- MLS listing facts require independent confirmation
- Permits, title, insurance and financing are property-specific
- Source links are informational, not endorsements
Avoid treating tax bills and HOA fees as interchangeable
Ask the closing team for a parcel-specific transfer-tax analysis; San Diego County's Recorder describes the documentary-transfer-tax framework but a particular transaction can have exemptions or other local details. Property taxes are often prorated at settlement based on the agreement and applicable period; an HOA may require transfer documents, dues reconciliation or other fees. A condo seller should obtain written association information early, especially if an assessment or litigation issue is known. Solar debt or a PACE-type obligation can alter the payoff picture. Confirm whether your lender charges release or processing fees and whether a prepayment provision actually applies. Keep estimates dated and mark uncertain figures clearly.
Reconcile estimates before accepting and at closing
Ask escrow for a preliminary seller settlement estimate tied to the draft offer, then update it with the executed price, credits, payoff demand and prorations. A seller who plans to buy immediately needs to know not just anticipated proceeds but when funds will be available and which contingencies govern the replacement purchase. The IRS handles possible gain exclusion under separate eligibility rules; closing proceeds and taxable gain are not equivalent. Review any 1099-S questions with a tax professional and take legal disputes over lien or ownership priorities to qualified counsel. A detailed worksheet is useful because it shows precisely which seller decisions change the expected bottom line.