Step 46 of 48 Phase 6: Close & Move In
6.3 Compare GFE to HUD-1
Comparing your Loan Estimate to your Closing Disclosure helps you catch errors and unauthorized fee increases. Some costs have legal limits on how much they can change.
Why This Comparison Matters
- Protects you from surprise cost increases
- Some fees cannot change at all (zero tolerance)
- Some fees can only increase by up to 10%
- Other fees can change without limit
- Errors can be corrected before closing
Fee Tolerance Rules
| Category | What Can Change | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Tolerance | Cannot increase at all | Origination charges, transfer taxes |
| 10% Tolerance | Total can increase up to 10% | Recording fees, title services you did not shop |
| No Limit | Can change without limit | Prepaid interest, services you shopped for, insurance |
Pro Tips
- Use the itemized comparison table on page 3 of Closing Disclosure
- If zero-tolerance fees increased, the lender must cure the difference
- Challenge any unexpected increases before closing
- Document your concerns in writing
- You can delay closing if there are unresolved issues
Watch Out For
- Fees that were not on the Loan Estimate appearing now
- Large increases in fees without explanation
- Changes to your interest rate if not locked
- Different loan terms than what you agreed to