How Should Sellers Prepare for Closing in Washington Real Estate?
After the buyer completes inspections, financing approval, and appraisal, the transaction begins moving toward closing. During this stage, sellers prepare both the property and the paperwork required to complete the sale.
Most of the behind-the-scenes work during this time is handled by escrow, the buyer’s lender, and the real estate agents. However, sellers still have several responsibilities before closing day arrives.
Completing Any Agreed Repairs
If the buyer and seller negotiated repairs after the inspection, those repairs should be completed before closing unless another arrangement was agreed to in writing.
Sellers typically provide receipts or documentation showing the work was completed. This allows the buyer to verify the agreed repairs before the final walkthrough.
Preparing to Move Out
Sellers also begin preparing to move out of the property before the closing date.
Most Washington real estate contracts require the home to be delivered vacant and in substantially the same condition as when the buyer agreed to purchase it.
This usually means sellers should:
- Complete their move before closing
- Remove personal belongings
- Remove debris and trash from the property
- Leave the home reasonably clean for the new owner
If the seller will remain in the home after closing, a post-closing occupancy agreement (rent-back) must be negotiated in the purchase agreement.
Preparing for the Final Walkthrough
Shortly before closing, the buyer will perform a final walkthrough of the home.
The purpose of the walkthrough is to confirm:
- The home is in the same condition as when the buyer made the offer
- Any agreed repairs were completed
- No new damage has occurred
- All included items remain with the property
Making sure the home is clean, empty, and ready for the buyer helps ensure the walkthrough goes smoothly.
Coordinating with Escrow
During this period escrow is preparing the closing documents and coordinating with the buyer’s lender.
Escrow will also:
- Confirm the payoff amount for the seller’s mortgage
- Prepare the settlement statement
- Schedule signing appointments
The seller’s agent typically helps coordinate communication between escrow and the seller so everything stays on schedule.
Bottom Line
Preparing for closing involves completing any agreed repairs, preparing the home for the buyer’s final walkthrough, coordinating with escrow, and making sure the property is ready to transfer to the new owner.
FAQ
What do sellers need to do before closing?
Sellers typically complete any agreed repairs, prepare the home for the final walkthrough, move out of the property, and coordinate with escrow to sign closing documents.
Does the seller have to move out before closing?
Most purchase agreements require the home to be vacant at closing unless a post-closing occupancy agreement allows the seller to remain temporarily.
What happens during the final walkthrough?
The buyer verifies that the home is in the expected condition, agreed repairs were completed, and the property is ready for closing.