Can a buyer back out after inspection?

Even with recent industry shifts, commissions remain the largest expense for sellers. The total typically ranges from 5% to 6%, which is traditionally split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent .

For a $400,000 home, a 6 percent commission totals $24,000 . On a $500,000 home, that same rate means $30,000.

While sellers are no longer required to pay the buyer's agent commission following recent legal settlements, most successful sellers in 2026 still offer a competitive concession, typically around 2.5%, to attract the widest pool of qualified buyers . If you refuse to offer this concession, you effectively limit your buyer pool to unrepresented buyers only.

Transfer taxes are fees charged by state, county, or local governments to legally record the change of ownership . These rates vary significantly depending on your location.

Location Estimated Transfer Tax Notes

California (Placer County) $1.10 per $1,000 of value No additional city tax in Roseville

California (Berkeley) Progressive rate up to 1.5% on portion over $1.7M New rate effective January 2026

New York (Ulster County) 1% of consideration First $425,000 exempt, effective February 2026

Florida $0.70 per $100 of value Except Miami-Dade with higher rates

New Jersey Graduated rate up to 1%+ for higher tiers Additional tiers for sales over $2M

Some states like Texas and Alaska don't impose transfer taxes at all . A growing number of states and cities have implemented "mansion taxes" with higher rates for high-value properties, so knowing your local rules is essential .

In most states, it is customary for the seller to pay for the Owner's Title Insurance Policy. This protects the buyer from any future claims against the property that originated during your ownership .

Owner's Policy costs vary by location. In Placer County, California, sellers customarily pay this, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the home price . In Florida, sellers often pay for title insurance as well .

Settlement or escrow fees are paid to the title company or attorney for coordinating the signing and handling the funds . These fees can be negotiable or split between buyer and seller . Expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 depending on your state and transaction complexity .

You are responsible for your property taxes and Homeowners Association dues up through the exact day of closing . If you have already paid your taxes for the full year, the buyer will credit you back for the days they own the home. Conversely, if your taxes are paid in arrears, a prorated amount will be deducted from your proceeds to cover your time in the home.

HOA transfer fees and document preparation fees are common in planned communities. In Roseville's WestPark neighborhood, a private transfer fee of 0.5% applies, which can catch sellers off guard . These typically range from $300 to $600 .

Your closing statement will show a deduction for your remaining mortgage balance. This isn't a fee, but it directly affects how much cash you receive . Interest is paid in arrears, so you will owe interest from your last payment date through the day of closing.

Recording fees to document the satisfaction of your mortgage typically run $100 to $300 .