What It Costs to Sell a House in Ocean County, NJ

Most sellers know their sale price and their mortgage balance. The costs in between are what surprise people at closing. Here's what New Jersey sellers typically pay, and what's worth planning for before you list.

State and county costs

• Realty transfer fee. In New Jersey the seller usually pays this fee when the deed is recorded. It's based on the sale price, and partial exemptions exist for qualifying seniors, blind or disabled sellers, and some low- and moderate-income housing. 
• The "mansion tax" on sales over $1 million. As of July 10, 2025, sellers pay this tax, not buyers. The rate rises from 1% to 3.5% depending on the price, and it applies to the whole sale price once a tier is reached.
• Nonresident sellers. If you don't live in New Jersey, you'll generally make an estimated income tax payment at closing (2% of the sale price) unless an exemption applies.

Closing and legal costs

• Attorney fees. Most NJ sales use attorneys on both sides, starting with the three-day attorney review period.
• Payoffs. Your mortgage, any home equity line, and any liens or judgments are paid from your proceeds.
• Property tax and utility adjustments. Taxes are prorated to the closing date, so you may get a credit or owe one.

Town inspections

• Smoke, carbon monoxide and fire extinguisher certificate. Required before closing for one- and two-family homes. Your town or fire district schedules the inspection. 
• Resale certificate of occupancy. Some Ocean County towns require one and others don't. Requirements differ by municipality, so check early, because a failed inspection can delay closing.

Getting the home ready

Repairs, cleaning, staging, landscaping and moving costs vary the most. 

Agent compensation

Commissions in New Jersey are negotiable, and sellers now decide separately whether to offer compensation to a buyer's agent. Ask any agent you interview to put their fees and services in writing.

Get your number before you decide

The best way to see your bottom line is a net sheet based on a realistic sale price. Get your home's value or talk with our team, and we'll walk you through the numbers for your home.