The three biggest costs of selling include the broker commission, staging, and transfer tax. Other seller costs include property prep (painting, repairs, upgrades), and inspections, many of which are city or state mandated.

Staging is one of the most effective ways to maximize your home’s sale price. The quality of staging matters, as professional stagers with high-quality inventory can make your home stand out. In North County San Diego, typical staging costs start around $6,500 for a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home under 1,000 sq. ft. This is a reasonable investment that can make a significant impact on your home’s presentation and appeal to potential buyers.

In San Diego County, the transfer tax rate is significantly lower than in many other areas. The standard transfer tax rate is $1.10 per $1,000 of the property’s sale price, and this fee is typically split between the buyer and seller unless otherwise negotiated. Unlike cities such as San Francisco, San Diego County does not impose additional city transfer taxes, making it more straightforward and cost-effective for sellers.

As a general rule, any work that is structural—such as moving walls, altering the floor plan, or modifying the building envelope—or involves systems like plumbing and electrical will require a permit. Specific projects that need permits include bathroom remodels where tile is removed, kitchen remodels with new cabinets, installing a new roof, replacing water heaters, and upgrading windows. However, purely cosmetic updates typically don’t require permits. These include replacing flooring, countertops, backsplash, paint, light fixtures, hardware, appliances, and non-built-in vanities. Always check with your local permitting office for specific requirements.

In most markets, including North County San Diego, pricing your home at or above market value can backfire. Homes that are overpriced tend to spend more time on the market, ultimately selling for less than comparable properties after multiple price reductions. To achieve the best results, it’s often more effective to price slightly below market value to generate strong interest. This strategy can create competition among buyers, leading to multiple offers and potentially a bidding war, which often drives the final sale price higher. Pricing strategically from the start gives you the best chance to sell quickly and maximize your return.

Your agent should cover all marketing costs associated with selling your home. This includes creating a property-specific website, professional photography, floor plans, video tours, 3-D walk-throughs, property brochures, mailers, online advertising, paid social media campaigns, and any publication placements. They should also handle expenses for food and beverages at open houses or broker tours. A professional agent invests in these tools to ensure your home is presented in the best possible light and reaches the right audience.