How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in New Jersey?

Selling a house in New Jersey involves more than just finding a buyer. From agent commissions to closing costs and prep work, the average seller pays tens of thousands before finalizing the deal. Here’s a complete breakdown of what it typically costs to sell your home in the Garden State—and how to keep more of your profit.

🏡 1. Real Estate Agent Commissions

• Typical commission in NJ: About 5% of the home’s sale price

• This fee is generally split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.

• Commissions are negotiable, especially in today’s more flexible post-2024 market, but 5% remains a common benchmark.

Example: On a $500,000 home, a 5% commission equals $25,000.

Looking for expert guidance? We highly recommend working with the Klug Realty Group—a trusted team known for delivering full-service support, expert market analysis, and skilled negotiation that helps sellers net more. Their local knowledge and client-first approach make them a preferred partner across New Jersey.

2. Closing Costs & State Transfer Fees

• Average seller closing costs (excluding commission): ~3.19% of the home’s sale price

  • Includes NJ Realty Transfer Tax, title and escrow services, and local government fees

• NJ Realty Transfer Fee: This ranges with home value. For a $500,000 home, expect about $2,000–$2,500

• Property tax proration: NJ’s average property tax rate is 1.99%, so sellers may owe a prorated share at closing

Estimated Total Closing Costs on a $500,000 Home:

• Transfer tax + fees: ~$15,950

• Tax proration: ~$9,950

3. Home Preparation Costs

• Repairs, cleaning, and landscaping: $5,000–$10,000, depending on home condition

• Home staging: $800–$2,800, depending on home size and services

• Optional inspections: Around $300–$500, useful for avoiding surprises later

Your realtor will help guide you and recommend certain changes and/or upgrades that they think will get your home to sell above asking price. 

4. Attorney Fees

• Required in New Jersey transactions

• Expect to pay $750–$1,500, either as a flat rate or hourly

5. Moving Costs

• Local move: Around $600–$1,200

• Long-distance move: Can exceed $5,000, especially for full-service movers or cross-country relocations

6. Mortgage Payoff

• Sellers must pay off any remaining mortgage balance at closing.

• The average NJ mortgage payoff is about $241,000, but this varies.

📊 Sample Cost Breakdown – $500,000 NJ Home

That’s roughly 11%–13.5% of your home’s sale price—before paying off your mortgage.

💡 Tips to Reduce Your Costs

1. Prioritize cost-effective improvements – Focus on curb appeal and paint, not major renovations

2. Compare service providers – Shop for attorneys, movers, and stagers

3. List during peak season – Spring and early summer bring more buyers and often better prices

🏘️ New Jersey Market Snapshot (Summer 2025)

• Median home price (statewide): ~$500,000

• Average time on market: ~30 days

• Seller-friendly conditions: Low inventory and rising prices continue in many NJ counties

✅ Final Thoughts

Selling a house in New Jersey will typically cost you 11%–13% of the home’s sale price, with the 5% commission accounting for the biggest single expense. But with the right strategy—and the right agent—you can keep more of your proceeds.

If you're looking to sell with confidence, Klug Realty Group is here to help. Their team combines local insight with strategic marketing and hands-on service to make sure every dollar works for you.

Ready to sell smart? Contact Klug Realty Group today.