Going under contract doesn’t mean it’s time to pop the champagne. A lot has to happen from offer to closing. There are many tasks still left on our to-do list. These final items must be handled delicately. In the 5th installment of my Seller Series on Getting the Most for Your Home in a Hot Market, I explain what needs to get done during this process to make sure we get to the final settlement.
My Role as Your Agent to Get from Offer to Closing
Think of me as the project manager. I work with the buyer’s agent and lender, the title company, and any other additional vendors that become involved. My job is to assign tasks, negotiate terms on your behalf, and make sure we meet all the deadlines. I’ll keep you informed every step of the way and ensure that the terms you agreed to are carried out correctly.
It’s also my job to facilitate introductions between sellers, buyers, and interested parties. I’ll help smooth the transition between homeowners.
What’s Happening Behind the Scenes to Get from Offer to Closing
Important Dates to Get From Offer to Closing
I first create a master list of important dates when we go under contract. These dates are specific to your agreement and include anything from the appraisal date to the final home inspection. I’ll make sure you are aware of every critical deadline.
Final Costs
Depending on the contract terms you agreed to, the final costs and fees can fluctuate (check out my last blog) for a refresher. At this stage in the process, we negotiate these final details. We’ll review the buyer’s contingencies, so there aren’t any surprises. We’ll also nail down the final price and meet with the appraiser if necessary.
Tracking the Buyer’s Loan
I check in with the buyer’s lender throughout the contract period. This allows me to keep track of the loan and make sure everything is going according to plan. I won’t let you get beyond this stage without assuring the financing is taken care of, and appraisal dates are met. When we get to the agreed-upon settlement day, all the paperwork will be completed.
Document Round-Up
I collect all the essential documents and ensure every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed. I’ll be coming to you for the final signatures. I’ll meet with you one-on-one to explain every document and talk you through signing the final contract.
Inspection Process
It’s rare to have a home inspection contingency included in your contract, but it does happen. If that’s the case, the buyer will insist upon a final home inspection. I’ll help you prep your home for inspection and ensure everything is handled correctly during the process.
Once completed, the buyer and their agent will determine whether this affects your contract. I’m your advocate throughout this process, doing everything I can to ensure the sale goes through and that buyer and seller can come to a reasonable agreement regarding anything that came up during the inspection.
Final Details
It’s the last leg of the race. The nitty-gritty has been dealt with. Now all you need to do is take care of the final details. I handle lock box removal, destaging, sign removal, and final walk-throughs. About ten days before the settlement, you’ll receive a definitive list of to-dos from me. It will remind you to turn off your utilities, end your homeowner’s insurance, and gather things like keys, garage remotes, parking permits, alarm codes, etc. You’ll be ready to hand over your keys and start your next chapter!
Closing
On your closing date, I’ll make sure you know exactly what to expect and what you need to bring. You don’t have to attend the settlement in person if you don’t want to. You have the freedom to sign before the closing day, and I can even coordinate a signature from afar.
Last but not least, I’ll get in touch with you after closing to make sure you’ve received your funds in full and answer any final questions you have about your sale. You can count on me throughout the entire process.
My years of experience have prepared me to handle any situation that pops up. I will get you from offer to closing quickly and smoothly! After your home is sold, I’m still your resource for all things real estate. I’m always happy to answer your questions, no matter how small. Ok, NOW we can pop the champagne!
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