Will I Be Charged if I Take My House Off the Market?

Deciding to sell your home is a big step, but sometimes plans change, and you might consider taking it off the market.

Whether you’re withdrawing your listings due to shifting circumstances or simply rethinking your decision, you’re not alone. Nearly 29% of sellers temporarily withdraw their listings.

Before making this decision, you need to know if you will be charged to take your house off the market to avoid unexpected costs.

Is There a Fee for Taking Your House Off the Market?

No, you typically won’t be charged for taking your house off the market. However, it depends on your signed agreements with your real estate agent.

Some contracts may include a clause about covering marketing costs or paying a cancellation fee if you pull out early, so it’s worth double-checking the terms. If you’re selling alone, there’s usually no cost involved. Just make sure to notify everyone involved to avoid confusion.

How to Avoid Fees When Taking Your House Off the Market

If you’re considering taking your house off the market and want to avoid fees, here’s how to handle it:

1. Review Your Listing Agreement

Carefully read the contract you signed with your real estate agent. Look for terms related to cancellation or withdrawal, such as:  

• Cancellation fees: Some agreements include fees if you terminate early.  
• Marketing cost reimbursement: Agents may charge for expenses like photography or advertising.  
• Exclusive right-to-sell clause: This may bind you to pay the agent if the property sells within a certain period, even off-market.

2. Negotiate With Your Agent  

If fees apply, talk to your agent about waiving or reducing them. A good working relationship and clear communication can help.  

3. Time Your Decision Strategically  

If your contract expires, consider waiting until it naturally ends to avoid penalties.  

4. Choose a Non-Binding Contract  

If you plan to relist later, ensure your next agreement is flexible and does not include cancellation fees or strict clauses.  

5. Document Everything

When you decide to withdraw the listing, notify your agent in writing. Keep copies of all communications to avoid disputes. 

How to Sell Your House Off Market

Selling your house off-market can be a flexible and low-pressure way to sell your property. Apart from avoiding traditional listing methods, you’ll be able to explore various options. 

For Sale By Owner (FSBO)  

FSBO is a method of handling the sale directly without a real estate agent. It’s a popular choice for off-market sales because it puts you in complete control of the process. Here’s how to go about it:

Set a Competitive Price

Research comparable sales in your area (use tools like Zillow or Redfin) to price your home accurately. Overpricing can scare buyers away, while underpricing cuts into your profits.

Market Your Property Privately

Rather than listing it on public platforms, share details through personal networks, social media, local community boards, or targeted mail campaigns.

Negotiate Directly with Buyers

Be prepared to discuss terms and handle paperwork, including the purchase agreement. You might want to hire a real estate attorney to ensure compliance with local laws.  

Sell to an iBuyer

iBuyers are companies that make instant cash offers on homes based on algorithms and market data.

This convenient route may fetch you a lower sale price than the open market, usually 70% of your home’s value. Here’s how it works:  

Submit Your Property Details:

Go to the iBuyer’s website and provide information about your house.  

Receive an Offer

The company will evaluate your property and send you a cash offer within days.

Close Quickly

If you accept, they handle most of the closing process. Sales can close in as little as a week.

Consider the Costs

While fast and hassle-free, iBuyers often charge service fees (typically 5%-7% of the sale price) and may deduct repair costs from the offer.

Network Privately

Selling off-market often relies on personal connections. Here are some ways to use your network:

Reach Out to Friends and Family

Spread the word that your house is for sale. Someone in your circle might be interested or know a potential buyer.

Connect With Real Estate Agents

Even if you’re not listing publicly, a good agent can leverage their network to find private buyers. Agents often have connections with investors or clients seeking properties off-market.  

Direct Mail Campaigns

Send personalized letters to nearby homeowners or landlords interested in your property.  

Social Media

Post on private groups or your profile to gauge interest. Be careful not to violate platform rules about real estate advertising.

Sell to Tenants or Neighbors

If your property is rented, offer it to your tenants—they’re already familiar with the home and may prefer to buy rather than move.

Alternatively, talk to neighbors who may want to expand their properties or know someone looking to buy in the area.

Sell Your Home Fast and As-Is with Grandview Homes

At Grandview Homes, we specialize in providing emotional and financial relief to home sellers by making the process simple, fast, and stress-free. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult-to-sell property or navigating the emotional journey of selling a family home, we’re here to help.

We buy homes as-is, no matter the condition. There’s no need for repairs, cleaning, or the hassle of listing with a real estate agent. From city apartments to countryside homes, we handle properties with challenges like fire or water damage, mold, or foundation issues.

Our first offer is always our best—fair, transparent, and delivered within 24 hours.

With Grandview, you can close on your timeline, often in as little as 10 days, and get paid in cash. There is no waiting, no uncertainty—just a smooth, straightforward process that puts you in control.

Ready to sell your home fast and hassle-free? Request a no-obligation offer today and experience the Grandview difference.