How to Make Closing Day a Success

Welcome to week 11 of our Love Selling Your Home series! You’ve navigated the complexities of selling a home, and now the big day is almost here – closing day! This momentous occasion marks the official transfer of your home to its new owners. It’s a mix of excitement, anticipation, and maybe a touch of nostalgia. To ensure this day goes smoothly and stress-free, let’s dive into the essential pre-closing tasks and what to expect on closing day.

Pre-Closing Tasks to Complete

1. Complete Repairs: Any agreed-upon repairs from the home inspection should be finalized before the buyer’s final walk-through. I can help coordinate these repairs and even recommend reliable contractors to ensure everything is done right.
2. Prepare to Vacate: If you haven’t negotiated a “rent-back” agreement, be ready to move out by the closing date. It’s like saying goodbye to an old friend – bittersweet but necessary for the next chapter.
3. Cancel Utilities and Services: Schedule the disconnection or transfer of your utilities effective on the closing date. Don’t forget to cancel services like trash pickup, alarm systems, and HOA fees.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider to end your homeowner’s insurance coverage on the closing date. If you have a rent-back agreement, adjust your coverage accordingly.
5. Forward Your Mail: Update your address with the post office and notify friends, family, and important contacts of your move.
6. Prepare Home Information: Collect appliance manuals, warranties, and repair records for the new owners. Leave the house in broom-swept condition – clean and tidy but not necessarily spotless. Consider it a courtesy to the incoming residents.

What to Bring to Closing

• Identification: Bring your driver’s license or another form of ID.
• Keys and Remotes: Hand over all keys, garage door openers, and anything else the new owners will need.
• Checkbook: The title company might need a voided check to wire your sale proceeds directly to your account. Plus, there might be some last-minute payments needed.

What to Expect at Closing

On closing day, you’ll meet at the closing company’s office with the buyers, their agent, and me. Here’s what will happen:

• Document Signing: You’ll sign numerous documents, so make sure you understand everything. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.
• Transfer of Property: The property is legally transferred to the buyer, your mortgage is paid off, and you receive your proceeds.
• Celebration: Once everything is finalized, it’s time to celebrate! You’ve successfully sold your home.

A Smooth Transition

The closing company acts as a neutral third party, ensuring the terms of the contract are met and overseeing the transfer of ownership. They handle the documents, money, and other items to ensure everyone gets what they need.

Remember, I’m here to help you through every step of the process. Let’s make sure your closing day is a success and as stress-free as possible. And hey, after all this, maybe you’ll even miss the excitement of the home-selling journey – but just a little bit!

Congratulations on making it this far. You’re almost there. Up next is our bonus article on how to buy and sell at the same time. Stay tuned!

If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you through this exciting transition.

Cheers to new adventures and new memories!