FAQ

  • Recording fees are charges paid to the local government for officially documenting the property transaction, ensuring public record accuracy, and establishing legal ownership rights.

  • Intangible tax is a state-imposed fee in some real estate transactions, calculated based on the property's purchase price or mortgage amount. It's assessed on the transfer or financing of real property.

  • Note stamps refer to physical or digital markers indicating important terms or clauses for both parties to pay attention to, enhancing contract clarity and understanding.

  • A Simultaneous Mortgagee Title Insurance policy protects both the lender and the property buyer by insuring against title defects and issues that may arise during a real estate transaction.

  • Title insurance endorsements are add-ons to a standard title insurance policy that provide additional coverage or customize it to meet specific needs or risks in a real estate transaction.

  • Lender's flood certification fees cover the cost of assessing flood risk on a property, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, and determining the need for flood insurance.

  • Mortgage origination charges are fees that lenders charge for processing a new mortgage loan. They typically include application, underwriting, and administrative costs, and can vary from lender to lender.

  • An appraisal fee is a cost incurred by a buyer to assess the property's value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. It ensures the property's price aligns with the market and loan requirements.

  • A credit report is a document that details an individual's credit history, providing information on their financial behavior and creditworthiness, which can impact mortgage approval.

  • An inspection and reinspection fee covers the cost of assessing a property's condition and may apply if multiple inspections are needed before closing the deal.

  • A tax service fee is a charge imposed by a third-party service provider to manage property tax payments and ensure they are made accurately and on time.

  • A Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) report assesses properties for termite and other pest infestations. It informs buyers and sellers about potential damage and necessary treatments.

  • A one-year home warranty provides coverage for certain repairs or replacements of home systems and appliances, offering financial protection for the buyer against unexpected issues.

  • A VA funding fee is a one-time cost for U.S. military veterans using a VA loan, supporting the loan program and covering administrative expenses.

  • A mortgage insurance premium (MIP) is a fee required in some real estate contracts, typically for FHA loans, to protect the lender in case the borrower defaults on the mortgage.

  • A survey map is a detailed diagram showing the boundaries, dimensions, and features of a property, helping to clarify its legal description for buyers and sellers.

  • A closing attorney/settlement fee is a cost incurred in a real estate transaction to cover legal services and administrative tasks related to the property's transfer of ownership.

  • Buyer's courier/wire fees refer to the expenses incurred by the buyer for sending documents or transferring funds, typically associated with the purchase transaction and are outlined in the contract.

  • A title search is a process of examining public records to verify a property's legal ownership and uncover any potential issues or encumbrances that might affect its transfer during a real estate transaction.

  • A municipal lien search is a due diligence process to uncover any outstanding property-related debts or liens held by local governments, ensuring a clear title for the buyer.

  • A broker transaction fee is a fee paid to the real estate broker for their services in facilitating the sale or purchase of a property.

  • Mortgage transfer involves transferring an existing mortgage to a new borrower, often with lender approval. Assumption charges are fees associated with this process, covering administrative costs and potential credit checks.

  • Deed stamps, also known as transfer tax or deed transfer fees, are charges imposed by local governments on real estate transactions to officially record and transfer property ownership rights.

  • An owner's title insurance policy protects the property buyer from financial loss due to unforeseen issues with the property's title, such as disputes or liens.