How much does it cost to sell a home in the Charleston, SC area?
The total cost depends on several factors, but most sellers should budget for commissions, prorated property taxes, pre-sale updates, possible HOA-related fees, and moving expenses. Here's a breakdown of what to expect.
Real Estate Agent Commission
The largest portion of your selling costs is typically the commission paid to your listing agent. This fee is agreed upon when you sign your listing agreement and covers services like pricing strategy, professional marketing, negotiations, and managing the transaction through to closing.
In some cases, the buyer's agent may request compensation as part of their offer. Whether or not you choose to cover this additional cost is negotiable.
Working with a skilled agent — like Lauren Zurilla & Associates — can often help you net more from the sale, even after commission.
Prorated Property Taxes
In South Carolina, property taxes are paid annually in arrears. That means when you sell your home, you’ll likely need to cover your portion of the year’s taxes up to the closing date. These taxes are typically prorated and subtracted from your proceeds at closing.
It’s not an “extra” cost, but it’s important to understand how it impacts your final payout.
Pre-Sale Home Repairs
Before listing, many sellers choose to have a home inspection so they can address necessary repairs to make their home more appealing to buyers. Common items might include:
Fixing plumbing or electrical issues
Servicing the HVAC system
Replacing worn-out fixtures or appliances
Taking care of repairs upfront can help prevent renegotiations later, especially after a buyer's home inspection.
Optional Updates and Presentation Prep
Beyond repairs, you may also choose to invest in updates that help your home show better and sell faster. This might include:
Cosmetic improvements (paint, lighting, landscaping)
Professional cleaning
Decluttering and depersonalizing
These aren't required, but they can impact both your sale price and time on market.
HOA Transfer Fees and Community Costs
If your property is in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), you may encounter fees related to transferring ownership. These might include:
HOA transfer fees
Capital contribution fees
Document preparation or disclosure fees
Every HOA has its own structure, so costs can vary widely. Some sellers also need to bring their HOA account current before closing.
Ask your agent to help identify any HOA-related expenses early in the process so there are no surprises later.
Closing Costs and Other Seller Expenses
In addition to the major items above, you may also encounter:
Attorney fees (SC requires an attorney for real estate closings)
Title-related fees or document prep
Potential buyer concessions (like covering closing costs or repairs)
A trusted real estate professional can help you understand which of these might apply to your specific sale — and how to prepare for them.
Don’t Forget Moving Costs
While not part of the transaction itself, moving expenses can be significant. Whether you're hiring full-service movers or renting a truck for a DIY move, be sure to factor in the cost of packing supplies, transportation, and any temporary storage if needed. Planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute stress and overspending.
Final Takeaway
Selling a home in Charleston, SC involves more than just putting a sign in the yard. From commissions and prorated taxes to pre-listing prep, HOA-related fees, and moving costs, it’s smart to plan ahead so you can sell with confidence and clarity.
Ready to Sell Smart?
Want to understand your potential net proceeds and prepare your home for the market?
Schedule a call or appointment or download our free Seller Guide today — Lauren Zurilla & Associates is here to help you make the most of your next move.
Warmly,
Lauren, Tina and Gigi | Lauren Zurilla & Associates