Posted by Patrick Begg in Home Buying

If you’re buying or selling a home in Minnesota, understanding closing costs ahead of time helps eliminate surprises and keeps your budget on track. Here’s a simple and friendly breakdown of what you can expect across the North Star State.

What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses paid when a real estate transaction is finalized. They’re separate from your down payment and include lender charges, title services, taxes, and prepaid items.

Both buyers and sellers share in these costs, but who pays what varies by region and contract.

Closing Costs for Buyers in Minnesota

Minnesota buyers typically pay about 2%–4% of the home’s price in closing costs.

Example: For a $400,000 home, buyer closing costs usually range from $8,000–$16,000.

Common Buyer Closing Costs Include:

  • Loan origination and lender fees
  • Appraisal and credit report
  • Title insurance (often buyer-paid)
  • Recording fees
  • Survey fees (if required)
  • Prepaid insurance and taxes

Minnesota property taxes vary by county, so prepaid tax escrows can differ depending on the location of the home.

Closing Costs for Sellers in Minnesota

Sellers typically pay around 1%–3% of the sale price in closing costs, not including agent commissions.

Example: On a $400,000 home, expect roughly $4,000–$12,000.

Common Seller Closing Costs Include:

  • Title services and settlement fees
  • Owner’s title insurance (paid by the seller in some counties)
  • Transfer taxes (if applicable)
  • Prorated property taxes
  • HOA fees, if applicable
  • Real estate agent commissions (usually 5%–6%)

Local customs differ, so who pays for certain title or transfer fees can change from county to county.

Builder Incentives That Help Lower Your Closing Costs

Closing costs for new construction homes are generally fixed at the time of purchase. Builders frequently offer incentives, including contributions toward closing costs, to help ease the financial burden.

The Bottom Line

  • Buyers: Budget 2%–4% of the purchase price
  • Sellers: Expect 1%–3%, plus agent commissions
  • Everyone: Local customs matter — fees vary by county

Need help navigating financing? M/I Financial makes the mortgage process simple and transparent. Our team provides personalized loan options, competitive rates, and step-by-step guidance from application to closing. (NMLS# 50684)



Author

Patrick Begg Headshot
Patrick Begg

Blog Author

Patrick Begg is a seasoned capital markets and risk management professional for M/I Financial, bringing over 35 years of expertise in navigating the complexities of secondary mortgage markets, structured finance, and comprehensive risk management strategies. Throughout his career, Patrick has demonstrated a deep understanding of market dynamics and a keen ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of mortgage finance. He remains passionate about staying ahead of trends in interest rate movements and regulatory shifts, ensuring strategic alignment in an ever-changing financial environment.

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