Closing statements are where a lot of first-time buyers get surprised — not because the costs are hidden, but because nobody walked them through the list in plain English beforehand. So before your first escrow, here's what to expect on a typical San Diego County transaction.
The recurring line items
- Escrow fee: typically split between buyer and seller, covers the neutral third party handling funds and documents.
- Title insurance: in San Diego County it's customary for the seller to cover the owner's policy; buyers typically pay for their lender's policy if financing.
- Prorated property taxes and HOA dues: whoever owned the home for that slice of the tax or dues period pays for it — calculated to the day of closing.
- Recording fees: small county fees to officially record the new deed and loan documents.
- Lender fees: origination, appraisal, and underwriting costs if you're financing — these come from your lender, not escrow.
- HOA transfer/document fees: a flat fee some HOAs charge to transfer membership and provide governing documents to the new owner.
A rough rule of thumb
Buyers should generally budget 2–3% of the purchase price in closing costs beyond their down payment; sellers should budget for the listing agent commission, their share of escrow and transfer taxes, and any agreed-upon repair credits. Every deal is a little different, which is exactly why I walk every client through a projected closing statement before we're anywhere near the finish line — there should be no surprises on signing day.
If a number on your closing disclosure doesn't make sense, ask. A good escrow officer — and a good agent — will explain every line until it does.
