Buyers Checklist - Contract to Close

Hey everyone,
One of the items that everyone asks after signing a contract is "WHAT COMES NEXT?" The To Do list is below for you to reference. It is critical to get everything done in a timely fashion prior to set deadlines in the contract. Most important is to have a Certified Home Inspector check out your house!!! This will give you peace of mind in knowing exactly what you are buying ~ or in some cases what you might wish to RUN AWAY FROM!!!! (in cases of extreme structural issues for instance)
I hope this helps you all out ~ Stay in Touch!!!


BUYER checklist of the activities that will need to be completed prior to closing:

Set up inspection:
Call an “ASHI” or “CABO” certified inspector and schedule an inspection ASAP. Call agent with date & time of
inspection----You will want to be there for the inspection if at all possible (plan on 1 ½-3 hours depending uponthe size and age of the home). Set up any other inspections that may be applicable (pool, septic, termite, radon, etc.)

Lender Related Items:
Call lender and inform them that you are now under contract! (Work with them to get everything they need.) Ask your lender if a closing termite letter is needed. Ask your lender if a new survey is required to secure loan. Sometimes the homeowner has a current survey which will suffice. Ask lender about Homeowners Title Insurance –it is recommended. Ask lender for a Good Faith Estimate which should give you a good idea of the amount of Certified Funds you will need to have at the closing table.

Miscellaneous Items:
Secure Homeowners Insurance (Hazard Insurance)--your agent has a list of reputable insurance agents if needed. Transfer Utilities to your name for date of closing. Agent may assist in getting the names and phone numbers if needed. Arrange for the Final Walk Thru prior to closing—usually w/in 5 days of closing date. Your agent will schedule it w/ all parties.

New Construction (If Applicable)
Please be certain that any change orders, selections orders, Amendments, & /or additional Earnest monies are sent to agent’s office for filing. All important communications w/ builder or designer should be ‘copied’ to agent as well for file.

2 Days Prior to Closing
Confirm w/ lender approximate amount needed for closing—the HUD statement is usually not ready until the day of or 1 day prior to closing. Have the certified check for closing made out in your name—at closing endorse it. You will also need your driver’s license at closing. Make certain you have Original Homeowners Insurance Policy ready for closing. Closing cannot take place without this Original Policy in hand!!!!! Make certain you have adequate directions to the closing attorney’s office!