You are at:
GARDEN HOMES » Resources » Financing: Closing Cost Checklist

Just when you think the hard part of buying a home is over, you're hit with a laundry list of closing costs that can make you wish you were just a plain old renter again. Unless you know what these costs are for, they can make you feel like you're browsing through an overly - complicated phone bill - you see these extra fees tacked on but have no idea where they come from. Although fees may vary according to your situation (such as whether you're buying a house or condominium, for example), here's a list of some of the fees you might expect to pay, and what they actually entail:

Down Payment
This money goes toward the purchase of your home.

Deposit/Earnest Money
The fee generally paid when you make an offer on a piece of property to prove your intent to make a contract.

Points Charged by Lender
Each point represents one percent of the mortgage balance. Buyers can also pay discount points as a way to reduce their interest rates.

Loan Origination Fee
This fee covers the cost of processing the loan.

Credit Reports
Covers the cost of getting a buyer's credit history.

Appraisal Fees
Covers the cost of having an appraiser place a value on the property.

Survey Fee
Ensures that property lines are clearly marked.

Property Inspection Fees
Inspection for pests or to make sure the property meets all building codes.

Attorneys Fees
Fees that cover the costs of an attorney to close the deal.

Title Search
Fee to make sure there was no problem with the deed or property ownership.

CLOSE THIS WINDOW