The listing price on Zillow is not the number that lands in your bank account. By the time a traditional sale closes, a chunk has gone to commissions, repairs, carrying costs, and the inevitable price renegotiation after inspection. Let us line them up side by side so you can see the real difference.
The traditional sale, itemized
- Agent commission: typically 5 to 6% of the sale price, split between sides.
- Seller-paid closing costs: often 1 to 3% of the price.
- Pre-listing repairs and staging: a few thousand to tens of thousands.
- Carrying costs while on the market: mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities for 60 to 90+ days.
- Inspection-driven price drops or repair credits: 2 to 5% is common.
The cash sale, itemized
We pay standard closing costs. There is no commission because there is no agent. There are no repairs because we buy as-is. There is no inspection contingency, so the offer is the offer. The number on the agreement is the number wired to your account.
When the cash number still makes sense
A cash offer is usually below the top MLS price, and that is fair to call out. The question is whether the gap is larger than what you would spend and lose to get that higher price. For a home that needs work, or a seller on a timeline, the math frequently favors cash. For a move-in ready home with a patient seller, listing can win. We will tell you honestly which side of that line you are on.
