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2 min read

What are Closing Costs and Why Do They Differ?

What are Closing Costs and Why Do They Differ?
 

Buying or refinancing a home can seem like an intimidating task. The application process alone can take a lot of time and effort, and getting final approval form an underwriter can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. On top of that, closing costs can make even the most attractive interest rates seem less appealing. So, what exactly are closing costs and why do they differ from lender to lender?

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are the expenses that a mortgage borrower incurs when taking out a mortgage loan, often when purchasing or refinancing a property. These expenses are paid at the closing of a real estate transaction and include fees for services such as loan origination, underwriting, appraisal, title search, title insurance, and other related expenses.

How much?

Closing costs can significantly affect the total cost of the loan. These costs can depend on several factors, such as the location and value of the property and the type of loan being applied for. Additionally, the services and companies providing the services can affect the closing costs. While some costs, like taxes and government fees, are standardized and set by the county or state, other fess, such as the origination fee or title insurance, can vary depending on the service provider. In those cases, borrowers may have the option to shop around for specific services to try and reduce their total closing costs. In summary, the total closing costs vary significantly from one transaction to another, making it essential for borrowers to review their official Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure to understand the fees and costs associated with their specific loan.

Who pays?

With traditional lenders, usually the borrower (you!), pay for closing costs. However, with CapCenter's "Zero Closing Cost" Offer, CapCenter covers - or eliminates - you loan's standard closing costs. These "standard" costs include things like the home appraisal, loan origination fees, and title search fees. Visit our calculator to see a more comprehensive list and estimate your potential savings.

A few charges cannot, by law, be covered by lenders. These will always include escrow deposits and prepaid interest. Exact amounts for escrow and prepaid interest depend on when property taxes and homeowner's insurance are due and when a loan closes. 

Some loans require fees outside of standard costs, such as a cash-out refinance, where a borrower pulls some of the equity out of their home, or a situation in which the borrower pays points to lower the annual interest rate. The cost of these fees are set by each lender but often dictated by financial market conditions.

How to avoid closing costs

While some fees likes taxes are unavoidable, other expenses and loan costs can vary from by lender and service provide - and with CapCenter, can be covered for you. This can help you save thousands of dollars, leaving more money in your pocket for other important expenses. Simplify the process of obtaining a mortgage and save money by choosing a zero-closing cost loan with CapCenter.

 

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