Country guide · United States
Selling a home in the United States
Pricing, listing agreement, disclosures and closing costs – what sellers should plan for.
Updated: 04/10/2026
In brief
- Set the price from comparable recent sales, not from asking prices
- Most states require written seller disclosures of known defects
- Budget for brokerage fees, transfer charges and prorated property taxes
- Appraisal and inspection findings often reopen price talks
1. Pricing and preparation
Agents prepare a comparative market analysis of similar homes that actually sold nearby. Repairs, decluttering and photography influence how long the property sits on the market, and long listing times often end in price reductions.
2. Listing agreement and marketing
The listing agreement sets the term, the services and the fee structure. Ask how the property will be marketed, who handles enquiries, and whether the agent also represents buyers. Terms and fees are negotiable.
3. Disclosures
Most states require sellers to disclose known material defects, past repairs, insurance claims and issues such as flooding or unpermitted work. Some states also require specific forms on lead paint for older homes.
4. Closing
The buyer's lender orders an appraisal and the closing agent prepares the settlement statement. Sellers typically pay transfer charges, any outstanding taxes and prorations, broker fees as agreed, and the payoff of the existing mortgage.
Common questions
Can I sell without an agent?
Yes, a private sale is allowed in every state. You then handle pricing, contracts, disclosures and closing yourself, and many buyers' agents will still expect a written agreement about their fee.
Official sources and further reading
National starting points only. State, provincial and territorial rules may add further requirements.
Professionals in United States
Documented profiles of agents, developers, managers, investors and architects, listed in a neutral order.
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General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.