Who pays transfer taxes in Michigan when selling a home?

Typically the seller pays Michigan transfer tax at about $8.60 per $1,000 of the sale price, plus small recording fees.

Should I get a pre-listing inspection in Richmond, MI?

Yes. A pre-listing inspection helps you find issues early, control repair costs, and reduce renegotiations or deal fallout after the buyer’s inspection.

Are staging and professional photos worth it for Richmond sellers?

In competitive Macomb County markets, light staging and professional photography (including drone or twilight) can increase showings and improve final sale price.

How much do Richmond, MI sellers usually pay in total closing costs?

Plan for roughly 6–10% of the sale price after commission, title policy, transfer taxes, and potential buyer concessions or repair credits.

What other hidden costs should I plan for when selling in Richmond?

Common add-ons include marketing upgrades, temporary housing or storage if move-out overlaps, utility transfers, and moving expenses.

Hidden Costs of Selling a Home in Richmond, MI – 2025 Edition

Q: How much should I expect to spend preparing my Richmond home to sell?

Most sellers spend $1,000–$3,000 on cleaning, paint touch-ups, minor repairs, and light staging to boost appeal and shorten time on market.

Knybel Network - Real Estate
1 hour ago
3 min read

67823 Gleason St. Richmond MI Professional listing photo — *Professional photography makes your home stand out!*

Selling a home in Richmond, Michigan can feel straightforward... list, show, close.. move on. But many sellers are surprised by the true cost of selling once the transaction moves forward.

From prepping and staging to closing fees and buyer concessions, there are costs that can eat into your bottom line if you’re not prepared.Here’s a local, expert-backed guide to help you plan for the hidden costs of selling a home in Richmond MI in 2025.

Hidden costs of selling a home in Richmond MI

Pre-Listing Prep & Staging Expenses

Today’s Richmond buyers expect move-in ready homes — and small cosmetic changes can make a big difference.

Professional Cleaning & Decluttering: $200–$600.
Neutral Paint Touch-Ups: $300–$1,500.
Minor Repairs (hardware, drywall, caulking): $100–$500.
Professional Staging: $500–$2,000 for key rooms.

💡 Related Reading: Seller Tips for Selling Your Home in Shelby Township, MI

Pre-Listing Inspections & Repairs

A pre-listing inspection helps you control surprises that could cost you later.

General Home Inspection: $350–$500.
Sewer Scope: $150–$300 (worth it in older Richmond neighborhoods).
Roof & Furnace Tune-Ups: $200–$600.

Why it matters:If a buyer’s inspector finds problems first, you may end up paying more in last-minute concessions or losing the deal altogether.

Professional Photography & Marketing Upgrades

Simply uploading iPhone photos to the MLS isn’t enough.

Pro Photography + Drone: $200–$500.
Twilight Exterior Shots: $100–$200 add-on.
Targeted Social Ads: $100–$500 can dramatically increase local visibility.

💡 Tip: Ask your agent (or our team) about paid boosts in Richmond & northern Macomb County Facebook groups — these get houses seen by the right buyers fast.

Seller Closing Costs & Transfer Taxes

Even without concessions, sellers pay significant closing costs in Michigan:

Title Insurance (Owner’s Policy): $1,000–$1,500 (varies by price).
Transfer Taxes: $8.60 per $1,000 of sale price in Michigan (state tax).
Recording Fees & Misc: $50–$200.
Real Estate Commission: Typically 5–6% of sale price (split with buyer’s agent).

💡 Related Reading: Hidden Costs of Selling a Home in New Baltimore, MI

Buyer Concessions After Inspection

Even after pricing right, buyers may ask for credits:

Roof, HVAC, foundation, or water issues = common negotiation points.
Sometimes buyers request closing cost assistance if interest rates jump.

💡 Tip: Have your pre-listing inspection results handy to negotiate from a position of strength.

Occupancy & Timing Costs

If you sell before buying your next home:

Temporary Housing / Short-Term Rentals: $1,500–$3,000 per month.
Storage Units: $75–$250/month if you need to clear out early.

If you stay after closing (seller occupancy), expect to pay a per-diem rent back to the buyer.

Moving & Transition Expenses

Even local moves add up fast:

Local Movers: $900–$2,000 depending on home size.
Packing Supplies: $150–$400.
Utility Transfer Fees & Deposits: $50–$250.

Final Thoughts on Selling a home in Richmond, MI

Selling a home in Richmond, MI is about more than just setting a price.From staging and repairs to closing costs and concessions, understanding the hidden costs of selling will help you price smartly, negotiate effectively, and walk away with more equity.

A local Richmond-area expert (like the Knybel Network) can guide you on which costs are worth it — and how to avoid over-spending where it doesn’t matter.

❓ FAQ Section

How much should I expect to spend preparing my Richmond home to sell?

Most sellers spend $1,000–$3,000 on cleaning, paint, and small repairs to boost appeal.

Who pays transfer taxes in Michigan?

Typically the seller, at a rate of $8.60 per $1,000 of the sale price.

Should I pay for a pre-listing inspection?

Yes — it can save you from surprise repair requests or losing buyers during negotiation.

Are staging costs worth it?

In competitive Macomb County markets, staged homes often sell faster and for more money.

How much do Richmond sellers usually pay in total closing costs?

Expect 6–10% of the sale price after commission, title, transfer tax, and concessions.