As a homebuyer, it is important to plan and budget for the expenses you will encounter when you purchase a home. While most people understand the need to save for a down payment, a recent survey found 41% of homebuyers were surprised by their closing costs. Here is some information to help you get started so you are not caught off guard when it is time to close on your home.
What Are Closing Costs?
One possible reason some people are surprised by closing costs may be because they don’t know what they are or what they cover. According to U.S. News and World Report:
“Closing costs encompass a variety of expenses above your property's purchase price. They include things like lender fees, title insurance, government processing fees, upfront tax payments and homeowners insurance.”
In other words, your closing costs are a collection of fees and payments made to a variety of individuals and organizations who are involved with your transaction. According to Freddie Mac, while they can vary by location and situation, closing costs typically include:
Government recording costs
Appraisal fees
Credit report fees
Lender origination fees
Title services
Tax service fees
Survey fees
Attorney fees
Underwriting Fees
How Much Will You Need To Budget For Closing Costs?
Understanding what closing costs include is important, but knowing what you will need to budget to cover them is critical to achieving your homebuying goals. According to the Freddie Mac article mentioned above, the costs to close are typically between 2% and 5% of the total purchase price of your home. With that in mind, here is how you can get an idea of what you will need to cover your closing costs.
Let’s say you find a home you want to purchase for the median price of $350,300. Based on the 2-5% Freddie Mac estimate, your closing fees could be between roughly $7,000 and $17,500. Keep in mind, if you are in the market for a home above or below this price range, your closing costs will be higher or lower.
What Is The Best Way To Make Sure You Are Prepared At Closing Time?
Freddie Mac provides great advice for homebuyers, saying:
“As you start your homebuying journey, take the time to get a sense of all costs involved – from your down payment to closing costs.”
The best way to understand what you will need at the closing table is to work with a team of trusted real estate professionals. An agent can help connect you with a lender, and together they can provide you with answers to the questions you might have to understand those costs.
Bottom Line
In today’s real estate market, it is more important than ever to make sure your budget includes any fees and payments due at closing. Let’s connect. We will share the insights and knowledge you need to be confident going into the homebuying process.
