Shopping for settlement services

[Luis Montanez]

When financing or even when buying cash.

Has anyone master a way to shop and get the best deal for settlement services?

According to RESPA rules (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) we are free to select what ever service provider we want.

Currently I am guilty of going with whatever the RE agent or lender recommends. 

But how to ensure we are not able to get a better deal if we do our own service provider search?  In my opinion, systemising this aspect could add to the bottom line.

"If you are taking a loan to finance your purchase, here are some common closing cost expenses

• A closing fee for the escrow or closing agent
• Preparation of legal paperwork
• Appraisal review fee
• Credit report fee
• Underwriting fee
• Mortgage insurance
• Survey fee
• Pest inspection fee
• Notary fee for authenticating signatures on legal documents
• Homeowner's insurance
• Courier and overnight delivery fees
• Tax service fee
• Recording and transfer fees"