When you take out a conventional mortgage in Virginia, the amount you pay at closing is made up of several distinct fees. Understanding each line item helps you budget accurately and spot opportunities to reduce costs.
Typical cost categories
- Loan‑origination fee: Charged by the lender for processing the loan. It is often expressed as a percentage of the loan amount, typically between 0.5% and 1%.
- Appraisal fee: The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the property’s market value. Expect a range of a few hundred dollars, usually $300–$600.
- Credit report fee: A small charge for pulling your credit history, generally under $50.
- Title search and title‑insurance premium: Virginia commonly uses title‑insurance companies to verify ownership and protect against future claims. Premiums are calculated per $1,000 of coverage and average about $1 per $1,000, plus a settlement fee.
- Recording and filing fees: Local governments charge for officially recording the deed and mortgage. These fees vary by county but are usually under $200.
- Escrow deposits: Lenders collect prepaid amounts for property taxes and homeowners insurance to fund future payments. The exact amounts depend on local tax rates and insurance premiums.
- Attorney or settlement‑agent fee: While many Virginia counties close through title companies, some jurisdictions require an attorney to be present. Fees range from $300 to $800.
Virginia‑specific considerations
Virginia’s real‑estate market often uses title‑insurance companies rather than a separate escrow agent, which can streamline the closing process. Additionally, the state’s first‑time‑homebuyer program, administered by Virginia Housing, may provide down‑payment assistance and can cover or reduce certain closing‑cost items such as title‑insurance premiums or recording fees.
How the percentages add up
Adding the typical line items together, most borrowers see total closing costs between 2% and 5% of the loan amount. For a $300,000 loan, that translates to roughly $6,000–$15,000 in fees and prepaid items.
This article provides general information about conventional loan closing costs in Virginia and is not personalized financial advice.