Free · No sign-up · California
Free California Closing Cost Calculator for Buyers
Estimate the cash you need to close on a California home: lender fees, title, escrow, inspections, prepaid interest, insurance and tax reserves, shown as a realistic low-to-high range.
- As a share of the price
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- Lender fees (origination, underwriting, credit)
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- Appraisal
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- Lender's title policy and title fees
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- Escrow fee (buyer share)
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- Recording and notary
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- Home inspection
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- HOA transfer and documents
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- Prepaid interest (about 10 to 20 days)
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- First year of insurance
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- Property tax reserves (2 to 6 months)
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- Total cash needed with down payment
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Estimate only. Not a loan offer, commitment, or financial, legal or tax advice. Figures are general and based on the numbers you enter. Rates and terms are set by lenders and are not promised here. Talk to Jay for a lender referral. Who pays which cost varies by county and city and is negotiable. Confirm figures with escrow.
Talk to Jay about these numbers
How to use it
- Enter the purchase price and your down payment percent. Use 100% for an all-cash purchase.
- Enter your interest rate, insurance quote and the property tax rate.
- Tell us whether the home has an HOA.
- Review each line as a range. Your lender's Loan Estimate and the escrow estimate will narrow it down.
What the results mean
- Estimated cash to close: The range of buyer costs, not counting the down payment. Many California buyers land around 2% to 3% of the price, but every deal differs.
- Prepaids and reserves: Not fees, but money set aside: interest through month-end, the first year of insurance, and property tax reserves for your impound account.
- Total cash needed: Down payment plus closing costs. Plan a cushion on top for moving and repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays closing costs in California?
Both sides pay some. In much of Southern California the seller customarily pays the owner's title policy and the county transfer tax, while the buyer pays lender fees and the lender's title policy. Customs vary by county and city, and everything is negotiable.
Can the seller pay my closing costs?
Often, yes, through a seller credit negotiated in the offer. Loan programs limit how much a seller can contribute.
What are prepaid items?
Upfront payments for interest from closing to month-end, the first year of homeowners insurance, and property tax reserves for your impound account.
How can I lower closing costs?
Compare Loan Estimates from more than one lender, ask about lender credits, and negotiate a seller credit. Jay can refer you to lenders.
Related free tools
- Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment with California property tax, insurance, HOA and PMI.
- Affordability CalculatorSee a price range from your income, debts and down payment.
- First-Time Buyer ChecklistAn interactive step-by-step checklist that saves your progress.
Talk to Jay
Questions about your numbers? Call or text Jay Romero, Broker (DRE 01343079), with over 25 years in Southern California real estate, at (949) 822-8702. Or use the form above and your numbers come along automatically.
