Seller closing costs in the Austin area
In Texas the seller customarily pays for the owner's title insurance policy, their share of prorated property taxes through the closing date, any negotiated agent compensation, HOA transfer and resale certificate fees, and often a survey if an existing one cannot be used. Everything on that list is negotiable and varies by contract. Ask for a written net sheet before you accept an offer.
The usual line items
These appear on most Central Texas closing statements.
- Owner's title policy, customarily the seller in Texas, priced by a state promulgated rate
- Prorated property taxes from January 1 through the closing date
- Agent compensation as negotiated and disclosed in writing
- HOA transfer fee and resale certificate, which the association sets
- Survey, if an existing survey plus affidavit is not acceptable to the title company
- Any repair credits or seller concessions agreed during the option period
Taxes are the one that surprises people
Texas property taxes are paid in arrears, so a seller closing in September owes roughly eight months of the year's taxes at closing even though no bill has arrived yet.
On a house with a $15,000 annual tax bill that is around $10,000 out of proceeds. Plan for it.
Get a net sheet
A net sheet estimates what you actually walk away with after everything comes out. Ask for one before you accept an offer, not after.
Two offers with the same price can net very differently once concessions and closing date are accounted for.
Common questions
Who pays the title policy in Texas?
Customarily the seller pays for the owner's title policy, though like everything else in the contract it is negotiable.
Are real estate commissions negotiable?
Yes, and they always have been. Since 2024, compensation to a buyer's agent is negotiated and disclosed separately. Ask for the specifics in writing.
Do I need a new survey to sell?
Not always. Title companies will often accept an existing survey with a T-47 affidavit if nothing has changed on the property. If there have been additions, fences, or a pool, expect to need a new one.