I know what you mean. When I bought my place, I spotted a “processing fee” and a “wire transfer fee” that just didn’t make sense. I pushed back on both, and they only removed the wire fee—guess they weren’t willing to budge further. Like you said, there’s definitely a point where they act like you’re being unreasonable. Still,
—I couldn’t agree more. It’s surprising how many people just accept them without a second thought. Definitely pays to read every line and ask questions, even if it gets a little awkward.“it’s wild how many of these fees are just... made up?”
It’s interesting how common these “junk” fees have become. I see a lot of buyers get frustrated by them, and I can’t blame anyone for asking questions. Like you mentioned,
—it really can feel that way, especially when you’re looking at a closing disclosure for the first time.“it’s wild how many of these fees are just... made up?”
Not every fee is negotiable, but it’s surprising what lenders will remove if you push back a bit. In my experience, wire transfer fees and processing fees are sometimes padded in, while things like appraisal or credit report fees are usually legit and harder to get waived. I always tell clients: don’t be afraid to ask for a breakdown or explanation. Some lenders are more transparent, some less so.
Honestly, there’s a line between being thorough and being combative, but you’re right—it’s your money on the line. Even if it feels awkward, it’s worth the effort. Most people just sign without asking, and that’s how these fees stick around.
It’s wild how many fees get tossed in at the last minute, right? I remember my first project—thought I had everything dialed in, then the closing docs landed and it was like, “Wait, what’s a courier fee? Who’s getting couriered?” Spoiler: nobody. They just tacked it on.
Here’s how I usually break it down for friends or clients:
1) Ask for a full, itemized list of every single fee. Don’t accept vague stuff like “processing” without details.
2) Put a question mark next to anything that sounds made-up or weirdly expensive. Lenders will often budge on things like “document prep” or “admin” if you push back (nicely... most of the time).
3) The non-negotiables are usually appraisal, credit check, maybe title insurance—but everything else is fair game for a little haggling.
Honestly, half the time they’ll remove a fee just because you noticed it. It never hurts to ask, even if you feel awkward—awkward is cheaper than overpaying.
Don’t accept vague stuff like “processing” without details. 2) Put a question mark next to anything that sounds made-up or weirdly expensive.
Totally agree on pushing back—I've seen “processing” fees that were just a few hundred bucks for literally nothing. One extra tip: compare the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure line by line. Sometimes stuff sneaks in last minute. If you spot a new fee, flag it. Lenders usually know you’re watching and will drop the nonsense if you call them out.
Had a client last year who almost paid a $450 “courier” fee—no one could explain what it was for. I called the title company and, surprise, it vanished. Stuff like that pops up more than people think... always worth double-checking.
