What to Expect at Your Closing Appointment: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Closing day is the finish line of the real estate process. After weeks (or sometimes months) of preparation, this is the moment when ownership officially changes hands. Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling a property, understanding what to expect will make the experience smooth and stress-free.
As your Realtor, Julie Delap will guide you through each step, ensuring you know exactly what to bring, what you’ll sign, and what happens once the ink is dry.
Two helpful blog posts to help understand the closing process: Who's Who in a Real Estate Transaction and Our Real Estate Glossary
For Buyers: The Path to Homeownership
For buyers, closing is the exciting final step where you officially become the new owner.
What to Bring:
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A government-issued photo ID
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A certified or cashier’s check for any closing costs or down payment balance (if not wired ahead of time)
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Proof of homeowners insurance
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Any last-minute documents your lender requests
What Happens:
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Final Review of Documents
You’ll review and sign several legal documents, including:-
The Closing Disclosure, outlining all final costs and fees.
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The Promissory Note, your agreement to repay the mortgage.
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The Deed of Trust or Mortgage, securing the loan with the property.
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Funds Transfer
Your down payment and closing costs are paid, either via wire transfer or certified check. -
Receiving the Keys
Once everything is signed and the transaction is funded, you’ll get the keys to your new home!
Julie’s Role: Julie will be by your side to explain any unfamiliar terms, keep the process on track, and celebrate this exciting milestone with you.
For Sellers: Wrapping Up the Sale
For sellers, closing is when you officially transfer ownership and receive the proceeds from the sale.
What to Bring:
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A government-issued photo ID
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Any outstanding keys, garage openers, or codes for the buyer
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Forwarding address for tax and utility purposes
What Happens:
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Review and Sign Documents
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The Deed, transferring ownership to the buyer.
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A Settlement Statement, itemizing all charges and credits.
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Any state or local forms required for property transfer.
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Mortgage Payoff and Proceeds
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Your current mortgage balance is paid off using the sale proceeds.
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Any remaining funds are wired or provided by check to you.
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Final Handover
You’ll hand over keys and any property-related items to complete the transfer.
Julie’s Role: Julie will ensure you understand your final numbers and help coordinate a smooth handoff to the new owners.
What Buyers and Sellers Both Can Expect
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Location: Closings typically take place at a title company or attorney’s office.
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Timeframe: The appointment usually lasts 45–90 minutes.
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Celebration: For buyers, it’s a moment to celebrate. For sellers, it’s closure and the chance to move forward.
Julie works to make closing day seamless and stress-free for everyone involved, with no last-minute surprises.
Tips for a Smooth Closing Day
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Review Documents Early: Buyers receive their Closing Disclosure at least three days before closing. Take time to read it carefully.
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Avoid Big Financial Changes: Buyers should avoid major purchases or opening new credit accounts before closing, as it can affect final loan approval.
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Plan for Utilities: Both buyers and sellers should coordinate utility transfer dates.
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Bring a Positive Attitude: This is a major milestone—celebrate the journey!
Final Thoughts
Closing day is the moment when all the hard work pays off. By knowing what to expect, you can approach the appointment with confidence and peace of mind. Julie’s experience and dedication mean you’ll have a trusted guide walking you through every step.
Whether you’re picking up the keys or signing them over, Julie’s goal is to make sure the process is seamless, professional, and even a little bit fun.
Wanna get started on your real estate journey? Contact Julie Delap, @properties La Crosse today!
