Title Fee Breakdown for Home Sellers in Arizona: Understanding the Costs
Thursday, 29th June 2023
Selling a home is an exciting and sometimes complex process that involves various fees and expenses. Among these are the title and escrow fees, which are typically the responsibility of the seller in Arizona. To help you navigate these costs and understand what is required, let’s delve into the typical breakdown of title and escrow fees when selling a home in Arizona.
Title Fees
- Title Search Fee: A title search is conducted to ensure that the seller has a clear title to the property, free from any liens or encumbrances. The title search fee, which varies depending on the title company or attorney hired, covers the cost of researching public records and examining the property’s history.
- Title Insurance Premium: Title insurance protects the buyer and their lender from any unforeseen issues with the property’s title. In Arizona, it is customary for the seller to pay for the buyer’s title insurance policy. The premium is based on the property’s sale price and is usually a percentage of the total.
- Endorsement Fees: Depending on the specific circumstances, additional endorsements may be required to ensure the title is insurable. Endorsements provide coverage for specific risks or exceptions related to the property. The cost of endorsements can vary based on the complexity of the property and the specific endorsements required.
Escrow Fees
- Escrow Fee: Escrow is a neutral third party that handles the transaction process, ensuring that all conditions are met before the sale is finalized. The escrow fee covers the services provided by the escrow company, including document preparation, coordinating with lenders and agents, and managing the funds during the closing process. The fee is typically split equally between the buyer and seller, although it can be negotiated.
- Courier Fees: These fees cover the cost of securely delivering documents and funds between the escrow company, the buyer, and the seller. They ensure that all necessary paperwork is properly executed and funds are transferred safely.
- Wire Transfer Fees: If you choose to receive the sale proceeds via a wire transfer, your escrow company may charge a fee for facilitating the transfer. This fee is typically a nominal amount but may vary depending on the financial institution used for the wire transfer.
It’s important to note that while these are the typical fees associated with title and escrow services in Arizona, they can vary based on the specific circumstances of your sale, the title company or attorney you choose, and any negotiations made during the transaction.
To gain a clearer understanding of the fees you’ll be responsible for, it’s recommended to consult with a reputable title company or attorney early in the selling process. They will provide you with a detailed estimate, explaining each fee and helping you prepare financially for the sale.
Conclusion
When selling a home in Arizona, the seller is typically responsible for paying the title and escrow fees. These include title search fees, title insurance premiums, endorsement fees, escrow fees, courier fees, and wire transfer fees. Understanding these costs and working with experienced professionals will ensure a smooth and transparent transaction as you embark on your home-selling journey.
Receive more information regarding title coverage by contacting the Carol Royse Team at 480-776-5231.
