Jump to content

difference between closing and settlement costs?


mzjazzyazz
 Share

Recommended Posts

Closing costs and Settlement costs are "basically the same," but there are small differences.

When you receive a Good Faith Estimate, these are "estimates" of what your closing costs will be. The reason these are estimates, is the actual costs will vary slightly. There are several unknowns on a purchae transaction most of the time, but we try to get as close as possible, so the borrower is not "shocked" when it gets down too the nitty gritty. I have always tried to estimate a little bit to the high side, so the surprises are less apparent.

After the loan is approved, and you are getting near the closing, the settlement costs will be used from your Good Faith Estimate in a more precise manner. If the Good Faith Estimate were to be exact, then there would be no difference in closing costs and settlement costs. In reality, unless you are actually closing on the 15th of the month, there wil be slight differences. Actual homeowners insurance costs and property tax escrows will also cause the actual settlement costs to vary as well.

Settlement costs are the actual amounts being paid to different parties which have contributed to the mortgage traansaction. Appraisals, credit reports, title insurance, attorney's fees, recording fees, (some states transfer taxes), realtor fees for both the buyer and seller, mortgage payoff amounts to clear the lien to the home, homeowners insurance, closing agent fees, and oh yes, if there is anything left over, we brokers like to get paid as well, and the lender we send the loan to has to get their money, and flood certifications, surveyors, etc. Geez, it seems like everyone wants a little bit of the action.

Best to just concentrate on "funds needed to close" on your side of things, and let Charles handle the rest.

P.S. I am happy for you that Charles was able to get you financed, and you are finally going to get to buy a home. I know you have been at this crdit thing for quite some time. Hope al goes smoothly during the process.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest
This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.