These days... closings are getting more and more complex. I have put together a quick closing checklist for you to use when closing on your condo, townhome or home.

1. In New Jersey --- you must install a fire extinguisher on the lease, sale or transfer of one or two family residences. The extinguisher must be rated for residential use, no larger than 10 lbs., and must be mounted within 10 feet of the kitchen. Check your local codes for specific municiple codes.
2. Smoke detectors --- must be on each level of your home, outside each sleeping area and the need to located onor near the ceiling.
3. Carbon Monoxide detectors must be outside each bedroom and near heating or furnace equipment.
4. Contact gas and electric companies with the date of closing and for the final meter reading and change of billing address.
5. Contact the phone company for the same.
6. Contact your Post Office to forward mail and get change of address cards.
7. Call your water/sewer facility for the final bill. This must be brought to the closing.
8. Provide ALL keys and remote controls for garage or equipment.
9. If the home is heated by oil, call company for current value and bring the statement to closing for reimbursement(s).
10. Contact the tax department for confirmation of tax payments.
11. If you own a condo, townhome or home in a homeowners association, contact the office for their final procedures and copies of rules & regulations for the new homeowners.
12. Leave appliance booklets, recycling or garbage pamphlets, local menus or telephone numbers for the new homeowners to help ease their transition to your new home.

For more information about buying or selling your largest financial asset, contact me at CupaT@aol.com.

Copyright - Pamela Stetson 2007, www.PamelaStetson.com