The page buyers ask for
“What will this actually cost me?” is the first money question every buyer has. This sheet answers it on one page for a real price in a real ZIP code: cash to close and the monthly payment.
How it’s estimated
- Closing costs are typical ranges for the state: lender fees, title and settlement, prepaid items and any transfer or mortgage taxes we have rules for.
- Property tax uses the local rate where we have one.
- Insurance uses the state’s average premium from NAIC’s 2022 data. Premiums have risen in many places since, so treat it as a floor.
- Mortgage insurance is estimated for conventional loans with less than 20% down, and uses HUD’s premium schedule for FHA loans.
- The rate defaults to this week’s Freddie Mac average. Replace it with the buyer’s quote.
Keep it in the conversation
The sheet is for one buyer, in one meeting. If you put a payment, a down payment or a rate in an ad or a social post, federal Truth in Lending rules require further disclosures, including the annual percentage rate. See real estate advertising rules.
It’s an estimate, not a Loan Estimate, and you’re not quoting loan terms. Hand it over with an introduction to two or three lenders and let them give the real figures. Buyers who want to explore can use the buyer tools on their own.
Questions agents ask
How much cash does a buyer need to close?
The down payment plus closing costs, which often run about 2% to 5% of the price, less any earnest money already paid and any credits from the seller or lender.
Can a real estate agent give a buyer a payment estimate?
An agent can share a general estimate for discussion. Quoting specific loan terms is the lender’s job, and advertising payments or rates triggers federal disclosure rules.
Is the buyer’s agent fee included?
No. Sellers often agree to pay it, but that is negotiated on each home. Use the “How I’m paid” handout to explain it.