Closing Costs in the DMV: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Closing Costs Catch People Off Guard

You've got your down payment. You've been pre-approved. You think you know what you're spending.

Then you get your Closing Disclosure and there's $12,000 in costs you weren't fully prepared for.

This happens every week in the DMV. Closing costs in DC, Maryland, and Virginia vary significantly — both in amount and in who typically pays what. Here's the breakdown you need.

Virginia Closing Costs

For buyers in Virginia, typical closing costs run 2–3% of the purchase price. On a $600,000 home, that's $12,000–$18,000.

For sellers in Virginia, closing costs typically run 1–3% for title/transfer costs (plus real estate commission).

Maryland Closing Costs

Maryland is known for having some of the highest transfer taxes in the region.

DC Closing Costs

DC has the highest transfer taxes in the DMV — and they apply to both buyer and seller.

Negotiating Seller Concessions

In all three jurisdictions, buyers can negotiate seller concessions — a credit at closing that offsets closing costs.

This is especially common when:

How to Prepare

The DMV is an expensive market to buy in. Understanding your closing costs before you make an offer makes the whole process less stressful — and helps you negotiate smarter.

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