I once had a client who got charged something called a “document handling fee” at closing—$175 for what sounded like someone just hitting print. We asked about it and, after a few awkward pauses, they just… took it off. It’s wild how often these things are negotiable or just made up. I always tell folks, if you see a line item that sounds like it came from a game of Mad Libs, ask about it. Worst case, you get a blank stare and maybe a good laugh.
Title: First-Time Buyers: Home Financing Guide 2025
That’s actually a great reminder—fees can be surprisingly flexible, even when they sound official. I’ve seen “courier charges” or “processing fees” that are just... there, with no real explanation. Always worth a double-check, even if it feels awkward. It’s not uncommon for lenders or title companies to drop or reduce a charge if you ask. The closing docs can feel overwhelming, but questioning those oddball fees is totally fair. It’s your money on the line.
I get where you’re coming from, but sometimes those fees aren’t as negotiable as we’d like. Certain charges—like title insurance or government recording fees—are pretty much set in stone. I’ve had buyers push back and get nowhere, especially with the bigger banks. Ever run into that?
Yeah, I’ve noticed that too—some fees just won’t budge, no matter how much you ask or who you talk to. Is it just me, or does it feel like the “junk fees” are the only ones they’ll even pretend to negotiate? I tried asking about title insurance and got a polite “nope, sorry.” Has anyone actually had luck with that, or is it just one of those things you have to accept?
Title: First-Time Buyers: Home Financing Guide 2025
I tried asking about title insurance and got a polite “nope, sorry.” Has anyone actually had luck with that, or is it just one of those things you have to accept?
Not gonna sugarcoat it—title insurance is one of those fees that’s tough to move. But I wouldn’t say it’s *always* non-negotiable. Here’s what I’ve seen work (and not work):
- Title insurance rates themselves are usually set by state regulators, so the actual premium isn’t going anywhere.
- Where you *can* sometimes save is on the “junk” add-ons—courier fees, wire fees, overnight delivery, etc. These are padded in by some title companies. Ask for a breakdown and push back on anything that looks fishy.
- You can shop around for your own title company instead of just using the one your lender or agent recommends. Sometimes there’s a few hundred bucks difference between companies for the same coverage.
- If you’re buying new construction or from a builder, they’ll occasionally cover the owner’s policy as an incentive—but that’s more rare these days.
Honestly, most people just accept it because they don’t realize they have any options at all. But if you’re willing to do a little legwork and compare quotes, you might shave off some costs—not always on the premium itself, but definitely on the extras.
One thing I’d push back on: not all “junk fees” are negotiable either. Some lenders get pretty stubborn about their origination or processing charges. It’s worth asking, but don’t be surprised if you hit a wall there too.
Bottom line—don’t assume everything is set in stone, but also don’t expect miracles with title insurance premiums specifically. The small stuff adds up though... I’ve seen folks save $300-$500 just by questioning line items most people ignore.
