For many people, the first step in selling a house is calling a real estate agent. While agents provide valuable services, many homeowners don’t realize just how expensive and
time-consuming a traditional sale can be. From commissions and repairs to staging and closing costs, the fees can stack up fast. This article will break down the true cost of selling with a realtor and explain why many sellers are opting for direct cash buyers like Zar Real Estate LLC, who buy houses as-is.
Let’s start with commissions. When you list your home with an agent, you typically agree to pay 5-6% of the sale price in commission—split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. On a
$400,000 home, that’s $20,000 to $24,000 out of your pocket before you even subtract closing costs or taxes.
Next, there are repairs and updates. Most agents will recommend that you fix any outstanding issues and update outdated finishes before going on the market. These could include anything from new carpet to roof replacement, costing thousands of dollars upfront with no guarantee of return.
Then comes staging and photography. You may need to hire a professional stager to rearrange your home, rent furniture, and have high-quality photos taken for the listing. These services can cost between $500 and $2,000 depending on your market.
And don’t forget about holding costs. While your home is on the market, you’ll still be paying the mortgage, taxes, insurance, and utilities. If your home sits unsold for 60 or 90 days, that’s thousands more lost.
On top of that, traditional sales often involve delays due to inspections, appraisals, and financing issues. Deals fall through, buyers back out, and sellers are left starting from scratch.
Selling with a realtor might get you top dollar, but it comes at a cost—often a very high one. If you’re looking to avoid all the hidden fees, lengthy timelines, and uncertainty, consider working with Zar Real Estate LLC, real cash buyers near you. We provide a simple, fast, and fair alternative: a no-obligation cash offer, buying homes as-is, allowing you to close in 10 days or less and get your free offer today.
