How Much Does It Cost to List a Home on Long Island?

Listing your Long Island home involves more than just putting a sign in the yard. While many costs are paid at closing, understanding the financial commitment upfront helps you plan clearly and avoid surprises.

The Primary Cost: Brokerage Fees

The largest expense in most home sales is the brokerage fee.

This fee typically covers:

• Professional marketing and exposure

• Buyer outreach and negotiation

• Transaction management through closing

• Coordination with attorneys and lenders

Compensation structures vary, so clarity upfront is important.

Marketing and Preparation Costs

Some listing-related expenses may occur before closing.

These can include:

• Professional photography

• Videography or floor plans

• Staging consultations

• Minor preparation or cosmetic touch-ups

Strong preparation often increases buyer engagement and protects pricing power.

Attorney and Legal Fees

In New York, sellers work closely with real estate attorneys.

Legal costs usually cover:

• Contract preparation and negotiation

• Title coordination

• Closing document review

Attorney involvement is standard in Long Island transactions.

Transfer Taxes and Government Fees

Sellers are responsible for certain transfer taxes.

These typically include:

• New York State transfer tax

• Additional taxes for higher-value properties when applicable

These fees are paid at closing and deducted from proceeds.

Potential Repair or Concession Costs

While not mandatory, sellers may agree to:

• Repair requests after inspection

• Buyer closing credits

• Price adjustments during negotiation

These are strategic decisions rather than automatic expenses.

When Are These Costs Paid?

Most seller costs are deducted directly from proceeds at closing.

Upfront expenses are usually limited to:

• Minor preparation

• Cleaning or staging

• Optional improvements

Eric Berman REALTOR® provides estimated net sheets early so sellers understand their financial position before listing.

Final Thoughts

The cost to list a home on Long Island depends on strategy, preparation, and market conditions. With proper planning, sellers can understand exactly how expenses affect their net proceeds.

Eric Berman REALTOR® helps sellers review costs clearly so financial expectations stay realistic and organized.

FAQs

Do I pay listing costs upfront?
Most costs are deducted at closing, not paid upfront 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

What is the biggest cost when selling my home?
Brokerage compensation is usually the largest expense 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Are marketing costs included in brokerage fees?
Often yes, but it depends on the listing agreement 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Do I have to pay transfer taxes in New York?
Yes, sellers typically pay state transfer taxes 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Can I estimate my net proceeds before listing?
Yes. A net sheet provides clarity before you go to market 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com