Customary Buyer Fees

What fees do I pay in escrow?

Escrow fees are part of the closing costs when you purchase a home, and they’re paid to the escrow company to set up escrow for your earnest money. These fees cover paperwork — including the recording of the deed — and the exchange of funds. Having escrow in place during the closing process helps keep your earnest money safe.

Common fees paid by the buyer include ...

Real estate commissions for buyer's agent, however you can include a request for the seller to pay this fee in the purchase agreement
Lender's title insurance policy
On-half of the sub-escrow fee
Buyer's escrow fee and processing
Document preparation
Email loan document fee
Notary fees
Recording charges for all documents in the buyer's name
Tax proration (for any taxes unpaid at the closing)
Homeowner's transfer fee, if specified in contract
All new loan charges
Interest on new loan
Inspection fees (roofing, property, sewer, termite, etc)
Home warranty, if specified in contract
City transfer tax, if specified in contract
Fire insurance premium for first year
Next month's HOA dues, if applicable.
Messenger fees

Some of these fees can vary depending on the contract, so it's important to have a trusted agent by your side when buying a home and negotiating the contract.