Who Pays Closing Costs in Georgia?
A complete breakdown of real estate closing fees, attorney costs, and transfer taxes.
The Standard Breakdown
In Georgia, closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the total purchase price. While everything is negotiable in a real estate contract, standard practices dictate a specific split between buyers and sellers.
What the Seller Pays
- Real Estate Commissions: Usually 5-6% total, split between buyer and seller agents.
- Georgia Transfer Tax: $1.00 per $1,000 of the sales price.
- Title Preparation Fees: Document prep for the warranty deed.
- Prorated Property Taxes: Paid up to the day of closing.
- Mortgage Payoff & Recording: Fees to clear the existing loan.
What the Buyer Pays
- Closing Attorney Fees: Title search, exam, and closing execution (usually $700 - $1,200).
- Lender Fees: Origination fees, appraisal, and credit reports.
- Intangible Recording Tax: $1.50 per $500 of the loan amount (if financing).
- Title Insurance: Lender's and Owner's policies.
- Prepaids: Escrow setup for future taxes and insurance.
Georgia Seller Net Sheet Estimator
Estimate your take-home cash after closing costs and transfer taxes.
Why You Need a Closing Attorney
Georgia is an attorney state, which means a licensed attorney must be physically present (or via approved digital means) to conduct a real estate closing. Title companies cannot close transactions independently.
The closing attorney technically represents the lender (if there is a mortgage), but they have a fiduciary duty to ensure the title is clear and the transaction is handled legally for all parties.
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