Maybe you’ve found a charming cottage in Summerville, a family home in West Ashley, or land to build on in Wadmalaw Island. Wherever you’re buying or selling property in the Lowcountry, you’ll eventually arrive at the closing table. That’s where all the paperwork is signed, funds are transferred, and ownership officially changes hands. But with all the excitement of a new home or investment, many people are surprised by one important detail: closing costs.
At Buxton & Collie, LLC, our Charleston real estate lawyers help clients across the area — from Daniel Island to Monck’s Corner and beyond — understand what these costs mean and how to prepare for them.
Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay at the end of a real estate transaction, in addition to the purchase price of the home or property. In South Carolina, every real estate closing must be overseen by a licensed attorney. That means you’ll have legal guidance built into the process, ensuring everything is handled properly. By understanding your closing costs early on, you’ll be able to budget with confidence and avoid any last-minute surprises
While the exact costs depend on your transaction, here are some of the most common fees you may see when closing on a property in Charleston, Summerville, West Ashley, or anywhere in the Lowcountry:
Loan-Related Fees
If you’re using financing:
Title and Settlement Fees
Because South Carolina requires an attorney to handle closings, part of the process includes:
Taxes and Government Fees
Other Possible Costs
In Charleston, Summerville, Monck’s Corner, and nearby communities, closing costs usually range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. The final amount depends on factors like your lender, the property type, and the negotiated terms of your contract. For example, buying a waterfront home on Daniel Island may carry different expenses than purchasing a starter home in West Ashley.
In South Carolina, buyers and sellers often share closing costs, but the exact split can be negotiated. For instance, sellers may agree to cover deed recording fees, while buyers typically pay for inspections or appraisals. Having an experienced Charleston real estate lawyer helps you understand what’s standard in Lowcountry markets like Summerville or Monck’s Corner and where you may have room to negotiate.
Because South Carolina law requires an attorney to oversee every closing, choosing the right lawyer matters. At Buxton & Collie, LLC, we guide buyers, sellers, lenders, and agents across Charleston, West Ashley, Daniel Island, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and throughout the Lowcountry. From reviewing contracts to managing title work and ensuring every detail is correct, we protect your interests and help the process go smoothly.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Closing With Buxton & Collie, LLC
Closing costs are a normal part of buying or selling a home or investment property, whether you’re purchasing a beach house on Wadmalaw Island or selling a family home in Monck’s Corner. With trusted legal guidance, you can plan ahead, understand your expenses, and feel at ease on closing day.
Ready to move forward with your real estate transaction in Charleston or the surrounding Lowcountry? Contact Buxton & Collie, LLC today to connect with a knowledgeable Charleston real estate lawyer who will guide you every step of the way.
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