Sellers guide
Selling your home on Long Island
From pricing to closing, here's how a Long Island sale works and what to have ready so nothing slows you down.
- 1
Price it from real comparables
A comparative market analysis looks at recent nearby sales like yours, adjusted for size, condition and features. Pricing right from day one draws the most buyers.
- 2
Paperwork to list
New York requires the agency disclosure and the Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure, then a listing agreement that sets the price, term and commission.
- 3
Property Condition Disclosure
New York requires sellers of most 1 to 4 family homes to give buyers the Property Condition Disclosure Statement before they sign a contract. Homes built before 1978 also need the federal lead-based paint disclosure.
- 4
Check permits and Certificates of Occupancy
Decks, pools, finished basements, additions and dormers usually need a permit and a CO. Run a building department search early; open permits are one of the most common closing delays on Long Island.
- 5
Prepare and market
Small repairs, decluttering, professional photos and video, then the MLS, the website, social media and my buyers list.
- 6
Offers and negotiation
We compare price, financing, down payment, inspection terms and timing. The highest price isn't always the best offer.
- 7
Inspection and attorney contract
The buyer inspects; your attorney drafts the contract and holds the buyer's deposit in escrow once both sides sign.
- 8
The buyer's mortgage and appraisal
The buyer's lender appraises the home and commits to the loan. Keep the home show-ready and accessible for the appraiser.
- 9
Closing
Your attorney pays off your mortgage, the transfer taxes and the closing costs from the proceeds, and you hand over the keys.
Costs to plan for
| Commission | As agreed in your listing agreement |
| New York State transfer tax | 0.4% of the price (paid by the seller) |
| Your attorney | Often $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Mortgage payoff | Your remaining balance plus interest to the payoff date |
| Title, payoff and municipal search fees | A few hundred to about $1,500 |
| Credits to the buyer | Only if negotiated, for repairs or closing costs |
General information about Long Island and New York practice, current as of 2026, not legal or tax advice. Your attorney, lender and accountant give advice for your situation; laws and fees change, so confirm current figures. All guides
Town guides describe places, homes and amenities from public sources and are updated regularly; confirm anything important with the town or village. William Gomez, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson. Equal Housing Opportunity. We are committed to the Fair Housing Act: we never steer anyone toward or away from any community.