Although negotiations can change the "normal" method of payment of closing costs the typical schedule is as follows in real estate transactions:

Generally, the SELLER pays for...

• Real estate commission
• Escrow fees (50%)
• Document prep. fees
• Documentary transfer tax ($1.10 per $1000 of sale)
• Any loan fees required by buyer's lender (government loans)
• Payoff all loans in seller's name
• Interest accrued to lender being paid off
• Termite inspection (per contract)
• Home warranty (usually 1 year)
• Any judgements, tax liens, etc. vs. seller
• Real estate tax proration
• Unpaid homeowner's dues
• Recording charges to clear all documents of record vs. seller
• Any bonds or assessments
• Any and all delinquent taxes
• Homeowner's title insurance policy premium
• Homeowner's association transfer & doc fees
• Zone disclosure report

Generally, the BUYER pays for...

• Title insurance premium for lender's policy
• Escrow fee (50%)
• Document prep. fee if applicable
• Recording charges for all documents in buyer's name
• Termite repairs, usually limited to Section 2.
• Any new loan charges except those paid by seller
• Interest on new loan from date of funding to 30 days prior to first payment date
• Assumption or change of records fee for take-over of existing loans
• Inspection fees
• Fire insurance premium
• Next month's HOA dues

All terms and conditions in a real estate purchase contract in California are negotiable, so sometimes the above is changed.  All homes in California are sold in "as-is" condition but the seller often makes certain repairs after receipt of a copy of the buyer's inspection report.

We can provide copies of an estimated closing cost statement prior to closing an escrow to give you a better idea of what to expect.