When it comes to who pays for closing costs in a real estate transaction, there will be closing costs that are unique to both buyer and seller. The buyer can incur costs that are equal to 3% to 6% of the sales price of the property. Each party is responsible for paying their own costs at closing. However, if the market is in the buyer’s or seller’s favor, it may determine if either party negotiates paying some of the other’s fees and costs in order to make a deal.
Most of the buyer’s costs are associated with the loan. The biggest costs incurred for a loan will be the loan origination fee and any discount points paid to buy down the interest rate. Other costs may include those for an appraisal, HOA assessments, prorated insurance and taxes.
The seller’s biggest closing cost liability is paying the real estate commission. Other fees would include paying the title insurance, transfer taxes and prorated property taxes.
In a buyer’s market, it may have been negotiated that the seller pay for some of the buyer’s closing costs, called seller concessions. In a seller’s market, a buyer may offer to pay for some of the seller’s closing cost liability, such as the title insurance or the home warranty plan. If a buyer does this, it increases the seller’s net proceeds and gives the buyer an advantage in a seller’s market.
Whether you are a buyer or seller, I can help you use the anticipated closing costs to help complete a sale to your advantage. Call or email me today and we can go over your specific goals and circumstances. I am always here for you to provide guidance and help you navigate all aspects of the sale.