One of the first questions sellers ask is: "After everything, how much do I actually walk away with?" Fair question. Here are the costs that typically come out of a New Jersey home sale, in plain terms.
Real estate commission
This is usually the largest cost, and — importantly — it's negotiable. There's no rate set by law. Following the 2024 industry changes, how the buyer's agent is paid is now discussed and agreed up front rather than assumed, so it's worth having a clear conversation with your agent about exactly what their fee includes.
New Jersey's Realty Transfer Fee
New Jersey charges a fee when a property changes hands, and the seller typically pays it at closing. It's based on your sale price, so the exact amount depends on what your home sells for — your attorney will give you the precise figure.
Attorney fees
Most NJ sellers use a real estate attorney to handle the contract and closing. It's a relatively modest, flat-ish cost and well worth it.
Paying off your mortgage
Whatever you still owe is paid from the proceeds at closing, along with any small payoff or recording costs.
Possible extras
Depending on the sale, you might agree to seller concessions, staging, or pre-listing repairs. Higher-priced sales can carry additional state fees — again, your attorney confirms what applies to you.
So what's left?
Your net proceeds are simply your sale price minus the items above. The honest answer to "what will I net?" is that it depends on your price, your mortgage balance, and your choices — which is exactly why a personalized estimate beats any online calculator.
Want a clear "net sheet" for your specific home — what you'd likely pay and pocket? Reach out and I'll put one together for you, no obligation.
— Julissa Zimmerman, REALTOR®, Realty One Group Sunrise