When most people buy a new house they seldom think about the settlement cost. For most home buyers the entire cost process is "black book", something they couldn't understand even if they knew what it was all about. The sad theing is that this is not true. Read on.

First you need to know that there is a Federal law called RESPA--Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. This law governs real estate settlements. Under RESPA you have the right to ask your mortgage lender or bank and ask them for a settlement costs booklet. Ask them for it. It will list all the costs associated with your mortgage.

You have considerable rights under RESPA to require lenders to follow the law. Remember, always interview several potential lenders and let them know that you are comparing costs. You'll get a much better deal.