How to Read & Understand Your Seller’s Net Sheet | Arizona Home Selling Guide
How to Read and Understand Your Seller’s Net Sheet
Your Bottom-Line Guide to What You’ll Actually Pocket at Closing
When you’re selling your home, the offer price gets the spotlight — but it’s not the same as your profit.
That’s why the Seller’s Net Sheet is one of the most important (and most overlooked) documents in your selling journey.
Think of it as your financial GPS: it maps out where every dollar goes so you know exactly what’s left for you when the dust settles.
1. The Purpose of a Net Sheet
Your net sheet is prepared to show you, in black and white, your estimated profit after subtracting:
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Your remaining mortgage or loans – The first big slice from the sale price.
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Real estate agent commissions – Usually a set percentage of the sale price, split between buyer’s and seller’s agents.
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Closing costs – Escrow fees, title insurance, recording fees, and any local transfer taxes.
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HOA-related expenses – Transfer fees, disclosure packet costs, or outstanding dues.
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Prorations – Adjustments for property taxes, HOA fees, or utilities that are split based on your closing date.
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Agreed-upon buyer credits or repairs – If you’ve promised to cover repairs or closing costs for the buyer, they’ll appear here.
2. Why It Matters More Than the Offer Price
The highest offer isn’t always the best offer.
Here’s why:
Offer A | Offer B |
---|---|
$455,000 | $450,000 |
Buyer asks for $10,000 in closing cost credit | No concessions |
45-day close | 30-day close |
Higher risk of financing delay | Strong pre-approval |
📊 In this example, Offer B could actually net you more in the end, even though the headline number is lower.
3. Reading Your Net Sheet Like a Pro
Here’s a slightly more detailed sample:
Item | Amount |
---|---|
Offer Price | $450,000 |
First Mortgage Payoff | -$200,000 |
Home Equity Loan Payoff | -$25,000 |
Agent Commissions (6%) | -$27,000 |
Escrow & Title Fees | -$2,500 |
HOA Transfer & Docs | -$500 |
Repairs/Credits to Buyer | -$1,800 |
Prorated Taxes (to buyer’s credit) | -$800 |
Estimated Net to Seller | $192,400 |
💡 Pro Tip: Always review multiple scenarios — for different sale prices, closing dates, and possible buyer requests — so you’re never caught off guard.
4. Common Seller Mistakes to Avoid
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Ignoring small fees – They add up quickly and can shave thousands off your take-home.
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Focusing only on price – Net proceeds matter more than the top-line number.
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Skipping the “what-if” review – Not running alternate net sheets for different offers or concessions can leave money on the table.
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Forgetting early payoff penalties – Some loans have them, and they can surprise you.
5. How to Maximize Your Net Proceeds
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Negotiate smartly – Push back on excessive buyer credits or unnecessary repairs.
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Time your closing – Closing right after taxes or HOA dues are paid can reduce prorations.
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Shop title & escrow services – In some cases, sellers can choose providers with lower fees.
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Present your home in top shape – A well-maintained home reduces buyer demands for credits.
📌 Bottom Line
The Seller’s Net Sheet is your truth-teller in a transaction.
It reveals what you’ll actually walk away with — and empowers you to make the smartest decisions before signing on the dotted line.
📞 Sold Realty Group is here to make sure you understand every line item and keep more money in your pocket.
We’ll walk you through your net sheet step-by-step so you close with confidence — and zero surprises.
📍 Serving Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gilbert, and surrounding areas
📞 Reach out today: 480-309-4322
📩 Email us: [email protected]
🌐 Visit us online: www.soldrealtygroupaz.com
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