Real Estate Closing Checklist Template (PDF, Excel)

Buying or selling a home is a big milestone, and as a real estate agent, I know just how important it is to make the closing process as smooth as possible. I’m sharing my free real estate closing checklist that I use. It’ll help you through every step of the real estate transaction. With common tasks like managing closing costs and working with the right title company, closing agent, and even a real estate lawyer or closing attorney, I think you’ll find that this checklist will help you stay on track.

You’ll also find tips for coordinating with your mortgage lender, escrow agent, and preparing your loan estimate to verify a successful real estate closing. If you’re managing a mortgage loan, organizing documents for the home buying process, or checking off items from the buyer’s checklist, then my checklist template is designed to keep things simple and stress-free. Let’s take the guesswork out of closing and make sure everything goes as planned. You can customize it to fit your needs.

Expert Insight: The Final Walk-Through

One of the most critical steps in any closing checklist is the final walk-through. Too often, buyers either skip this step or rush through it, which can lead to costly surprises after closing. A thorough walk-through is your last chance to ensure the property is in the condition you agreed upon.

If you don’t do a final walk-through and you find things that are wrong after you move in, it’s now your house and your problem. Before closing, you still have leverage to ask the seller to make the repairs or give you credit.

Key Items to Check During Your Final Walk-Through:

• Agreed-Upon Repairs: Bring your inspection report and contract addendums to verify that all promised repairs have been completed to standard.
• Appliances: Confirm that all appliances included in the contract are present and operational. Run the dishwasher, check the fridge and freezer, turn on the oven, and test the washer and dryer.
• Systems Check: Turn on the furnace and A/C to ensure they are working correctly. Replacing these systems can be a major unexpected expense.
• Plumbing and Fixtures: Run all sinks and showers, flush every toilet, and check under sinks for any active leaks or water damage.
• Seller’s Belongings: Make sure the seller has removed all personal belongings and trash, unless specific items were agreed to be left behind.
• Windows and Doors: Open and close every window and door to ensure they function properly and that all locks are operational.

Scheduling the walk-through a few days before closing gives you time to address any issues you find. You can request repairs, negotiate a credit, or in extreme cases, delay closing until the problems are resolved.

Best Practices for Using this Closing Checklist

To maximize the efficiency and clarity of your closing process, it’s important to approach this checklist with thorough preparation and an eye for detail. Here are some of my best practices to follow as you work through it.

• Verify all necessary documents are ready and accessible well prior to closing, such as title documents, the promissory note, and any other legal documents required.
• Coordinate with your loan officer to confirm that the loan terms, interest rate, and any details lenders require are accurate and completed.
• Plan your closing appointment carefully, double-checking the transaction process timeline and any additional fees involved.
• If you’re a buyer, consider arranging a cashier’s check or wire transfer for your funds to meet lender requirements.
• Review your monthly payments schedule ahead of time and clarify any questions about property ownership responsibilities.
• Confirm that you’ve been pre-qualified and everything is in place for a seamless transfer of documents. Keep track of documents required for the lender and title agent to avoid delays.
• Anticipate potential issues by preparing for common listing appointment questions that may arise from home buyers, sellers, or other involved parties to verify all the terms of the transaction are clearly understood.

Stay organized and follow these steps so you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and successful closing.