Selling a house is rarely as straightforward as it may seem. Many homeowners in Portland are often surprised by the long list of expenses that appear throughout the process. While most people are aware of real estate commissions and closing costs, there are several hidden expenses that can quickly cut into your profits—repairs, marketing strategies, and even staging the property to attract buyers. For someone who wants a faster, more affordable alternative, selling directly to Better Off Home Buyers can be an excellent option. We purchase homes in any condition, typically closing in just a matter of days, so you can skip the hassle of these added costs. Below, let’s take a closer look at the most common expenses you may encounter when selling a house in Portland.
Commissions and Closing Costs
Real estate commissions are often the largest expense sellers face. Traditional agents typically charge between 5–6% of the final sale price, which may not sound like much at first, but it adds up quickly. On a $350,000 home, you could be handing over more than $20,000 just in commission fees. On top of that, sellers are responsible for closing costs, which might include title insurance, attorney fees, escrow charges, and various administrative expenses. These are unavoidable with a conventional sale and can put a real dent in your bottom line. By choosing to sell to Better Off Home Buyers, you don’t have to worry about these expenses at all. We handle the paperwork, cover the closing costs, and never charge commissions. You’ll know exactly how much money you will walk away with from the very beginning.
Repair and Renovation Expenses
Another major financial burden when selling your home involves repairs. Buyers today often expect homes to be move-in ready, which means you may need to fix structural issues, repaint walls, upgrade flooring, or even remodel kitchens and bathrooms to compete in the Portland housing market. These improvements can take weeks—or even months—and cost tens of thousands of dollars. Even small updates like landscaping or patching a roof leak can add up quickly. When you sell directly to Better Off Home Buyers, you can completely skip this step. We buy houses as-is, whether they need minor cosmetic updates or major renovations. You don’t have to spend another dollar on a property you’re ready to leave behind.
Marketing and Staging Costs
Attracting buyers takes more than just putting a sign in the yard. Successful marketing usually requires professional photos, online listings, social media campaigns, and possibly video tours. Staging is another common cost, where furniture and décor are strategically placed to help buyers imagine themselves in the home. These services can run hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the property. Additionally, you’ll have to keep your home spotless for every showing and open house, which can be stressful and time-consuming. With Better Off Home Buyers, none of this is necessary. We buy your home directly, without the need for showings, open houses, or endless cleanings. There’s no waiting around for buyers to make an offer.
Selling a home in Portland, Oregon can be expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable. From hefty commissions to costly repairs and marketing fees, the process can drain both your wallet and your energy. The good news is that you have options. By selling directly to Better Off Home Buyers, you avoid all of these unnecessary expenses and gain the freedom to move forward on your own timeline.