What Do You Need to Bring to a Home Closing?

A home closing requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth and efficient process. This involves having the correct identification, financial resources, and relevant paperwork readily available.

Your Identification and Funds

Bringing valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is a fundamental requirement for a home closing. Your name on the identification should precisely match the name on all official closing documents to ensure proper verification.

You will need to cover the down payment, remaining closing costs, and any pre-paid expenses. Common closing costs include fees related to mortgage financing, title services, and property taxes. These amounts can vary significantly, often totaling several thousand dollars.

Acceptable payment methods for these substantial sums are limited to cashier’s checks, certified checks, or wire transfers. Personal checks are not accepted for large amounts due to the time required for funds to clear and verify. If opting for a cashier’s check, it should be made payable to the title company or escrow agent, as they manage the funds during the transaction. For wire transfers, it is crucial to obtain wire instructions directly from the title company or closing attorney and verify them by phone using a number obtained from a trusted source, not from an email. Initiate wire transfers at least one to two days before closing to ensure funds arrive on time.

Essential Property and Loan Paperwork

Homebuyers are required to have a homeowner’s insurance policy in effect by the closing date. Proof of coverage, such as an insurance binder or the declarations page, must be presented, as the lender will require this documentation. An insurance binder serves as temporary proof of coverage until the formal policy is issued.

While the closing agent will have official copies, bringing a personal copy of the fully executed purchase agreement can be beneficial for quick reference. This document outlines the terms of the sale, including the purchase price and any contingencies. Having your own copy allows for immediate verification of terms during the final review.

The Closing Disclosure (CD) is provided by the lender or title company at least three business days before closing. It details the final loan terms, costs, and fees. Reviewing the CD in advance is important to compare it against the initial Loan Estimate and identify any discrepancies.

At the closing table, you will interact with numerous loan-related documents. These include the promissory note, which is your legal agreement to repay the loan, and the mortgage or deed of trust, which secures the property as collateral. The title company will also present documents related to the property’s title, such as the deed, which transfers ownership, and title insurance policies.

Items for a Smooth Handover

For sellers, a seamless handover involves bringing all keys for the property, including those for the house, mailbox, and any outbuildings. Garage door openers, gate remotes, and instructions for alarm systems or smart home devices should also be included. Providing all means of access ensures the new owners can immediately secure and utilize their property.

Buyers should bring any notes, checklists, or documentation from their final walk-through. This is especially important if there were agreed-upon repairs or items to be verified, allowing for confirmation that the property is in the condition stipulated in the purchase agreement.

Regarding utilities, buyers should prepare a list of local providers for electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash services, along with their contact information. This allows for new accounts to be set up promptly. Sellers, conversely, should have account information ready to cancel services and arrange for final meter readings.

Bringing contact details for your real estate agent, attorney, and loan officer is advisable. Having these contacts readily available can facilitate quick communication if any last-minute questions or issues arise during the closing process.