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When purchasing a home, there are a host of closing costs that, as a buyer you should expect. Researching the costs in advance will help prepare you for costs large and small.

Down Payment: This is based on the dollar price of your home. Conventional financing will mean 20 percent down, FHA 3.5 percent down and no down with VA.

Home inspection: It is important that you get a home inspection as part of your contract. It allows you to back out of the deal if the home inspection comes back unfavorably. A home inspection takes a few hours, during which you should be present, and costs around $300 to $500.

Loan Origination and Points: You may decide to pay a point (usually 1 percent of the loan amount) in order to get a lower interest rate. Each point paid lowers the interest rate a small percentage. An origination fee is what you must pay the lender to write and process your loan. Or you may find a loan without an these costs attached.

Appraisal: An appraisal protects your lender from investing in a property that is over-priced. That means if the home appraises for $200,000, but the seller wants $225,000, you will only be able to get financing for the appraised value. An appraisal also helps you to know the market value of the home you are interested in.

Title and Escrow: These are fees usually paid to a title company for their services. They are responsible for ensuring that your property is free of liens when you take possession and that the exchange of property for money is accomplished by a neutral third party.

Private Mortgage Insurance: Usually, buyers with less than a 20 percent down payment are required to pay PMI, which is insurance that protects your lender if you default on a loan.

Notary fees: Some states have a cap on the amount a notary may charge, while others don't. But you should generally expect a fee less than $10.