^[1]While you don’t always have control over every aspect of your closing, there is some preparation that you can do ahead of time to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience when you sit down for the last time in escrow.  Here are a few hints that will help you be prepared for the avalanche of documents:

• Review your HUD-1 or final closing statement.

1. Go line by line and check every fee:  lender, title, and escrow.
2. Review the credits – deposits, credits due from the seller, etc.
3. Double-check the math to ensure calculations are correct.
4. Bring a list of any discrepancies or questions – and go over every single one BEFORE you sign anything.

• Review the preliminary report or guarantee of title insurance.

1. Verify the property’s legal description.
2. Review any liens, encumbrances, or other items that might have come up in the title search.
3. Check vesting to ensure the title is being recorded in the proper name(s).
4. Bring a list of any discrepancies or questions – and go over every single one BEFORE you sign anything.

• Reinspect the property.

1. Ensure corrections and/or repairs that were previously agreed upon have been made.
2. Check the condition of the house – speak with your agent if anything may have fallen into disrepair.

• Review the purchase contract.

1. Make sure that all conditions have been met.
2. Check off any items tasked to the closing agent.
3. Confirm that interest rate, points, fees, and the property’s condition are correctly noted before you start signing anything.

With a little “home” work, you can be fully prepared for the stacks of paper you’ll soon be signing.  It will not only take pressure off during closing, it will give you peace of mind that you’ve covered all your bases before signing your name on the dotted line.