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Seller Net Sheet Calculator

Calculate your estimated home sale proceeds with itemized seller closing costs, agent commissions, transfer taxes, and mortgage payoff. See exactly how much you will net from selling your house.

Calculate your estimated net proceeds from selling your home. Enter your sale price, mortgage balance, and costs to see exactly what you will walk away with.

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Additional Costs

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California Transfer Tax Rate:0.11%($550)

Estimated Net Proceeds

$191,003

Sale Price$500,000
Total Seller Costs$28,997
Cost Percentage5.8%

Net Proceeds Breakdown

Sale Price$500,000
Mortgage Payoff-$280,000
Agent Commissions (5.0%)-$25,000
Transfer Tax & Recording-$650
Title & Closing Fees-$3,100
Prorated Taxes & Other-$247
Net Proceeds (Your Check)$191,003

Your Home Equity vs Net Proceeds

Home Equity
Sale Price - Mortgage
$220,000
Total Selling Costs
Commissions + Fees + Credits
-$28,997
Actual Net Proceeds
What you actually receive
$191,003

Selling costs reduce your equity by $28,997 (5.8% of sale price)

Tips to Maximize Your Net Proceeds

  • *Negotiate commission - Saving 1% on a $500,000 sale = $5,000 more in your pocket
  • *Get a pre-listing inspection - Avoid surprise repair credits from buyer inspections
  • *Price competitively from day one - Overpriced homes often sell for less after sitting on market
  • *Minimize seller concessions - In a seller's market, you have leverage to resist concession requests
  • *Compare title company fees - Shop around to save on settlement costs

About This Calculator

A seller net sheet is the most important document for anyone selling a home - it reveals exactly how much money you will actually receive after all costs are deducted from your sale price. In 2026, the average home seller pays 8-10% of the sale price in fees and costs, meaning on a $500,000 home, you could pay $40,000-$50,000 in commissions, taxes, and closing costs. This Seller Net Sheet Calculator provides a complete, itemized breakdown of every deduction - from agent commissions to transfer taxes to mortgage payoff - so you know precisely what you'll walk away with.

Whether you're wondering "how much will I net from selling my house?" or planning your next home purchase based on your equity, this calculator eliminates the guesswork. Enter your expected sale price, remaining mortgage balance, and location to see your estimated net proceeds instantly. Then use the detailed breakdown to identify negotiable fees and maximize your take-home amount.

How to Use the Seller Net Sheet Calculator

  1. 1Enter your expected or listed sale price.
  2. 2Input your remaining mortgage balance (check your latest statement or call your lender for the payoff amount).
  3. 3Select your state to automatically calculate transfer taxes.
  4. 4Adjust agent commission percentages based on your listing agreement.
  5. 5Add any seller concessions you have agreed to provide the buyer.
  6. 6Include repair credits, outstanding liens, or other deductions if applicable.
  7. 7Review the itemized breakdown showing all costs and your net proceeds.
  8. 8Use the results to negotiate costs or compare different sale price scenarios.
  9. 9Visit our [Home Value Estimator Calculator](/finance/home-value-estimator-calculator) if you need help determining your sale price.

Formula

Net Proceeds = Sale Price - Mortgage Payoff - Agent Commissions - Transfer Taxes - Title/Closing Fees - Seller Concessions - Repairs/Credits

Your seller net proceeds are calculated by starting with the sale price and subtracting all costs: **Mortgage payoff** (principal balance plus accrued interest and fees), **Agent commissions** (typically 5-6% split between listing and buyer's agents), **Transfer taxes** (state/local taxes ranging 0-2.6%), **Title and closing fees** (title insurance, settlement fee, attorney if required, recording fees - typically $1,500-4,000), **Seller concessions** (any contributions toward buyer's costs), and **Repairs/credits** (negotiated from inspection). The remaining amount is your net proceeds - the actual cash you'll receive. For sellers with existing mortgages, this calculation determines whether you'll have positive proceeds or need to bring money to closing.

What is a Seller Net Sheet and Why It Matters

Understanding the Seller Net Sheet:

A seller net sheet (also called a seller's estimated proceeds statement or settlement sheet) is a detailed breakdown of all the costs you'll pay when selling your home, subtracted from the sale price to show your net proceeds - the actual money you'll receive.

Why Every Seller Needs a Net Sheet:

  1. Know Your True Equity: Your home equity (market value minus mortgage) is NOT what you'll receive. A net sheet shows your real take-home amount.

  2. Plan Your Next Move: Whether buying a new home, renting, or investing, you need to know exactly how much cash you'll have.

  3. Compare Sale Scenarios: See how different sale prices, commission rates, or concessions affect your bottom line.

  4. Negotiate Effectively: Understanding your costs helps you negotiate smarter on agent commissions, repairs, and buyer requests.

  5. Avoid Surprises: Many sellers are shocked at closing when they see all the deductions. A net sheet prepares you in advance.

The Math Behind Net Proceeds:

ComponentExample ($500,000 Home)
Sale Price$500,000
- Mortgage Payoff-$280,000
- Agent Commissions (5.5%)-$27,500
- Transfer Tax (avg 1%)-$5,000
- Title & Closing Fees-$2,500
- Prorated Taxes & HOA-$1,500
- Repairs/Concessions-$5,000
= Net Proceeds$178,500

In this example, selling a $500,000 home with $220,000 in equity results in only $178,500 net - a difference of $41,500 in costs.

2026 Seller Costs: Complete Breakdown

What Do Home Sellers Pay in 2026?

Total seller costs typically range from 8-10% of the sale price. Here's where that money goes:

Agent Commissions (5-6% of sale price)

The largest seller expense. Following the 2024 NAR settlement, commission structures have evolved:

Commission ModelTotal on $500K HomeTrend in 2026
Traditional 6% (3%+3%)$30,000Declining
Negotiated 5% (2.5%+2.5%)$25,000Most Common
Discount Listing (1%+2.5%)$17,500Growing
Flat Fee + Buyer Agent~$12,500-15,000Growing
FSBO + Buyer Agent~$12,500Stable

2026 Commission Reality: The average total commission has dropped to approximately 5.3% nationwide, with significant regional variation. In competitive markets, sellers increasingly negotiate 4.5-5% total.

Transfer Taxes (0-2.6% by state)

State and local governments charge transfer taxes (deed tax, documentary stamps) when property changes hands:

Tax LevelRangeExamples
No Transfer Tax0%TX, AK, ID, MT, ND, OR, WY
Low0.1-0.5%CA (0.11%+local), AL, AZ, GA
Medium0.5-1%FL (0.7%), MD, NC, VA
High1-2%+PA (2%), DE (2.6%), WA (1.78%)

Title & Closing Fees ($1,500-4,000)

FeeTypical CostNotes
Owner's Title Insurance$1,000-2,500Seller pays in most states
Settlement/Closing Fee$300-700Title company charge
Attorney Fee$500-1,500Required in some states
Wire Transfer Fee$25-50Sending your proceeds
Recording Fees$50-200County charge

Other Seller Costs:

CostAmountWhen Applicable
Prorated Property TaxVariesDays owned in current period
HOA Transfer Fee$200-500If you have an HOA
Home Warranty$400-600If offered to buyer
Repair CreditsNegotiatedFrom buyer inspection
Seller ConcessionsUp to 3-6%Buyer closing cost help

Agent Commission Trends and Negotiation in 2026

The New Commission Landscape:

The 2024 NAR settlement fundamentally changed how agent commissions work. Key changes affecting 2026 sellers:

  1. Buyer Agent Commission is Negotiable: Sellers are no longer required to offer buyer agent compensation through the MLS.

  2. Commission Transparency: Buyers now sign representation agreements before touring homes, making them aware of their agent's fee.

  3. Increased Competition: More discount and flat-fee brokerages have emerged, giving sellers more options.

2026 Commission Benchmarks:

Market TypeListing AgentBuyer Agent OfferTotal
Seller's Market2-2.5%2-2.5%4-5%
Balanced Market2.5-3%2.5-3%5-6%
Buyer's Market2.5-3%2.5-3%5-6%
Luxury ($1M+)1.5-2.5%2-2.5%3.5-5%

How to Negotiate Agent Commission:

1. Interview Multiple Agents Get proposals from 3-5 listing agents. Ask each:

  • "What is your commission, and is it negotiable?"
  • "What marketing services are included?"
  • "How do your fees compare to competitors?"

2. Leverage Your Property's Appeal

  • Turnkey homes in hot areas = easier sale = negotiate lower commission
  • Agents may reduce fees for higher-priced homes
  • Multiple agents competing for your listing gives you leverage

3. Consider Commission Structures

StructureHow It WorksBest For
PercentageTraditional % of sale priceMost sales
Flat FeeFixed fee (e.g., $5,000)Quick sales, hot markets
TieredLower % up to asking, higher aboveMotivating top dollar
Discount Broker1-1.5% listing + buyer agentCost-conscious sellers

4. Negotiate Buyer Agent Compensation

  • In a seller's market, consider offering lower buyer agent commission (2%)
  • In a buyer's market, competitive buyer agent commission (2.5-3%) attracts more showings
  • Some buyers may cover their own agent's fee

Commission Savings Example ($500,000 home):

ScenarioTotal CommissionYour Savings vs 6%
6% (3%+3%)$30,000$0
5% (2.5%+2.5%)$25,000$5,000
4.5% (2%+2.5%)$22,500$7,500
Flat Fee + 2.5%~$17,500$12,500

Transfer Tax Rates by State (2026)

State-by-State Transfer Tax Guide:

Transfer taxes can significantly impact your net proceeds. Here's what sellers pay in each state:

States with NO Transfer Tax:

  • Alaska
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Kansas
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Oregon
  • South Dakota (minimal)
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Wyoming

States with LOW Transfer Tax (Under 0.5%):

StateRateOn $500K Sale
Alabama0.10%$500
Arizona0.20%$1,000
California0.11% + local$550+
Colorado0.01%$50
Georgia0.10%$500
Hawaii0.10-0.25%$500-1,250
Illinois0.10% + local$500+
Kentucky0.10%$500
Ohio0.10%$500
Oklahoma0.075%$375

States with MEDIUM Transfer Tax (0.5-1%):

StateRateOn $500K Sale
Florida0.70%$3,500
Maryland0.50% + local$2,500+
North Carolina0.20%$1,000
South Carolina0.185%$925
Virginia0.25%$1,250
Wisconsin0.30%$1,500

States with HIGH Transfer Tax (Over 1%):

StateRateOn $500K Sale
Connecticut0.75-1.25%$3,750-6,250
Delaware2.0-2.6%$10,000-13,000
Washington DC1.1-1.45%$5,500-7,250
Maine0.44%$2,200
Michigan0.75%$3,750
Minnesota0.33%$1,650
New Hampshire1.50%$7,500
New Jersey0.4-1.21%$2,000-6,050
New York0.4% + mansion$2,000+
Pennsylvania2.0% + local$10,000+
Vermont1.25%$6,250
Washington1.78%$8,900

Important Notes:

  • Many states split transfer tax between buyer and seller
  • Local/county taxes may add to state rates
  • Mansion taxes apply to expensive properties in some states
  • First-time buyers or veterans may qualify for exemptions

Use our Closing Cost Calculator for a full breakdown of both buyer and seller closing costs.

How to Maximize Your Net Proceeds

Strategies to Keep More Money from Your Home Sale:

1. Price Your Home Correctly From Day One

Overpricing leads to longer market time and eventual price reductions that can cost you more than listing competitively:

Days on MarketTypical Outcome
Under 14 daysSells at or above asking
14-30 daysSells within 3% of asking
30-60 daysSells at 5-7% below original price
60+ daysStigmatized listing, deeper discounts

Use our Home Value Estimator Calculator to research your home's market value.

2. Negotiate Agent Commissions (Save $5,000-15,000)

  • Interview multiple agents and negotiate
  • Consider discount brokerages for straightforward sales
  • Offer tiered commission to incentivize higher sale price
  • In seller's markets, agents compete harder for listings

3. Minimize Repair Credits

Pre-listing strategies to avoid costly buyer demands:

  • Get a pre-listing inspection ($300-500) to identify issues
  • Make strategic repairs before listing
  • Sell "as-is" in hot markets with appropriate pricing
  • Offer home warranty instead of major repairs

4. Time Your Sale Strategically

SeasonAdvantageConsideration
SpringHighest prices, most buyersMost competition
SummerFamilies relocatingHeat in some markets
FallMotivated buyersFewer buyers
WinterLeast competitionLowest volume

5. Reduce Seller Concessions

Seller concessions (paying buyer's closing costs) typically range 0-3%:

  • In seller's markets, resist concession requests
  • Price slightly lower instead of giving concessions (same net, easier sale)
  • Counter with credit limit rather than full request

6. Minimize Title and Closing Costs

  • Get quotes from multiple title companies
  • Ask your agent to negotiate settlement fees
  • Some fees are negotiable with the buyer

7. Consider Tax Implications

Understanding capital gains can help you time your sale:

  • Up to $250K ($500K married) in gains is tax-free on primary residence
  • Must have lived there 2 of last 5 years
  • Consult our Capital Gains Tax Calculator for details

Net Proceeds Comparison - Same $500K Home:

ScenarioTotal CostsNet Proceeds
Standard (6%, avg repairs, concessions)$52,000$168,000
Optimized (5%, minimal repairs, no concessions)$37,500$182,500
Difference$14,500+$14,500

Understanding Your Mortgage Payoff Amount

Mortgage Payoff vs. Remaining Balance:

Your mortgage payoff amount is typically NOT the same as your remaining balance shown on your statement. Here's why:

What's Included in Payoff:

ComponentDescription
Principal BalanceWhat you still owe on the loan
Accrued InterestInterest since last payment to payoff date
Payoff FeeSome lenders charge $0-50
Late FeesIf any payments were late
Prepayment PenaltyRare, but check your loan terms

Example Payoff Calculation:

ItemAmount
Principal Balance$280,000.00
+ Accrued Interest (15 days @ 6.5%)$749.32
+ Payoff Processing Fee$35.00
= Total Payoff$280,784.32

How to Get Your Exact Payoff:

  1. Request a Payoff Statement: Call your lender or check online for a formal payoff quote
  2. Request a Specific Date: Payoffs are date-specific; get one valid through your closing date
  3. Account for Per Diem: If closing moves, interest accrues daily (per diem)

Per Diem Interest Examples:

Loan BalanceInterest RateDaily Interest
$200,0006.0%$32.88
$300,0006.5%$53.42
$400,0007.0%$76.71

Important Payoff Considerations:

  • Second Mortgages/HELOCs: Don't forget to pay off any second liens
  • Solar Liens: Leased solar panels may have liens to satisfy
  • Property Tax Liens: Any delinquent taxes must be paid
  • HOA Liens: Unpaid HOA dues become liens

What If You're Underwater?

If your mortgage payoff exceeds your expected sale price:

  • Bring cash to closing to cover the shortfall
  • Negotiate a short sale with your lender
  • Explore loan modification options
  • Consider waiting for market appreciation

Use our Mortgage Calculator to understand your current loan details.

Seller Concessions: What They Cost You

Understanding Seller Concessions:

Seller concessions are contributions you make toward the buyer's closing costs. While they can help close a deal, they directly reduce your net proceeds.

Common Types of Seller Concessions:

Concession TypeTypical AmountImpact
Closing Cost Credit$5,000-15,000Direct reduction in proceeds
Rate Buydown1-3 pointsCan equal 1-3% of loan amount
Repair CreditsVariesInstead of making repairs
Home Warranty$400-600Minor cost, builds confidence
HOA Dues Prepayment1-6 monthsRelatively small

Loan Program Concession Limits:

Lenders cap how much sellers can contribute:

Loan TypeDown PaymentMax Concession
ConventionalLess than 10%3% of sale price
Conventional10-25%6% of sale price
ConventionalOver 25%9% of sale price
FHAAny6% of sale price
VAAny4% of sale price
USDAAny6% of sale price

When to Offer Concessions:

Good Reasons:

  • Buyer market - homes sitting on market
  • Buyer needs help qualifying for the loan
  • Property has known issues
  • You need a quick sale
  • Competing against other listings

When to Resist:

  • Seller's market with multiple offers
  • Property is priced competitively
  • Buyer already has strong finances
  • You can't afford the reduction

The Hidden Cost of Concessions:

On a $450,000 sale with $15,000 in concessions:

  • Sale Price: $450,000
  • Your Concession: -$15,000
  • Effective Sale Price: $435,000

But you still pay commission on $450,000:

  • Commission (5%): $22,500
  • Transfer Tax (0.7%): $3,150
  • Other Costs: ~$3,000

Net with $15K concession: $406,350 vs. Net if priced at $435K with no concession: $405,825

Sometimes concessions make sense; sometimes pricing lower achieves the same result with less hassle.

Timing Your Home Sale for Maximum Proceeds

Seasonal Market Patterns:

The time of year you sell significantly impacts both sale price and time on market:

Spring (March-May) - Peak Selling Season

ProsCons
Highest pricesMost competition from other sellers
Most active buyersBidding wars less common than pre-2022
Best weather for showingsBuyers are pickier with more choices
Families want summer moves

Average price premium: 2-5% above annual average

Summer (June-August)

ProsCons
Families relocatingHeat affects showings in some regions
Strong buyer poolSummer vacations reduce traffic
Good listing photosPrice competition from spring holdovers

Average price premium: 1-3% above annual average

Fall (September-November)

ProsCons
Serious, motivated buyersFewer buyers in the market
Less competitionSchool has started (families settled)
Corporate relocationsHoliday prep distracts buyers

Average price: Near annual average

Winter (December-February)

ProsCons
Least competitionFewest buyers
Very motivated buyersHoliday distractions
Corporate relocationsWeather challenges
Desperate sellers may have soldLower prices typical

Average price discount: 2-5% below annual average

2026 Market Considerations:

  • Interest rates affect buyer qualification
  • Local employment and economic conditions matter most
  • Inventory levels in your specific area
  • Recent comparable sales trend

Strategic Timing Tips:

  1. List Thursday/Friday: Gets maximum weekend showings
  2. Spring Break Timing: List 2-3 weeks before for spring market
  3. Avoid Holiday Weeks: December 15 - January 3 is typically slowest
  4. School Calendar: Family buyers want to close before school starts
  5. Rate Announcements: Fed decisions can shift buyer activity

Your Timeline Factors:

  • When do you need to move?
  • What's your mortgage situation?
  • How's your local market?
  • Do you have flexibility?

Consider using our Rent vs Buy Calculator if you're deciding whether to buy your next home or rent.

FSBO vs. Agent: Impact on Net Proceeds

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Analysis:

FSBO can save commission - but does it actually increase your net proceeds?

The Commission Savings Math:

ScenarioAgent CommissionFSBO Savings
$400K sale, 5.5%$22,000$22,000 potential
$500K sale, 5.5%$27,500$27,500 potential
$600K sale, 5.5%$33,000$33,000 potential

But wait - most FSBOs still offer buyer agent commission (2-3%) to attract buyer agents:

ScenarioFSBO + Buyer Agent (2.5%)Actual Savings
$400K sale$10,000$12,000
$500K sale$12,500$15,000
$600K sale$15,000$18,000

FSBO Reality Check:

National Association of Realtors 2024 data shows:

  • FSBO median sale price: $310,000
  • Agent-assisted median: $405,000

That's a 31% price difference - though this includes factors like:

  • Different property types being sold FSBO
  • Seller experience levels
  • Market conditions

When FSBO Makes Sense:

Good FitPoor Fit
You know your buyer (friend, neighbor)First-time seller
Hot seller's marketBuyer's market
You have real estate experienceComplex property
Simple, desirable propertyNeed maximum exposure
Plenty of time and energyLimited time
Comfortable with negotiationConflict-averse

What FSBO Sellers Must Handle:

  1. Pricing: Market analysis, comparative research
  2. Marketing: Photography, listings, advertising
  3. Showings: Scheduling, conducting, security
  4. Negotiations: Offers, counteroffers, multiple bids
  5. Contracts: Legal documents, contingencies
  6. Disclosures: Legal requirements by state
  7. Inspections: Coordinating, negotiating repairs
  8. Closing: Title, escrow, final walkthrough

Hybrid Options:

ServiceCostWhat You Get
Flat Fee MLS$300-500MLS listing only
Limited Service$1,000-3,000MLS + some support
Discount Broker1-2%Full service at discount
Traditional2.5-3% listingFull service

The Bottom Line:

  • FSBO works best in hot markets with buyer interest
  • Commission savings must exceed time/effort cost
  • Most FSBOs eventually hire an agent
  • Hybrid options offer middle ground

Calculating Capital Gains on Your Home Sale

Understanding Home Sale Taxes:

When you sell your primary residence, you may owe capital gains tax on your profit. Here's what sellers need to know:

The Primary Residence Exclusion:

Most homeowners pay NO capital gains tax due to the generous exclusion:

Filing StatusExclusion Amount
SingleUp to $250,000
Married Filing JointlyUp to $500,000

Qualifying for the Exclusion:

You must meet BOTH tests:

  1. Ownership Test: Owned the home for at least 2 years in the 5-year period before sale
  2. Use Test: Lived in it as your primary residence for at least 2 years in the 5-year period

The 2 years don't have to be consecutive.

Calculating Your Gain:

ComponentAmount
Sale Price$600,000
- Original Purchase Price-$350,000
- Major Improvements-$50,000
- Selling Costs-$45,000
= Capital Gain$155,000

In this example, a single filer pays $0 tax ($155K gain < $250K exclusion).

What Counts as "Major Improvements":

Improvements that add to your cost basis (reduce taxable gain):

  • Room additions
  • New roof or HVAC
  • Kitchen/bathroom remodel
  • Finished basement
  • Landscaping (permanent)
  • New driveway
  • Pool installation

NOT deductible:

  • Regular maintenance
  • Repairs
  • Painting
  • Cleaning

When You Might Owe Taxes:

  1. Gain exceeds exclusion: $700K gain - $500K exclusion = $200K taxable
  2. Investment property: Full gain is taxable (no exclusion)
  3. Didn't meet ownership/use tests: Partial exclusion may apply
  4. Rental conversion: Complex rules apply

2026 Capital Gains Tax Rates:

Income Level (Single)Long-Term Rate
Up to ~$47,0000%
$47,000 - ~$518,00015%
Over ~$518,00020%

Plus potential 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax for high earners.

Tax Planning Strategies:

  • Keep records of all home improvements
  • Time your sale to maximize exclusion
  • Consider 1031 exchange for investment properties
  • Consult a tax professional for complex situations

Use our Capital Gains Tax Calculator to estimate your potential tax liability.

Pro Tips

  • ๐Ÿ’กRequest a formal mortgage payoff quote before listing - your payoff amount differs from your current balance.
  • ๐Ÿ’กInterview at least 3 listing agents and negotiate commission - saving 1% on a $500K sale is $5,000.
  • ๐Ÿ’กGet a pre-listing home inspection to identify issues before buyers do, giving you control over repairs.
  • ๐Ÿ’กPrice competitively from day one - overpriced homes sell for less than well-priced homes after sitting on market.
  • ๐Ÿ’กKnow your state transfer tax rate - it can be 0% to 2.6% of your sale price.
  • ๐Ÿ’กResist unnecessary seller concessions in a sellers market - every dollar in concessions reduces your proceeds.
  • ๐Ÿ’กKeep records of all home improvements - they reduce your taxable gain when selling.
  • ๐Ÿ’กTime your sale strategically - spring typically yields 2-5% higher prices than winter.
  • ๐Ÿ’กConsider the full cost of FSBO including your time and potential for lower sale price.
  • ๐Ÿ’กGet multiple title company quotes - settlement fees can vary by hundreds of dollars.
  • ๐Ÿ’กReview your listing agreement terms carefully before signing - understand cancellation policies.
  • ๐Ÿ’กUpdate your net sheet as negotiations progress to know your real bottom line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your net proceeds depend on several factors: sale price, remaining mortgage balance, agent commissions (typically 5-6%), transfer taxes (0-2.6% by state), and closing costs ($2,000-4,000). On average, sellers receive 90-92% of the sale price minus their mortgage payoff. For example, on a $500,000 sale with a $300,000 mortgage, expect roughly $155,000-$170,000 in net proceeds after all costs. Use this calculator with your specific numbers for an accurate estimate.

Nina Bao
Written byNina Baoโ€ข Content Writer
Updated January 16, 2026

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