Costs & Fees
Closing Costs & Up-Front Costs
The costs beyond your down payment that you'll need to budget for before and at closing.
Updated for 2026
Your down payment isn't the only cost of buying a home. Budgeting for the following up-front and closing costs will help you avoid a last-minute scramble.
Costs due before closing
- Deposit — part of your down payment, paid with your offer
- Home inspection fee — typically $450 to $550
- Appraisal fee — typically $350 to $450
- Water quality test — if the home has a well
Costs due at closing
- The remainder of your down payment
- Land transfer tax
- Mortgage default insurance premium and applicable sales tax, if required
- Prepaid property taxes or utility costs owed to the seller
- Legal fees and disbursements
- Title insurance, if required or recommended
- A survey or certificate of location, if one isn't already on file
Your lawyer will tell you the exact amount to bring to closing, usually a few days ahead of time — but knowing these categories in advance means no surprises.