A shortage of homes for sale in the U.S. gives sellers the advantage in most housing markets. But many sellers don't realize that getting rid of their house likely will cost them thousands of dollars. Real estate commissions and other fees can eat up about 10 percent of the sale price of the home. Some expenses are negotiable and fluctuate with the real estate market. But sellers should expect to pay part of the costs in the transaction and avoid sticker shock at closing time