List for 1%
Menu
214-302-9878Submit a property

Buying in Dallas–Fort Worth

Buyer closing costs are only one part of cash to close

Updated

Your down payment is only part of the money you need to buy. Add the loan charges and title costs first. Then allow for prepaid bills, escrow funding and any brokerage compensation you owe. Set aside money for inspections and an appraisal as well. Use your lender's Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure to check the amount for your purchase.

Find Your Next Home

01

How are cash to close and closing costs different?

Cash to close is the amount you still need to bring to closing. Start with your down payment and closing charges. Add the required prepaids and escrow funding. Subtract deposits already credited and any permitted contributions.

  • Your down payment becomes equity in your home. Closing fees pay for the transaction.
  • Check how your earnest money and option fee appear on the contract and settlement statement. Account for each payment once.
  • Ask for seller contributions in your offer. The agreed amount also has to fit the contract and your loan's limits.

02

Which costs go into my estimate?

Ask for an itemized estimate so you can see what each provider charges. Separate fees paid to close the purchase from money held for bills that arrive later.

  • Your lender lists loan charges such as origination and underwriting. Check credit-report and appraisal charges too.
  • Your title estimate covers the policy and settlement services. Look separately for recording charges, a survey and any endorsements.
  • Prepaids may include interest and homeowners insurance. Add the initial tax and insurance escrows required by your loan.
  • Check the home's HOA charges and any special-district costs. These depend on the address and your contract.

03

What do I check before my option period ends?

Check your loan terms and insurance quote while you still have time to act. Review the tax bill and HOA obligations as well. A title problem or an unexpected recurring bill can change whether the home fits your budget.

  • Compare your Loan Estimate with the final Closing Disclosure. Ask your lender to explain a changed charge.
  • Get an insurance quote for the actual home and the coverage you want. Use that quote in your budget.
  • Verify wire instructions by calling a title-company number you obtained independently. A number supplied only in the wire email is unverified.

Primary sources

Where can I read the original sources?

Use this guide to prepare your questions. Your signed contract and lender disclosures govern the purchase terms. Read the title documents and insurance policy for their requirements. Ask the appropriate licensed professional about a question that needs individual advice.

  1. CFPB: Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure
  2. TDI title insurance FAQ

Talk to the broker

Jeremy Parten

Designated Broker · Mayshore Realty

Dallas–Fort Worth sellers, buyers and agents
Jeremy handles every inquiry.

Meet Jeremy
214-302-9878

Share your target areas, budget and timing.

Find Your Next Home

Frequently asked questions

How do closing costs and prepaid bills affect my cash to close?

Your down payment goes toward the purchase price. Closing costs pay the transaction and loan charges. Prepaids fund upcoming bills such as interest and insurance; required escrows hold money for later bills. Cash to close is the amount still due after deposits and permitted credits. Match that final amount with your lender's Closing Disclosure and title-company figures.