This series, Selling Your Home Made Easy: Minimize Your Stress, Maximize Your Profit, is a step-by-step guide that walks you through everything you need to know to sell your home in today’s market. From choosing the right real estate agent to reaching settlement, this series keeps you on track. 

You’re getting close to the finish line, but just because your home is under contract doesn’t mean the job is done. There are still a few important steps to complete before you reach closing day. 

At this point, your “to-do” list might feel like it keeps growing. That’s normal. The key is to stay organized so there are no surprises or setbacks in these final weeks. No one wants a delay or a deal falling through at this stage. 

What to Expect 

It can be tempting to focus on the move itself, or to start planning farewells, but this is the time to stay focused. You’ll need to handle several tasks inside your home and make sure everything is in place for settlement. 

Make sure nothing is overlooked. Missing documents or unfinished tasks can cause problems when you sit down at the closing table. 

In some cases, sellers stay in the home past the settlement date under a rent-back agreement. Others need to be fully moved out by closing. Your specific timeline will be spelled out in your contract. 

There are three major steps to prepare for in these pre-closing days: the home inspection, repair and preparation work, and organizing your documents and materials for settlement. 

Home Inspection by the Buyers 

Your contract may include a contingency that gives the buyers a set number of days to complete a home inspection. On inspection day, you should not be home. Your agent can be present as your representative, and you can remain available by phone in case any questions come up. 

Be sure the utilities are turned on, even if you’ve already moved out. 

After the inspection, the buyers may request repairs, attempt to renegotiate the price, or in rare cases, cancel the contract. Your agent will help guide you through the next steps if anything needs to be addressed. 

Preparing Your Home 

The final days before moving out can be hectic. You’re getting ready to say goodbye, but the buyers are getting ready to move in. It’s important to make sure you leave the home in good shape. 

Here’s a list of tasks to complete before settlement: 

• Complete any agreed-upon repairs from the inspection. Keep receipts or proof of work in case the buyers request documentation. 

• Schedule final readings and disconnection for utilities to occur on the day of settlement. 

• Contact your insurance provider, forward your mail with the post office, and notify necessary contacts of your address change. 

• Gather appliance manuals, warranty information, maintenance records, and anything else helpful for the new homeowners. A home maintenance binder comes in handy here. 

• Collect and label all keys, garage openers, mailbox keys, and any other items the buyers will need. Bring them with you to the closing. 

• Make sure the home is left in “broom swept” condition. Most buyers will do a final walk-through right before settlement. 

Preparing for Settlement 

Your agent will provide a checklist of what you need to bring to closing. This may include: 

• Confirming your bank has your new address so they can forward any remaining escrow balance or documentation related to your mortgage. 

• Providing wiring instructions or banking information for where you want the proceeds from the sale to be sent. 

• Double-checking with the title company or settlement agency to confirm they have all necessary documents. It’s a good idea to place a call and make sure nothing is missing ahead of time. 

• Bringing up any concerns or questions with your agent well before settlement day. Waiting until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress or confusion. 

I’m Here to Help 

As your agent, my role is to make sure this entire process stays on track. You will never be left guessing about what needs to be done. I provide a clear roadmap, help you anticipate each step, and keep everything running smoothly. 

If we work together to sell your home, I’ll make sure you are fully prepared from contract to closing. Nothing is left to chance. 

Now that you’ve seen how much goes into the days before closing, the next article in the Selling Your Home Made Easy series is the perfect next step: Get Organized for the Big Move and Beyond. You’ll find practical advice for making your move more manageable and less overwhelming. It’s time to get ready to say goodbye to your current home and hello to what’s next.