RealEstate
Closing costs are the fees and prepaid items due around the time ownership transfers. Exact line items depend on the state, contract, loan type (if any), and local custom. Your Closing Disclosure or settlement statement is the authority for your transaction.
Buyers often see
- Loan origination and lender fees (if financing) — from your lender; we do not refer lenders
- Appraisal and credit-report fees (when required by a lender)
- Title search / title insurance (owner's and/or lender's policy practices vary)
- Escrow or closing/settlement fee
- Prepaid interest, homeowners insurance escrow, and property tax escrow (if applicable)
- HOA transfer or transfer fees (where an association exists)
- Inspections (home, and sometimes pool, roof, sewer, etc.) — often paid before closing
- Option fee / due-diligence fee (in states/contracts that use them, such as Texas option periods)
Sellers often see
- Real estate commissions (per your listing agreement)
- Title or owner's policy costs where local custom or the contract assigns them
- Prorated property taxes and HOA dues
- Payoff of existing mortgages and liens
- Required repairs or credits negotiated in the contract
- Recording fees and transfer taxes where they apply
How a local agent helps
A licensed local agent helps you understand which costs are typical in that market, what your contract says about who pays what, and how to time inspections and financing contingencies. They do not replace your lender, title company, or tax advisor.
Related: Buying remotely · Payment estimator
Educational information only — not legal, tax, financial, or lending advice. Rules and amounts change. Confirm details with the appropriate official source, your own tax or legal advisor, and the licensed real estate agent you choose. We do not refer mortgage lenders, insurance agents, or other non-real-estate professionals.