Close the Deal - 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 may 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Get Ready for Moving Day
You 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.
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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.
