Buyer Closing Costs in Boston, MA for Real Estate

Here we take a closer look at what buyers can expect when closing on a Real Estate purchase in and around Boston.

Attorney Fee

A hired attorney will take the buyers through the Purchase and Sales agreement and such other documents. Often the buyer’s lender will allow the personal attorney to purpose as a bank attorney as well, this could possibly lower the cost. An attorney will cost around $800 to $2,000.

Filing Fees

This fee is paid to the county clerk to record the new deed, the mortgage, and change the property tax billing.  The expense will be about $125 for deed, $65 for municipal lien certificate, $175 for mortgage, totaling $365.

Survey & Plot Plan

In many cases the lender will require a land survey (aka plot plan) to ensure that no one had encroached on the property lines. This service will cost about $150.

Property Appraisal

Similar to the land survey, the lender may require an appraisal on the property to ensure that property is worth the sales price. An appraisal may cost anywhere from $400 to $600.

Bank Charges

A credit report is required by the lender and a flood certification service is performed to determine is the property is located in a Flood Hazard Area. Together they should cost about $75.

Courier and Mailing

Simple costs such as courier and overnight mailing are also a factor and could add up to about $50 in the closing process.

Title Insurance

Similar to the MA Tax Stamp cost, the buyer pays for title insurance that is based on the price of the property. The cost is calculated as around $3 to $4 per $1000 of the sales price. This insurance is optional, but recommended and should be discussed with your attorney.

Blog Post by Lauren Harvey