What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the expenses and fees associated with the purchase and sale of a home, such as taxes, title insurance, appraisal, and lender fees. For buyers taking out a mortgage loan, closing costs are listed on the Closing Disclosure statement the buyer should receive from the lender at least three days before closing.

Average Closing Costs for Buyer

Closing cost amounts vary depending on the buyer's loan program, but they typically range from 2%–5% of the purchase price. The buyer's down payment must also be paid at closing, but it is listed separately from the closing costs.

Learn more about how much closing costs are for your purchase below.

What is Included in Closing Costs?

Inspection
Home inspections are typically paid in-person and are not included as part of your closing costs. Inspections typically cost between $300–$500, which varies based on the property and your local rates.

Earnest Money
In most areas, you will pay an earnest money deposit when you reach mutual acceptance on your home purchase. Earnest money is typically 1%–3% of the home's price. The amount you pay in earnest money will be subtracted from your closing costs — reducing the total amount you owe at closing.

Loan Origination Fee
Your lender may charge you a fee for creating your loan. Not every lender will charge you an origination fee. Be wary of lenders who charge high fees. Ask your lender what the fee covers and if it's negotiable.

Loan Processing Fee
Lenders may charge a fee for processing your loan. This fee covers any additional costs incurred for underwriting or services performed to finalize your loan. Similar to the origination fee, ask your lender what the fees cover and if it can be waived.

Loan Discount Points
If you purchased points to lower your interest rate, you will pay a one-time fee for them at closing. A discount point can lower your interest rate by 0.25%–0.5% — and, just like interest rates, the price of points changes daily. While it may seem attractive to pay for a lower interest rate, it may not be worth it in the long run if you don't plan to own your home for very long or plan to refinance in the future.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Private mortgage insurance is required if your down payment is less than 20%. FHA and VA loans may also require you to pay an upfront fee for private mortgage insurance at closing in exchange for allowing you to have a lower down payment. Private mortgage insurance is typically included as part of your monthly loan payment. However, some loans will allow you to pay your private mortgage insurance upfront as a one-time fee at closing. It's up to you to decide if you want to pay more at closing or higher monthly mortgage payments.

Homeowners Association Dues
If the home you are purchasing has a homeowners association, you will pay one month's dues upfront at closing. Homeowners association dues vary by property and cover maintenance fees and operations costs.

How Much Are Closing Costs for the Seller?

How much closing costs are for the seller can vary depending on the buyer's loan program, but they typically range from 2%–5% of the purchase price.

Tips on Lowering Closing Costs

1. Compare loans: Certain loans types — such as FHA and VA — charge higher fees at closing. Before you select a loan, get a breakdown of all fees.

2. Choose a lender with low fees: Fees vary from lender to lender. Compare lenders and fees to decide what’s right for you.

3. Negotiate with the seller: You can sometimes negotiate with the seller to pay a portion of your closing costs.

4. Don’t pay to lower your interest rate: Avoid paying additional costs at closing or paying for points to lower your rate.

5. Purchase less home: Make sure the home you buy fits your budget. Simply buying a less expensive home will lower your closing costs.