Buyers usually have the price and the monthly payment in mind. The other costs are smaller, but they arrive at awkward moments. Here is the order you meet them in.
Before closing
Earnest money deposit. Due shortly after your offer is accepted, held in escrow and credited back to you at closing. The amount is negotiable and often signals how serious an offer is.
Home inspection. Paid to the inspector at the time of the inspection. Older Richmond houses often call for add-ons: a sewer line camera scope, a chimney inspection, or a termite inspection. Each is a separate fee.
Appraisal. Your lender orders it; you usually pay for it up front or at closing.
At closing
Lender fees and prepaid items. Origination charges, the first months of homeowners insurance, and an escrow cushion for taxes. Your lender's Loan Estimate lists every line; ask them to walk you through it.
Title insurance and settlement. The settlement company handles the title search, the closing, and the owner's title policy. The owner's policy is optional but I recommend it.
Virginia recording taxes. Virginia and the City of Richmond charge taxes when the deed and the loan are recorded. In Virginia the buyer typically pays the recording taxes on the deed and the deed of trust, and the seller pays the grantor's tax. Your settlement agent will give you the exact figure.
Prorated real estate taxes. You reimburse the seller for any taxes they have already paid for the time you will own the house.
After you move in
Real estate tax. The City of Richmond assesses property every year and bills twice a year. If your lender escrows taxes, they are part of your monthly payment.
Personal property tax on cars. Richmond taxes vehicles yearly. New residents are often surprised by it.
Utilities. Water, sewer and gas in the city are run by the Department of Public Utilities; electric is Dominion Energy. Ask the seller for a year of bills.
The first-year fund. Older houses need something in year one. I tell clients to set money aside for it rather than spend every dollar on the down payment.
The honest answer on numbers
Every one of these depends on your price, your loan and your timing, and rates and fees change. Ask me for current figures, and I will connect you with a lender who can give you a real Loan Estimate in a day or two.