California Seller Closing Costs Guide: Transfer Tax and Net Proceeds

Last updated November 13, 2026. Reviewed by the Cash Home Buyers CA team. The transfer tax rate comes from California Revenue and Taxation Code section 11911; sources are listed at the end.

The state’s county documentary transfer tax is $0.55 for each $500 of value, or fraction of $500, under Revenue and Taxation Code 11911, and a city can add its own tax of half the county amount. On a $600,000 sale that is $660 at the county rate.

Beyond transfer tax, what you pay at closing depends on your loan payoff, the commission you agree to, and the escrow and title charges in your contract. This guide shows how the pieces fit and lets you estimate your net proceeds.

Seller closing costs: what to expect

How is documentary transfer tax calculated?

Divide the taxable value by $500, round any fraction up to the next whole $500, then multiply by $0.55 for the county tax. For a $600,000 home, that is 1,200 units times $0.55, or $660. A city that imposes its own tax adds half the county amount per $500 on top, so check your city’s rate.

The statute also says a lien or encumbrance that remains on the property after the sale is not counted in the taxed value.

Estimate your net proceeds

Enter your own figures. The tool adds the county transfer tax automatically and subtracts the rest from the price.

Estimate your transfer tax on its own

How to sell a house in California and keep more of the price

1. Get a payoff statement. Ask your lender for the amount to pay off the loan on your closing date.
2. Ask for an itemized estimate. Escrow and title companies can send a seller’s estimate sheet before you sign.
3. Negotiate the commission. It is set by agreement and is not fixed by law.
4. Check your city’s transfer tax. Some cities add a tax on top of the county’s.
5. Compare net, not price. A higher list price with repairs, commission and months of carrying costs can net less than a direct cash sale.

See where we buy houses across California.

Want to see what a no-fee cash sale would net you? Call (424) 435-2326 or request a cash offer. There is no cost and no obligation.

Seller closing costs FAQ

What is the California documentary transfer tax rate?

The county tax is $0.55 for each $500 of value or fraction, and a city that imposes its own tax adds half the county amount per $500, under Revenue and Taxation Code 11911.

Does the transfer tax count the loan I am paying off?

The statute excludes the value of a lien or encumbrance that remains on the property at the time of sale. A loan you pay off at closing is not a remaining lien.

Is the real estate commission set by law?

No. It is agreed between you and your agent.

Who handles escrow and title charges?

The escrow and title companies charge them, and your contract says who pays. Ask for an estimate sheet before you sign.

Do cash buyers charge seller fees?

Our offers come with zero commissions and zero closing costs charged to the seller.

Sources

• California Legislature: Revenue and Taxation Code section 11911

This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Confirm exact costs with your escrow officer and your city or county.