If you're thinking about selling your home, you're probably focused on how much you’ll make once it’s sold. But before the profits come in, there are a few expenses you’ll need to plan for. Some are expected. Others? Not so much.
Here’s a breakdown of the real costs of selling a home in Langley and how to stay ahead of them.
1. Real Estate Commission
This is often the biggest line item on the seller’s side. In most cases, the total commission is split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. It can vary, but in BC it’s often calculated on a sliding scale, with a percentage charged on the first portion of the sale price and a lower percentage applied to the remaining balance.
✅ Worth it? Absolutely. But only if your Realtor brings real value to the table.
With us, that commission includes:
Expert local pricing based on real-time market data
Full-service marketing including professional photography, custom video tours, and paid ad placement
Staging consultation and handyman services to help get your home market-ready
Strategic listing exposure on all major platforms
Negotiation skills to help you walk away with the best possible price and terms
Step-by-step guidance through every detail of your sale
You are not just hiring a listing agent. You are getting a full team focused on your success from day one.
2. Legal or Notary Fees
To transfer property ownership, you'll need a lawyer or notary. Typical fees range from $900 to $2,000+, depending on the complexity of the sale. We have a trusted list of legal professionals we can refer you to, making this part of the process smooth and stress-free.
3. Pre-Sale Repairs and Maintenance
Even if your home is in great shape, there may be things to address before listing.
Minor repairs (like paint touch-ups, fixing doors or leaky taps)
Professional cleaning (including windows, carpets, gutters)
Lawn care or small landscaping updates
✅ Pro tip: Fixing little things upfront often prevents bigger negotiations after inspection.
We include handyman services in our fees.
4. Staging and Presentation
While optional, staging can help your home sell faster and for more money. If you don’t stage, you may still want to invest in:
Support with staging using our curated collection of decor items and assistance with decluttering to help your home shine
Photography and videography
Marketing materials (flyers, brochures, ads)
We include many of these services as part of our full-service approach so you do not have to worry about extra add-ons or surprise fees.
5. Mortgage Penalties
If you're breaking your mortgage before the term ends, you could face a penalty. This can be thousands of dollars depending on your rate and lender.
✅ Check with your mortgage broker early in the process to understand what, if anything, you’ll owe or if you can port your existing mortgage.
6. Property Taxes, Utilities and Strata Fees (if applicable)
You’ll be expected to pay your share of property taxes, utilities, and strata fees (if applicable) up until the completion date. In some cases, adjustments may be made with the buyer at closing for any fees already paid for the remainder of the year.
7. Moving Costs
Even if you’ve done this before, moving costs add up fast. Whether you're hiring professionals or doing it yourself, plan for:
Movers or rental trucks
Packing supplies
Storage (if needed)
We can provide you with a list of reputable companies.
8. Capital Gains (if applicable)
If the home you're selling is not your principal residence, you may need to pay capital gains tax. Talk to your accountant to understand what applies.
9. Property Transfer Tax (if applicable)
In most cases, the buyer pays the Property Transfer Tax. However, if you are buying another property simultaneously or transferring property within a family or estate, certain scenarios might result in unexpected costs or adjustments. Check with your legal professional to be sure.
10. GST (in some cases)
If you are selling a newly built home or have made substantial renovations, GST may be applicable on the sale. This is especially relevant in the case of presale assignments or investment properties. Always consult your accountant to confirm your obligations.
What It All Means for Sellers
Selling your home comes with expenses, but the good news is that most of them are predictable and manageable with the right guidance.
By understanding the costs upfront, you can make informed decisions, set realistic expectations, and feel confident throughout the process.
Related Reading
If you're in the early stages of preparing your home for sale, we recommend reading The Truth About Pricing Your Home Right. It’s packed with helpful insights that can make a big difference when it's time to list.
Final Thoughts
When you work with an experienced real estate team, we’ll help you navigate all of this—no surprises, no last-minute panic. We’re here to make sure your sale is not only smooth, but smart and profitable.
💬 Want a full breakdown of what selling your home will cost and how to prep for it? Book a free consultation and we’ll walk you through everything step by step.
Jen Murphy/ 778-882-5478/ info@murphyreg.ca
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