One very common question of real estate transactions is, "Who pays for what?” Below is a list to give you an idea of some of the common expectations.

Also, being a “buyer's market” or a “seller's market” could possibly change the common fee responsibility. The distinction between personal property and real property can be the source of serious difficulties in a real estate

transaction. A purchase contract is normally written to include all real property, that is, all features of the property that are fastened down or are an integral part of the structure. For example, this would include light fixtures, drapery rods, attached mirrors, trees and shrubs in the ground. It would not normally include potted plants, free-standing refrigerators,

washers/dryers, microwaves, bookcases, swag lamps, etc. If there is any uncertainty whether an item is included in the sale or not, it is best to be sure that the particular item is mentioned in the purchase agreement as being included or excluded.

The SELLER could generally

be expected to pay for the following:

• Real Estate Commission

• Document preparation fee for Deed

• Documentary transfer tax

• City Transfer/Conveyance Tax (according to

contract)

• Payoff of all loans in seller's name (unless being

assumed by buyer)

• Interest accrued to lender being paid off,

Statement Fees, reconveyance Fees and any

Prepayment Penalties

• Termite Inspection (according to contract)

• Termite Work (according to contract)

• Home Warranty (according to contract)

• Any judgments, tax liens, etc., against the seller

• Tax proration (for any taxes unpaid at time of

transfer of title)

• Any unpaid Homeowner's Association Fees

• Homeowner's Association Transfer Fee

• Title Insurance Premium (Owners policy)

• Recording charges to clear all documents of

record against seller

• Any bonds or assessments (according to contract)

• Escrow Fee

• Notary Fee

The BUYER could generally

be expected to pay for the following:

• Title Insurance Premium (Lenders policy)

• Escrow Fee

• Notary Fee

• Document preparation (if applicable)

• Recording charges for all documents in buyer's

name

• Tax proration (from date of acquisition)

• All new loan charges (except those required by the

lender for seller to pay)

• Interest on new loan from date of funding to 30

days prior to first payment date (or, more

Understandably, from date of funding to the end of

that month)

• Inspection Fees (roofing, property inspection,

geological, etc.)

• Home warranty (according to contract)

• Fire insurance Premium for first year (+ 2 months)