Buying a home involves several costs beyond the initial down payment, often totaling . These "hidden" or "junk" fees can be categorized into expenses incurred before, during, and after the transaction. Upfront Costs (Pre-Closing)

: Some lenders charge a fee simply to process your initial mortgage application. Closing Costs & Transaction Fees

: Typically range from $300 to $1,000+ depending on the scope (e.g., general, mold, radon, or sewer).

Before finalizing a deal, buyers often face several out-of-pocket expenses:

These are paid at the time of purchase and are documented in your .

: Lenders usually require an appraisal to confirm the property value, costing between $300 and $600 .