Closing Checklist: 6 Steps Before Settlement Day

You’ve made it through home showings, inspections, and mortgage approval — and now closing day is almost here! 🎉
It’s the finish line of your home buying journey, but there are still a few important steps to complete before you get the keys. Here’s what happens in the days and weeks leading up to closing when buying a home in the greater Philadelphia area.

🧾 1. Finalizing Your Mortgage

Once your lender has received the appraisal and all necessary documents, your loan goes through final underwriting. This is the lender’s last detailed review of your finances and the property to ensure everything meets loan requirements.

During this stage, it’s important to:

• Stay employed and avoid big financial changes
• Refrain from opening new credit accounts or making large purchases
• Respond quickly to any requests from your lender for updated documents

Once the underwriter gives the green light, you’ll receive what’s called a “clear to close.” That means your loan is fully approved and you’re ready to move to settlement.

🧮 2. Reviewing Your Closing Disclosure

At least three business days before closing, your lender must send you a Closing Disclosure (CD). This document details your final loan terms, interest rate, monthly payment, and all closing costs.

Take time to review it carefully and confirm:

• Your loan amount and interest rate are correct
• The final costs match what you expected
• You understand how much you need to bring to closing

Your real estate agent and lender can review it with you to make sure everything looks accurate.

🧰 3. Completing Any Agreed-Upon Repairs

If your inspection resulted in repairs, the seller should complete them before closing. Your agent will help ensure you receive copies of repair invoices or proof of work done by licensed professionals.

This is an important step — you want to be sure the home is in the agreed-upon condition before you take ownership.

🏠 4. The Final Walk-Through

Usually scheduled 24–48 hours before closing, the final walk-through is your chance to:

• Confirm the property is in the same condition as when you made your offer
• Verify that requested repairs were completed
• Check that all agreed-upon fixtures and appliances are still in place
• Make sure the home is empty and ready for move-in

Your agent will attend the walk-through with you and note any last-minute concerns before settlement.

💵 5. Preparing Your Funds for Closing

Before closing, your title company or attorney will provide final wiring instructions or a certified check amount for your closing funds.

A few key reminders:

• Confirm instructions directly with the title company to avoid wire fraud
• Do not send funds based on email instructions alone — always verify by phone
• Make sure your funds are ready at least one day before closing

Your payment will typically include your down payment, closing costs, and any prepaid property taxes or insurance.

🖋️ 6. Closing Day Arrives

On closing day, you’ll meet at the title company, attorney’s office, or realtor’s office (some closings can be remote or mobile). You’ll:

1. Review and sign your loan documents
2. Pay your closing costs
3. The lender funds your loan
4. The deed is recorded with the county

Once that’s complete — congratulations! 🎉 The keys are officially yours, and you’re a homeowner.

📋 Quick Tips for a Smooth Closing

• Bring a valid photo ID
• Double-check the time and location of your closing appointment
• Keep your phone handy for lender or title company communication
• Schedule utilities to start the day of closing
• Pack patience — closings typically take 60–90 minutes

🏡 The Bottom Line

The days leading up to closing can feel like a whirlwind, but with the right preparation and a knowledgeable real estate agent guiding you, it’s a smooth and exciting finish. Once those papers are signed, you’ll have the keys in hand — and the home you’ve been dreaming of will officially be yours.

🤝 Ready to Close with Confidence?

Whether you’re buying your first home or your forever home, the Premier Home Team will walk you through every step — from offer to final signature.

✅ Expert guidance on what to expect before closing
✅ Trusted local lender and title company connections
✅ Personalized support to make your move stress-free

Contact us today to start your homebuying journey with a team that knows the Greater Philadelphia area inside and out.

📞  (610) 827-5577
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