Selling your home in Sterling, Loudoun County Virginia comes with more than just Realtor commissions. Understanding your closing costs is key to maximizing your net proceeds and avoiding unexpected surprises at settlement.

In Sterling, Loudoun County, closing costs for sellers generally range between 6% and 8% of the sale price. These costs include commissions, taxes, HOA fees, prorations, title and settlement fees, and other mandatory expenses. Knowing what to expect can help you budget, plan, and even find ways to save.

1. Real Estate Agent Commissions

Most traditional listings in Sterling carry a total commission of 5–6%, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. On a $700,000 home, this could amount to $35,000–$42,000. This fee covers professional marketing, MLS exposure, negotiation expertise, and transaction management.

Sellers should consider the impact of the commission on their net proceeds. Even a small reduction in commission can result in thousands of dollars in savings. Programs like our 1.5% full-service option allow sellers to retain more of their profits while still getting full support from professional agents.

Tip: Discuss commission structure upfront with your agent. Sometimes a tiered or performance-based commission can maximize savings if your home sells quickly.

2. Title and Settlement Fees

Title and settlement fees include costs for title searches, title insurance, escrow services, document preparation, and coordination of the closing. In Sterling, these typically range from $800–$1,600 depending on home price and the title company.

Title insurance protects against issues like liens, unpaid taxes, or errors in the property deed. A thorough title search ensures that no existing claims could delay or invalidate your sale.

Settlement fees cover the coordination and management of the closing process. This includes preparing the HUD/ALTA statement, distributing funds, and ensuring all documents are correctly recorded.

3. Transfer Taxes

Virginia charges a grantor’s (or transfer) tax at a rate of $1 per $1,000 of the sale price. On a $700,000 home, that would be $700. This is often negotiated between buyer and seller, but typically it is the seller's responsibility.

Practical tip: Include this amount in your budget when calculating expected net proceeds. While it may seem minor compared to commissions, it is still a mandatory cost.

4. Recording Fees

Recording fees are charged by Loudoun County to officially file the deed and related documents. Fees range from $85–$250 depending on the transaction. Accurate and timely recording ensures the buyer legally owns the property without delays.

Tip: Some sellers combine recording and title costs to simplify payments at closing. Your settlement agent can advise on the best approach.

5. Prorated Property Taxes

Property taxes are typically prorated from January 1st through the closing date. Sellers pay taxes only up to the day of closing. For example, a $3,600 annual tax bill, if closing halfway through the year, would require a $1,800 payment.

Tip: Review the tax statement carefully to ensure correct proration. Some counties bill semi-annually or annually, so proper calculation avoids overpayment or disputes with the buyer.

Pro tip: Prepaying or adjusting for any unpaid taxes can prevent last-minute surprises during settlement.

6. HOA Fees and Resale Documentation

If your property is part of a homeowners association (HOA), the seller is typically required to provide resale documents and statements. This can cost $200–$400 and includes disclosure of community rules, fees, pending assessments, and special requirements for the buyer.

Tip: Order these documents early to avoid closing delays. Delayed or incomplete HOA documentation can push back settlement dates and potentially affect the sale price.

Practical example: If your HOA requires a capital contribution or transfer fee, include this cost in your closing estimate to understand the total impact on your proceeds.