What to Bring to a Real Estate Closing?

Real estate closing marks the official transfer of property ownership. A smooth process depends on meticulous preparation, ensuring all necessary items are available. Understanding what to bring to this meeting can alleviate stress and prevent potential delays, allowing the transaction to proceed efficiently.

Personal Identification

Bringing personal identification is a requirement for all parties. This verifies identities and ensures the legality of signatures on official documents, many of which require notarization. A valid, government-issued photo identification, such as an unexpired driver’s license, state ID card, or passport, is universally accepted.

Confirm that the name on your identification precisely matches the name on all closing documents to avoid delays. Some closing agents may request a second form of identification, such as a Social Security card or credit card. Ensure your identification is current and accessible for a seamless verification process.

Financial Instruments

Securing the necessary funds for closing is a key component of the real estate transaction. Buyers need to bring funds for the down payment and all associated closing costs. These costs, including title insurance, escrow charges, and lender fees, are detailed in the Closing Disclosure. Review the Closing Disclosure at least three business days prior to closing to understand the exact amount required.

Personal checks are generally not accepted for large sums due to clearance time and risk of insufficient funds. Instead, financial institutions require certified or cashier’s checks. These checks are guaranteed by the issuing bank, confirming funds are available. Obtain a certified or cashier’s check from your bank, made out to the correct party, often the title company or escrow agent.

Wire transfers are a common and often preferred method for transferring funds. This method moves funds directly from your bank account to the closing agent’s account. Initiate a wire transfer in advance, typically one to three business days prior, to ensure funds arrive on time. Double-check all bank details with a verified source, such as a direct phone call to the closing agent, to prevent fraudulent activity.

For automatic mortgage payments or escrow account disbursements, buyers should bring a voided check. This allows the lender to accurately collect monthly payments or disburse funds for property taxes and insurance from your escrow account, streamlining mortgage servicing setup.

Critical Transaction Documents

Gathering essential paperwork before the closing day is important for a successful transaction. For buyers, proof of homeowner’s insurance is a required document. Lenders need a declarations page or binder from your policy, confirming that adequate coverage is in place and effective on or before the closing date. This demonstrates protection for the property against potential damage or loss, satisfying a loan condition.

A copy of the fully executed purchase agreement or sales contract should be brought to closing. This document outlines the agreed-upon terms and conditions, serving as a comprehensive reference for all parties. Having it available allows for quick verification of details if any questions arise.

Buyers should have previously provided loan estimates or pre-approval letters on hand. These documents are helpful for reference when reviewing final loan agreements, such as the promissory note and the mortgage or deed of trust. The Closing Disclosure (CD), received typically three business days before closing, should be reviewed thoroughly for accuracy and compared against your Loan Estimate.

Depending on unique circumstances, additional legal documents may be necessary. If someone is signing on behalf of another party, an original Power of Attorney document is required. If the property is bought or sold in the name of a trust, the relevant trust documents must be presented. In situations where property ownership is affected by life events, such as divorce, applicable divorce decrees or death certificates may be needed to confirm legal authority and clear title.

Miscellaneous Items and Final Checks

Beyond the primary documents and funds, a few other practical items and considerations can contribute to a smoother closing experience. For sellers, bringing all keys to the property, along with garage door openers and any alarm codes, is customary. This facilitates a seamless handover of access to the new owner immediately following the closing.

Both buyers and sellers benefit from bringing a notebook and pen to the closing. This allows for taking notes on discussions, important dates, or contact information, and for jotting down any last-minute questions that may arise. It is important to read every document carefully before signing, and to not hesitate in asking questions if any part of the agreement is unclear to you. Bringing a charged cell phone is also helpful for last-minute communication with real estate agents, lenders, or other parties involved in the transaction, ensuring connectivity if unexpected issues arise.