Closing Costs in Florida: What to Expect

Closing costs surprise a lot of buyers and sellers because they're more than just the down payment. Here's an honest breakdown of what each side typically pays at a Florida closing. (Estimates for general education, not legal or tax advice — your closing statement will have the exact figures.)

What buyers typically pay

Buyer closing costs in Florida often land in the 2%–5% of the purchase price range, and commonly include:

• Loan costs — origination, underwriting, and related lender fees.
• Prepaids and escrow — upfront property taxes and homeowners insurance.
• Title and settlement — title search, closing/settlement fees, and (depending on the county and negotiation) owner's title insurance.
• Inspection and appraisal — usually paid during the process.
• Recording fees and, on financed purchases, the intangible tax and doc stamps on the mortgage.

What sellers typically pay

Seller costs are usually higher because they include the real estate commission. Common seller costs:

• Real estate commission — negotiated between the parties.
• Doc stamps on the deed — a Florida transfer tax based on the sale price (rates are set statewide, with Miami-Dade handled differently).
• Title insurance — in many Florida counties the seller customarily pays for the owner's policy, but this is negotiable and varies by county.
• Any agreed concessions — closing-cost help or repair credits negotiated with the buyer.

Who pays what is negotiable

Custom varies by county, and many costs are negotiable in the contract. In today's market, buyer-requested seller concessions are common, which shifts some costs between the parties.