6 Closing Day Tips for Sellers

Closing day is a significant milestone in the home-selling process. It’s the day when all your hard work as a seller finally pays off. However, you’re not done yet. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are six practical closing day tips for sellers to help you navigate it with ease.

1. Make Sure Everything Is Working Properly

Before handing over the keys, ensure that all appliances and chattels included in the sale are in good working condition. This involves checking:

• Refrigerator
• Stove
• Washer and dryer
• Dishwasher
• Furnace and air conditioning

A quick inspection the day before closing can help you address any last-minute issues, ensuring the buyer receives the home as promised. It’s not uncommon for unexpected appliance issues to pop up, so having a professional on standby for repairs can be a lifesaver.

2. Clean the Property Thoroughly

While most agreements only require the property to be left in a “broom-swept” condition, going the extra mile can make a big difference. To provide a fresh start for the new owners. consider having your home professionally cleaned.

A clean home not only makes a good impression but also sets the tone for a positive closing experience. Think about the details: clean windows, polished floors, and fresh scents can make the home feel welcoming.

3. Remove All Personal Belongings

It’s always a good idea to remove all your personal items from the property before the final walkthrough. Leaving behind furniture, garbage, or personal effects can lead to complications. 

Ideally, you should plan to be completely moved out a few hours before the new owners take possession on closing day to avoid any last-minute rush and to allow time for any unexpected issues. It may be worth hiring a moving service to help streamline the process and ensure everything is out well before the buyer arrives.

4. Disconnect Utilities and Services

Coordinate with utility providers to disconnect or transfer services like electricity, water, and gas. Here are some steps to consider:

• Contact each provider with your move-out date
• Arrange for final meter readings
• Return any rented equipment, such as cable boxes

Confirming these details ahead of time prevents lapses in service for the new owners and avoids unnecessary charges for you. It can be helpful to create a checklist of all utility companies and contact details to ensure nothing is missed.

5. Address Any Property Damage

The property must remain in the same condition as when the offer was made. If any damage has occurred, such as a leaking basement or accidental damage by pets, you’re responsible for fixing it before closing. 

Doing so ensures the buyer receives the home in the agreed-upon condition, preventing potential legal issues. You might want to schedule a final inspection to catch any overlooked issues.

6. Hand Over All Keys and Access Devices

Finally, leave all keys, garage door openers, and building access fobs with your lawyer for the buyer. This ensures a seamless transition for the new owners and allows them to access all areas of their new home without issues. 

Double-check that you haven’t left any spare keys hidden around the property. If they’re so well-hidden that you don’t end up finding them, at least inform the buyers.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, being thorough and organized with these closing day tips for sellers can make the process much smoother for everyone involved. And if you need a hand with anything, we’re here to help.

At Hawkins/Ryerse Real Estate Group, we are dedicated to supporting you through every step of selling your home. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve a successful and stress-free closing, ensuring a positive experience from start to finish. Whether you need advice or hands-on assistance, we’re here to make your home-selling journey as smooth and rewarding as possible. Contact us to speak with one of our agents today.