Closing The Home Purchase
Settlement & Closing
During the negotiation stage of the transaction, a mutually agreed-upon date for closing is determined. “Closing” is when you and the seller sign all the paperwork and pay your share of the settlement fees, and the documents are recorded. Settlement obligations vary widely due to specific contract language, local laws and customs.
Prior to closing, the closing agent (usually an escrow or title company or attorney) will complete a detailed settlement statement for both buyer and seller. As your Windermere agent, we can help you understand which of the following typical settlement fees apply to you.
The Buyer Receives:
Credit toward buyer closing costs or the purchase price for any earnest money deposited
The Buyer Pays:
One-half of escrow or legal fees paid to the attorney or escrow company for preparing the closing (in California, the party paying escrow fees varies from county to county)
Document preparation fees, if applicable
Recording and notary fees, if applicable
Title search and title insurance*
Local transfer taxes*
Loan fees
Appraisal fees
Credit report fees
Home Owners Association fees, if applicable*
*Paid by either the seller or the buyer