The Seller: The Week Before Closing
You're a little more than a week out from closing. You're so close now! What are the things that you need to do as a person selling the home, getting it ready to close? Lucky for you, I made a list to guide you.
You can also download a checklist here.
1. Coordinate the Transfer of Utilities, Notify Home Services Providers
You don’t want to pay for utilities when you’re not using them, right? Be sure to contact the utility companies and notify them that the closing date is the last day you’ll pay for utilities.
You will need to do this at least a week before closing. This step is crucial because:
- Smooth Transition for Buyers: The homebuyers need time to set up utilities in their name. Imagine the angst of the person buying your home if they don’t have water and power when they go to move in!
- Utility Company Requirements: Some utility providers require a termination order from the seller before transferring services to the new owner. Contacting the utilities company at least a week prior to closing ensures that neither party is left without essential services.
Also if you use someone to control weeds in your lawn, mow your lawn, clean your house, do pest control, etc., you’ll want to be sure to notify those service providers so you don’t end up paying for services on a home you no longer own!
2. Schedule Movers
You also need to schedule movers so that you are completely out of the house on the day of closing, or whatever day that you've agreed that the house will transition. This will ensure a smooth transition to the new owners.
3. Clean the Property
It’s important to leave the home clean and free of any debris, trash, or personal items—unless otherwise agreed upon in the purchase and sale agreement. The standard Georgia Association of Realtor Purchase and Sale contract has paragraph that specifies that the property will be delivered in “Clean Condition.” It goes on to say that the property must be in “clean condition, free of trash, garbage, debris, pets and personal property.” Here are some things to remember:
- Remove All Personal Belongings: Double-check closets, drawers, attics, and storage areas.
- Dispose of Trash: Ensure garbage and recycling bins are empty.
- Mow the Lawn: Plan to mow the yard one final time the week before closing.
The contract says that is the way that the house will be “delivered” and it’s your job to make it so!
4. Schedule and Prepare for the Final Walkthrough
The buyers will likely schedule a final walkthrough either the evening before or the day of closing. This walkthrough gives them the opportunity to ensure:
- The property is clean.
- Personal items have been removed (unless included in the contract).
- The condition of the home is as it was when they made the offer.
Occasionally something unexpected happens that no one saw coming. When the couple buying my dad’s house came through for their final walk-through the day before closing, a toilet had malfunctioned, and water covered the bathroom floor and seeped under the wall into the carpet in the walk-in closet. The terrific agent we hired in Florida got the water removed, toilet replaced, closet carpet and base boards replaced, and we still closed the next day!
The purchase and sale contract requires that at the time of closing, the property and all times remaining will be in substantially the same condition as the offer date except for any changes made as a condition of the purchase. Make sure your property lives up to that commitment!
5. Collect Keys, Garage Door Openers, and Device Credential Information
Gather all keys, garage door openers, mailbox keys, HOA amenity cards, and any other items the buyers will need. Additionally, if you have any smart devises in your home provide credential and log in information so that the home buyers can fully access and use the systems.
Bring the items with you to the closing so everything is ready for the new owners to take over.
Almost There!
The week before closing can be hectic, but staying organized and tackling these tasks will ensure a smooth and stress-free transition. Remember, this is a milestone worth celebrating—you’re almost at the finish line!
Need Help Selling Your Home?
If you’re considering the selling your home in the metro Atlanta area, I’d love to help.
Call or text me, Kelly Vandever, at 770-597-1108 and allow me to make your move easier.
