Closing cost seems high?

[Philip Sriployrung]

Hi everyone,

I'm closing on my first SFR - $50k, 20% down, Memphis

This is through Roofstock and I'm getting the loan through one of their preferred lenders.

I'm new to this and after looking at the breakdown of closing costs, I'm little confused.

Here are some of my questions. I'm a newbie, so please forgive my ignorance.

1. Appraisal - quoted at $750. I did some quick searches and it looks like the average should be around $300-350. Lender says appraisals for rental property is higher because of additional reports the appraiser has to include. 

2. Homeowners Insurance- I'm already getting quotes from insurance companies, so why would I pay for insurance through my lender without even seeing what the policy is? It's broken up my insurance premium (12 months) and insurance (3 months).

3. Property taxes - why am I paying this upfront in closing to the lender rather than directly to the government?

Thanks in advance for helping me out,

Philip