff balance, Repairs/concessions. On a $800K San Diego home with $400K mortgage, expect roughly $330K-$360K in net proceeds.
What are typical seller closing costs in San Diego?
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Seller closing costs in San Diego: Agent commissions: 5-6% (negotiable). Escrow fees: $1,000-$2,000. Title insurance: $1,500-$3,000. Transfer taxes: ~$1.10 per $1,000. Recording fees: $50-$200. Total seller costs are typically 7-9% of sale price.
Do I have to pay capital gains tax when selling?
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If you've lived in your home for 2+ of the last 5 years, you can exclude up to $250K (single) or $500K (married) of capital gains from taxes. Gains above the exclusion are taxed at 15-20% federal plus California state tax. Example: bought for $400K, sell for $800K = $400K gain, fully excluded for married couples.
Can I negotiate real estate commissions?
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Yes, commissions are always negotiable. Options include: Traditional agents (5-6%) — full service. Discount brokerages (3-4%) — limited services. Flat-fee MLS ($500-$3,000) — listing only. With the 2024 NAR settlement, buyer agent commissions are now separately negotiated.
How do I maximize my home sale price?
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Top strategies: 1) Price it right from the start (overpricing costs you). 2) Stage the home (staged homes sell for 5-10% more). 3) Professional photography. 4) Make minor repairs and touch-up paint. 5) Time the market (spring/early summer is best in San Diego). 6) Curb appeal matters first.