Cost of Selling a House in Maine — What Sellers Need to Know (2026)
Quick Answer: Selling a home in Maine typically costs between 7% and 10% of the sale price, including agent commission, Maine's real estate transfer tax ($2.20 per $500), closing and attorney fees, title search, and prorated property taxes. As of November 2025, sales over $1 million are subject to an additional transfer tax. Exact costs depend on your transaction — consult your agent and attorney for a breakdown specific to your sale.
Selling a home in Maine doesn't have to be complicated. But it helps to know what costs to expect before you list — so there are no surprises at the closing table and you can plan around your net proceeds.
Here's a straightforward breakdown of the cost categories sellers typically encounter when selling a home in Maine.
Common Costs of Selling a Home in Maine
| Cost | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Commission | Negotiable | Discuss with your agent before listing |
| Maine Real Estate Transfer Tax | $2.20 per $500 of sale price | Set by Maine state law — split varies by contract |
| Additional Transfer Tax (sales over $1M) | Additional $3.80 per $500 on amount over $1M | Effective November 1, 2025 — see Maine Revenue Services |
| Closing / Attorney Fees | Varies by provider | Maine closings are typically attorney-handled |
| Title Search | Varies by provider | Confirms clear title to the property |
| Recording Fees | Set by county Registry of Deeds | Deed recording and mortgage discharge |
| Mortgage Payoff | Varies | Your remaining loan balance at closing |
| Repairs or Buyer Credits | Varies | Based on inspection findings and negotiation |
| Prorated Property Taxes | Varies by municipality | You pay taxes through your closing date |
| Staging or Prep Costs | Varies | Optional — can improve sale price and time on market |
| Real Estate Withholding (non-residents) | 2.5% of sale price | Maine withholds from non-resident sellers — see Maine Revenue Services |
Maine Real Estate Transfer Tax
Maine charges a real estate transfer tax of $2.20 per $500 of the sale price. How the transfer tax is split between buyer and seller depends on how the purchase and sale agreement is written — it's a negotiable item, not a fixed obligation for either party. Your agent can walk you through how it's typically handled in your market.
Important change effective November 1, 2025: For properties selling above $1,000,000, Maine now imposes an additional transfer tax of $3.80 per $500 on the portion of the sale price exceeding $1 million. This applies on top of the base $2.20 rate. How this additional cost is allocated between buyer and seller is also subject to negotiation and contract terms.
For current rates, exemptions, and the state's official transfer tax calculator, visit Maine Revenue Services — Transfer Tax.
Closing Fees
Maine real estate closings are typically handled by a licensed attorney or title company. Closing fees vary depending on the transaction complexity and the provider. In most straightforward sales, the process is smooth and the fees are reasonable. Your agent can refer you to experienced local closing professionals in York and Cumberland counties.
What Are Closing Costs in Maine for Buyers?
Buyers in Maine typically pay closing costs ranging from 2–5% of the purchase price. These may include lender fees, title insurance, attorney fees, prepaid homeowners insurance, prepaid property taxes, and recording fees. The exact amount depends on your loan type, lender, and the specifics of the transaction. Some buyer closing costs are negotiable — your agent can help you understand what is typical in your market and what can be structured into the purchase and sale agreement.
Real Estate Withholding for Non-Resident Sellers
If you're selling Maine property but you're not a Maine resident, the state requires 2.5% of the sale price to be withheld at closing and submitted to Maine Revenue Services. This catches many out-of-state sellers off guard — especially second-home and vacation property owners in Southern Maine. Exemptions and credits may apply. Consult a qualified tax professional and visit Maine Revenue Services — Real Estate Withholding for details.
What Will I Net from the Sale?
Your net proceeds are your sale price minus your mortgage payoff, selling costs, and any negotiated credits. The best way to get a realistic picture is to talk through the numbers with your agent before you list — not after you're under contract.
Start with a free home value estimate to understand where your home sits in today's market:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to sell a house in Maine?
Total selling costs in Maine typically run between 7% and 10% of the sale price depending on commission, closing fees, repairs, and other negotiated items. Every transaction is different — your agent can help you build a realistic cost estimate for your specific situation.
Who pays closing costs in Maine?
Both buyers and sellers typically have closing costs in Maine. What each party pays depends largely on how the purchase and sale agreement is written. Many items — including the transfer tax and certain closing fees — are negotiable and can be structured different ways depending on the market and the deal.
Who pays the Maine real estate transfer tax?
Maine law sets the transfer tax at $2.20 per $500, imposed half on the seller and half on the buyer. However, the actual split is negotiable in the purchase and sale agreement. In practice, how it's divided depends on market conditions and the terms both parties agree to.
What is the additional transfer tax on sales over $1 million?
As of November 1, 2025, Maine imposes an additional $3.80 per $500 on the portion of the sale price exceeding $1 million. This is in addition to the base $2.20 rate. Visit Maine Revenue Services for current rates and details.
Do I need an attorney to sell my home in Maine?
Maine law does not require sellers to hire their own personal attorney. Closings are typically handled by a closing attorney or title company. Whether you choose to hire separate legal representation is up to you — your agent can help you understand when it makes sense.
Does Maine withhold taxes from non-resident sellers?
Yes. Maine requires 2.5% of the sale price to be withheld at closing from sellers who are not Maine residents. Exemptions may apply — consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.
How long does it take to sell a home in Southern Maine?
In Southern Maine's current market, well-priced homes in Saco, Biddeford, Old Orchard Beach, and Scarborough often go under contract within days to a few weeks. Market conditions change — contact Robert for current data in your specific town.
More Seller Resources
Sell Your Home in Southern Maine — 2026 Guide
Sell My Home in Saco Maine
Sell My Home in Old Orchard Beach Maine
Sell My Home in Biddeford Maine
Sell My Home in Scarborough Maine
Sell My Home in Buxton Maine
Sell My Home in Dayton Maine
Sell My Home in Limington Maine
What Is a Home Appraisal in Maine?
What to Expect During a Home Inspection in Maine
Scarborough Maine Homes for Sale
Saco Maine Homes for Sale
Biddeford Maine Homes for Sale
Ready to sell your Southern Maine home?
Call or text Robert Thibodeau at 207-880-9995 or get your free home value estimate today.
Disclosure: The information on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Transfer tax rates, fees, and requirements are set by the State of Maine, county registries, and individual service providers — and are subject to change. Robert Thibodeau is a licensed real estate Associate Broker with eXp Realty Maine, license BA930057. He is not an attorney, financial advisor, CPA, or appraiser. Always consult qualified licensed professionals for guidance specific to your situation. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Robert Thibodeau | Associate Broker | eXp Realty Maine | 207-880-9995
Listing data is derived in whole or in part from the Maine IDX and is for consumers' personal, non commercial use only. Dimensions are approximate and not guaranteed. All data should be independently verified ©2026 Maine Real Estate Information System, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
