Home closing checklist

You have gotten over the massive hill that is the home sale process, negotiated the contract, and are headed toward closing day. Do not get complacent on the finish line. A few more steps remain before you start opening boxes at the new place.

Because every sale is different, this checklist assumes inspections and related repairs are already negotiated and finalized.

1) Prep the House

You are turning the home over to new owners, and they will expect the details to be handled.

• Give the house one final deep clean, and check drawers, closets, attics, garages, and basements for leftover items
• Make sure shut-off valves that could damage the home are turned off
• Gather keys, garage openers and codes, warranties, and receipts into one easy-to-find place for the new owners
• Change your address and forward your mail
• Alert subscriptions and service providers of your new address

2) Get Your Documents Together

While you prep the home, your agent and the buyer’s agent will be lining up financing, contingencies, and paperwork.

Check the HUD-1 settlement. The day before you sign, you should receive a HUD-1 outlining the sale details. Review it closely and report mistakes to your agent immediately.

Your agent typically handles and brings:

• Mortgage info and loan payoff info
• Escrow info
• HUD-1 Settlement Agreement
• Inspection agreements
• Termite inspections
• Property tax info

Depending on your situation, you may leave with a check for the closing balance, or you may need a cashier’s check for amounts due.

Possible seller expenses include remaining mortgage balance, agent commission, property taxes, utilities, HOA dues, homeowner’s insurance and other home bills, title fees, and escrow or attorney fees.

Keep homeowner’s insurance and utilities in effect until closing is complete.

3) Gather What You Need at the Closing Table

Allow time for a long signing session. Bring:

• A photo ID for every seller on the contract
• Questions about the closing statement
• A pen
• The home deed (if applicable)
• Keys and codes
• Documentation for repairs made after inspection

4) Make a Post-Close To-Do List

Once the home is officially with the new owners:

• Transfer utilities out of your name and into theirs
• Cancel homeowner’s insurance once the title has transferred
• File closing paperwork in a safe place
• Take a moment to celebrate

5) Congratulations

You have finished your closing checklist. Now make sure you have the best movers for the next mission.

If you want to keep your move on estimate, read why missions go over quote.