Closing Costs: The Not-So-Sneaky Ninja Fees Lurking at the Finish Line

By The Olsen Team

You’ve accepted an offer. The buyer loves the home. You're halfway packed and dreaming of your next adventure. But wait—just when you thought you were home free, here come the closing costs, quietly tiptoeing in like unexpected guests at a wedding buffet.

We’re here to shed some light on these mysterious numbers — so you don’t get blindsided by fees dressed in polite paperwork.

So… What Are Closing Costs?

In real estate, closing costs are the final expenses paid at the end of a home sale transaction. They’re the official bow on the gift-wrapped experience of selling your home. For sellers, these costs typically range from 6% to 10% of the home’s sale price.

Think of closing costs like the service charge on a fancy meal — only with more paperwork and fewer breadsticks.

Common Seller Closing Costs:

Let’s break it down:

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• Title and Escrow Fees
  • The title company does all the behind-the-scenes magic — researching the property’s history, managing money transfers, and making sure everyone gets paid. They deserve their slice of the pie.
    
    
• Real Estate Commission
  •  A percentage of the sale price. This commission is negotiable and may vary from agent to agent. This is how professionals like The Olsen Team help get your home sold quickly (and for top dollar).
    
    
• Outstanding HOA Fees
  • If you live in a community with an HOA, you may need to pay prorated dues or fees for the transfer of ownership. It’s like paying your tab before leaving the club.
    
    
• Transfer Tax or Excise Tax
  • Washington State charges a real estate excise tax (REET) when you sell. It's calculated based on your sale price and varies depending on local jurisdictions. Sorry — no skipping this one.
    
    
• Repairs or Buyer Credits
  • Did the inspection reveal a few hiccups? You might agree to a credit toward repairs. It's not always required, but it can sweeten the deal and avoid back-and-forth drama.
    
    
• Prorated Property Taxes
  • You only pay taxes for the portion of the year you owned the home. The rest? That’s the buyer’s problem. (Phew.)

Remember: As with all legal, tax, and finance questions, please consult a licensed professional financial advisor, CPA or attorney. Real estate laws and procedures vary from state to state, and this list may not be complete in your area. Be sure to consult your local real estate professional.

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Can I Avoid Closing Costs?

Short answer: Nope. But you can understand them, prepare for them, and make smart decisions along the way. Working with a great real estate agent (like us!) means you’ll always know what’s coming — and why.

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The Olsen Team Has Your Back

Selling a home is more than just sticking a sign in the yard — it’s strategy, timing, and knowing exactly what’s around every corner (including those sneaky closing costs).

If you’re thinking about selling in Kitsap County or beyond, give The Olsen Team a call. We’ll guide you through the process with transparency, expertise, and maybe even a few laughs.

Call (360) 204-4493 or visit TheOlsenTeam.com
Real estate made simple, not sneaky.