How this closing cost calculator works
Cash to close = down payment + closing costs. The low estimate includes lender origination (~1% of loan), third-party services (title, appraisal); the high adds escrow prepaids — 6 months of your tax rate on the price plus a year of insurance, the two items first-time buyers forget. Points are shown as a per-point figure in the note since each 1% of loan buys ~0.25% rate. FHA/VA/USDA have additional upfront premiums not modeled here.
Frequently asked questions
What percent are closing costs in 2026?
Buyers pay 2–5% of price on average (Zillow/Redfin 2026 data: ~$6,400 median). Lender fees ~1% of loan, title 0.5–1.3%, prepaid property tax + 1 year insurance fill the rest. This tool's low bound = non-negotiables; high = realistic with prepaids.
Are any closing costs negotiable?
Yes: seller concessions cover up to 3–9% depending on loan type (ask for them instead of a price cut — same dollars, cheaper); origination fees and rate quotes are shoppable (0.5% swing per lender comparison is normal); title/settlement varies by state regulation. Appraisal and government recording fees are fixed.
Do I pay closing costs if I refinance?
Same 2–5% structure applies to refis (no down payment line). Watch for no-closing-cost offers — they shift fees into a higher rate or lender credit cap; run the payoff math before accepting.