How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
On a median Fort Lauderdale home priced at $520,000, selling costs typically include: (1) listing-side commission — traditionally 2.5–3% ($13,000–$15,600), or $99 with flat fee MLS; (2) buyer-agent commission — typically 2–2.5% ($10,400–$13,000), paid at closing; (3) Florida title and closing costs — typically 1–2% ($5,200–$10,400); and (4) documentary stamp tax — $0.70 per $100 of sale price ($3,640). Total cost of sale ranges from $18,299 (flat fee MLS + buyer-agent + closing costs) to $39,000 (traditional full-service both sides).
The Biggest Variable: Listing-Side Commission in Fort Lauderdale
The single largest variable in what you pay to sell a Fort Lauderdale home is the listing-side commission. Traditional listing agents in Florida charge 2.5–3%, which on a $520,000 home equals $13,000–$15,600. This fee is paid at closing from your proceeds — you never write a check, but it comes directly out of what you keep. Flat fee MLS replaces this with a $99 upfront fee and zero closing fees on Basic and Premium packages.
Buyer-Agent Commission: Still Optional After 2024 NAR Settlement
After the August 2024 NAR settlement, Florida sellers are no longer required to offer buyer-agent compensation on the MLS. However, most Fort Lauderdale sellers still offer 2–2.5% to attract buyer agents and maximize offers. On a $520,000 home, that's $10,400–$13,000 paid at closing. This cost applies whether you use a traditional agent or flat fee MLS.
Florida Closing Costs for Fort Lauderdale Sellers
Beyond commissions, Florida sellers typically pay: documentary stamp tax ($0.70 per $100 of sale price — $3,640 on a $520,000 home), title insurance (varies by county — sellers pay in most South Florida counties), settlement/closing fee ($400–$800), and prorated property taxes. Non-commission closing costs typically run $5,200–$10,400 on a $520,000 Fort Lauderdale home.