Once you are under contract, all parties will begin working through the due diligence period and contingencies on the contract. 

During this time, the buyer will most likely order an inspection on the home to ensure there are no major issues. These inspections can include but are not limited to: a general inspection, radon inspection, sewer scope, mold inspection, roof inspection, structural engineer, etc. A general inspection typically takes a few hours, so plan on being away during this time. 

Many times, after the inspection, issues will arise that result in another round of negotiations. The buyer may request that you do some repair work or ask for a credit in lieu of repair work. Each inspection and buyer is different, but your agent will be there with sound advice, creative suggestions, and negotiation skills to help you through.

The lender will also most likely order an appraise to ensure the value. The Lender does not want to be lending more money than the home is worth, so an appraisal is ordered to determine the market value of the home by an independent third-party. 

During this time, the title company will perform a title search. A Title Company will search all records of the home to verify that the title is indeed transferrable and all liens and loans on the home are paid off during closing ensuring the buyer has no future issues. If you have a loan on your home, the title company will also ask for you to provide them with some information so they can order the payoff letter for your loan, which will be paid at closing.  

Once all these have been completed and the buyer’s loan has been approved through underwriting, it will be time for you to head to the closing table! 

Prior to closing, make sure that you have all your moving plans in place. When the buyer takes possession of the home, you should be completely moved out and the home left in a cleanly condition. Call your utilities companies and make sure they are aware of the move and transfer everything out of your name effective on the day of possession. 

Once the loan is fully approved and the transaction fully funded, you have sold your home. The title company will record the real estate documents with the tax county for you, and the buyers will be able to move in as agreed upon in the contract. Congratulations!!!