To pay for a property transfer, buyers typically use mortgage financing, cash payments, wire transfers, or escrow services. Mortgage financing, which accounts for approximately 75% of residential property purchases in the United States, involves securing a loan from a bank or mortgage lender. Cash payments, preferred by 15-20% of buyers, require full payment upfront. Escrow services, used in 60% of transactions, ensure funds are held by a neutral third party until all conditions are met. International buyers often rely on wire transfers, with $50 billion in annual cross-border property purchases processed through financial institutions.

Mortgage financing dominates because it spreads payment over 15-30 years, reducing monthly burdens. The Federal Reserve’s 2023 report shows 68% of first-time buyers and 82% of repeat buyers used mortgages. Cash purchases, while less common, benefit from tax advantages and faster closings. Escrow services mitigate risks by verifying property title and payment accuracy, reducing纠纷 (disputes) by 40% according to the American Escrow Association. Wire transfers facilitate international transactions but face delays due to regulatory checks, averaging 3-7 business days.

Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reveals 89% of U.S. property transfers in 2022 involved mortgage financing, with average down payments at 20% for conforming loans. Cash buyers paid median prices 15% above market value, per Zillow’s Q3 2023 report. Escrow fees typically range from 0.5-1.5% of the transaction amount, while wire transfer costs vary by bank but average $25-$50 per transaction. These methods align with U.S. financial regulations, including the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Act, which mandates lender oversight for mortgage transactions. Proper documentation, such as title deeds and tax clearances, is essential regardless of payment method to ensure legal compliance.