Closing cost calculator
What will it cost to close?
An estimate of the cash you’ll need to buy a home in New Castle County, including Delaware’s transfer tax and the first-time buyer reduction.
Estimated cash needed at closing
$0
Breakdown
Estimated monthly payment
$0
Paid before closing
Not part of cash to close, but budget for them during the contract period.
How the numbers work
Delaware transfer tax
New Castle County’s realty transfer tax is 4% of the price: 2.5% to the state and 1.5% to the county or city. Buyer and seller customarily split it, so the buyer’s share is 2%. First-time buyers get a 0.5% reduction on the state portion, up to $2,000, on the first $400,000 of the price. Some first-time buyers also qualify for a county or City of Wilmington exemption on the local portion; your settlement attorney will confirm it.
Everything else is an estimate
Lender fees, title insurance, settlement fees and prepaid taxes and insurance vary by lender, title company and settlement date. Property taxes are estimated at about 0.55% of the price per year. FHA’s upfront premium and VA’s funding fee are usually added to the loan, so they aren’t counted in cash to close.
This is an estimate for planning only, not a Loan Estimate or legal advice. Your lender’s Loan Estimate and your settlement attorney provide exact figures. Rules as of October 2026.
Want this checked against a real home?
Send me the estimate and the home you’re looking at. I’ll check the taxes, HOA fees and likely seller credits.