The Hidden Costs of Buying & Selling a Home—That No One Warns You About
I’ll never forget the look on my client’s face.
She had done everything right—saved for a down payment, got pre-approved, found the perfect home. We were at the finish line. Then came the closing costs.
The extra $8,000 she hadn’t planned for.
She wasn’t the first buyer caught off guard by the unexpected costs of homeownership, and she definitely won’t be the last.
But here’s the thing—this doesn’t have to happen to you.
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home this year, let’s talk about the real costs that most people don’t prepare for—because the last thing I want is for you to be blindsided at the closing table.
For Buyers: The “Not-So-Little” Costs No One Mentions
So you’ve saved for a down payment, and you think you’re ready. But did you know that’s not the only money you need?
Here are a few things that sneak up on buyers:
✔️ Closing Costs (2-5% of the purchase price) – Appraisals, title insurance, lender fees… this can be thousands of dollars on top of your down payment.
✔️ Inspections & Repairs – A home inspection can range from $300-$800, but if issues pop up (which they almost always do), be ready to negotiate repairs—or pay for them yourself.
✔️ Moving Costs – Whether you’re hiring movers or just renting a U-Haul, moving isn’t free.
✔️ Property Taxes & Homeowners Insurance – If your lender escrows these costs, you’ll need to pre-pay a chunk at closing.
✔️ Furniture & Home Essentials – That perfect Pinterest-worthy home needs actual furniture—and trust me, it adds up fast.
For Sellers: “Wait, I Have to Pay for WHAT?”
You’d think selling your home means cashing out and walking away with a big check, right? Not so fast.
Here’s what sellers often don’t realize:
💰 Agent Commissions – The biggest chunk of your sale price (but also the biggest reason your home sells faster and for more money).
🏡 Repairs & Upgrades – Buyers are picky. If your home needs repairs or updates, expect to invest a little before you sell to get top dollar.
📦 Moving & Storage – If you’re selling before you buy, where are you putting your stuff? Storage units and short-term housing aren’t free.
📜 Closing Costs & Concessions – Sometimes, sellers cover part of the buyer’s closing costs to make the deal happen.
Why This Matters & How We Help You WIN
Buying or selling a home should feel exciting, not stressful. And when you work with us, you won’t be left guessing.
We break everything down upfront, so when you walk into a deal, you already know the numbers—and you’re ready for them.
✨ No surprises.
✨ No last-minute panic.
✨ Just confident decisions and winning moves.
If homeownership (or selling) is in your plans this year, let’s make sure you’re fully prepared. Shoot us a message, and let’s chat about your next move.
If you’re planning to buy or sell this year, let’s sit down and go over every single detail so you walk in confident, prepared, and ready to WIN.
📲 Shoot us a message, and let’s chat about your next move!
We love to represent you during your home-buying or selling journey!
Krystina & Lindsey
