Settlement

If you've come this far, then this means only one thing: congratulations, you've successfully sold your home! But, don't forget to tie up these loose ends:

Final Walk-Through Inspection. More than just a formality, the final inspection takes place shortly before the scheduled date and time for settlement (often the day before or the day of settlement). The buyer and his agent visit the home to verify that all is in working order, that all agreed repairs have been made, that all of your belongings have been removed, and that no additional damage was done to the home in the time between contract signing and settlement. To avoid any last minute upsets, you will want to plan your move out with enough time left over to return to the home, collect any forgotten items, ensure the home is reasonably clean and free of debris, and in good condition. If something is damaged in the move, you will want to ensure that it is fixed before the final walk through as well. Remember, from a buyer's perspective, buying a home is a great achievement, but it is also fraught with tension, nerves, and anxiety. A clean home with no nasty surprises will help alleviate a buyer's concerns and will help to ensure a smooth settlement. Plus, its just a nice thing to do. As your agent, I will be a resource for you to help line up movers, cleaners, junk haulers, and repairmen, as needed, to help you deliver your home to its new owner in the required condition (or even better).

Cancel Home Services and Utilities. You will be responsible for canceling all utility and service accounts in your name as of the date of settlement. Of course, you will be responsible to pay the final bills for these utilities and services through the date of settlement. Often the buyer won't be able to set up his account until your has been closed, so be sure to add that to your to-do list before settlement. As your agent, I will remind you of this task and provide you with the numbers you may need to cancel your accounts. If you're staying in the area, these numbers will also be useful to you to set up your new accounts for your new home.

Be Prepared. Even if you do everything right and the buyer does everything right, sometimes problems do arise. It ain't over 'til its over, as they say. So, be prepared and remain calm. As your agent, I am here to assist you should an unforeseen glitch pop up, even at this last stage. Something at the house breaks down, the buyers' loan doesn't pull through on time - no need to worry. I've encountered these problems before so I can help you handle these problems efficiently and keep everything moving forward.

Settlement. This is it - you sign the deed transferring ownership, the buyer pays the purchase price, you hand over the keys and garage openers and everyone walks away (hopefully) very happy. The settlement is the culmination of the weeks or months of preparation and work involved in selling your home. Congratulations!

For more information and for any additional questions, please feel free to contact me at any time.

© Nadia Nejaime, 2006