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Closing costs · 6 min read
Closing costs: what to plan for before you make an offer
A plain-English guide to lender fees, title services, inspections, taxes, recording, and the cash you need at closing.
What closing costs include
Closing costs can include lender charges, title and settlement services, appraisals, inspection costs, prepaid taxes and insurance, and recording or transfer taxes. The mix changes by lender and location.
Cash to close is more than your down payment
The cash needed at closing usually combines your down payment, closing costs, prepaid items, and credits. Your Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure are the documents to rely on.
Plan for a range
Early estimates are useful for setting a savings target, but local and property-specific details matter. Leave room for variation until you receive official disclosures.