Closing Day Tips for Home Sellers

You’ve accepted an offer, passed the inspection, and made it through the appraisal. Now it’s time for the final milestone—closing day. While the buyer does most of the signing, sellers still have a few key responsibilities to ensure a smooth handoff. Here’s what you need to know.

🗓️ What Happens on Closing Day?

Closing day is when ownership officially transfers to the buyer. It usually takes place at a title company, attorney’s office, or via remote signing.

As the seller, you’ll:

• Sign the deed and final paperwork
• Hand over keys, garage remotes, and any other access devices
• Settle final bills and closing costs
• Walk away with your net proceeds (usually via wire transfer)

💡 Tip: Make sure your ID matches the name on the title exactly—this can delay closing if it doesn’t.

📦 How to Prep Your Home

Before you hand over the keys, your home should be:

• Completely emptied (unless otherwise agreed)
• Cleaned to “broom-swept” condition or better
• Free of trash, old furniture, or forgotten items
• Ready with all lights on, doors unlocked, and labeled keys/remotes

If anything breaks or leaks after your move-out and before closing, you’re typically still responsible—so walk through everything one last time.

📁 Review the Settlement Statement

A few days before closing, you'll receive a document called a Settlement Statement (or Closing Disclosure). This details every cost and credit related to the sale.

• Double-check your sale price, prorated taxes, and any agreed credits
• Verify payoff amounts for your mortgage(s)
• Ask your agent or attorney to review it with you

Don’t wait until the closing table to spot an error.

💰 Know When You’ll Get Paid

Proceeds are typically sent via wire transfer the same day as closing—or the next business day if the sale closes late in the afternoon.

Be sure to bring:

• A voided check or routing info for wire transfer
• Two forms of valid ID
• Garage remotes, mail keys, manuals, and warranties

🧼 Leave a Note (Optional but Thoughtful)

A small note with helpful tips (trash days, Wi-Fi provider, mailbox location) is always appreciated. It’s a nice touch—and helps ensure a good final impression.