That’s exactly why I triple-check every line in those closing docs, even if it takes me forever. Lenders love to throw in “processing” or “convenience” fees that make zero sense. I’ve caught random charges before and when you question them, half the time they just take them off—makes you wonder how many folks just pay without a second glance. It’s tedious, but honestly, that attention to detail can save serious cash over time. Not fun, but definitely worth it.
Couldn’t agree more about those sneaky fees. Last year, I found a “courier fee” on my closing docs—except the documents were all digital. When I asked about it, they just shrugged and dropped it. It’s wild. I swear, reading those papers feels like playing Where’s Waldo, but with your money on the line. Tedious? For sure. But I’d rather spend an hour squinting at fine print than hand over $400 for imaginary postage.
Those “courier fees” drive me nuts, especially when everything’s digital now. I’ve seen “processing” or “admin” fees pop up too, and half the time, no one can even explain what they’re for. It’s like they just toss in random charges to see if anyone notices. I always tell folks—don’t be shy about asking for a breakdown. Sometimes just questioning it makes them back off.
Honestly, I wish more people would push back on these things. The paperwork is a pain, but catching one of those mystery fees can save you a chunk of change. I had a client last month who spotted a $250 “document prep” fee, and after a little back-and-forth, poof—it disappeared. Makes you wonder how many people just pay without realizing.
It’s wild how much stuff gets buried in those closing docs. If something looks weird or you don’t recognize it, flag it. Worst case, they explain it; best case, you keep your money.
Honestly, I get where you’re coming from, but sometimes those fees aren’t just random add-ons. For example, a “courier fee” might actually cover secure delivery of original docs to the title company or lender—some places still require hard copies, even in 2024. I’ve run into situations where clients questioned every line item and ended up delaying closing because we had to wait for explanations or adjustments.
If something looks weird or you don’t recognize it, flag it. Worst case, they explain it; best case, you keep your money.
Totally agree on flagging stuff that doesn’t make sense, but I’d say pick your battles. Sometimes a $50 fee is legit and not worth derailing the process over. Just my two cents from being in the trenches with buyers and sellers.
Honestly, I get why people want to just keep things moving and not sweat every $50 here and there. But after going through my own closing a couple years back, I’m way more cautious about these fees—even the ones that seem “normal.” I remember seeing a “processing fee” that looked pretty standard, but when I asked about it, turns out it was basically double what some other local lenders charged. They knocked it down after I pushed back. Not a huge deal in the grand scheme, but those little fees add up fast.
I totally get that you don’t want to hold up the closing over something minor, but I’d argue that’s exactly why it’s worth flagging stuff early, before you’re in that final crunch. If you wait until the last minute, yeah, you might end up with delays, but if you start asking questions as soon as you get the initial disclosures, you’ve got some time to sort it out without stressing everyone out.
Also, I’ve seen some lenders get a little too comfortable tossing in random “courier” or “document prep” fees, even when everything’s digital. Maybe it’s just me, but if they can’t explain what the fee covers in plain English, I’m not paying it. I know $50 here, $100 there doesn’t seem like much when you’re dealing with six-figure numbers, but it’s your money. I’d rather be the “annoying” client who asks too many questions than the one who just pays extra because it’s easier.
At the end of the day, I guess it comes down to how much you value peace of mind versus convenience. For me, I’d rather have a few awkward conversations and keep some cash in my pocket. Your mileage may vary.
