The Basic Steps of Closing a Real Estate Transaction

Whether it's your first or fifth time buying or selling a home, it's not a process that you go through on a daily basis. The real estate transaction can be a slippery slope to understand, especially since no two transactions are exactly alike. While there may be many differences in transactions, there typically is still a general process of basic steps to closing a real estate sale. In this week's blog, we at Arrowhead Title are sharing some of the basic steps of closing to give you an idea of what to expect.


Starting the Process
A sales contract is signed by the buyer and seller and delivered to the closing agent, usually with a deposit check. The escrow is accepted by the escrow agent, often by written notation on the contract. The escrow agent starts the closing process by opening a title order. The file begins to be processed. Tax information, loan payoffs, survey (if necessary), homeowner/maintenance fees, inspections/reports, and hazard and other insurances, as well as legal papers are ordered. A title search is ordered.

Title Search and Examination
This is a search made of the public records. Records searched include deeds, mortgages, paving assessments, liens, wills, divorce settlements and other documents affecting title to the property. Title examination is the examination of the documents found during the title search that affect the title to the property. This is when verification of the legal owner is made and the debts owed against the property are determined. Upon completion of the search and examination, a title commitment/ preliminary report is prepared, reviewed and sent out to interested parties.

Document Preparation and/or Request to Produce
The closing agent reviews the new lender’s instructions and requirements, reviews instructions from other parties to the transaction, reviews legal and loan documents, assembles charges, prepares closing statements, and schedules the closing.

Settlement or Closing the Transaction
The escrow or settlement agent oversees closing of the transaction. The seller signs the deed and closing affidavit. The buyer signs the new note and mortgage. The old loan is paid off. The seller, real estate agents, attorneys and other parties present at the closing of the transaction are paid.

Post-closing
After the signing has been completed, the escrow or settlement agent will forward payment to any prior lender, and pay all parties who performed services in connection with your closing (if they have not been paid). The transaction documents are recorded in the county in which the property is located. Title insurance policies are prepared and sent to the new lender and to you. This all happens without any further actions by the buyer or seller.


When Accuracy Matters, Rely on Arrowhead Title!
Now that you know what the basic steps of closing looks like, you can be more prepared for the adventure when you decide to buy or sell real estate in the future. Remember, when it comes to deciding on a title and escrow company, accuracy matters! Count on Arrowhead Title for your title insurance and escrow service needs!

The Lake of the Ozarks' Most Trusted Title Company
Where Accuracy Matters


750 Bagnell Dam Blvd Suite B
Lake Ozark, MO 65049

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