What Do I Need to Bring to Closing as a Buyer?

Buying a home culminates in the closing, a formal meeting where property ownership officially transfers from seller to buyer. This event involves reviewing and signing documents, exchanging funds, and completing final checks. Being prepared for closing day ensures a smooth and efficient process, allowing you to finalize your home purchase. Understanding what to bring and what to expect can help alleviate anxieties associated with this important milestone.

Proof of Identity

Presenting valid identification is a requirement at closing to verify your identity for legal documents and notarization. The closing agent or notary public must confirm the person signing the documents is the individual involved in the transaction. This step helps deter fraud and ensures the legality of the property transfer.

Acceptable forms of identification include a valid government-issued photo ID. A driver’s license, passport, or state-issued identification card are accepted. You might need a second form of identification, such as a Social Security card, credit card, or utility bill. Confirm specific ID requirements with your closing agent in advance to avoid delays.

Funds for Closing

Bringing funds for your down payment and closing costs is a financial consideration for buyers. The total amount you need, often called “cash to close,” covers expenses beyond the down payment, including loan fees, taxes, and insurance premiums. Personal checks are not accepted for these amounts due to the need for guaranteed funds.

Wire transfers are a common method for sending closing funds, offering a secure way to transfer large sums directly to the closing agent, such as a title company or escrow agent. Obtain wiring instructions directly from your closing agent and verify them through a known, independent phone number to prevent wire fraud, a significant risk in real estate transactions. Initiate the wire transfer one to two business days before closing, as funds can take up to 24 hours to clear, and delays are possible.

Alternatively, a certified or cashier’s check, obtained from your bank, is another common payment method. These checks are guaranteed by the issuing bank, ensuring funds are available. Make the check payable to the correct entity, typically the title company, and confirm the exact amount with your closing agent a few days before closing. Some closing agents may limit the maximum amount accepted via cashier’s check, sometimes as low as $10,000, making wire transfers more suitable for larger sums.

Key Documents for Review and Signature

At closing, you will encounter a volume of paperwork, with several documents requiring your review and signature. While the closing agent provides the originals, familiarity with these documents beforehand can streamline the process.

A central document is the Closing Disclosure (CD), a five-page form detailing the final terms of your loan, including interest rates, projected monthly payments, and all closing costs. Federal regulations require lenders to provide you with the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing, allowing time for review and comparison with your initial Loan Estimate.

You will also sign the mortgage note, your legal promise to repay the loan, outlining the loan amount, interest, and payment terms. Accompanying this is the deed of trust or mortgage, a security instrument that grants the lender a lien on the property, allowing them to foreclose if loan terms are not met. The deed itself, which transfers ownership from the seller to you, will be signed by the seller, but you will receive a copy. Bringing your copies of the original purchase agreement, Loan Estimate, and proof of homeowner’s insurance (declarations page and paid receipt) is advisable for your reference during the signing process.

Other Important Items and Final Checks

Beyond identification and funds, a few other items can facilitate a smoother closing. A voided check is often requested by your lender to set up automatic mortgage payments directly from your bank account. This provides your banking information without risking an actual payment.

Having contact information for your real estate agent, loan officer, and any attorney involved is beneficial for addressing questions or issues. If you conducted a final walkthrough, bringing any checklist or notes can help confirm agreed-upon conditions or repairs have been met before signing documents. Prepare a list of any remaining questions about the property, documents, or the overall process. A charged mobile phone is useful for communication or accessing digital documents.