After the process of applying for mortgages, finding the perfect home, and agreeing on a price, it’s time to close the deal. Closings are often a mystery to first-time homebuyers, who are often intimidated by everything from the amount of paperwork to the closing costs that sometimes catch people off guard. If you’re about to close on your real estate deal, here is a look at what you can expect.

Get Ready to Sign

Closings are really just formal meetings to sign paperwork to complete a real estate transaction. All of the negotiations should be complete at this point, so the closing should be stress free, and in fact, many people find them exciting because they signal the end of the buying and selling process. Closings may be held at the office of a real estate agent, attorney, closing agent, or at your registry of deeds. Many first-time homeowners are surprised by the amount of paperwork involved, which can range from 50 to 100 pages. These forms include promissory notes, disclosures, deeds of trust, and other documents that finalize the sale.

Preparing Can Speed Up the Process

You will receive many closing documents in advance, so review them and ensure they are accurate before the closing so you can move things along as quickly as possible. One important document to review is the HUD-1 form. This form lists your closing fees. Compare it with the estimate your lender gave you when you applied for your mortgage to make sure these numbers are comparable.

Bring the Necessary Funds

At the closing, you will need to complete your down payment and cover any upfront fees that are not being rolled into your mortgage loan. In some cases, you can make these payments via a wire transfer; otherwise, you will need a cashier’s check. You should know your fees the day before your closing, but be prepared with a checkbook in case any surprise charges arise at the last minute.

Go into closings with confidence with the support of Core. Our title companies in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Michigan can guide you through the entire process and help with escrow services and much more. Find out how we simplify your real estate transaction by calling us today.