Home Seller's Guide Preparing to Close

You're almost there, but there is still some work to do before the deal is closed.

There's a lot to do in the weeks leading up to the closing, so good organization is a must. Proper scheduling can reduce your stress and prevent any mistakes or delays.

• Get Organized
  Create a schedule of the items you need to complete before closing. Set up a file with all of your purchase and closing related documentation so you have it readily available.
• Confirm Payment of Deposit Funds
  The contract probably calls for the balance of the deposit to be paid to the escrow agent within a certain period of time. Confirm that this has been done as required. The deposit is your major security until the closing - make sure it is posted as required. If the buyer seems unable to produce the required funds it could be a sign of trouble - so find out what is going on.
• Monitor Inspections and Contingencies
  The contract is probably subject to a number of inspections and contingencies. These conditions are intended to allow the buyer to check things out and make sure there are no problems - not as an open ended delaying tactic. Confirm that the buyer schedules the inspections in a timely manner, and make sure access to the property is available.
• Deal with the Inspection Reports
  The buyer's inspection reports will usually list a number of sub-standard items - few homes are without defects. The buyer my provide you with a list of things to be corrected before the closing. You may or may not agree that you are responsible for items on the list. At this point another negotiation may result. Although each deal is different, typically the seller will repair (or provide a credit to cover the cost) any major or structural problems. The seller is usually responsible for the cost of radon remediation, if required. Normal wear and tear items, on the other hand, are not usually corrected by the seller.
• Address Your Contingencies
  The contract may include contingencies or conditions requiring the seller to take certain actions - removing debris or an old shed, for example. Make sure to attend to these matters early so they do not become a problem at closing time.
• Get a Payoff Letter
  If you have a mortgage on your home you will be paying it off at the closing so you can transfer clean title to the buyer. Your lender should provide you with a payoff letter specifying the exact amount required to completely retire the loan. The payoff letter should also specify a per diem, an additional amount required for each day after the payoff letter is dated. For example, if your payoff letter states a figure of $95,000 with a per diem of $20 you would owe $95,200 if the closing occurred 10 days after the date of the letter. Your attorney or escrow agent may request the payoff letter from the lender - but it's still a good idea for you to make sure it gets done.
• Review the Closing Costs
  Consider your closing costs so you have a good idea of what proceeds you will net from the sale. Our guide to closing costs can give you some idea of what to expect.
• Provide Information to the Buyer
  Provide the buyer with copies of any relevant documents you have - surveys, septic designs, service records, building permits (from past projects), etc. The contract may specify that you are to provide these items, but even if it doesn't, it may help the buyer conclude the inspection phase - and it is a basic courtesy.
• Get Ready for Moving Day
  You'll probably be moving out right before the closing (or just after if you've arranged this with the buyer), so now is the time to start preparing. You need to hire a mover (unless you plan to handle the move yourself) and start packing your possessions. It's also time to make arrangements for utility shutoffs and installations at your new address - our utility checklist can help you organize these tasks.
• Do the Walkthrough
  The final walkthrough should be conducted the day of or before the closing. The walkthrough allows the buyer to confirm that the house is ready and that any required repairs have been completed. Conducting a walkthrough reduces the chance of confusion or problems at the closing.

Don't Get Stressed Out
There is a lot of work to do in the weeks leading up to the closing. It's important to get yourself organized and not to become overly stressed. If your contract was properly written you'll have enough time to finish everything - and if you fall slightly behind it's likely the closing can be delayed a few days until you are ready to go.

Make a list of everything you need to get done. Don't hesitate to ask your agent to help you get ready - he or she is not only there to help, but is also a veteran of this process. Your agent can run important errands, arrange for inspectors to have access to the house, or help you find a contractor to make a repair. Don't overlook this resource if you feel you are falling behind.

Keep a list of all items that need to be completed before the closing. Note the dates of appointments and check off items that are completed.

A little organization - and maybe a bit of help from your agent - is all you need to get to the closing table without driving yourself crazy.