When planning to buy a home, most buyers focus on the purchase price and mortgage payments. However, the actual cost of buying a home goes beyond the price tag. There are several hidden costs that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Understanding these expenses and budgeting for them in advance can help you avoid financial stress and ensure a smoother homebuying experience. Here’s a guide to the hidden costs of buying a home and what you need to budget for.

1. Closing Costs

What They Are:
Closing costs are fees paid at the end of the homebuying process, typically when the title of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. These costs usually range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price.

What They Include:

• Loan Origination Fees: Charged by your lender for processing your mortgage application.
• Appraisal Fees: The cost of having the home’s value assessed.
• Title Insurance: Protects you and the lender from any legal claims against the property.
• Attorney Fees: Legal fees if you hire an attorney to review contracts and paperwork.
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Moving to a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when relocating to a new area like Macomb County, Michigan. To help make your move as smooth as possible, we’ve put together the ultimate moving checklist tailored specifically for those relocating to Macomb County. Whether you’re moving from out of state or just a few towns over, this guide will help you stay organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

8 Weeks Before Moving: Start Planning

1. Create a Moving Binder or Folder
   • Start a binder or digital folder to keep all your moving-related documents, including estimates, receipts, and important contact information.
2. Research Moving Companies
   • Get quotes from multiple moving companies that service Macomb County. Look for companies with good reviews and a reputation for reliability.
3. Declutter Your Home
   • Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will help reduce the amount of stuff you need to move.
4. Create a Moving Budget
   • Estimate your moving expenses, including packing supplies, mover fees, travel costs, and any new furniture or items you’ll need for your new home.
5. Notify Your Landlord or Cu