What to Bring to Closing | Pennsylvania Home Buyer Settlement Guide
What to Bring to a Real Estate Closing in Pennsylvania
Buying a home and getting ready for settlement? Castle Gate Realty created this guide to answer common questions Pennsylvania homebuyers have about what to bring to closing, what happens at settlement, how long closing takes and how to prepare for closing day.
What should I bring to closing when buying a house?
Buyers should bring a current government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, along with any additional documents requested by the title company.
You will also need to make sure your required closing funds are delivered according to the title company's instructions.
Always review the instructions from your title company before settlement because requirements can vary.
Do I need one or two forms of identification at a real estate closing?
Some title companies now require two forms of identification at settlement.
At minimum, buyers should expect to bring a current government-issued photo ID. Check your title company's settlement instructions to determine exactly what identification is required. If you are unsure, bringing two acceptable forms of identification can help prevent a delay at closing.
How do I bring my closing funds to settlement?
Your title company will provide the final amount needed for closing and tell you how those funds must be delivered.
Depending on the amount and the title company's requirements, closing funds may be provided by wire transfer or certified/cashier's check. Follow the title company's instructions carefully rather than assuming a personal check will be accepted.
How can I protect myself from wire fraud when buying a house?
Real estate wire fraud is a serious concern. Never send closing funds using wiring instructions received by email without independently verifying those instructions with your title company at a trusted phone number.
If you receive an unexpected email telling you that wiring instructions have changed, do not send the money. Contact the title company directly and verify the information.
Does my spouse need to attend settlement if they aren't buying the house?
Possibly. There are circumstances where a spouse may be required to sign documents even if that spouse is not a buyer on the Agreement of Sale or borrower on the mortgage.
If you are married and your spouse is not part of the purchase, ask the title company before settlement whether your spouse needs to attend or sign anything.
What documents should I bring to a home closing?
Bring any documents specifically requested by your lender or title company. The documents required can vary depending on the transaction.
Review your settlement instructions before closing and contact the title company if you are unsure whether you need to bring anything additional.
How long does a cash real estate settlement take?
A cash settlement usually takes less than 30 minutes because there are fewer documents for the buyer to review and sign.
The exact time can vary depending on the transaction, title company and whether any questions or last-minute issues arise.
How long does a financed real estate settlement take?
A financed home purchase typically takes about an hour to complete at settlement.
Financed purchases generally take longer than cash purchases because buyers also need to review and sign mortgage and loan documents.
Allow some extra time and avoid scheduling movers, contractors or deliveries immediately after your settlement appointment.
What happens at a real estate settlement?
At settlement, the buyer reviews and signs the documents necessary to complete the purchase. If the home is being financed, the buyer will also sign the required mortgage and loan documents.
The title company coordinates the closing documents, funds and transfer of ownership.
Once the transaction has successfully closed, the buyer receives the keys to the new home.
Will my real estate agent attend closing with me?
At Castle Gate Realty, your agent will be there with you at settlement.
Your Castle Gate Realty agent remains involved through closing to help answer questions, address last-minute issues and help you through the final step of purchasing your home.
Have Questions About Buying a Home in Carbon County, PA?
Castle Gate Realty is a locally owned real estate brokerage serving homebuyers throughout Carbon County and surrounding areas of Northeast Pennsylvania, including Lehighton, Palmerton, Jim Thorpe, Franklin Township, Mahoning Township, Towamensing Township, Penn Forest Township and surrounding communities.
From your first showing through negotiations, inspections, financing, final walkthrough and settlement, our agents help you understand what comes next and what you need to do.
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