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Closing Cost Calculator in South Carolina

Estimate your total closing costs in South Carolina. Covers origination, title, transfer taxes, escrow reserves, and prepaid interest โ€” before you get to the table.

Estimate Your Closing Costs

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Estimated Cash Needed at Closing
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Closing costs (estimate): โ€”
Down payment: โ€”
Origination Fee
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Discount Points
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Appraisal
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Title Insurance
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Title Search
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Transfer Tax
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Recording Fees
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Prepaid Interest
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12-Month Home Insurance (Upfront)
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Initial Escrow Deposit
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RESPA Escrow Cushion
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Financed Program Fee (if any)
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Disclaimer: These are estimates only. Actual closing costs vary by lender, title company, state/county, and closing date. Your Loan Estimate (TRID) is the source of truth.

South Carolina Closing Costs Breakdown

Closing costs in South Carolina typically run between 2% and 3.5% of the purchase price. For a median-priced home near $307,000, buyers should plan for $6,140 to $10,745 at closing. South Carolina's deed recording fee is one of the lowest transfer-related taxes in the Southeast, and buyers benefit from a relatively efficient closing process.

Transfer Taxes & Fees

South Carolina charges a deed recording fee of $1.85 per $500 of the sale price (0.37%), paid by the seller. On a $307,000 home, this equals $1,136. South Carolina also has a county filing fee that is nominal. The buyer does not typically pay the deed recording fee, though all terms are negotiable in the purchase agreement.

Attorney Requirements

Yes, South Carolina is an attorney-closing state. A licensed South Carolina attorney must conduct the title examination, prepare the deed, and oversee the closing. Attorney fees in South Carolina typically range from $550 to $950, lower than many attorney-closing states. The requirement applies statewide.

Local Quirks & Need-to-Know

South Carolina levies a 6% property tax rate on second homes and investment properties, compared to 4% for primary residences. The difference is significant: on a $307,000 property, the annual tax difference between primary and secondary classification can be $1,000 to $2,500. Buyers must apply for the 4% primary residence assessment ratio after closing. Coastal properties in the Lowcountry and Myrtle Beach area may require flood insurance, adding to ongoing costs.

Frequently Asked Questions in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the deed recording fee of $1.85 per $500 is traditionally paid by the seller. On a $307,000 home, this amounts to $1,136. The buyer does not bear this cost under standard South Carolina conventions, but the purchase agreement can reassign it. Always verify the agreed-upon allocation in your contract.
South Carolina taxes primary residences at a 4% assessment ratio, while second homes and investment properties are taxed at 6%. After closing, buyers must apply for the 4% primary residence designation at their county assessor's office. Failing to apply means you will be taxed at the higher 6% rate, which can increase your annual property tax bill by $1,000 or more.
Yes. South Carolina requires a licensed attorney to conduct the closing and certify title. Attorney fees range from $550 to $950, making South Carolina one of the more affordable attorney-closing states. The attorney also handles the deed preparation and post-closing recording of the deed and mortgage.

Today's Avg Rates

30-Year Fixed6.82%
15-Year Fixed6.11%
5/1 ARM6.44%
Source: Freddie Mac PMMS ยท Updated Weekly