Understanding the Herndon, Fairfax County Market

Before selling, it’s crucial to understand what’s happening locally. As of September 2025, the median home price in Herndon, Fairfax County Virginia sits around $725,000, with homes averaging 18–25 days on market. Inventory remains limited, keeping demand steady. Well-prepared, competitively priced homes often attract multiple offers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Your Home in Herndon

1. Prepare Your Home

Start with the basics: declutter closets, deep clean carpets, and repaint high-traffic areas in neutral colors. Small updates like new light fixtures or updated cabinet hardware can make a big difference. In Herndon, buyers especially value curb appeal — consider power washing the exterior, refreshing landscaping, and adding seasonal flowers. Professional staging or virtual staging can also help your home stand out online, where most buyers begin their search.

2. Price Strategically

Pricing is both an art and a science. Your Realtor will run a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using recent Herndon sales, neighborhood trends, and property condition. Overpricing may cause your listing to sit stale and lose buyer interest, while underpricing risks leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table. A strategic price point creates urgency, encourages competitive offers, and often results in a faster sale at or above asking.

3. Market Your Home

Exposure is everything. A complete marketing plan should include: professional photography, a polished MLS listing, social media advertising, targeted email campaigns, 3D virtual tours, and open houses to capture in-person interest. In Fairfax County’s competitive market, buyers are constantly scrolling online — the more visibility your home has, the stronger your pool of qualified buyers will be. Quality marketing can mean the difference between one offer and multiple offers.

4. Negotiate Offers

When offers come in, remember it’s not just about the top-line price. Consider financing type, contingencies (inspection, appraisal, home sale), earnest money deposits, and settlement dates. For example, a slightly lower cash offer with minimal contingencies may be stronger than a higher financed offer with multiple conditions. A skilled agent will analyze the fine print, recommend the best path forward, and negotiate repairs or credits after inspections to protect your bottom line.

5. Close the Sale

Once under contract, the process moves into due diligence and paperwork. Expect an appraisal, title search, and final loan approval on the buyer’s side. As the seller, you’ll coordinate any agreed repairs, provide HOA documents (if applicable), and prepare for settlement. Your Realtor, title company, and lender will guide you through signing, fund distribution, and handing over keys. With proper planning, you can transition smoothly to your next home with confidence and minimal stress.

What Does It Cost to Sell a Home in Herndon?

Selling isn’t free — here’s what most sellers pay in Virginia:

• Realtor Commission: Typically 5.5%–6% of the sale price (split between listing and buyer agents).
• Closing Costs: Around 2%–4% (title, transfer taxes, settlement fees).
• Preparation & Repairs: Variable, depending on your home’s needs.
• Moving & Holding Costs: Mortgage payments, utilities, and HOA dues until settlement.

1.5% Listing vs. 6% Listing – What’s the Difference?

With our 1.5% Full-Service Listing Program, you keep more of your hard-earned equity without sacrificing service.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Herndon’s median prices remain strong at ~$725,000.
• Average time on market is just under a month — well-prepared homes move fast.
• Typical costs include 6% commission + 2-4% closing costs.
• Our 1.5% program can save sellers $20k–$40k+ depending on price point.

Ready to Sell Smarter in Herndon?

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. By understanding the market, preparing wisely, and choosing the right commission structure, you can maximize your equity while still receiving full service.

Whether you’re selling a townhome near the Silver Line, a colonial in Hunters Creek, or a custom estate, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation and net proceeds estimate.

FAQs

Q1: What is the standard Realtor commission in Virginia, and can I negotiate it?

Commissions are typically 5.5–6% of the home’s sale price, but they are negotiable. Our 1.5% listing fee is one of the best ways to reduce costs without losing full service.

Q2: What other closing costs should I expect?

Sellers usually pay transfer taxes, settlement fees, title fees, and sometimes HOA/inspection-related costs. These average about 2–4% of the sale price in Fairfax County.

Q3: Does paying less in commission mean less exposure or service?

Not with the right brokerage. Our 1.5% full-service program includes MLS listing, marketing, negotiation, photography, and open houses — everything you’d expect at 6%, without the inflated fee.