The closing typically takes place at the title company.
Remember to Budget for Closing Costs
Closing costs can vary widely by location, but you’ll generally pay closing costs of 8% to 9% of the home’s sales price. So, on a $300,000 home, you can expect to pay anywhere from $24,000 to $27,000 in closing costs. In most cases, these costs are deducted from your proceeds at closing.
Closing costs for sellers typically include:
- Transfer taxes or recording fees
- Loan payoff costs
- Unpaid homeowner association dues
- Homeowner association dues included up to the settlement date
- Prorated property taxes
- Escrow, title, or attorney fees
- The compensation for the listing agent and buyer’s agent
Be Sure to Bring These Things to Closing
At the closing you should have:
- A government-issued photo ID
- House keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys, gate keys, and any pool keys to give to your Broker.
- A cashier’s check, or proof of wire transfer, if your closing costs are not being deducted from the sales price. (The Closer will let you know in what format they need the funds).
Don’t Forget to Dot These I’s and Cross These T’s
Before you rush off to pick out paint samples for your new place, remember to do these two steps that are often overlooked by sellers:
Perfect Timing
Once you know the title has officially transferred, then cancel your homeowners insurance. You don’t want to be without coverage (what if a pipe bursts?!) until the deal is legally completed.
Change your address. You want your mail to be sent to your new home. Setting up a forwarding address will also ensure that you can be reached if there are any post-closing matters. You can file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service.
Finally: Celebrate!
At last, your home is officially sold. Congratulations! Give yourself a pat on the back — and then start settling into your new phase of life.
Questions? Contact us at andi@andidyer(dot)com or 360-734-6479.
HOUSELOGIC helps consumers make smart, confident decisions about all aspects of home ownership. Made possible by REALTORS®, the site helps owners get the most value and enjoyment from their existing home and helps buyers and sellers make the best deal possible.
This content is not the product of the National Association of REALTORS®, and may not reflect NAR’s viewpoint or position on these topics and NAR does not verify the accuracy of the content.
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