What It Costs to Sell a House in Texas in 2026

Most Texas sellers are surprised twice: once by how many line items come out of their proceeds, and once by how much of it is negotiable. Here’s the real breakdown — and where the biggest savings actually are.

The Line Items

• Listing agent commission: traditionally 2.5%–3% of sale price. This is the most negotiable line on the sheet — my full-service listing is 1%.
• Buyer’s agent compensation: 2%–3% if you choose to offer it. Still common in North Texas, but it’s your decision and a negotiation lever.
• Owner’s title policy: customarily seller-paid in Texas; rates are state-regulated (about 0.6%–0.9% depending on price).
• Prorated property taxes: Texas taxes are paid in arrears, so you credit the buyer for your share of the year at closing.
• HOA fees: resale certificate and transfer fees, typically $200–$600 in most North Texas communities.
• Repairs and concessions: the wild card. Inspection-driven repair credits and closing-cost concessions commonly run 0%–2% in 2026’s buyer-leaning negotiations.
• Escrow/closing fees: a few hundred dollars, often split with the buyer.

Example: Selling a $450,000 Home

Traditional listing (3% + 2.5% buyer agent): roughly $24,750 in commission, plus ~$3,200 title policy, ~$400 HOA, and prorated taxes. Before repairs or concessions you’re near $28,000–$29,000 in selling costs.

Same home with a 1% listing fee: commission drops to $15,750 (1% + 2.5%) — about $9,000 more in your pocket, with the same MLS exposure, photography, negotiation, and closing management.

What Texas Sellers Don’t Pay

No state income tax means no state capital gains tax. Federal capital gains usually don’t apply either: married couples can exclude up to $500,000 of gain ($250,000 single) on a primary residence you’ve lived in for two of the last five years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays closing costs in Texas, buyer or seller?

Both pay their own set. Sellers typically cover the owner’s title policy, agent compensation, prorated taxes, and any negotiated concessions. Buyers cover lender, appraisal, and escrow fees on their side.

Can I avoid paying a buyer’s agent?

You can choose not to offer buyer-agent compensation, but in most North Texas price points it still affects buyer traffic. It’s a strategy decision we make together based on your home and timeline.

Is a 1% listing really full service?

Mine is. Professional photography, MLS and portal syndication, pricing strategy, showings, negotiation, and contract-to-close — the full list is here.

Selling in a specific city? Local guides: McKinney, Frisco, and Plano.

Want your actual number instead of an example? Get a free valuation and I’ll send a personalized net sheet with it.