What this calculator does
This calculator estimates closing costs for both sides of a Atlanta home sale, separating lender and title fees from government taxes. Georgia's transfer tax is only $1 per $1,000 of price (0.1%), usually paid by the seller. Buyers with a mortgage pay the intangible recording tax of $1.50 per $500 of the loan (0.3%, capped at $25,000).
How to use it
- Enter the price and down payment.
- Keep or adjust the fee estimates — your lender's Loan Estimate lists the real ones.
- Tick any local options that apply.
- Check the seller side if you are selling, or to understand what the other party pays.
The formula
Buyer costs = lender fees (a % of the loan) + title and settlement (a % of price) + fixed fees + prepaid escrow + buyer-side government taxes. Seller costs = commission + other costs + seller-side government taxes. Government taxes come from the Atlanta rules in the site's tax engine.
Worked example for Atlanta
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lender fees and points (1% of loan) | $3,360 |
| Title insurance, settlement and escrow (0.6%) | $2,520 |
| Appraisal, inspection, recording and other fees | $1,800 |
| Prepaid property tax escrow (3 months) | $1,470 |
| Georgia intangible recording tax ($1.50 per $500 of loan) | $1,008 |
| Buyer total | $10,158 |
| Agent commissions (5%) | $21,000 |
| Other seller costs | $1,500 |
| Georgia transfer tax ($1 per $1,000) | $420 |
| Seller total | $22,920 |
Estimated buyer closing costs: $10,158 (2.4% of the price · seller costs about $22,920).
What drives closing costs in Atlanta
In Atlanta, government transfer and recording taxes add $1,428 to this sale, $1,008 of it on the buyer's side. Lender and title charges scale with the loan and price, which is why they are the other big pieces. Prepaid escrow is not a fee — it is your own property tax money collected up front.
Title insurance pricing also varies: title premiums in Georgia are filed by insurers and can differ, so compare quotes.
Common mistakes and tips
- Confusing prepaid escrow with fees — escrow is your own tax and insurance money.
- Comparing lenders only by rate; compare the Loan Estimate's total costs.
- Forgetting that commissions are negotiable and, since 2024 industry changes, buyer-agent pay is often negotiated separately.
- Missing a local tax break available in Atlanta — see the special tools for Atlanta.
Frequently asked questions
How much are closing costs in Atlanta?
For the default price on this page, buyer costs come to about $10,158, or 2.4% of the price.
Who pays transfer tax in Atlanta?
By custom, the seller pays Georgia's transfer tax and the buyer pays the intangible recording tax on a new mortgage. Who pays is written into the purchase contract, so it can be negotiated.
What is on the Closing Disclosure?
The final list of loan terms and costs, delivered at least three business days before closing. Compare it with your Loan Estimate.
Can closing costs be rolled into the loan?
Some can be covered by seller credits or a higher rate with lender credits, but government taxes and prepaid items are usually paid in cash.
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, real estate, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.