Closing Costs

Mortgage 101 | March 17, 2023

When you’re in the process of buying a home, there are many costs to consider beyond just the down payment. One of the most significant expenses to be aware of is closing costs. These costs can add up quickly and may include fees for things like appraisals, inspections, and title searches. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what closing costs are and how to optimize them.

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are fees associated with finalizing the purchase of a home. They can include a variety of expenses, such as:

  • Appraisal fees
  • Inspection fees
  • Title search and title insurance fees
  • Attorney fees
  • Loan origination fees
  • Prepaid property taxes and homeowners insurance

In general, closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price of the home. For example, if you’re buying a home for $300,000, you can expect to pay anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000 in closing costs.

How to optimize your closing costs

While closing costs can’t be avoided entirely, there are some strategies you can use to minimize them. Here are a few tips:

  1. Shop around for the best rates: Just as you would shop around for the best mortgage rate, it’s also important to shop around for the best rates on other closing costs. For example, you may be able to find a more affordable title search provider or attorney.
  1. Negotiate with the seller: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the seller to cover some or all of the closing costs. This can be a particularly effective strategy in a buyer’s market where sellers may be more willing to make concessions.
  1. Ask about discounts: Some lenders or service providers may offer discounts on closing costs for certain groups of people, such as veterans or first-time homebuyers. It’s always worth asking about these discounts to see if you’re eligible.
  1. Consider rolling the costs into your mortgage: While this isn’t an optimal strategy for everyone, it is possible to roll your closing costs into your mortgage. This can help you avoid paying a lump sum upfront, but it will also increase your monthly mortgage payment.
  1. Review the fees carefully: Finally, it’s important to carefully review all of the fees associated with your closing costs. Make sure you understand what each fee is for and why it’s necessary. If you notice any fees that seem excessive or unnecessary, don’t be afraid to ask questions or negotiate.

In conclusion, closing costs can be a significant expense when you’re buying a home, but there are ways to optimize them. By shopping around for the best rates, negotiating with the seller, asking about discounts, carefully reviewing the fees, and considering rolling the costs into your mortgage, you can minimize the financial impact of closing costs. As with any aspect of buying a home, it’s important to do your research and be prepared to advocate for yourself to get the best possible deal.