For first-time homebuyers the sticker shock of closing costs can be a lot to absorb. After coming up with a significant down payment, moving costs and other incidentals tied to going from city to suburban life, many new buyers find themselves confronted with another set of hefty fees which, in some cases, can be 30-50% of that initial investment.
So what’s in a down payment—and how can you prepare for those inevitable fees come closing?
Total bank feesvary based on the size and type of mortgage you choose, but typically include application fee, lender closing fees, settlement/closing fees, title examination, title insurance and document preparation fees.
Third-party feesare for services rendered by parties other than the borrower or the lender, such as appraisal, credit report, title, state-specific taxes and deed fees, closing-escrow fees, and flood certifications.
Prepaid interest & insuranceare funds equal to the interest that accrues on your loan from your closing date until the last day of the month, plus the initial premium for your homeowners insurance policy. This will vary based on which day of the month you close.
Escrow account fundsinclude monies collected by the lender from the borrower in order to pay the property taxes and homeowners insurance premiums when they become due.
Here’s what to expect on an $800,000 loan.
NEW YORK(Long Island)
Total bank fees: $3,522
Third-party fees: $24,152
Prepaid interest & insurance: $5,246
Escrow account funds: $1,096
TOTAL: $34,016
NEW YORK(Westchester)
Total bank fees: $3,522
Third-party fees: $25,902
Prepaid interest & insurance: $4,946
Escrow account funds: $4,664
TOTAL: $39,034
NEWJERSEY
Total bank fees: $8,961
Third-party fees: $6,558
Prepaid interest & insurance: $4,996
Escrow account funds: $5,086
TOTAL: $25,601
CONNECTICUT
Total bank fees: $8,379
Third-party fees: $5,118
Prepaid interest & insurance: $4,276
Escrow account funds: $1,114
TOTAL: $18,887
PLEASE NOTE: Estimates based on purchases in Port Washington, Scarsdale, Montclair and Greenwich, with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage.