If you are like me, you want to know how much something is going to cost before you get started. I’ve put together an expense worksheet to give new buyers a good idea of all of the BIG expenses you can expect when buying a home so you know how much money you need in the bank. You can download the worksheet here.
Down Payment – This is the percent of your loan that you are expected to have at closing. This could be anywhere from 0% of your loan (VA Loans) to 3.5% (FHA Loans) or anything in between (3-20%+ for Conventional). For example, if you are doing an FHA loan for $100,000 at 3.5% you will be expected to have $3,500 at closing.
Loan Origination Fee – This is typically around 1% of your loan value. So if you are buying a $200,000 home, you can expect a loan origination fee of somewhere around $2,000. This can be rolled into your loan if you are willing to accept a higher interest rate.
Closing Fees – These are fees for the title company putting all the paperwork together. For the buyer this is typically between $400-$600.
Appraisal – Unless you are paying cash your lender will require an appraisal. This is to make sure they aren’t lending more than the house is worth in the case they would need to foreclose. The appraisal fee is typically between $400-$600 in Texas. This may vary depending on location.
Optional Expenses ↴
Home Inspection – Although this is not required, it’s highly recommended you have the home inspected by a professional. Cost – $400-$500
Termite Inspection – This is not required unless you are utilizing a VA Loan. Cost $90-$150
Pool Inspection – Not required but highly recommended if you are purchasing a pool Cost $100 – $250
Expenses Applied Towards Purchase ↴
Earnest Money – This is money that will be required within 48 hours of executing the contract. It is typically at least 1% of the purchase price and goes towards the purchase of your home. For example on a $250,000 home it would be $2,500. This shows you are serious about purchasing the home. If you are to cancel the contract during your option period, this money will be refunded to you.
Option Money – This is typically a couple hundred dollars that will allow you a set time, typically 7-10 days to inspect the home. This money is made out to the sellers, is not coming back to you and is typically applied towards the sales price of the home.
Download the Home Buyers Expenses Worksheet
*Disclaimer – Fees may vary in your area and there may be other expenses not listed in this worksheet. Check with your realtor and lender for all applicable expenses.
