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How Much Does It Cost to Close When You’re Selling a House?
Closing on the sale of your home can feel like crossing the finish line in a marathon—relief, excitement, and a touch of anxiety. You’re selling, possibly upgrading or downsizing, and looking toward a new chapter. But before you pop the champagne, there’s one last hurdle: the closing costs. These are the fees and expenses due when the home sale is finalized, and they can take a bigger bite out of your profits than many sellers expect.
What Costs Does the Seller Pay at Closing? That’s one of the most common (and crucial) questions you’ll need answered, especially if you’re planning your next home purchase, calculating your net proceeds, or hiring a real estate agent. Most sellers pay between 6% and 10% of the home’s sale price in closing costs—yet most don’t know exactly where that money goes. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about closing costs in Canada, especially in places like Mississauga, and share insider tips that many real estate websites gloss over.
If you’re thinking of listing your home in the Greater Toronto Area, our Top Real Estate Agent Mississauga expert at Mississauga Homes can help you navigate the selling process with clarity, transparency, and confidence.
What Are Closing Costs for Sellers?
Closing costs for sellers are the fees, taxes, and charges that must be paid to complete the home sale transaction. While buyers typically have more upfront fees, sellers carry the larger financial burden in terms of commission, legal fees, and certain taxes. These costs are settled during the final stage of the transaction, right before the property legally transfers to the new owner.
Unlike buyers who often roll some of their costs into the mortgage, sellers usually pay these costs directly from their sale proceeds.
Key Expenses for Sellers When Finalizing a Home Sale in Canada
Let’s break down the most common (and costly) closing fees Canadian sellers face, especially in real estate hotspots like Mississauga, where home prices hover around $1 million CAD as of 2024.
1. Real Estate Commission
This is typically the largest fee for home sellers. In Canada, real estate commissions usually total between 4% and 6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.
- On a $1,000,000 home in Mississauga, you could expect to pay $40,000 to $60,000 in commission.
- Commission isn’t standardized—it’s negotiable, especially in a competitive market.
2. Legal Fees
Real estate lawyers handle documentation, funds transfer, and ensure the title is clear. Legal fees for sellers in Ontario average between $700 and $1,500.
Additional charges may apply for:
- Mortgage discharge paperwork
- Title insurance policies
- Courier or disbursement fees
3. Title Insurance
While typically a buyer’s responsibility, sometimes sellers cover this as a goodwill gesture or negotiation point. Title insurance in Ontario can cost $200 to $400, depending on the property value and coverage.
4. Mortgage Discharge Fees
If you’re still carrying a mortgage, you’ll need to pay it off. In Ontario:
- Mortgage discharge fees range from $200 to $350.
- Some lenders may also charge early repayment penalties, especially if you’re in a fixed-term mortgage. This can cost you three months’ interest or more—in some cases, several thousand dollars.
Property Tax Adjustments at Closing: What Sellers Need to Know
This often-overlooked cost involves prorating your property taxes. If you’ve already paid your taxes for the year, the buyer will reimburse you for the unused portion. But if taxes are due and unpaid, you’ll be responsible for covering them up to the closing date.
- In Mississauga, the 2024 residential tax rate is approximately 0.874% of the assessed value.
- For a $1 million home, that’s about $8,740/year, or $728/month. If your home closes mid-year, expect a $4,370 adjustment.
Some municipalities in Ontario charge interest or penalties if taxes aren’t paid on time, even during the sale process. Sellers should always double-check their statements to avoid unexpected deductions at closing.
Transfer Taxes and Fees
In most provinces, the buyer pays the land transfer tax, but there are exceptions and rare negotiations where sellers may agree to cover part of it. In Ontario, this is seldom the case, but it’s still important to understand local customs.
- In Toronto, a municipal land transfer tax is also levied—adding double costs for city sellers (not applicable to Mississauga).
- Some lawyers include registration and discharge fees in their flat rate, but others bill separately.
Homeowners Association (HOA) and Condo Fees
If your property is part of a condo or HOA:
- Sellers may need to pay status certificate fees (typically $100–$150).
- Prorated condo or HOA dues may also apply.
- In some cases, sellers are required to clear any outstanding balances before closing.
Optional Costs Sellers Might Incur
1. Home Staging and Pre-Sale Cleaning
Many sellers invest in home staging to boost appeal and get top-dollar offers. While not technically closing costs, they directly affect the outcome of your sale.
- Professional staging: $1,500–$3,000+
- Deep cleaning: $200–$500
2. Repairs or Buyer Concessions
Buyers may request repairs following a home inspection or ask for a credit at closing instead. This can cost a seller thousands of dollars, and it’s a part of the process rarely discussed until it happens.
Have a pre-listing inspection to identify red flags before buyers do. It reduces surprises and puts you in control of negotiations.
3. Home Warranty
Some sellers offer a one-year home warranty to entice buyers, especially in competitive markets. Costs range from $400 to $800, and while optional, it’s a nice value-add that can prevent post-sale complaints.
Example: Estimated Breakdown on a $1,000,000 Sale in Mississauga
| Item | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
| Real Estate Commission (5%) | $50,000 |
| Legal Fees | $1,200 |
| Mortgage Discharge + Penalties | $2,000 |
| Title Insurance (optional) | $300 |
| Property Tax Adjustment | $4,370 (prorated) |
| Staging and Cleaning (optional) | $2,000 |
| HOA/Status Certificate Fees | $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $60,000 – $65,000+ |
How to Reduce Closing Costs as a Seller
While some expenses are fixed, there are ways to minimize your costs:
- Negotiate agent commissions—especially if you’re buying a new home with the same agent.
- Compare legal fees—don’t go with the first quote.
- Avoid costly repairs—handle issues preemptively.
- Skip extras unless the ROI is clear (like warranties or cosmetic staging).
- Work with a skilled agent who can guide you through every cost-saving opportunity.
Why Working with a Trusted Real Estate Agent Matters
If you’re selling in Mississauga, you need a real estate agent who not only knows the market—but understands how to protect your bottom line.
At Mississauga Homes, our Top Real Estate Agent Mississauga expert has helped hundreds of homeowners sell smarter, faster, and more profitably. We’ll:
- Provide transparent estimates for your net proceeds.
- Strategically price your home to offset closing costs.
- Market your property for maximum exposure and return.
- Negotiate offers and concessions with your financial goals in mind.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home is a significant milestone, but it also comes with hidden costs that many sellers overlook. While real estate commission is the most obvious, the combination of legal fees, mortgage penalties, tax adjustments, and optional upgrades can reduce your final payout by thousands. By planning ahead and working with a knowledgeable real estate expert, you can ensure you’re not leaving money on the table.
Thinking of selling your home in Mississauga or the GTA? Don’t let hidden closing costs catch you off guard. Partner with a trusted expert who understands the ins and outs of the local market. Our Top Real Estate Agent Mississauga professional will walk you through every step—from pricing and staging to closing and negotiation. Visit Mississauga Homes today to book a consultation and take the first step toward a confident, profitable sale. Your next chapter starts with the right team by your side.
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