The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and information provided is for entertainment purposes (see disclaimer)

The list of things you need to bring with you to closing is short but important:

Photo ID’s for each person on the deed and/or loan documents 

This is usually the first thing you will be asked to provide when you arrive at your closing attorney’s office. They will need proof of your identity and it’s recommended to bring two forms of ID, one of which is a government issued photo ID.

The USA Patriot Act requires lenders to collect information to confirm the identity of the borrower and the attorney doing the closing must collect that information. If you will not be obtaining a loan, you still must provide proof of your identity so the documents can be notarized.

Funds: Down payment and cash to close, usually in the form of a cashiers check or bank wire

Be sure to find out ahead of time what form of payment your closing attorney accepts and who to make payment to. Generally you will need “certified funds” made out to the closing attorney’s trust account for the full “Cash To Close” amount on your Closing Disclosure. Certified funds include a cashier’s check, money order, or wire transfer. If you are wiring money, it may be best to send it the day before to prevent any possible delays in receiving funds, but always ask your attorney for their recommendations or requirements.

Personal checks or any form of payment that is not “like cash” probably won’t be accepted or will be held for a minimum number of days before the closing can be finalized. The Good Funds Settlement Act requires that all funds must be deposited and available in the attorney’s trust account before the attorney can record a deed and disburse funds.

You will want to make sure ahead of time that you know your attorneys requirements and have the certified funds ready and available for your closing day.

Proof of Home Insurance Coverage  

Lenders require homeowners insurance before issuing a mortgage. Other types of insurance may also be required, depending on where you live. The insurance should be able to cover the replacement costs of the house or the full loan amount.

Proof of home insurance may be required to be provided during your loan underwriting process, but if not already completed, you will need to bring a copy of your Home Insurance Binder as proof of coverage to your closing. If you are paying cash for your property without the use of a loan, insurance many not be required but is highly recommended.

Check Book

This sounds contradictory, based on the funds section above that states your down payment and closing costs must be paid with certified funds. However, on occasion the final cash to close amounts can very ever so slightly. It’s a great idea to have a check book with you in case there are minor changes to your amount due. If this is anthing beyond a nominal and explainable amount, definitly ask your attorney and agent for clarification.

Situation Specific Documents

If you are married, both spouses must be present to sign. If you are having the deed put in both your name and your spouse’s name, both spouses must sign documents at closing even if only one spouse is a borrower.

If you are seperated or divoriced, you will likely need your separation agreement or divorce order. If you are separated or in the midst of a divorce, a separation agreement or an order from the divorce court could affect your purchase. Ask your attorney whether you should bring your separation agreement or any court orders relating to your separation or divorce to the closing.

If using a Power of Attorney, provide a copy PRIOR to closing for review. Circumstances may dictate that one or both buyers may not be able to attend the closing. If you need to use a power of attorney, it must be approved by your lender and the closing attorney.

If the property is located in a flood hazard area, you will need flood insurance. The lender will require flood insurance for homes within a national flood hazard area.

Additional Resource: NC Real Estate Commission’s Closings Q&A Brochure.  

~ Sarah