How to Prepare for Closing Day as a Buyer

You’ve found the perfect home, negotiated the deal, and made it through inspections—now what?

Closing day is the final and most exciting step of your home-buying journey. It’s when you officially become the owner of your new home! But before you get the keys, there are a few important steps to complete to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Here’s what you need to know to prepare for closing day as a buyer—and avoid any last-minute surprises.

1. Review Your Closing Disclosure Carefully

A few days before closing (usually at least three business days), your lender will send you a Closing Disclosure (CD).

This document outlines your final loan terms, interest rate, monthly payment, and all closing costs.

✅ Check for accuracy:

• Loan amount and interest rate

• Down payment and cash to close

• Escrow and insurance details

• Any changes from your original loan estimate

💡 Pro Tip: Compare your Closing Disclosure to the Loan Estimate you received earlier. If something looks off, contact your lender immediately.

2. Schedule a Final Walk-Through

Usually conducted 24–48 hours before closing, the final walk-through gives you one last chance to confirm that the home’s condition matches what was agreed upon in your contract.

During your walk-through:
🔍 Check that all agreed repairs were completed
💡 Ensure lights, appliances, and systems are working
🚿 Test water pressure and plumbing
🚪 Verify that nothing has been removed that should stay

💬 Pro Tip: Bring your contract and inspection report for reference—just in case something looks different from before.

3. Gather All Necessary Documents

To make closing day stress-free, be sure to have everything ready and organized. Bring:
🪪 A valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
💵 Certified or cashier’s check (if required for closing costs)
📄 Proof of homeowner’s insurance
📧 Any final lender documents or confirmations

If you’re closing remotely or electronically (common in some New Jersey and Florida markets), ensure your digital signing setup is ready to go beforehand.

4. Know What to Expect at Closing

Closing day typically takes place at a title company, attorney’s office, or sometimes remotely. During the appointment, you’ll:
🖊️ Sign loan and title documents
💰 Pay any remaining closing costs or down payment
📘 Review the settlement statement (which details all financial transactions)
🔑 Receive your keys once the deal officially funds and records

In New Jersey, closings are often handled by attorneys, while in Florida, title companies frequently oversee the process. Your real estate agent will ensure you know what to expect based on your location.

5. Confirm Your Payment Method and Amount

Ask your lender or closing attorney in advance how much money you’ll need to bring and in what form.

Most offices require a certified check or wire transfer. Always verify wire instructions directly with the title company or attorney—never through email alone—to protect yourself from wire fraud.

💡 Pro Tip: Double-check that your bank can send funds in time if you’re wiring money, especially if you’re closing early in the morning.

6. Don’t Make Major Financial Changes Before Closing

Avoid doing anything that could affect your credit or finances before the deal closes. That means:
🚫 No new credit cards or loans
🚫 No large unexplained deposits or withdrawals
🚫 No job changes without informing your lender

Even small changes could delay loan approval at the last minute.

7. Stay in Touch with Your Agent and Lender

Communication is key in the final days before closing. Your agent will coordinate between you, your lender, attorney, and title company to make sure everyone’s on track.

If any last-minute issues arise (like missing paperwork or scheduling delays), quick responses can prevent unnecessary stress.

8. Celebrate and Stay Organized

Once your documents are signed and funds are disbursed—congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner!

🎉 Save all closing documents in a safe place (digital and physical copies).
🪟 Change utilities to your name.
📦 Schedule your move and confirm mail forwarding with USPS.

💬 Pro Tip: Keep your closing statement—it may be useful for tax purposes next year.

Final Takeaway

Closing day is both exciting and detailed. Preparation is the key to making it smooth and stress-free.

By reviewing your documents early, completing your final walk-through, and staying organized, you’ll arrive ready to sign—and leave with keys in hand.

Ready to Buy a Home with Confidence?

Whether you’re purchasing your first home in Bergen County, NJ or relocating to South Florida, I can guide you through every step of the process—from offer to closing—with clarity and confidence.

📞 Call Scott Selleck of The Selleck Group, KW City Views Realty at 201-970-3960
📧 Email [email protected]

Let’s make your next closing day the start of an exciting new chapter.