Closing Costs Calculator
Estimate the total costs associated with purchasing a home, including loan details and closing expenses
Cost Breakdown
Fee Type | Amount |
---|
Cash Needed at Closing
- estimated total
Includes down payment and closing costs
Monthly Payment Estimate
Principal & Interest: -
Estimated Taxes & Insurance: -
Total Monthly Payment: -
Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home's purchase price and include fees for loan origination, appraisal, title insurance, escrow, and other services. These costs are in addition to your down payment.
Note: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual closing costs may vary based on location, lender, and other factors.
What is a Closing Costs Calculator?
A Closing Costs Calculator is a financial tool that estimates the total fees and expenses associated with finalizing a real estate transaction. It helps buyers, sellers, and refinancers prepare for the cash needed at settlement.
Key Features:
Estimates all lender, title, and government fees
Calculates prepaid items like taxes and insurance
Provides a breakdown of who pays which fees (buyer vs. seller)
Adjusts for loan type and location-specific taxes
How Closing Costs Are Calculated
Closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the home's purchase price for buyers and 1-3% for refinancers. The calculator uses:
Total Closing Costs = Lender Fees + Third-Party Fees + Prepaids + Escrows + Taxes
Detailed Fee Breakdown:
Fee Category | Description | Typical Cost |
---|---|---|
Lender Fees | Origination, underwriting, points | 0.5%-1.5% of loan |
Title & Escrow | Title search, insurance, settlement | $800-$2,500 |
Appraisal & Credit | Property valuation, credit report | $300-$700 |
Government Fees | Recording, transfer taxes | Varies by location |
Prepaids | Homeowners insurance, property taxes | 2-6 months upfront |
Step-by-Step Calculation Example
Scenario: $400,000 home with 20% down conventional loan
Loan Amount: $320,000
Estimated Closing Costs (3%): $9,600
Lender fees: $3,200 (1%)
Title/escrow: $1,800
Appraisal: $500
Prepaids: $4,100 (insurance + taxes)
Cash to Close: $80,000 (down) + $9,600 = $89,600
Who Pays What?
Buyer Typically Pays:
Loan-related fees
Homeowners insurance
Property tax escrows
Owner's title insurance
Seller Typically Pays:
Real estate commissions (5-6%)
Transfer taxes (in some states)
Seller's title insurance
Outstanding liens
How to Reduce Closing Costs
Negotiate with seller for concessions (up to 3-6% of price)
Shop service providers for title/escrow
Request lender credits (in exchange for slightly higher rate)
Time your closing near month-end to reduce prepaid interest
Look for assistance programs (FHA, VA, or local grants)
Special Considerations
FHA Loans: Add 1.75% upfront MIP
VA Loans: Limit buyer-paid fees (sellers often pay more)
Refinancing: May include prepayment penalties
New Construction: Often higher title/escrow fees