What Fees and Commissions Will I Pay as a Seller in San Jose? (2026 Guide)

What Fees and Commissions Will I Pay as a Seller in San Jose? A 2026 Cost Breakdown

Before selling a home, most sellers want a clear answer to one question:

• “What will I actually walk away with?”

• “How much do commissions cost?”

• “What other fees should I expect?”

• “Are there hidden expenses I should plan for?”

In San Jose, seller costs are predictable, but many homeowners are surprised by how they’re structured.

This guide breaks down seller fees and commissions in 2026, what’s negotiable, what’s not, and how to plan ahead with confidence.

For a full overview of the selling process, start here:
👉 https://re38.com/sell-your-home-san-jose-guide

The Biggest Seller Cost: Real Estate Commissions

In most San Jose transactions, sellers pay:

• the listing agent’s commission

• the buyer’s agent commission

These commissions are typically paid from the sale proceeds at closing, not out of pocket upfront.

Commission structures can vary based on:

• property type

• price point

• market conditions

• level of service

There is no single standard rate, and commissions are always negotiable.

What Does the Listing Agent’s Fee Cover?

A full-service listing agent typically handles:

• pricing strategy

• preparation planning

• professional marketing

• staging coordination (if applicable)

• negotiation

• contract management

• escrow oversight

These services directly affect:

• sale price

• time on market

• stress level

• risk exposure

For preparation context, review:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/what-should-i-repair-or-disclose-before-selling-san-jose

Buyer’s Agent Commission: Why Sellers Pay It

In San Jose, sellers typically offer compensation to the buyer’s agent because:

• it attracts more qualified buyers

• it encourages agent participation

• it helps create competition

Limiting buyer-agent compensation can reduce exposure and slow momentum.

Other Common Seller Costs

Beyond commissions, sellers may also pay:

1. Escrow Fees

• split between buyer and seller

• varies by transaction size

2. Title Insurance

• typically paid by the seller in Santa Clara County

3. Transfer Taxes

• city and county transfer taxes apply

• amount varies by location

4. Repairs & Preparation

• pre-sale repairs

• inspections

• staging (if used)

For staging context, see:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/should-i-stage-my-home-does-staging-increase-sale-price-san-jose

Do Sellers Pay Closing Costs?

Yes — but “closing costs” for sellers are different from buyers.

Seller costs usually include:

• commissions

• title insurance

• escrow fees

• transfer taxes

These are all settled at closing and deducted from proceeds.

Can Seller Fees Be Reduced?

Sometimes — but reductions should be strategic.

Cutting costs in the wrong places can:

• reduce exposure

• weaken negotiations

• lower final sale price

The goal isn’t the lowest fees — it’s the highest net result.

For timing and strategy context, review:
👉 https://re38.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-home-san-jose

What Sellers Should Do Next

Before listing, it’s smart to:

• review estimated net proceeds

• understand all line items

• compare service levels

• plan strategically

I help sellers:

• understand total selling costs

• estimate realistic net proceeds

• align fees with strategy

• avoid surprises at closing

👉 If you want a clear net sheet for your home, reach out here:
https://re38.com/contact

📞 Want to Know What You’d Net From Selling? Let’s Talk

Selling isn’t just about price — it’s about what you keep.

A short conversation can help you understand costs, options, and how to maximize your net proceeds.

Zaid Hanna
408-515-1613
www.re38.com