Who Pays Closing Costs When Selling a House?

If you’re in a tough spot, behind on mortgage payments, dealing with probate, or facing foreclosure, you might be wondering:
“How much will I actually pay at closing?”

Whether you’re working with an agent or selling your house fast in Wisconsin, this guide breaks down who covers what and how much you can expect to walk away with.

What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the various fees, taxes, and services paid when a home sale is finalized. In Wisconsin, these can include:

• Title insurance and search fees

• Transfer taxes

• Attorney fees (optional but common)

• Real estate commissions

• Property taxes and recording fees

According to Wisconsin’s Department of Revenue, some of these are mandatory, like the Real Estate Transfer Fee (0.3% of the sale price).

Buyer vs. Seller Costs in Wisconsin

Here’s a breakdown of who typically pays what during a Wisconsin home sale:

Example: Wisconsin Cash Sale Breakdown

Let’s say you’re in Green Bay, and you accept a $140,000 as-is cash offer from a local buyer. Here’s how your closing costs might break down:

You walk away with approximately $137,580
That number can go up if the cash buyer covers your closing costs, which is common in fast-sale scenarios.

Why Distressed Homeowners Often Choose Cash Sales

If you’re behind on payments or inherited a house with major repairs, selling the traditional way may not be an option.

More homeowners in Wisconsin are turning to as-is cash sales because:

• Fast closings (as quick as 7 days)

• No repairs or cleaning needed

• No agent commissions or listing fees

• Buyers often pay closing costs

• Skip showings, inspections, and delays

Even if the home has code violations, liens, or water damage, some cash buyers will still make an offer.

Always Request a Net Sheet

Before closing, make sure the buyer or title company provides a seller’s net sheet. This document lays out:

• Final purchase price

• Estimated taxes and fees

• Remaining mortgage balance

• What you’ll actually receive at closing

You can also download a free net sheet template here to plug in your numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do sellers always pay the closing costs in Wisconsin?

No. While sellers cover most costs like transfer taxes and title insurance, many fees can be split or negotiated—especially in off-market or direct-to-buyer deals.

2. Can a cash buyer cover all my closing costs?

Yes, it’s common for investors or local home buyers to cover all seller fees to simplify the process. Always confirm this in writing before closing.

3. What’s the cheapest way to sell a house with no agent?

Selling directly to a cash buyer eliminates commissions (up to 6%) and often reduces your out-of-pocket costs significantly.

4. Do I need an attorney to sell my house in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin doesn’t require one, but hiring a real estate attorney for around $300–$500 can protect you—especially if your home has title issues, divorce complications, or unpaid taxes.

5. What happens if I owe back property taxes or have a lien?

Those will be deducted from your proceeds at closing, but you can still sell. Many buyers will help clear liens as part of the deal.

Closing Costs Don’t Have to Be a Dealbreaker

Closing costs in Wisconsin can feel confusing at first, but in most cases, distressed homeowners can avoid the majority of them by choosing a reputable cash buyer. If you need help, make sure you’re working with someone who offers:

• Transparent pricing and no hidden fees

• The option to close on your timeline

• Help to navigate liens, code issues, or foreclosure