How Much Does It Cost to Sell a Home in Westchester County?

A Complete Breakdown of Seller Costs in 2026

If you're thinking about selling your home, one of the most important questions to understand is:

“How much will it actually cost me to sell?”

Many homeowners focus on their sale price — but what really matters is what you walk away with after expenses.

Selling a home involves several costs, and understanding them ahead of time can help you plan strategically and avoid surprises.

I’m John Buoninfante — Westchester County Realtor.
I move people in and out of Westchester.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what it typically costs to sell a home in Westchester County.

The Biggest Cost: Real Estate Commission

This fee is typically paid to:

• The listing agent

• The buyer’s agent

Commission is usually calculated as a percentage of the final sale price.

This fee covers:

• Marketing your home

• Professional photography and exposure

• Negotiation and transaction management

• Access to buyer networks and listing platforms

Transfer Taxes in New York

When selling a home in New York, sellers are responsible for transfer taxes.

These are based on the sale price of the property and are paid at closing.

Transfer taxes are a standard part of selling real estate in New York State and should be factored into your total cost.

Attorney Fees

In New York, attorneys are involved in real estate transactions.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Preparing and reviewing contracts

• Negotiating terms

• Coordinating closing documents

Attorney fees vary depending on the complexity of the transaction, but they are an important part of the process.

Title and Closing Costs

• Title-related charges

• Recording fees

• Administrative closing costs

These costs are typically smaller than commission but still important to account for.

Home Preparation Costs

Before listing your home, many sellers invest in preparing the property.

These costs can include:

• Minor repairs and maintenance

• Painting or cosmetic updates

• Landscaping improvements

• Cleaning and staging

The goal is to make the home as appealing as possible to buyers.

Not every home requires major upgrades, but preparation can influence buyer perception and offers.

Potential Buyer Credits or Concessions

During negotiations, buyers may request:

• Repair credits

• Closing cost assistance

• Adjustments based on inspections

These costs vary depending on the condition of the home and the terms of the deal.

Mortgage Payoff

If you still have a mortgage on the property, the remaining balance will be paid off at closing.

This is often one of the largest financial considerations when calculating your net proceeds.

What Sellers Should Really Focus On: Net Proceeds

Net proceeds = Sale price – All selling costs

Understanding this number helps you make better decisions about:

• Pricing strategy

• Timing the sale

• Whether to make improvements before listing

Example of Seller Cost Categories

While exact numbers vary, sellers typically account for:

✔ Real estate commission
✔ Transfer taxes
✔ Attorney fees
✔ Closing-related costs
✔ Home preparation expenses
✔ Potential concessions
✔ Mortgage payoff (if applicable)

Each transaction is unique, so the exact cost will depend on your property and situation.

Common Questions Sellers Ask

Are closing costs high when selling a home in New York?

New York transactions include attorney involvement and transfer taxes, which sellers should plan for.

Can I reduce my selling costs?

Strategic pricing and preparation can sometimes reduce time on market and negotiation concessions.

Do I need to renovate before selling?

Not always — many sellers benefit more from smart preparation than major renovations.

The Bottom Line

Selling a home in Westchester County involves several costs beyond just commission.

Understanding these expenses ahead of time allows you to:

• Plan financially

• Price your home strategically

• Avoid surprises during closing

The most successful sellers focus on maximizing their net outcome, not just the sale price.

Final Thoughts

If you're thinking about selling your home in Westchester County and want a clear understanding of what your costs might look like — including your estimated net proceeds — having a detailed breakdown can make a significant difference.

I’m John Buoninfante — Westchester County Realtor.

I move people in and out of Westchester.

If you'd like a personalized estimate of your home’s value and what you could potentially walk away with after selling, I’d be happy to walk you through the numbers step by step so you can make the right decision with confidence.