Know exactly what you'll walk away with in Texas.

Seller guide

Understanding Closing Costs & Net Proceeds in Texas

Selling a home in Texas is usually cheaper at the closing table than in most big states because Texas charges no state transfer tax. Your biggest costs will be your mortgage payoff, agent commissions, and the owner's title policy — which sellers here traditionally pay for.

Key local custom breakdown

• Transfer tax: Texas has no state or county transfer tax, so you only pay small recording fees (usually around $100).
• Title insurance: By local custom the seller buys the Owner's Title Policy for the buyer; escrow fees are typically split 50/50.
• Commissions: After the 2024 NAR settlement, the listing fee and any buyer-agent concession are negotiated separately — you're no longer locked into a flat 6%.

How the Texas transfer tax is calculated

Transfer Tax = $0 (Texas has no state transfer tax)

Frequently asked questions (Texas real estate)

What is the real estate transfer tax rate in Texas?

Texas is one of the few states that charges $0 in state real estate transfer taxes. The state constitution strictly prohibits the imposition of a joint transfer tax on real estate sales, keeping your transaction fees significantly lower than states like New York or California.

Who pays for title insurance and escrow fees in Texas?

By Texas real estate custom, the seller traditionally purchases and pays for the Owner's Title Insurance Policy, while the buyer pays for their lender's title policy. Escrow and settlement fees are typically split 50/50 between the buyer and the seller.

How do the new 2026 commission rules affect Texas home sellers?

Following the historic NAR settlement, real estate commissions are decoupled. Texas sellers no longer blindly offer a fixed 6% blanket commission on the MLS. Listing agent fees and buyer agent concessions are negotiated separately. Sumline separates these inputs so you can accurately protect your equity.