Friday, February 17, 2012

Closing Costs - Who Is Responsible For It?

By Dana McLean


Buying or selling a home is a euphoric experience for both parties involved. When you learn which party is responsible for the closing costs, this euphoria can cool.

Do Know Who is Responsible for the Closing Costs?

Eventually, every person arrives at the question of funding closing costs on the transaction when looking to buy or sell a home. To put it simply, both buyers and sellers typically are responsible for some of the closing costs. However, varying significantly from area to area and depending on what agreements the buyers and sellers come to in the offer-counteroffer process are the exact amounts that are paid.

Researching the area that you are looking to buy or sell in and being knowledgeable regarding any laws and standards of practice for the area is an important thing you need to do. Yes, the requirements are different in each state and often each city. In order for you to be prepared to cover these costs, you need to know what you will have to pay ahead of time. Below are a few examples examples of what buyers and seller generally have to cover.

Typically, buyers pay the following. Fees charged for obtaining a mortgage; inspection fees; homeowner's insurance (must be prepaid for one year at closing); transfer taxes if there are any (although the seller may pay these or they may be shared 50-50 between buyer and seller); title insurance and escrow fees (varies depending on the location); and attorney's fees (if and where attorneys are involved in the transaction). A mortgage broker can tell you which fees are customarily paid for by the buyer in your area and how much they will cost in case you are confused. In order to get a great deal on a mortgage and help with the transaction itself, the use of mortgage brokers is highly recommended when you are buying a home. You can ensure that the broker will make the effort since they will only get paid if the deal goes through.

As for the seller's closing expense responsibilities, these typically include the following. There are loan payoff fees, the real estate commission (in some cases, a portion of this may be paid by the buyer), and title insurance which depends on the location) as well as termite repairs which is negotiable in some areas, cash payments in lieu of repairs to the property, all or part of transfer taxes and escrow fees, if there are any, attorney's fees where applicable; and other fees set by local custom or negotiated during the transaction.

Knowing and researching the area you are buying or selling in is critical to understanding who is responsible for closing costs. You can avoid overpaying if you educate yourself.




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