Most buyers will have the property inspected by a licensed property inspector within the time frame that was agreed upon in their sales contract. After the initial home inspection, the Buyer may wish to obtain further professional opinions from licensed contractors that specialize in a specific field (eg. roof, HVAC, pest, mold, structure, etc.). If the agreement is conditional upon financing, then the property will be appraised by a licensed appraiser selected by the bank to determine the value for the lending institution. This is done so that the bank can confirm the value of their investment, which is your home. A buyer of commercial property may also have a complete environmental audit performed and/or soil test, if required by the lending institution.

Furniture Removal

In the event, you have furniture or belongings that you do not want, please ask me for a list of places that will either buy, consign, or pick up for donation. I have a PDF document that has all of these numbers.

The Closing Agent

Either a title company or an attorney will be selected as the closing agent. If the property you are selling is located in Palm Beach county, the choice and expense of the closing agent will belong to you, the seller. The closing agent you select will examine and insure clear title for the new prospective Owner(s). They will also make sure there are no open liens or permits on the property. Their job is also to prepare all closing documents; including the final payoff for any current mortgages. They will also prorate taxes and HOA fees if applicable. Lastly they will balance the closing statement with the lender if there is financing involved for the Buyer(s).

Cancel Home Services and Utilities

We will provide a list of numbers for the termination of home services and utilities which I usually recommend be suspended at midnight the day of closing, or the day after closing. Remember, utilities must be "on" for the final walk through so that the buyer can confirm that all systems within the home are still functioning properly. Please see below.

Closing Day

More of a formality than anything else, the Buyer(s) will complete a final walk through inspection which typically takes place the day before, or the day of the closing. The Buyer(s) visits the property to verify that everything is still in working order, and consistent with the condition at the time of the inspection. The property must be completely empty (other than items that may have been negotiated),and "broom swept" according to the contract. Many Sellers choose to do a final cleaning for the new buyer which is not mandatory but greatly appreciated by the Buyer(s).

Closing

The closing agent will furnish all parties involved with a settlement statement, which summarizes and details the financial transaction. All parties will sign this settlement statement certifying it's accuracy. The Seller(s) should arrange to have all property keys and any other important information for the new purchaser at the closing or left in the kitchen, so that the purchaser may receive these items easily. Many closings are remote these days but ultimately it will be the responsibility of the closing agent to explain the closing statement to you line by line, and initiate the transfer of proceeds due to you via certified funds or bank wire.