Closing Costs for Home Sellers in Burke, Fairfax County – Full Breakdown
Selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves most people make. If you own property in Burke, Fairfax County, you’re in a popular Northern Virginia market with strong buyer demand, great schools, and easy access to major commuter routes. But before you celebrate your sale, it’s critical to understand the fees that will come off the top — especially closing costs and commissions.
This guide breaks down every common closing cost Burke sellers face, explains why each fee exists, and shows how a lower listing-side fee (our 1.5% full-service listing program) can meaningfully increase your net proceeds.
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Free Net Proceeds CalculatorWhat Are Closing Costs for Sellers?
Closing costs are the fees and charges collected at settlement when ownership transfers to the buyer. For sellers in Burke, typical total closing costs (including commission) commonly fall in the 7–10% of the sale price range. Some charges are fixed or statutory, while others are negotiable — which is where strategic choices can save you money.
Typical Closing Costs for Sellers in Burke
Below are the most common costs to expect — with concise explanations so you know what each covers and why you pay it.
- Realtor commission (largest cost): Usually the single biggest line item — commonly around 5–6% combined (split between listing and buyer’s agents). Commission is percentage-based, so it scales with the sale price.
- Virginia Grantor’s Tax (transfer tax): Charged to the seller at approximately $1 per $1,000 of sale price (plus local county add-ons in some localities). It’s a statutory transfer tax for changing property ownership.
- Settlement & attorney fees: Title/settlement agent or attorney charges for document prep, closing coordination, and escrow services — often $500–$1,200 depending on complexity.
- Title charges & courier/recording fees: Title exam, document recording, and small administrative fees — typically a few hundred dollars.
- HOA/Condo resale package: If applicable, expect $150–$500 for required community resale docs, payoff ests, and administrative processing.
- Repairs, credits, or concessions: Negotiated after inspection — can range from small fixes to several thousand dollars depending on findings and buyer concessions.
- Prorations & utilities: Property taxes, HOA dues, and utilities prorated to the settlement date — these shift between buyer and seller based on closing day.
Why Realtor Commission Deserves Its Own Spotlight
Commission is typically the largest closing cost because it’s a percentage of the sale price and commonly covers both sides of the deal (listing and buyer’s agent). For many sellers, reducing the listing-side fee is the clearest leverage point to increase net proceeds.
Because commission is percentage-based, a small percent change equals thousands of dollars on mid- to high-priced homes in Fairfax County. Example: on a $750,000 sale a single 1.5% reduction in listing-side fees can put roughly $11,250 back in your pocket.
Instead of the traditional 3% listing fee plus a buyer-side fee (total ~6%), many sellers now choose full-service 1.5% listing programs that deliver marketing, negotiation, and transaction management — while lowering the fee paid out of closing proceeds.
Learn more about our option here: 1.5% full-service listing program.
Traditional 6% vs. Our 1.5% Listing Program
| Home Price | Traditional 6% | With 1.5% Listing | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500,000 | $30,000 | $7,500 | $22,500 |
| $750,000 | $45,000 | $11,250 | $33,750 |
| $1,000,000 | $60,000 | $15,000 | $45,000 |
*Assumes a combined buyer-side fee of 3%; exact amounts vary by agreement.
Addressing Common Seller Concerns
“Will a lower commission make fewer buyers show up?”
No — buyer interest depends on price, condition, and marketing. A properly priced, well-marketed home will attract buyers regardless of listing-side commission.
“Who pays the buyer’s agent?”
Traditionally the seller covers buyer-agent compensation at closing. However, many listing programs clarify the buyer-side offering and allow flexibility in how compensation is presented.
“Will agents work less hard if I pay less?”
Not if you hire a reputable team. Experienced agents value reputation and results — full-service 1.5% programs are structured to deliver marketing, negotiation, and strong transaction management.
Common Concerns — Quick Summary
- ✓ Buyer interest is driven by home & price
- ✓ Buyer agent fees remain common but negotiable
- ✓ Good agents deliver results regardless of fee model
The Bottom Line for Burke Sellers
Closing costs in Burke, Fairfax County commonly run between 7–10% of the sale price when you include commissions, taxes, and direct fees. Commission is the single largest and most-reducible portion of that total — making it the most impactful place to save.
If you’re preparing to list, run a net-proceeds estimate, compare commission models, and choose a program that gives you full-service support while protecting your equity.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Expect ~7–10% total closing costs (including commission)
- ✓ Commission is the biggest single cost — negotiable
- ✓ 1.5% full-service programs can save tens of thousands
- ✓ Use a net proceeds calculator before you list
Thinking of Selling in Burke?
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