How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Houston?

The short version

• Budget roughly 6 to 9 percent of the sale price for total selling costs; treat it as a starting range, not a quote.
• The largest cost is real estate commission, which is fully negotiable.
• As of 2026, the buyer's agent's pay is negotiated separately from your listing agreement.
• In Texas, the seller customarily pays for the owner's title insurance policy.
• Add closing fees, a possible survey, HOA transfer fees, and prorated property taxes.

The biggest cost: commissions

Real estate commission is usually the largest line item, and it has always been negotiable. Following the 2024 industry settlement, compensation for the buyer's agent is no longer posted in the MLS and is negotiated separately, so you and your listing agent decide whether, and how much, to offer a buyer's agent. Ask any agent to explain their fee and what's included, since photography, marketing, and negotiation are often part of it, before you sign.

Texas closing costs

A few costs are specific to how Texas closings work:

• Owner's title policy: in Texas this is customarily paid by the seller. Premiums are regulated by the state and scale with the sale price.
• Survey: your buyer or their lender may require a current survey; if you have a recent one, it may be reusable.
• Escrow, settlement, and recording fees: these are handled by the title company and are often split or negotiated.
• HOA fees: many Houston-area communities charge for a resale certificate or transfer.

Property taxes and payoff

Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes are relatively high and paid in arrears. Because the tax year runs from January 1, you'll typically credit the buyer for your prorated share of the year's taxes at closing. You'll also pay off your remaining mortgage balance and clear any liens from the proceeds. What's left after all of this is your net, the number that actually matters.

Prep and presentation

Before listing, many sellers spend on cleaning, minor repairs, and light staging. Professional photography is essential in a market where buyers shop online first, though it is frequently included in your agent's services. These costs are optional and controllable, but skimping on presentation can cost you more in a lower sale price than you saved.

Ask for a net sheet, a line-by-line estimate of your costs and take-home proceeds, early, so there are no surprises at the closing table.