Everything You Need to Know About Closing Costs

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but over 50% of first-time homebuyers are caught off guard by closing costs, according to ClosingCorp. 

Your closing costs can range from 2% to 5% of your total loan amount, so let’s break down what closing costs are and what to expect for your home purchase. 

What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are one-time fees you pay at the end of a real estate transaction. They cover a variety of expenses related to processing your mortgage and transferring property ownership.

1. Lender and Third-Party Fees

These fees can vary depending on the lender, but they typically include:

• Application Fee: Charged to process your loan application.
• Appraisal Fee: For a professional assessment of your property’s value.
• Credit Report Fee: Covers the cost of pulling your credit history.
• Flood Certification Fee: Determines if the property is in a flood zone.
• Tax Service Fee: For monitoring property taxes.

While lender fees cannot exceed 3% of the total loan amount, be sure to inquire about a detailed breakdown.

2. Legal, Title, and Government Fees

In addition to lender fees, there are several legal and government-related costs, including:

• Attorney Fees: Required in some states for closing transactions.
• Title Insurance: Protects against potential ownership disputes.
• Survey Fee: Optional, but may be needed for certain properties.
• Recording Fee: For officially recording the sale with the county.
• Realty Transfer Tax: A fee for transferring property ownership.

These fees can vary greatly depending on your location, so it’s best to check with your lender or realtor for specifics. 

3. Prepaid Items and Escrows

Many new homeowners are surprised by the prepaid costs that come with closing. You may need to cover:

• 2-6 Months of Prepaid Taxes: This can go toward city or county taxes and may be held in an escrow account.
• 2-6 Months of Homeowners Insurance: Required by lenders to protect your investment.
• Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): If applicable, typically requires 2-3 months’ worth of payments upfront.

Additional Fees to Keep in Mind

There may be additional fees that can catch buyers off guard, such as:

• HOA Fees: If your new home is part of a homeowners association.
• Inspection Fees: For any necessary home inspections prior to closing.
• Condo Association Fees: If applicable.

To avoid surprises, always consult with your trusted mortgage professional to get a clear picture of all potential costs.

Closing Thoughts

Understanding closing costs is crucial to navigating the home-buying process confidently. By being prepared and asking the right questions, you can ensure that there are no surprises when it’s time to close on your new home. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out—we're here to help you every step of the way!