How to Calculate Closing Costs When Shopping for a Fixed Rate Mortgage

Shopping for a fixed-rate mortgage can be overwhelming. When you’re looking for the best deal, it’s important to factor in closing costs. Knowing how to calculate closing costs can help you make an informed decision and get the best deal.

What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the fees associated with the purchase and sale of a property. They are paid at the closing of the transaction and cover a variety of services such as loan origination fees, title insurance, appraisal fees, and more. Closing costs can vary widely depending on the type of loan and the lender.

Common Closing Costs:

The most common closing costs include: 

• Loan origination fees: These are typically charged by the lender for processing the loan. 

• Appraisal fees: An appraiser evaluates the value of the property to ensure the loan amount is in line with the home’s market value. 

• Title insurance: This protects the lender against any title defects that may arise throughout the loan process. 

• Escrow fees: These cover the costs of setting up and managing an escrow account for your closing costs. 

• Property/transfer taxes: These taxes are typically paid by the buyer.

• Survey fees: This is a fee charged for surveying the property and ensuring it meets local zoning and building regulations.

• Recording fees: These fees cover the costs of recording the deed and other paperwork related to the closing. 

• Homeowners insurance: This is an annual insurance policy that covers your home in the event of an accident or disaster. 

• Home inspection: A home inspection is an important part of the home-buying process. It helps to identify any underlying issues with the property before you close on the sale.

How to Calculate Closing Costs:

When shopping for a mortgage, it’s important to factor in your closing costs. To calculate your closing costs, you will need to add up all of the fees listed above. Your lender can provide you with an estimate of the closing costs, but you should also shop around to compare fees among different lenders.

In addition to the fees listed above, you may also need to pay for additional services such as a home inspection or survey. You should factor in these additional costs when calculating your total closing costs.

Budgeting for Closing Costs:

Once you know your closing costs, it’s important to budget for them. Many lenders will allow you to roll the closing costs into the loan, but this can be costly in the long run. If you can afford to pay the closing costs upfront, it’s usually the best option.

Paying the closing costs upfront can also help you secure a lower interest rate on your loan. Many lenders offer discounted rates for borrowers who pay their closing costs in full.

Conclusion:

When shopping for a fixed-rate mortgage, it’s important to factor in closing costs. Knowing how to calculate closing costs can help you make an informed decision and get the best deal. To calculate your closing costs, add up all of the fees listed above. Remember to factor in additional costs such as a home inspection or survey. Finally, budget for your closing costs. Paying them upfront can help you secure a lower interest rate on your loan.