As the founder and broker of Tverdov Housing, with over a decade specializing in New Brunswick's real estate—particularly multi-family and investment properties near Rutgers University—I've helped buyers budget for closing costs in hundreds of transactions. In early 2026's balanced market (median prices around $433,000-$440,000), buyers typically pay 2-5% of the purchase price in closing costs, or roughly $8,700-$22,000 on a median home. These are separate from your down payment and cover lender, title, legal, and other fees required to finalize the deal.
New Brunswick follows standard New Jersey practices with no unique city-level buyer fees beyond statewide norms (the local CCO is a seller responsibility). Costs vary by loan type, lender, credit, and negotiations—cash buyers pay closer to 1-2%.
Key buyer closing costs in New Brunswick/NJ:
- Attorney Fees: NJ requires a real estate attorney; expect $1,000-$2,000 for contract review, title work, and closing.
- Title Insurance & Search: Buyer typically pays for lender's (required) and optional owner's policy—$800-$2,000 total, protecting against ownership disputes.
- Lender/Mortgage Fees: Origination (0.5-1% of loan), application, credit report, underwriting—often $2,000-$5,000.
- Appraisal: Lender-required valuation—$500-$800.
- Home Inspection: Recommended (radon, pest extra)—$500-$1,200.
- Recording Fees & Other: Mortgage/deed recording, survey if needed—$200-$1,000.
- Prepaids/Escrow: Prorated property taxes (high in NJ, ~$10,000-$11,000 annual on median), homeowners insurance (first year), prepaid interest—can add $2,000-$5,000.
No buyer-paid Realty Transfer Fee or "mansion tax" (shifted to sellers since 2025 changes). Negotiate seller concessions for credits toward your costs.
At Tverdov Housing, we connect buyers with trusted lenders and attorneys for competitive quotes, plus guide NJHMFA assistance (up to $15,000-$22,000 for eligible first-timers).
For Central Jersey insights, check The New Jersey Real Estate Investor podcast.
Buying in New Brunswick? Contact Tverdov Housing for a personalized closing cost estimate—we'll help minimize surprises in this market.
