California has no state law assigning closing costs. Purchase agreements usually decide, but regional customs still shape who pays and create room for negotiation.
Southern California usually puts owner’s title insurance on sellers, while Northern California often puts it on buyers; lender’s title policy stays with buyers when financing.
In LA County, sellers customarily cover a $1.10 per $1K documentary transfer tax plus a $4.50 per $1K City of Los Angeles tax.
For LA sales above $5.4M, a local transfer tax measure adds ~4%; above ~$10.9M, it climbs to mid-5%, usually charged to sellers.
One clearer practice: Southern California escrow fees are often split. Because customs are not law and remain negotiable, using a local agent is wise.