California closing costs are a necessary part of getting a mortgage but they shouldn’t catch you off guard. Understanding these fees helps you plan ahead and feel confident when it’s time to sign.
This guide breaks down what closing costs include, how much they typically cost, and what options you may have to reduce or negotiate them.
We believe you deserve full transparency about what you’re paying for — and why.
What’s Included in California Closing Costs?
Closing costs cover the services and fees required to finalize your home loan. While they vary slightly by location and loan type, they typically include:
An appraisal fee is the cost paid to a licensed appraiser to assess a property’s market value, typically required by a lender during the mortgage process. The appraiser evaluates the home’s condition, location, and comparable sales to ensure the loan amount aligns with the property’s true worth.
Estimated Total: Usually 2%–5% of the home’s purchase price.
In most cases, buyers pay the bulk of California closing costs, but there are exceptions. Some costs can be shared or even negotiated with the seller.
Sometimes. For refinances, rolling costs into the new loan may be an option. For purchases, you might qualify for a lender credit or seller contribution to offset them. We’ll walk you through your options and find the path that makes the most financial sense.
