Closing costs in New Jersey explained

Closing costs in New Jersey are among the highest in the country, yet many buyers only discover the full number days before settlement. In this episode, Kathleen breaks down every line item: attorney fees, title insurance, lender origination fees, New Jersey's mansion tax (which kicks in at $1 million), and the transfer taxes that can add thousands to your out-of-pocket costs.

Bergen County buyers routinely encounter closing costs that run 2–4% of the purchase price on top of their down payment. Kathleen explains which costs are fixed, which are negotiable, and what "seller concessions" actually mean in the current Northern NJ market — where sellers are less likely to cover closing costs when inventory stays tight.

By the end of this episode you'll know exactly what to ask your lender for in the loan estimate, what to scrutinize at closing disclosure, and how to avoid being surprised on settlement day.