What a Seller Pays to Close a Commercial Sale
The headline price isn’t what you keep. Here are the costs that come out of a commercial sale at closing — and how a direct, as-is sale changes the math.
The short version
On a traditional commercial sale, a seller’s costs typically include the broker commission (often the largest line), title and closing fees, any transfer taxes or recording fees, prorated property taxes, and the payoff of any loan and liens. In a direct, as-is sale there’s no commission, usually minimal closing costs, and no repair credits — which is why the lower “top-line” price can net out closer to a listing than owners expect.
The line items, in plain terms
Commission; owner’s title work and closing/escrow fees; transfer taxes and recording (varies by state and county — Indiana and Kentucky differ); property-tax prorations; loan payoff and lien releases; and attorney fees if you use one.
Why the net matters more than the price
A higher list price with 5–6% commission, repair credits, and months of carrying costs can net less than a clean direct sale. Run the net, not just the headline.
What a direct sale removes
No commission, no repair negotiation, minimal closing costs, and a faster close that stops the carrying costs. (Exact costs depend on your county, your title company, and the deal.)
Closing-cost questions owners ask
Who pays the commission?
In a brokered sale, typically the seller; in a direct sale to us, there’s none.
Do I pay closing costs in a direct sale?
Usually minimal — we’ll lay out what applies to your transaction.
Are transfer taxes the same in Indiana and Kentucky?
No — they differ by state and county; confirm the figure for your property.
Where owners go from here
Want to see the net, not just the price?
Tell us about the building and the situation. We’ll explain what a direct sale nets you — free, confidential, no obligation.