A GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA CLOSING COSTS

Thinking about selling or buying real estate in California? Depending on where your home is located different standards apply.

Download our Free 2023 Guide to California Closing Costs

Wherever you are in the home buying or selling process it is essential that there are no surprises. There are 58 counties in California from Alameda to Yuba and each has its own nuance for who pays what. Check the link above to view closing cost guidelines for 2023 provided by our friends at Old Title Republic.

What are typical closing costs?

When closing on your real estate transaction there are certain fees that need to be paid. These include - Escrow Charges, Title Fees, and Transfer Taxes. Depending on the county these are handled differently. On average, sellers in California can expect to pay between 2 to 3% of their home’s final sale price in closing costs.

Escrow Charges

As a general rule, Escrow Charges are split 50/50 between the buyer and seller. There are exceptions, notably in San Francisco buyers are expected to cover Escrow fees.

Title Fees Owner Policy

These fees vary far more and it’s worth checking your particular county guidelines. In San Francisco county, Title Fees are paid by the buyer.

City Transfer Taxes

Transfer taxes are calculated by an amount owed per $1,000. On average, California charges about 0.11% of your home’s value to transfer the title to the new owner. Some cities and counties charge their own transfer tax, so check with your realtor and title company to see what local taxes are owed.

In San Francisco The Seller Pays Through:

• $250,000 = $5.00
• $250,001 to $999,999 = $6.80
• $1,000,000 to $4,999,999 = $7.50
• $5,000,000 to $9,999,999 = $22.50
• $10,000,000 to $24,999,999 = $55.00
• $25,000,000 or more = $60.00

Download our Free 2023 Guide to California Closing Costs

While closing costs will always have to be paid, your real estate agent can often negotiate who pays them — you or the buyer. A local knowledgeable realtor will have an understanding of the closing costs you can expect to pay, depending on the California neighborhood you're selling in and other factors. 

 If you would like to be connected with a vetted agent outside of San Francisco, we would be happy to share our recommendations. We have an extensive network of top agents across the State. If San Francisco is your focus, we would be happy to represent your interests. Let’s talk.