The short answer is no when it comes to whether the seller must attend when the closing is closed. When selling a home, sellers can often close remotely or through a representative. If everything is signed in advance or through the power of a lawyer, their physical presence is not necessary. That said, laws and practices vary slightly from state to state, so it depends on how the title company, lawyer, or escrow agent handles the closure.
Whether you’re selling a San Diego home or a Boston condo, this Redfin guide categorizes what sellers need when closing, how the process works in different states, and how to prepare if they’re not there.
Can sellers skip bookings for closing?
Yes, sellers can often skip in-person deadline bookings. Whether you sell your home in Texas, Florida, or California, many closure agents offer remote options that allow you to complete a portion of your transaction without physically present.
To close remotely, it usually looks like this:
You will be able to sign the documents in advance or use the power of a lawyer electronically to allow someone to sign on your behalf, either directly or effectively, a notary with the necessary signature.
Please note that some states have more stringent requirements for notarization, witness signatures, or lawyer involvement. Therefore, closure agents will guide you based on local rules.
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Who should attend the closing session?
The parties present (or expressed) at the time of closure will depend on the transaction and local practices. This is a breakdown of people who normally need to attend or express.
Buyer: Buyers usually exist to sign loan documents (in the case of funding) and other documents such as disclosure of conduct or closing. If the buyer is unable to attend, they may use the power of a lawyer (POA) or remote signature. Closure Agent: Title Company Representative, Escrow Officer, or Closing Attorney (depending on the state) will oversee the process, ensure that documents are signed correctly, and process the funds. They are always there. Notarization: If a document is signed at the time of closure, a notary is often present to verify the signature. In the case of remote closing, the seller or buyer will use a local notary.
In some states (“attorney’s states” like New York and Massachusetts), closing lawyers need to exist to facilitate the process. In other people (“escrow states” like in California), the escrow executives handle it.
What should the seller do to close the house?
For home sales to close, sellers must fulfill several important obligations. Typically, the minimum requirements include:
1. Provide a clear title
Sellers must deliver clean titles with no liens, debts or disputes unless otherwise agreed (selling “AS-IS” on known issues). This often involves paying off existing mortgages, resolving tax liens, or addressing flaws in other titles before or at the time of closing. Title companies usually conduct title searches to confirm this, and sellers may need to sign an affidavit of title.
2. Sign the required documents
Sellers must sign important documents directly, remotely or through a representative. Common documents include:
Deed: Transfer ownership to the buyer (e.g. warranty or resignation deed depending on sale). Sales bill: Personal property (such as an appliance) included in the sale. Settlement Statement (Disclosure Closure): Provides an overview of financial details, including revenue to sellers and closing costs. Affidavit in title: Verify that the seller has a legal right to sell the property. Transfer of tax declarations or exemptions: Required in some states or counties.
The exact document will vary depending on the state and type of transaction, including cash sales and financing.
3. We will fulfill the purchase agreement
The Seller must fulfill all obligations outlined in the purchase agreement, such as:
You will either make an agreed repair or provide credit. Leaves properties in the specified condition (for example, broom clean). Includes personal property or equipment promised in the contract.
Failure to meet these conditions could result in delays or derailing closures.
4. Pay the remaining balance
The seller must settle any financial obligations related to the property. Usually deducted from revenue upon closing. This includes:
Remaining mortgage balance. Property taxes were compared up to the deadline. Homeowners Association (HOA) fees or ratings. Closing costs for seller payments (title insurance or buyer closing costs) if negotiated.
5. Free property (if applicable)
Unless the contract allows for occupancy after closing, the seller must leave the property by the deadline or as agreed upon. This includes removing personal belongings and ensuring that the property is in a promised state.
6. Comply with local laws and state laws
Sellers must meet the following legal requirements:
Provides mandatory disclosures (for example, lead-based paint disclosures for homes built prior to 1978 or state-specific property terms reports). Pay transfer tax or record fees if applicable. If required by local regulations, obtain a certificate of occupancy or smoke detector certification.
How to prepare for remote closing
If you plan to skip face-to-face appointments, here’s how to make sure everything goes smoothly:
Find out how to close: Talk to your agent or closing company to use the remote signature, email away closure, or the power of a lawyer. Check the documentation early: Don’t wait until the last moment. Please check the closed packet in advance. Coordinate Notarization Services: Some states allow online notarization, while others require in-person witnesses. Planning mortgage payoffs and utility shutoffs: process these before deadlines to avoid delays. Make sure the property is ready. Delete your belongings and leave the house on agreed terms.
Conclusion: Sellers do not need to be physically present at closing
At the end of the day, a short answer to the question must be present at the time the seller closes. The seller does not have to be physically present in the closure of the home. That said, they may need to appear on paper and in some states they will need to send legal representatives.
