Closing Costs Have Declined Over The Past Year

Mortgage closing costs declined 7% over the past year and now average $1,847 on a $200,000 loan, according toBankrate.com.

Hawaii’s average closing costs of $2,163 are the highest in the nation, followed by New Jersey ($2,094), Connecticut ($2,033), West Virginia ($1,971) and Arizona ($1,969).

The cheapest closing costs are in Ohio ($1,613), Idaho ($1,682), Wyoming ($1,689), Utah ($1,697) and Maine ($1,727).

Nationwide, the average origination fee declined 22% to $1,041 and the average third-party fee rose 22% to $807.

“Homebuyers have more say over closing costs than they think,” said Holden Lewis, Bankrate.com’s senior mortgage analyst. “Costs vary between lenders, so everyone should compare at least three different options. You don’t have to go with the lender your agent suggests.”

Bankrate surveyed up to 10 lenders in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. in June 2015. Researchers obtained online good faith estimates for a $200,000 mortgage to buy a single-family home with a 20% down payment. Costs include fees charged by lenders, as well as third-party fees for services such as appraisals. The survey excludes discount points, taxes, title fees, property insurance, association fees, interest and other prepaid items.

You can visit http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/closing-costs/closing-costs-by-state.aspx to see the closing cost average in your state!