A good faith estimate must be provided by a mortgage lender
or broker in the United States to a customer, as required
by the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA). The
estimate must include an itemized list of fees and costs associated
with your loan and must be provided within three business
days of applying for a loan.
These mortgage fees, also called settlement costs or closing
costs, cover every expense associated with a home loan, including
inspections, title insurance, taxes and other charges.
A good faith estimate is a standard form which is intended
to be used to compare different offers (or quotes) from different
lenders or brokers.
The good faith estimate is only an estimate. The final closing
costs may be different – sometimes very different.