What Buyers Wish They Knew Before Closing: Hidden Costs to Watch For

If you're about to buy a home, you might think you've budgeted everything. But are you prepared for all the fees that come with closing? 

Nearly 91% of buyers in the Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report 2024 said they encountered at least one unexpected cost during the closing process. 

Let’s break down these fees and help you avoid the same pitfalls so your closing day goes as smoothly as possible.

1. The Loan Origination Fee

For 66% of homebuyers, the loan origination fee was the most unexpected cost. This fee covers the lender’s administrative costs for processing your loan, and it can range from 0.5% to 1% of the loan amount. While it’s a standard charge, many buyers don’t fully anticipate it, and it can add thousands to your closing costs.

Ask your lender upfront about the loan origination fee and negotiate if possible. In some cases, lenders may waive part of this fee, especially if you shop around.

2. Appraisal Costs

Appraisals are a necessary part of the home-buying process to ensure the property's value doesn’t exceed the loan amount. But did you know that 54% of buyers didn’t expect to pay for this out-of-pocket? Appraisal fees typically range from $300 to $500 but can vary based on your location and the size of the home.

3. Title Transfer Taxes

State and local governments often charge taxes to transfer the title of the home from seller to buyer. More than half of buyers (54%) were caught off guard by these fees, which can vary significantly depending on your location. Here in Sonoma County, buyers can expect to pay a percentage based on the home’s value. 

4. Title Insurance & Search Fees

Title insurance and title searches ensure there are no legal issues with the property’s ownership. But for 51% of buyers, these were unexpected costs during the closing process. Title insurance is essential because it protects you from any disputes over property ownership, but it’s not always top of mind when calculating closing costs.

5. Closing Costs: Higher Than Expected for Many

Closing costs can include everything from attorney fees to recording fees. According to the survey, 42% of buyers had closing costs that were higher than they anticipated. First-time buyers, in particular, were more likely to be surprised, with nearly half (49%) saying their final costs were above their expectations.

Expect your closing costs to be anywhere from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. To avoid surprises, ask your lender for a Loan Estimate early in the process. This document breaks down your expected closing costs. You’ll receive a final Closing Disclosure three days before closing that details the exact amount—be sure to review this in full once received. 

How to Avoid Surprise Fees

Now that you know the costs that surprised buyers the most in 2024, here’s how to avoid sticker shock at closing:

• Ask Questions Early: Don’t be afraid to ask your lender and real estate agent about any potential fees upfront. The more information you have, the better prepared you’ll be.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Whether you’re buying title insurance or closing services, shop around to ensure you’re getting the best rate.
• Plan for Flexibility: Budget for more than you think you’ll need. Having a cushion in place for unexpected costs will make the closing process less stressful.

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial commitments you'll ever make, and no one likes surprises—especially expensive ones. By understanding the common hidden costs of closing and planning ahead, you can go into your closing day confident and prepared. Whether you're a first-time buyer or have purchased multiple homes, these fees can sneak up on you. The key is to ask questions, plan ahead, and make sure you have a buffer in your budget to cover those last-minute expenses.