If you are considering listing a property in Kansas City, be prepared for various costs that arise throughout the listing process. From pre-listing expenses to costs during the listing period, handling offers, and closing, it’s crucial to understand the financial commitments involved. Check out our latest post for insights on these listing costs to help you decide whether a direct sale might be a more suitable option for your circumstances.
The cost of selling a house in Kansas City can vary significantly. It ultimately depends on the house, required repairs, location, and other factors. Each agent will work a bit differently. Some agents charge extra fees, while others offer ‘all-inclusive’ services. Before you commit, make sure you know the full cost of listing your house in Kansas City!
Upfront Costs
Before you talk to a real estate agent or officially list your home, you should take several key steps to prepare your property. Some of these tasks you can handle on your own, saving money in the process, while others may require hiring a professional to ensure they’re done right. While you might not need every item on this list, each one is important to consider because it can impact your home’s appeal to buyers, the final sale price, and the time your property remains on the market.
Cleaning
Make sure the house is spotless to create an inviting, appealing atmosphere. While you can do a great job yourself, hiring a professional cleaner to tackle every corner can transform the look of the entire home. If you’re not replacing carpets or flooring, consider bringing in a professional to deep-clean these areas as well. Don’t neglect the outside. Bringing in a professional to clean your windows can be well worth it, especially if your home has a second story!
Storage
Cleaning your home is the perfect time to start packing away items you won’t need while it’s on the market. This includes personal possessions, seasonal items, excess furniture, and any other belongings that add clutter or make rooms feel crowded. Potential buyers want to envision themselves in the space, and seeing personal photos, unique decor, or too many items can make it difficult for them to imagine the house as their own. By decluttering, you create a clean, inviting space that appeals to a wider range of buyers.
Repairs & Upgrades
Make sure to repair any visible issues, such as patching and painting walls, replacing cracked tiles, and smoothing floorboards. Consider making small upgrades, like installing new fixtures or hardware, to further enhance the home’s appeal. Investing in these improvements can boost your property’s value, but be prepared to cover these costs upfront.
Landscaping
Enhancing curb appeal is essential for creating an attractive listing. The front yard serves as the initial impression for visitors, making it crucial to maintain its appearance. Consider incorporating plants, flowers, new doors, or fencing to elevate the visual appeal of your property.
While The House Is Listed
While your property is listed in the market in Kansas City, you may find yourself incurring various expenses associated with the sale. Opting for a quick and direct sale upfront can help you avoid these ongoing costs and streamline the process. Contact Faithful Home Buyers KC LLC at 816-237-0869 for a seamless selling experience.
Monthly Costs
When your property is listed on the market, it’s crucial to still cover the monthly utilities to ensure a welcoming environment for potential buyers. Even if you’ve relocated, it’s essential to maintain water and electricity services for showcasing the property. Additionally, continuing to pay for homeowner’s insurance and property taxes is necessary until the closing process is complete. Moreover, regular cleaning and ongoing home maintenance are vital to make a lasting impression on prospective buyers. Considering the average time properties spend on the market and the subsequent escrow period, it might take several months before the sale is finalized. Throughout this period, you could incur significant expenses that could have otherwise stayed in your pocket.
Marketing
When it comes to selling your home in Kansas City, MO ([market_zip]), the key lies in the quality of marketing and photography. Some agents excel in this area, while others may not meet expectations. To effectively showcase your property, consider engaging professionals who offer top-notch listings and photography services. In today’s market, some homeowners are even turning to drone photography to provide unique aerial views of their homes.
After An Offer Has Been Made
After an offer is accepted, you’ll still be responsible for covering insurance, utilities, and taxes up until the closing date. Depending on the lender, this could add several weeks to your timeframe, which in turn adds more money to your payment to own the home. Most offers are contingent on inspection and appraisal. You can skip these costs by choosing a direct offer from a company that buys properties as-is.
Negotiated Repairs
After the inspection is finished, negotiations may arise for repairs depending on their severity. Should significant issues be found in the property, the buyer may request them to be addressed before finalizing the purchase. It’s crucial to note that a damaged property may not qualify for a bank loan. In the event that the initial buyer walks away, you must transparently disclose the necessary repairs to all future potential buyers.
At The Closing Table
Commissions
Once you have signed the final sale paperwork, you must also sign over a check to your agent. This fee is typically about 6% of the home’s final sale price.
Closing Costs
When finalizing a real estate transaction in Kansas City, various additional fees become part of the closing costs. These fees encompass document filing charges, title search fees, credit check costs, transfer taxes, property taxes, and more. Typically, these additional costs can amount to approximately 2% of your ultimate sale price.
After carefully considering all expenses involved, it becomes apparent that listing a property may not be the ideal choice for every situation. Numerous individuals discover significant advantages through opting for a direct sale instead! Take a moment to crunch the numbers yourself, and determine the most suitable option for your needs!