After Offer Accepted

Buying a home is a complicated and often confusing process. This “Contract to Close” checklist helps you keep track of all the details.

Checklist For Buyers: Contract to Close

Contract signed and dated
Earnest money given
Make loan application and provide lender with all requested documents ASAP
Instruct lender to order appraisal
Keep lender Good Faith Estimate to compare to final closing documents
Do not make major purchases that could change loan ratios and jeopardize loan
Get a home inspection and negotiate repairs
Termite Inspection
Septic Inspection, if applicable
Other inspections could include radon, mold, structural, etc.
Give all contract documents to closing agent/attorney and set up closing date/time
Ask closing agent how you should bring funds to close such as wire or cashier’s check
Inform closing attorney if Power of Attorney, death certificates, other docs are required
Get an estimate from moving company and get on the books
Get utility information from seller and call utilities to arrange for transfer
Ask for repair receipts
Change address for mail, newspaper, and magazine subscriptions
Obtain property insurance
Make arrangements for key transfer and garage door openers at closing
Confirm with closing agent and lender that everything is set for close and loan approved
Review Preliminary HUD (settlement statement) 24-hrs prior to close if possible
Closing company records the deed and the home is yours!