Closing and Beyond
Real estate closing is a process that concludes with the transaction that transfers ownership of the home from the buyer to seller.
Closing
Closing can also be referred to as settlement or escrow. Local area and state laws can vary, which is why enlisting the assistance of a Shoreland Realty Agent is sound advise.
In general, the closing process begins with the acceptance of an offer. Prior to closing, all conditions of sale (also known as contingencies) must be met. The most common – and obvious! – is the buyer's ability to secure a new mortgage.
A title company is usually hired to conduct a search for any recorded documents that affect the deed to the property. Examples include easements, liens, tax assessments, covenants, conditions and restrictions, and homeowner association bylaws. The buyer and lender must approve the preliminary title report prior to closing.
Once the conditions of sale have been met and the preliminary title report has been approved, all parties will agree to sign closing documents. The preliminary title report then becomes the final title report, on which any applicable title insurance is based. After the documents have been signed, notarized copies will be forwarded to the lender, funds will be released, and the sale will be recorded at the local recorder's office.
TIP: Closing is also the time when "adjustments" will be made. For instance, suppose you've pre-paid taxes four months in advance. At closing, you will be compensated by the buyer for the prepayment.
Tips for Moving
Selling your home and moving to a new one has unique challenges. This collection of tips will help get you off on the right foot.
Whether you have moved once or a dozen times, it never seems to get any easier. Here are some hints that we hope you will find helpful as you prepare for moving day.
- Make agreements with buyers about possession of the home and moving date.
- Start planning early. From the moment you decide to put your home up for sale, start sorting through your current possessions. Toss (or give away, sell at a yard sale or online) anything that you don't want to take with you.
- Make a list of important items you will need to buy for your new house, such as drapes, blinds, shower curtains, etc. Having these things with you on the day you move helps you settle in more comfortably.
Start packing early. Anything that you are sure you will not be using before moving day should get boxed.
TIP: Organize like items together and mark every box and carton. This makes it easier if you find you need an item before you move, and much simpler after you move. Unpacking tends to be a gradual process--this simple step will help you find the items you need when you need them.