PART 6 — Closing and Beyond

This is Part 6 and the final installment of my Seller Prep Series. Thank you for following along. It has been my honor to share what 25 years of Gulf Coast real estate has taught me.

You are almost there. The inspection is done, the appraisal came in, and closing day is on the calendar. Here is everything you need to know to cross the finish line smoothly.

Before Closing — Utilities and Possession

All parties will agree on a possession date according to your purchase agreement. Make sure utilities are transferred to the buyer effective that date. Contact each utility provider in advance so nothing lapses. Make sure the title company or closing attorney has your new address on file.

How Do You Want Your Proceeds?

You will be asked whether you want your proceeds wired to your bank account or issued as a check.

If you choose a wire, please be extremely careful. Wire fraud in real estate transactions is real and it happens. Always verify your account and routing numbers directly with the title company by phone using a number you looked up yourself. Never rely on wiring instructions sent by email alone. Call and confirm. I cannot stress this enough.

Also ask the title company what their wire fee is, and ask your bank whether they charge a fee for incoming wires. If fees are a concern, ask how long your bank typically holds a check before funds are available.

After Closing — Do Not Skip These Steps

Call your homeowner's insurance company and let them know you have closed. Give them your new address. In some cases they will send you a balance refund.

Call your mortgage company and make sure they have your new address on file. Mortgage servicers sometimes hold back a small amount in escrow as a buffer. Once everything settles, that money comes back to you. But only if they know where to send it.

Change of Address

Start your change of address as soon as possible. Your mail carrier, your bank, your credit cards, your subscriptions, your employer, your doctor. This one tends to require multiple rounds. Do not wait until after closing to start the list.

One Last Thing — Your Review Means Everything

If your REALTOR took care of you, told you the truth, worked hard on your behalf, and got you to the closing table, please take five minutes and leave them a review. On Google. On Zillow. Wherever you found them.

A REALTOR's business depends entirely on the trust of satisfied clients. That review helps another family find the right person to help them. It costs you nothing and it means the world.

And when you are ready to make your next move, you know who to call.

Paula Messer, CRS | Associate Broker | iXL Real Estate 251-510-6665 | paula@paulamesser.com Serving Mobile, Baldwin County, and the entire Gulf Coast