Beyond your down payment, closing costs are the other upfront expense of buying a home. Knowing what they include — and how to reduce them — helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises at the closing table.
Jazmyne Collins helps buyers plan for closing and negotiate credits where possible.
What Closing Costs Include
Closing costs typically include lender fees, appraisal, title insurance, attorney fees (Georgia is an attorney-closing state), prepaid taxes and insurance, and recording fees.
They generally run about 2–5% of the purchase price.
How to Reduce Them
Buyers can often negotiate seller-paid closing-cost credits, especially in a balanced market or on homes that have sat a while. Down payment assistance programs may also cover some costs.
Shopping lenders and comparing loan estimates can lower fees too.
Budgeting for Closing
Add your estimated closing costs to your down payment to understand your true cash-to-close. Your lender's loan estimate itemizes everything early in the process.
We'll help you plan so nothing catches you off guard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are closing costs in Georgia?
Typically about 2–5% of the purchase price, covering lender, title, attorney, appraisal, and prepaid items.
Can the seller pay my closing costs?
Yes — seller-paid closing-cost credits are common and negotiable, subject to loan-program limits. It's a key tool in offer strategy.
