12 COMMON CLOSING COSTS FOR BUYERS

Closing costs for buyers typically include a variety of fees and expenses associated with finalizing a real estate transaction. These costs can vary depending on factors such as location, the type of property being purchased, and the terms of the sale. Here are some common closing costs for buyers:

1. Loan Origination Fees: Charged by lenders for processing a loan application, typically expressed as a percentage of the total loan amount.
2. Appraisal Fee: Paid to have the property professionally appraised to determine its market value.
3. Credit Report Fee: Covers the cost of obtaining the buyer's credit report from a credit bureau.
4. Home Inspection Fee: Paid to have a professional inspector assess the condition of the property and identify any potential issues.
5. Title Search and Title Insurance: Covers the cost of searching public records to ensure there are no outstanding liens or claims against the property, as well as the cost of purchasing title insurance to protect against any title defects.
6. Escrow Fees: Paid to the escrow company or attorney responsible for holding and disbursing funds during the closing process.
7. Recording Fees: Charged by the local government for recording the deed and other legal documents related to the sale.
8. Property Taxes: Buyers may be required to pay a prorated portion of property taxes for the time they will own the property.
9. Homeowners Insurance Premium: Typically required by lenders to protect the property against damage or loss.
10. Prepaid Interest: Covers the interest that accrues on the mortgage from the closing date to the end of the month.
11. HOA Fees and Transfer Fees: If the property is part of a homeowners association (HOA), buyers may need to pay prorated HOA fees and transfer fees.
12. Attorney Fees: In some states, buyers may hire an attorney to review closing documents and provide legal advice.

It's essential for buyers to review their loan estimate and closing disclosure documents carefully to understand all the fees and expenses associated with their real estate transaction. Additionally, buyers may negotiate with the seller to cover some of the closing costs as part of the purchase agreement.