Introduction:

Embarking on a home-buying journey can be exhilarating, but it also comes with its fair share of expenses. Along with the purchase price of the property, there are several other costs to consider. Priority 1 Lending is here to shed light on these often-overlooked expenses and guide you through a comprehensive understanding of the fees associated with buying a home.

The Various Fees You’ll Encounter When Buying a Home:

1. Appraisal Fee: Lenders require an appraisal to determine the market value of the home you’re interested in purchasing. This fee typically ranges from $300 to $500.

2. Home Inspection Fee: Before purchasing a home, it’s wise to hire a professional to perform a thorough inspection. This can reveal potential issues that could be costly in the future.

3. Loan Origination Fee: This fee is what your lender charges for creating your loan. It is generally 0.5% to 1% of your loan amount.

4. Title Search and Insurance Fees: A title search confirms that the seller has the legal right to sell the property. Title insurance protects the lender and the homeowner against any future property ownership claims.

5. Escrow Fee: Escrow companies are third parties that hold and regulate payment of the funds required for two parties involved in a transaction. This fee is typically split between the buyer and seller.

6. Prepaid Costs: These include property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and interest payments that must be paid at the time of closing.

7. Recording Fees: These are fees charged by your local recording office, usually city or county, for the recording of public land records.

8. Underwriting Fee: This is a fee that covers the cost of researching whether or not to approve you for the loan.

9. Credit Report Fee: Lenders charge this fee to pull your credit report and score from the three major credit bureaus.

10. HOA Fees: If the property is part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), you may need to pay a fee, often monthly.

Navigating Home-Buying Fees:

It’s essential to budget for these fees when planning to purchase a home. While it might be tempting to focus solely on the property’s purchase price, these additional costs can add up quickly. When applying for a loan, your lender will provide you with a Loan Estimate that outlines these costs, helping you to better understand your financial commitment.

Conclusion:
Understanding the assortment of fees associated with buying a home is crucial to avoiding surprises and creating a comprehensive home buying budget. At Priority 1 Lending, we are dedicated to assisting our clients through every step of the home-buying process. Our experienced professionals can provide you with the necessary guidance and clarity to navigate these fees and make your home buying journey a successful one.