Here’s every expense Temescal Valley home sellers should plan for

What costs does a home seller pay beyond real estate commission?

In California, sellers typically pay escrow fees, title insurance, transfer taxes, prorated property taxes, any negotiated repairs, and sometimes HOA-related costs — in addition to agent commissions. Total seller closing costs can range from 1%–3% of the sale price on top of commission.

When homeowners think about the cost of selling, commission is usually the number they fixate on. That makes sense — it’s the biggest single line item. But sellers who only plan for commission often get surprised at the closing table when they see what else came out of their proceeds.


If you’re thinking about selling your home in Temescal Valley or anywhere in Southern California, this post walks you through every cost you’re likely to encounter — so you can plan accurately, protect your net, and make informed decisions before you sign anything.

The Full Picture: What Sellers Actually Pay at Closing


1. Escrow Fees


In California, it’s customary for sellers to pay a portion of the escrow fee. Escrow is the neutral third party that handles the funds, documents, and coordination between buyer and seller during the transaction.


Escrow fees vary by company and by sale price, but a common rule of thumb is approximately $2 per $1,000 of sale price, plus a base fee. On a $700,000 sale, you might pay $1,000–$1,500 in escrow fees. This is one of the items that can sometimes be shifted to the buyer in a strong seller’s market — but in a more balanced market, expect to pay your share.


2. Title Insurance (Owner’s Policy)


In most Southern California counties, including Riverside County where Temescal Valley is located, it’s customary for the seller to pay for the buyer’s Owner’s Title Insurance policy.


Title insurance protects the buyer (and their lender) against any undiscovered claims, liens, or ownership disputes on the property. It’s a one-time premium paid at closing. Cost depends on your sale price, but you can generally estimate $1,500–$3,000 for a Riverside County home in the $600K–$900K range.


3. Transfer Taxes


California imposes a Documentary Transfer Tax at the county and sometimes city level. The state rate is $1.10 per $1,000 of sale price. For a $700,000 sale in an unincorporated part of Riverside County, you’d pay roughly $770 in transfer taxes.


4. Prorated Property Taxes


Sellers are responsible for property taxes up to and including the day escrow closes. In California, property taxes are paid twice a year (November 1 and February 1). Depending on when you close, your settlement statement will show either a credit or a charge for prorated taxes.


5. HOA-Related Fees


If your home is in an HOA — which is extremely common in Temescal Valley communities like Sycamore Creek, Horsethief Canyon, and Eagle Glen — there are several HOA-related costs sellers typically pay:


• HOA document package / disclosure fee: Typically $200–$500
• Transfer fee: Usually $100–$300
• Prorated dues: Credit or charge through close of escrow
• Demand/payoff statement: Typically $50–$150


Add these up and your total HOA-related closing costs in a Temescal Valley community might run $500–$1,000.


6. Natural Hazard Disclosure Report


California law requires sellers to provide buyers with a Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) report, which identifies whether the property is in a fire hazard zone, flood zone, earthquake fault zone, or other designated hazard area. This report typically costs $100–$200.


7. Home Warranty (If Offered)


Sellers frequently offer a one-year home warranty to buyers as part of the transaction — especially on older homes. A standard home warranty in California typically costs $400–$700. You’re not required to provide one, but offering one can be a useful negotiating tool.


8. Pre-Sale Repairs and Improvements


This is the wildcard category — and the one sellers underestimate most often. After a buyer’s home inspection, you’ll likely receive a request for repairs. Common items: HVAC tune-ups, roof certifications, water heater straps, electrical panel updates.


A rule of thumb: budget 0.5%–1% of sale price for potential repair credits or repair costs. On a $700,000 home, that’s $3,500–$7,000. To minimize surprises, consider ordering a pre-listing inspection before you put your home on market — typically $400–$600.

Putting It All Together: A Real-World Estimate


Here’s what total seller costs might look like on a $700,000 Temescal Valley home, beyond commission:

Cost Item Estimated Range


Escrow fee (seller’s share) $1,000 – $1,500
Title insurance (owner’s policy) $1,500 – $2,500
Transfer taxes $750 – $900


HOA fees (docs, transfer, demand) $500 – $1,000
Natural hazard disclosure $100 – $200
Home warranty (if offered) $400 – $700


Pre-sale repairs / repair credits $2,000 – $7,000
Total (beyond commission) $6,250 – $13,800

On a $700,000 sale, that’s roughly 1%–2% of sale price in additional closing costs. Commission is on top of this.

How to Protect Your Net


1. Know your numbers before you list. Ask your agent for a Seller’s Net Sheet — a detailed estimate of what you’ll walk away with after all costs. This should be done before you set a price, not after you accept an offer.


2. Address issues pre-listing. The cost of a repair you choose on your terms is almost always less than a repair credit demanded by a buyer in escrow.


3. Negotiate strategically, not emotionally. Every term in a purchase contract is negotiable — not just price. Buyer closing cost contributions, repair credits, home warranty responsibility, and HOA disclosure fees are all fair game.

FAQ


Can I ask the buyer to pay some of my closing costs?


In California, it’s more common for sellers to pay certain closing costs as a matter of custom. However, in a strong seller’s market, you may be able to negotiate some of these costs to the buyer’s side. An experienced agent will know what’s realistic in your specific market conditions.


What is a Seller’s Net Sheet and how do I get one?


A Seller’s Net Sheet is an estimate prepared by your agent or escrow officer that shows your estimated sale price, deducts commission and all estimated closing costs, and calculates your approximate net proceeds after paying off any existing loans. Ask for one before you list — not after you’re in escrow.


Are selling costs tax-deductible?


Some selling costs — like agent commission and certain closing costs — can be used to reduce your capital gains when calculating taxes owed on the sale. Consult a CPA or tax advisor before you close, especially if you’ve lived in the home for less than two years or have significant appreciation.

Know Your Numbers Before You List


Glen and Kelly Nelson provide every seller with a detailed Seller’s Net Sheet before they sign anything — so you know exactly what you’re walking into and what you’ll walk away with. No surprises at the closing table.

Thinking about selling your Temescal Valley home and not sure what the current market means for your situation? Glen and Kelly Nelson have helped Southern California homeowners sell smart and maximize their net for over 21 years — in every kind of market.


Schedule your free 15-minute discovery call: https://calendly.com/glenandkellynelsonrealtors/15min
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Glen & Kelly Nelson | Nelson Real Estate Group | Coleman Realty Group | REALTORS® | DRE 01476165 / 01429186 | Temescal Valley & Southern California
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