In 2026, the average price of an existing home in the U.S. is approximately . However, the actual cost to buy a house is significantly higher than the "sticker price" due to upfront fees, hidden expenses, and ongoing carrying costs. 1. Upfront Cash Requirements

When purchasing a home, you must prepare for several immediate cash outlays. For a home, experts recommend having between $47,000 and $55,000 in liquid assets to cover these costs safely.

Understanding the Hidden Costs of Buying a Home - Truist Bank

: Fees for loan origination, title insurance, and taxes. On a $400,000 home, expect to pay $8,000 to $20,000 at the closing table.