Closed days are the finish line for your home viewing journey. From identification to payments and essential closing documents, being well prepared is key to avoiding last-minute delays and making the process as smooth as possible. This Redfin article outlines exactly what it brings to closing, and arrives confidently and ready to walk with the keys of your new home.
1. Government issued photo ID
The closing agent or notary uses it to verify the identity of the document before signing it. All who sign a closing document must present a valid, expired, government-issued photo ID, such as:
Driver license passport status issuance ID card
The name of the ID must exactly match the name of the loan document. If your name has recently been changed (for marriage or otherwise), bring a support document such as a marriage certificate or court order that certifies that the name on your loan matches your ID.
In some cases, you may need a quadratic format that you can use to check the name. You should always double check with the lender or title company before closing day.
2. Certification checks, cashier checks, or proof of wire transfers
When closed, you will need to provide “closing cash.” This should cover down payments, closure fees, prepaid fees (such as property taxes and homeowner insurance), and prorated fees. The lender or closure agent will provide this final amount a day or two before closing, and will provide instructions as to whom to pay the check.
Many buyers have time to send funds via wire transfer before closing and clear the money. If you take this route, prove that the transfer is complete. If you want to have the funds directly, you will need a certification from the bank or a cashier’s check. Personal checks are not accepted.
3. Homeowner Insurance Proof
Lenders need proof that the homeowner’s insurance is active on the closing day. Please bring a copy of the insurance binder or a declaration page for your insurance contract.
Having insurance agent contact information on hand can be useful if the lender or closure agent needs to verify something.
4. Disclosure is finished
You will receive at least three business days of closure disclosure from your lender before closing. This document provides a detailed breakdown of the final loan terms, interest rates, monthly payments, and closing costs. Bring a copy for review at the table in case you need to reference or compare against what you signed.
5. Purchase agreement and supplements
The purchase agreement and addendum are important documents that outline your home purchase terms. Closing them is highly recommended as it serves as a reference point for special conditions such as agreed prices, deadlines and repairs that repair credits provided by the seller at the time of closure.
Keep these documents handy and you can ensure that all of the last documents match what you and the seller agree to. It is also useful if you have questions about the property’s state or negotiated terminology during the final walkthrough.
6. Additional requested documentation
Even after the underwriting is cleared, lenders may still need last-minute documents to complete your loan. This includes:
Updated pay stub or bank statement Check funds from family Funds Verify funds
Bring a printed copy of something you have already uploaded electronically. If you use hardcopy, you cannot close the document if it is not opened in the table. The lender lists the “conditions” that must be met. We will resolve them in advance if possible.
>>Read: The Ultimate Closing Document Guide
FAQS: What will you bring to you on your closing day as a buyer?
What happens if I forget the required documentation?
You can delay closures and in some cases press the date back. Make sure to check with your lender, escrow officer or closure agent exactly what you need to bring before booking.
How long does it take to close the store?
Most in-person closures take approximately 1-2 hours depending on document review and signature, questions, questions and transfer of funds. Complex transactions can take time.
Should it be present when closing?
Usually, if your name is on a loan or deed, it must be present at closing time to verify your identity and sign the document. This is necessary for lenders to fund their mortgage and record their deeds.
However, if you are unable to participate in the direct form, some closures allow for notarized powers of attorney or remote signing options, which must be approved in advance by the lender and title company. Please contact them early to see what is permitted and what documents you need to provide to avoid delays.
If I’m paying in cash, is there any specific things I should bring with me?
Even if you are paying in cash, you will need to bring in identification and evidence of the transfer of funds, such as bank statements, wire verifications, and cashier checks.
Can I bring my personal check for closing costs?
In most cases, no. Typically, large transactions do not accept personal checks, so you will need to bring a certified or cashier check or provide proof of wire transfer.
