By Kacey Sides, Buyer Specialist
So you found the house, made the offer, removed all of your contingencies, and all that's left is to close. Whether it has been a smooth ride or a bumpy one, it's exciting to know the end is near, and soon you'll be 
relaxing in your new home.
The hard part may be over, but your not quite done yet. Here are a few final steps to help slide you into your new home smoothly:
The Final Walk Through - This is done to verify all of the items that you negotiated to be done during your inspection period are completed and that the home is in similar condition as it was on the day you made your offer to purchase it. If there are items that needed repair that cannot be seen with the untrained eye, have your home inspector come with you and your Realtor. That way, you are sure not to miss anything. Your Home Inspector will usually charge a small fee for this, (here in Chattanooga, it runs about $75) but it's well worth it. If the work has not been completed, make sure it gets done BEFORE you close!
Transfer Utilities - Call and verify the companies that will service your home for utilities, garbage pickup, and cable. Do this at least 2 weeks before closing that way you are aware of what it takes to transfer them into your name. Some companies require you to come into their office in order to transfer them, this way you can schedule accordingly. Verify with the Seller when the utilities will be taken out of their name. That way you can have them on as soon as they turn them off. This will help avoid extra charges if there is a lapse in service, plus, it's not fun moving in without electricity!
Review the Closing documents - At closing, the closing officer at the title company will give you a brief synopsis of each paper you will sign. If you are getting a mortgage to buy the home, there will be ALOT of them! This is NOT the time to read the documents word for word. If this is something that is important to you, have your Realtor request that the documents be sent to you before closing. That way you can read everything and have your questions answered before the closing. Don't forget to bring a picture ID and a cashier's check for any funds you are required to bring to closing.
The closing on your new home is an exciting day. Whether it's your first home or your fifth, knowing the process will make the final days to closing that much easier. That way the only thing you'll have to worry about is getting writer's cramp!
Comments(0)