What Are Closing Costs?

Understanding Closing Costs: No Surprises, Just the Truth

So your offer’s accepted, your loan’s approved, and you’re almost at the finish line. Now comes closing, the final step where the property officially becomes yours. Sounds simple, right? It is… as long as you know what to expect.

What Are Closing Costs, Really?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses tied to finalizing your home purchase. Think of them as the behind-the-scenes services that make the transfer of ownership legit—things like title work, loan setup, and insurance.

These costs usually run between 2% to 5% of the purchase price. And while that can feel like a curveball if you’re not ready for it, it’s 100% manageable if you go in informed.

services-image
services-images

Here’s What You’re Likely Paying For (Metro Detroit Estimates):

  • Appraisal fee – $450 to $600
  • Credit report fee – Around $50 to $75
  • Loan origination fee – Typically 0.5% to 1% of loan amount (on a $250,000 home, expect $1,250 to $2,500)
  • Title search and insurance – $700 to $1,200 depending on home price and title company
  • Recording fees & transfer taxes – Around $200 to $400, plus Michigan transfer tax at $8.60 per $1,000 of sale price
  • Homeowners insurance (1st year prepaid) – Typically $900 to $1,500 depending on home and coverage
  • Escrow account setup (for taxes and insurance) – 2 to 3 months’ worth of payments, often $1,500 to $2,500
  • My Role? Make Sure You Know It All Before You Sign Anything

    I walk you through every fee, line by line, before you ever show up to the closing table. No vague jargon. No “you’ll find out later.”

    We also look at every angle to reduce your out-of-pocket costs:

  • Can we negotiate seller concessions to cover some or all of it?
  • Are there grants or down payment assistance programs you qualify for?
  • Can we time things to lower your prepaid tax amounts?
  • Sometimes the difference between overpaying and walking away with money saved is just knowing the right questions to ask. I’ll be the one asking them for you.


    You deserve to show up to closing fully prepared and 100% confident. No stress. No surprises. That’s how we work.

    Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk about what buying a home really looks like, and how to make the process smoother from day one.