What are closing costs in Florida and who pays them?

For buyers, closing costs typically include lender fees, title insurance, an appraisal, a survey, taxes, and recording fees. They are separate from the down payment and are paid when you sign the final documents.

For sellers, closing costs usually include the commission, title and closing fees, and sometimes concessions or repairs agreed to in the contract.

In Florida, buyers and sellers each pay their own customary closing costs, though the exact split is negotiated and written into the contract.

Florida also has a well-known practice where the seller often provides the owner's title insurance policy, but every contract is different, so it matters to read yours carefully.

A common planning range for buyer closing costs is roughly 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price, but your real number depends on the loan, the price, and the specifics of the contract.

You receive a written estimate early in the process so there are no surprises at the table.

Get a written estimate from your lender and review the closing disclosure before you sign. I help you understand each line so you know what you are paying for.

Keep extra cash available beyond your down payment so closing costs do not catch you off guard.

I walk you through the closing costs for your specific purchase or sale, item by item, so you know what to expect long before closing day.

The goal is a smooth closing with no surprises and a clear understanding of every number.