Closing checklist

Closing is where things get really exciting. It’s been a long and trying voyage but dry land is finally in sight, and as long as all contingencies and conditions are met, it should be smooth sailing from here on out. But getting the ship safely to shore still requires work, caution, and an awareness of what potential obstacles may be lurking beneath the waves. The following closing checklist will help you navigate this last leg of your journey with everything you need to do before, during, and after the deal is closed.

 

Before closing checklist

• Conduct an inspection yourself, or by hiring an inspector, before the buyer conducts theirs. This can save you time and money in the future. See our SELF-INSPECTION CHECKLIST for a detailed breakdown of what to check for.
• If the buyer’s inspection uncovered any maintenance issues that need to be repaired, sit down with your real estate professional to determine the best course of action, including what repairs to agree to and who to hire.
• Once both parties are satisfied with the terms of the transaction, it’s time to clean your house one final time and make sure you aren’t leaving anything behind you aren’t intending to.
• Make sure all water valves are turned off. A last minute flood is a seller’s nightmare.
• Inform all concerned parties of your change of address, including your creditors, subscriptions, banks, and post office.
• Leave extra keys, garage remotes, and appliance manuals out in the open where the new owners can find them.

 

During closing checklist

• Prior to closing, make sure you or your agent have compiled all salient documents, such as your deed, repair receipts and certifications, and security codes, on your end, and per your agent’s responsibility, your HUD 1 Settlement, mortgage statements, and inspection agreements.
• Bring photo ID’s for every seller whose name is on the contract.
• During closing, all outstanding balances, such as your loan balance, HOA dues, realtor commissions (3-6% on avg.), and prorated insurance and taxes, will be paid off.
• You’ll also pay off any outstanding utility bills. It may be tempting to have your water and A/C turned off before you close, but it’s a risk that’s not worth taking. Many a deal has fallen through because sellers ducked out of their utilities too early.

 

After closing checklist

• After closing you’ll get a packet containing all your paperwork, as well as a check for your proceeds, if you made any.
• Have your utilities transferred into the buyer’s name.
• Once the title has been transferred, cancel your homeowner’s insurance.
• Designate a safe, accessible place to file away your closing paperwork.

The closing process can be confusing. At Authentic Real Estate Team, we know our discerning, conscientious clients want to get it right, and so do we. With our extensive experience, vast network of closing professionals, and in-house title and escrow options, we make sure every “t” is crossed, every “i” dotted, and every one of your needs and concerns met.