How Much Do You Really Take Home When You Sell a House in Arizona?

By Dave Zajdzinski

Dave Zajdzinski and the team bring 40 + years of real estate experience to home buyers and sellers throughout Arizona.

How much do you really take home when you sell a house in Arizona? The listing price might sound exciting, but what you pocket after commissions, fees, and repairs can look very different. Knowing these costs ahead of time helps you avoid surprises and plan smart.

For most homeowners, the traditional route is still the smartest move. Putting your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and hiring a Realtor, ideally someone experienced, tends to net about 92% of your home’s value after fees. That means 8% typically goes toward commissions, title costs, and other expenses. Here’s how that breaks down.

Commissions take the biggest share. The largest cost is real estate fees. Sellers typically pay both their agent and the buyer’s agent. Even after a 2024 law change, most sellers still cover buyer commissions because many buyers can’t afford them on top of down payments and closing costs. If sellers refuse, buyers often lower their offers or can’t proceed. So while optional on paper, covering the buyer’s commission remains the norm.

Title and escrow fees are required. In Arizona, a title company verifies ownership and clears liens. Expect about 0.4% for title and escrow, 0.35% for owner’s title insurance, and 0.5% for recording fees. Property taxes are also prorated based on your sale date.

Plan for about eight percent in total costs. Expect roughly 8% in costs, about 5% for commissions, and 3% for title, escrow, and fees. Budget another 1% to 2% for repairs, since buyers often expect move-in-ready homes.

Selling without a Realtor can cost you more. Going “for sale by owner” often backfires. Buyers spot it and lower offers by 5% to 6%, so skipping an agent usually means walking away with less.

Realtors add real value to your home. Experienced Realtors often boost a home’s value. Buyers trust the process more and are willing to pay closer to market price when a professional is involved.

Fix-and-flip can increase profits. With my fix-and-flip program, small repairs can mean big returns. For example, $8,000 in improvements could raise a $400,000 home’s value to $450,000. Contractors are paid at closing, and you keep the added profit.

Selling in Arizona typically costs around 8% plus potential repairs, but these costs are generally predictable. Hiring a pro not only smooths the process, but it often raises your net. Reach out if you want to see your numbers. You can call or text me at 480-933-1235 or send an email to dave@zteamaz.com. I’m happy to help.