If you're thinking about buying a home in the North Hills or Pittsburgh, or anywhere across Western Pennsylvania, you're in the right place. Not only have I lived my entire life in Pittsburgh, but since 2008 I’ve had the pleasure of helping clients navigate the home-buying journey with confidence, and an important part of that journey is understanding closing costs.
Whether you're drawn to the charm of Sewickley, considering a family-friendly community like Marshall, or eyeing a peaceful cul-de-sac in Pine Township, knowing what to expect at closing can make all the difference.
So, What Exactly Are Closing Costs?
Closing costs are the collection of fees and payments made at the end of a real estate transaction. These costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price and are paid when the property's ownership is officially transferred. I walk each of my clients through these details early on, so there are no surprises when it's time to sign.
Common Components of Closing Costs
Loan Origination Fees
This is what lenders charge for processing your mortgage. It’s typically a small percentage of your loan amount, and it’s something we’ll calculate together once you’ve chosen your lender.
Appraisal Fees
An appraisal confirms the home’s value for your lender. The fee depends on the size and complexity of the property—and yes, every house, from a tidy ranch in Ross Township to a spacious Colonial in Franklin Park, gets appraised.
Title Insurance
This one-time fee protects you (and your lender) from potential title issues. It’s an important safeguard to ensure your new home is free of liens and ownership disputes.
Escrow Fees
The escrow company handles the paperwork and funds during the transaction. I make sure you're working with trusted professionals who keep the process smooth and secure.
Recording Fees & Transfer Taxes
These are standard across Allegheny and surrounding counties, and they ensure that your purchase is legally recorded and reflected in public records.
Homeowner’s Insurance & Prepaid Interest
Your lender will want you to have insurance coverage on the new home in place before you close. You’ll also pay interest on your loan from the closing date to your first payment. These fees are calculated in advance and communicated while preparing to close so you will know ahead of time what is needed at closing.
Prorated Property Taxes
This covers your portion of the year’s property taxes from the date of purchase. Rates vary depending on the township, and these will be estimated during the mortgage preparation process.
Preparing for Closing With Confidence
What I’ve found over the years is that the more prepared my clients are, the smoother the closing process becomes. We’ll review your estimated closing costs early in your home search, explore your options with lenders, and look for opportunities to make the numbers work in your favor.
Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way—from understanding the fees to celebrating the moment you get the keys.
If you’re thinking about buying in the North Hills or anywhere in Western PA, let’s connect. I’d be happy to help you navigate every detail with clarity and care.