It is mostly a signing appointment
By the time you sit down to sign, the hard work is done. Underwriting has finished, the lender has issued clear to close, and the numbers have been set. What is left is a meeting, usually with a closing agent or notary, where you sign documents and confirm your final cash to close.
Plan on a stack of paper. Much of it is standard, and the closing agent will point to each place that needs your signature or initials.
What to bring
- Photo ID: a current, government-issued ID that matches the name on your loan documents.
- Funds for closing: follow the exact instructions you were given. This is often a wire or a cashier's check, and the closing agent will tell you which.
- Your questions: write them down ahead of time so nothing slips your mind in the room.
Never wire money based on an email you were not expecting. Confirm wiring instructions by calling a phone number you already know is real.
The documents you will see
- The promissory note: your promise to repay the loan.
- The security instrument: the deed of trust or mortgage that secures the loan with the property.
- The Closing Disclosure: the final summary of your loan terms and costs.
- Disclosures and affidavits: a series of acknowledgments about occupancy, ownership, and your loan.
Review the Closing Disclosure early
You should receive your Closing Disclosure ahead of signing day, and it is worth reading it slowly at home instead of for the first time at the table. Compare it to your Loan Estimate. If something looks different from what you expected, ask me before you go to the appointment. It is far easier to sort out a question beforehand than while everyone is waiting with a pen in hand.
Keep your finances steady until it is done
Lenders can recheck things before funding. Avoid new credit, big purchases, and moving money around without a paper trail until the loan has closed. If your job or income situation changes, tell me right away.
What happens after you sign
Signing is not always the same moment as getting the keys. After your documents are signed, the loan still has to fund and the sale has to be recorded. Your agent and the closing team will let you know when that happens and when you can take possession. Ask about the timing before signing day so you know what to expect.
A few small tips
- Get a good night of sleep and eat before you go.
- Ask for copies of what you sign, and keep them in a safe place.
- Read what you are signing. Nobody will rush you if you need a minute.
If you want to walk through the process before you ever get to signing day, reach out. I would much rather answer your questions early than have you feel surprised at the table.
General information only. Eligibility, terms, and requirements vary by lender and borrower, and not everyone will qualify. This is not a commitment to lend.