Seller Closing Costs in Virginia: What to Expect in 2026
Selling a home in Virginia involves several closing costs that sellers should be aware of. Understanding these expenses can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises at closing.
Local insight
Virginia's transfer tax is $1 per $1,000 of sale price—one of the lowest in the DMV region. However, real estate commissions typically run 5-6% of the sale price, making this your largest closing cost.
Common Seller Closing Costs in Virginia
- Real Estate Agent Commission: Typically 5-6% of the sale price, split between the buyer's and seller's agents.
- Title Insurance: Protects the buyer and lender from title disputes. In Virginia the buyer customarily pays for the owner's policy, unless the contract shifts it to the seller.
- Transfer Taxes: Virginia charges a state grantor tax, and Northern Virginia adds two regional fees.
- Attorney Fees: If you hire an attorney to handle the closing, expect to pay $500-$1,500.
- Recording Fees: Paid to the county to record the deed transfer.
- Outstanding Mortgage Balance: Any remaining mortgage balance will be paid off at closing.
Virginia Transfer Tax
Virginia's state transfer tax is $1 per $1,000 of the sale price (0.1%). In Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park), sellers also pay a regional WMATA capital fee and a regional congestion relief fee of $0.10 per $100 each (Va. Code §§ 58.1-802.3 and 58.1-802.4).
Example: On a $500,000 home, the Virginia state transfer tax would be $500. In Fairfax County the two regional fees add another $1,000, for $1,500 in total.
Unlike Maryland and DC, Virginia does not have a recordation tax based on loan amount—this makes Virginia one of the more affordable jurisdictions for closing costs in the DMV region.
How to Estimate Your Closing Costs
Use our Virginia Closing Cost Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your home's sale price and location.
Estimated Seller Costs Example
For a $500,000 home in Virginia:
- • Real Estate Commission (6%): $30,000
- • Transfer Tax (0.1%): $500
- • Attorney Fees: $500-1,500
- • Recording Fees: $50-150
- • Estimated Total: $31,050 - $32,150
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate closing costs as a seller?
Some costs, like real estate agent commissions, may be negotiable. Discuss options with your agent.
Are there any seller concessions in Virginia?
Yes, sellers can agree to pay for certain buyer costs, such as inspection fees or repairs.
How much is the Virginia transfer tax?
The state grantor tax is $1 per $1,000 of the sale price. In Northern Virginia, sellers also pay two regional fees of $0.10 per $100 each.
When do I pay closing costs?
All closing costs are paid at the settlement table when the sale is finalized.
Get Your Virginia Seller Closing Cost Estimate
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