Closing Costs Explained: What Buyers Pay and How to Reduce Them

By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read

The Short Answer

Closing costs are the fees paid to complete a home purchase, often roughly two to five percent of the price. They include lender fees, title and escrow charges, prepaid taxes and insurance, and more.

Closing Costs Explained: What Buyers Pay and How to Reduce Them
Stock photo: Pexels

What is included

Where the money goes
CostPaid toUsually due
Origination and underwritingLenderAt closing
Appraisal and credit reportAppraiser and credit bureauOften at application or before closing
Title insurance and settlementTitle companyAt closing
Prepaid taxes and insuranceInsurer and escrow accountAt closing
Escrow depositsYour escrow accountAt closing

On a $600,000 purchase, 2% to 5% would be roughly $12,000 to $30,000. Your Loan Estimate shows your actual numbers.

How to estimate

Your lender will give you a Loan Estimate within three business days of applying, and a Closing Disclosure at least three days before closing. Compare them.

Quick Poll

Where are you in the buying process?

Ways to reduce costs

Remember

Cash needed to close includes your down payment too. Ask your lender for a full estimate early in the process.

This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.

David Parks
About David Parks

David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.

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