First Time Home Ownership – Top Fees to Be Aware Of

When it comes to buying a home, there are a lot of small financial things you need to take into consideration. Adding all these small things together may add up to an amount you did not plan for and may become a burden.

That is why it is crucial that you do your homework so you know what to look out for and what you can go without. This is also quite an exciting time in your life, but buying a house can be overwhelming.

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Take a look at all the extras regarding buying a home so it will be a good experience for you.

First Time Home Ownership - Things to Be Aware Of
Image Source: Scott Webb / Unsplash

Monthly Payment

This is the standard monthly payment you pay on the mortgage until the home is fully paid off. This may take quite some time, sometimes up to 30 years of your life depending on the original agreement.

Down Payment

Some lenders will require you to make a down payment on the home’s original cost, which may be anywhere from 10 to 20 percent. This is done so the financial company can see that you are ready to commit to this enormous responsibility.

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First Time Home Ownership - Things to Be Aware Of
Image Source: K8 / Unsplash

Application Fees

This is a fee you need to pay to the bank or financial institution where you apply for the mortgage. There may also be fees for your credit report, as well as an underwriting fee that is usually a flat fee.

Title-Based Fees

These types of fees may include such things as title insurance and title insurance binder. It is normally required of the new buyer to get title insurance to protect you from a myriad of things. Other fees include title search fees and title settlement, but you can shop around for better rates.

Appraisal and Survey Fees

If there is no appraisal available, a new appraisal needs to be done to determine the boundaries and the value of the property. This will be done by the lending institution to ensure the property is worth the money you are paying for it. The buyer will pay this appraisal fee before the survey is done by the bank or lender.

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Escrow Fees

At the closing of the home, a purchasing account will be opened where all the money is kept until all agreements are reached. These may involve quite a number of fees that need to be paid, so be sure to be fully aware of what needs to be paid in order to close the sale of the home. Keep an eye out for hidden fees or costs.

Summary

Get as much information as you can before you commit to home ownership. Your first home will probably not be the last home you buy, so keep an open mind before you commit.