The complete guide to closing costs:
BRIAN BIRK | 4-MINUTE READ

4/8/2023

Closing costs are fees paid at the end of a real estate transaction when the property changes ownership. These costs can include a wide range of fees, from loan origination fees to title insurance to real estate agent commissions. Here is a complete guide to closing costs:
  1. What are closing costs? Closing costs are the fees associated with buying or selling a property. These costs can include lender fees, third-party fees, and taxes. They are paid at the closing of the real estate transaction and can range from 2% to 5% of the total purchase price of the property.
  2. What fees are included in closing costs? Closing costs can vary depending on the state and the lender, but they typically include:
  • Loan origination fees
  • Appraisal fees
  • Title search and insurance fees
  • Home inspection fees
  • Survey fees
  • Property taxes
  • Prepaid interest
  • Attorney fees
  • Real estate agent commissions
  • Recording fees
  1. Who pays closing costs? The responsibility for paying closing costs can vary depending on the real estate transaction and the state. In some cases, the buyer pays all the closing costs, while in other cases, the seller may pay some or all of the costs. It is important to review the purchase contract and discuss the closing costs with your real estate agent or attorney.
  2. How much are closing costs? Closing costs can vary depending on the state and the lender, but they typically range from 2% to 5% of the total purchase price of the property. For example, if you are buying a $300,000 home, your closing costs could be anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000.
  3. Can closing costs be negotiated? Some closing costs, such as government fees and taxes, are non-negotiable. However, other fees, such as lender fees and real estate agent commissions, may be negotiable. It is important to review the purchase contract and discuss the closing costs with your real estate agent or attorney to determine which fees are negotiable.
  4. When do you pay closing costs? Closing costs are paid at the closing of the real estate transaction, which is typically a few weeks after the offer is accepted. The funds for the closing costs are typically provided by the buyer in the form of a cashier’s check or wire transfer.
  5. Can you finance closing costs? Some lenders may allow you to finance your closing costs by adding them to your mortgage loan. This can be a good option if you do not have the funds available to pay the closing costs upfront. However, it is important to understand that financing your closing costs will increase the total cost of your mortgage loan.

In conclusion, closing costs are an important consideration when buying or selling a property. It is important to understand what fees are included in closing costs, who pays them, and when they are due. By reviewing the purchase contract and discussing the closing costs with your real estate agent or attorney, you can better prepare for the costs associated with your real estate transaction.

About Brian Birk