Preparing for the Seller's Side of Closing

Seller disclosures

North Carolina sellers complete property disclosures early in the transaction. Answer carefully and accurately; disclosures made in haste are a common source of friction later in the process.

Order payoffs early

Payoff statements for mortgages, home equity lines, and any liens take time to obtain. The sooner the closing attorney can request them, the less likely a delay near closing. Home equity lines usually need to be frozen and closed, not simply paid down.

Documents you will sign

Sellers typically sign the deed, the settlement statement, owner’s and lien affidavits, 1099-S reporting information, payoff authorizations, and any required HOA documentation.

Signing is not always closing

Sellers frequently sign in advance of the closing date. In North Carolina, the closing is complete only when the deed is recorded and funds are disbursed. Plan possession, keys, and utility transfers around recording.

Seller checklist