Understanding Closing Costs When    Buying a Home in Texas

When buying a home in Texas, most buyers focus on saving for their down payment. But another important expense to prepare for is closing costs. At Reliant Mortgage Services in Brownsville, TX, we believe in helping families plan ahead so there are no surprises at the closing table.

In this guide, we’ll explain what closing costs are, what they typically include, and how you can prepare for them.

  What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses paid at the end of a real estate transaction—when ownership of the property officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. They cover services provided by lenders, title companies, and local government offices.

In Texas, closing costs usually range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price, depending on the loan type and property.

  Common Closing Cost Expenses

• Loan Origination Fees – Charges from the lender for processing your mortgage application.
• Appraisal Fee – Payment to a licensed appraiser to determine the fair market value of the home.
• Credit Report Fee – Cost to pull your credit history for mortgage approval.
• Title Search & Title Insurance – Ensures the home has a clear title and protects you from future claims.
• Survey Fee – Covers a property boundary survey (common in Texas).
• Recording Fees – Charged by the county to record the property deed.
• Escrow Fees – Paid to the title company for handling funds during closing.
• Prepaid Costs – Includes homeowners insurance premiums and property taxes.

  Who Pays Closing Costs in Texas?

Both buyers and sellers typically share closing costs in Texas. Buyers cover lender and appraisal fees, while sellers often pay title insurance for the buyer. However, these costs can be negotiated during the offer process.

At Reliant Mortgage Services, we guide you on how to structure your offer to potentially reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

 Tips to Lower Your Closing Costs

• Shop Around for Lenders – Different lenders charge different origination fees.
• Ask About Seller Concessions – Sometimes sellers agree to cover part of your costs.
• Compare Title Companies – Fees can vary by hundreds of dollars.
• Negotiate Lender Credits – Some lenders offer credits in exchange for a slightly higher interest rate.

 Plan Ahead with Reliant Mortgage Services

Buying a home should be exciting—not stressful. By understanding closing costs upfront, you’ll be better prepared financially and avoid last-minute surprises.

At Reliant Mortgage Services in Brownsville, TX, we work with you step-by-step to make the process clear and affordable.