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Cash Guide

Can the Seller Pay My Closing Costs?

Yes. Conventional loans allow seller concessions toward closing costs, prepaids, and discount points — up to limits that usually depend on your down payment and occupancy. Structured well, seller credits can sharply cut cash to close.

How Seller Concessions Work

The purchase contract sets the credit; loan guidelines cap how much can be applied.

Contract first

Seller credits must be written into the purchase agreement.

Guideline caps

Maximum contributions often rise as your down payment increases.

Eligible uses

Credits typically cover closing costs, prepaids, and points — not usually a cash refund at closing.

Occupancy matters

Investment properties often have tighter concession limits than primary homes.

Appraised value still rules

An inflated price just to fund credits can fail if the appraisal does not support it.

Common Cap Patterns

Exact limits depend on LTV and occupancy — we confirm on your file.

  • Primary residences with larger down payments often allow higher percentage credits
  • Lower-down primary purchases usually have lower concession caps
  • Second homes and investment properties frequently allow less
  • Credits cannot normally exceed actual allowable costs
  • Lender overlays may be tighter than agency maximums

Negotiation Tips

Balance price, repairs, and credits together.

  • Ask for a credit that matches your estimated closing costs
  • Compare a price reduction versus a closing-cost credit
  • Use credits for points only if the rate buy-down is worth it
  • Confirm the credit will not exceed guideline caps
  • Keep appraisal risk in mind if price is stretched

How We Structure Seller Credits

We size the credit to what guidelines will actually allow on your loan.

Step 1

Estimate cash to close

Know the real gap before you offer.

Step 2

Check concession limits

Match LTV and occupancy caps.

Step 3

Write the contract language

Coordinate with your realtor on credit wording.

Step 4

Apply it on the CD

Make sure the credit shows correctly before signing.

Sep 3, 2026 • 2MG Daily

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can seller credits cover my down payment?

Generally no. Seller concessions are for allowable closing costs and prepaids, not the down payment itself.

What if the credit is larger than my costs?

Unused concession amounts usually cannot be pocketed as cash. Size the credit to actual needs.

Do credits affect my interest rate?

Not directly. You can also use a lender credit (higher rate) separately from a seller credit.

Can I combine gift funds and seller credits?

Often yes — gifts typically help down payment while seller credits help closing costs, subject to documentation rules.

Want Help Sizing a Seller Credit?

Ryan or Steve can estimate your closing costs and the maximum seller concession your conventional loan allows.