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Selling Your Home? These Are the Additional Costs

When selling your home, it’s important to know exactly what costs are involved. Selling a property comes with various expenses, and being aware of them can help you avoid surprises. In this blog, we outline all the additional costs to consider when selling your home.

Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Hiring a real estate agent involves costs; you’re paying for their expertise and services. The fees vary between agents, and you might choose to handle certain tasks yourself to save money. For example, if you have a good camera and know how to take attractive photos of your property, you can reduce costs in this area.

Depending on your skills, time, and knowledge of the housing market, you could manage parts of the sales process independently. However, keep in mind that it often requires significant time to learn everything involved in selling a home. Additionally, without the support of an experienced real estate agent, you might sell your home for a lower price. In many cases, hiring an agent is a smarter and more cost-effective choice.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

Before selling your home, it needs to be sale-ready. This may mean investing in improvements to make your property as appealing as possible. Fix small issues, such as a leaky faucet or a squeaky door.

It’s also wise to neutralize any bold design elements. For instance, consider repainting a brightly colored wall in a neutral tone or adding fresh flowers to your garden. These changes cost time and money but can attract more potential buyers and increase the value of your home.

Another way to present your home well is by using professional photography. The difference between professional and amateur photos is often underestimated. In today’s digital world, you only get one chance to make a great first impression.

Many people also hire a home stylist to prepare their property for sale. A stylist knows what appeals to a broad audience, helping you attract more potential buyers. This investment often pays off and is frequently offered through your real estate agent.

Do You Have an Energy Label?

Since 2015, homeowners in the Netherlands are required to have an energy label when selling their home. This label promotes energy efficiency. You can check your provisional energy label on energielabel.nl. This is an estimate based on data from the Land Registry.

For a sale, a definitive energy label is mandatory. Applying for this label involves a fee, which covers the administrative costs of a certified expert reviewing your application. Costs range from a few euros to several dozen euros. Starting in 2021, a physical inspection by the expert is required, which could increase the price.

Cancelling Your Mortgage

When selling your property, your mortgage needs to be canceled at the Land Registry, a process called mortgage discharge. This can only be done through a notary, who prepares a discharge deed and submits it to the Land Registry.

The cost of canceling your mortgage varies by notary but typically ranges between €90 and €500. It’s a good idea to request quotes from multiple notaries to find the best price.

Other Costs to Consider

In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are other expenses to keep in mind when selling your home:

  • Appraisal Costs: To determine your property’s value, an appraisal may be necessary. These costs average between €300 and €600.

  • Building Inspection: Potential buyers might request a building inspection to assess the property’s condition. This typically costs between €300 and €500.

  • Moving Costs: Relocating your belongings involves expenses, especially if you hire a professional moving company.

  • Early Repayment Penalty: If you pay off your mortgage early, your lender might charge a penalty. Check with your bank for details.

By understanding these costs in advance, you can better prepare for the sale of your home and avoid unexpected surprises. Do you have questions or need help with the sales process? At KIJCK. makelaars, we’re ready to assist you with transparent pricing and expert guidance. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.

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Team Komma