What every Georgia home buyer and seller needs to bring to closing!
Buying and selling a house is one of the biggest financial decisions a person can make in their life; it can come with a lot of uncertainty and questions. Here at Frank B. Pallotta Law, we are frequently asked, “what do I need to bring to closing?” It’s a simple question, and we’re always happy to answer it.
As a buyer, what documents do I need at closing?
In most states, but specifically Georgia, as a buyer you’re required to bring your Photo ID to closing. Whether that’s your state issued ID or driver’s license makes little difference. It does need to be valid and up to date, which has been a concern for the last year as many have struggled to update their IDs due to the ongoing pandemic.
There are three different ways to update your drivers license in Georgia.
As with the home buyer, the home seller needs to bring with them a valid State ID.
Bring your written wiring instructions that you can personally hand to the closing attorney for the transfer of funds when the closing is complete, if you are doing so by a wire transfer.
You should also bring any keys, garage openers, surveys, etc. to the closing to hand over to the new homeowner.
As the buyer, there may be things you negotiated with the seller that are being handled “outside of closing.” These are typically personal possessions, such as furniture, that you and the seller have agreed to buy with the house but are not covered under the mortgage. Any outside negotiations need to be handled before closing begins.
As a seller, what documents do I need at closing?
As with the home buyer, the home seller needs to bring with them a valid State ID.
Bring your wiring instructions for the transfer of funds when the closing is complete, if you are doing so by a wire transfer.
You should also bring any keys, garage openers, etc. to the closing to hand over to the new homeowner.
If you are including newer appliances in the sale, it’s also prudent to bring any warranties or product information with you to the closing to hand over to the new homeowner as well. This is not a hard and fast rule. However, these are also often left in the kitchen of the home. We recommend bringing them with you, even if it is a rather small consideration in comparison.
What do I do if I have any more questions?
Closing can be a complicated and nerve wracking process. We are experts in the field of Georgia Real Estate Law. If you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate and give us a call! At Frank B. Pallotta Law we are licensed Real Estate Lawyers with 20 years of experience helping our clients in Georgia navigate the closing process. Reach out to us with your questions. We’re here to help.
