What Documents Do Sellers Sign at Closing in Washington Real Estate?
As the transaction approaches closing, sellers will sign a set of documents prepared by the escrow company. These documents authorize the transfer of ownership and allow the transaction to be finalized once the buyer’s loan funds and the deed is recorded.
In Washington real estate, sellers usually sign their closing documents a few days before the closing date. Signing early helps ensure the transaction can close on schedule once the buyer’s loan funds are ready.
Where Sellers Sign Closing Documents
Closing documents are typically signed at the escrow office handling the transaction. Some sellers may also sign remotely depending on the escrow company and the circumstances of the sale.
During the signing appointment, an escrow officer will review the documents with the seller and explain where signatures are required.
Common Documents Sellers Sign
Although the exact documents can vary depending on the transaction, sellers usually sign several key documents during closing.
These often include:
- Deed transferring ownership to the buyer
- Settlement statement showing the financial details of the sale
- Mortgage payoff authorization if the seller still has a loan on the property
- Affidavits or disclosures required for closing
These documents allow escrow to complete the transfer of ownership and distribute the sale proceeds correctly.
Paying Off the Seller’s Mortgage
If the seller has an existing mortgage on the property, escrow coordinates with the lender to obtain the payoff amount.
At closing, the seller’s loan balance is paid off directly from the sale proceeds before any remaining funds are sent to the seller.
What Happens After Signing
Signing the documents does not mean the sale is finished yet. The transaction is only complete once the deed transferring ownership is recorded with the county.
After recording, escrow distributes funds and the sale officially closes.
Bottom Line
Sellers sign closing documents through escrow before the closing date. These documents authorize the transfer of ownership, pay off any existing mortgage, and allow the transaction to be finalized once the deed records.
FAQ
When do sellers sign closing documents in Washington?
Sellers usually sign closing documents a few days before the closing date so the transaction can be finalized once the buyer’s loan funds and the deed records.
Do sellers attend the closing meeting?
Sellers typically sign documents with escrow before closing rather than attending a joint closing meeting with the buyer.
When does the sale officially close?
The sale officially closes when the deed transferring ownership is recorded with the county.