As your real estate closing or settlement date approaches, there are various things you must do to ensure the transaction closes smoothly and on time. As escrow requirements differ from location to location, understanding what needs to be done and preparing accordingly is the key to a stress-free closing.
- Keep a close eye on the loan process. Check in with your loan officer frequently until you are satisfied everything they need has been submitted and the loan will fund on time.
- Review your settlement statement or HUD-1 form a few days before closing. Check the line items to make sure you are getting credit for your deposits and other items agreed upon.
- Thoroughly review the preliminary title report to confirm the exact legal description, and note any encumbrances, liens or other items that may have been discovered.
- Inspect the property a few days prior to closing to make sure all agreed-upon repairs have been finished and any personal property that was not negotiated in the sales contract has been removed.
- Make sure someone has contacted the utility companies to transfer them into your name on closing day.
- Contact your insurance company to make any required changes. This is usually required and handled by the lender, but it’s up to you to make sure the policy is adequate.
- Bring a certified check to cover closing costs and two forms of identification.
- Get copies of the settlement statement, mortgage or deed of trust, truth-in-lending statement, sales contract, appraisals, inspections and disclosures. In addition, get the keys, gate codes and garage remotes.
- Get answers to all your questions. Don’t proceed if you don’t understand something, get answers.
The reason you want to review these items before closing day is to give the seller, escrow, realtor, whoever, time to remedy any mistakes or complete any agreed-upon conditions. By being proactive, you can make certain you’ll have a smooth closing.
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