Selling real estate involves more than accepting an offer and handing over the keys. For sellers in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, the closing process includes legal, financial, and logistical steps that must be handled correctly to avoid delays or disputes. Understanding what happens between contract and closing helps you stay in control of the transaction and protect your interests.
This step-by-step seller closing guide explains what to expect, what documents you will need, and how a real estate attorney can help ensure a smooth and legally sound closing.
1. Accept the Offer and Sign the Purchase Agreement
The closing process begins once you accept the buyer’s offer and both parties sign the purchase agreement. This contract outlines the key terms of the sale, including:
- Purchase price
- Closing date
- Earnest money deposit
- Inspection and financing contingencies
- Responsibilities for repairs and closing costs
Before signing, it is wise to have a real estate attorney review the agreement. Contract terms can have long-term financial and legal consequences, especially in commercial or investment property sales.
2. Open Escrow and Confirm Earnest Money
After the contract is signed, escrow is opened with a title company or attorney’s office. The buyer’s earnest money deposit is placed into escrow and held until closing. As a seller, you should confirm:
- The earnest money was received on time
- The amount matches the contract
- Any conditions tied to the deposit are clearly defined
Earnest money helps protect sellers if a buyer fails to move forward without a valid reason.
3. Complete Required Disclosures
Sellers are required to provide certain disclosures depending on the property type and state. These may include:
- Property condition disclosures
- Lead-based paint disclosures for older homes
- Known defects or material issues
- Information about utilities, easements, or boundary matters
Providing accurate and complete disclosures helps reduce the risk of disputes after closing.
4. Address Inspection Requests and Repairs
Once the buyer completes inspections, they may request repairs or credits. At this stage, sellers can:
- Agree to make repairs
- Offer a credit at closing
- Renegotiate the purchase price
- Decline requests if the contract allows
An attorney can help you evaluate inspection requests and negotiate terms that align with your obligations under the contract.
5. Prepare for the Title Search and Resolve Issues
A title search is conducted to confirm you have the legal right to sell the property. Common issues that may need to be resolved include:
- Existing mortgages or liens
- Judgments or unpaid taxes
- Boundary or easement concerns
- Errors in prior deeds
Clearing title issues early helps prevent last-minute delays. Guida Law Offices regularly assists sellers with resolving title matters across West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
6. Review the Settlement Statement
Before closing, you will receive a settlement statement outlining all financial details of the transaction. This document shows:
- Sale price
- Mortgage payoff amounts
- Taxes and prorations
- Closing costs and fees
- Net proceeds you will receive
Review this carefully with your attorney to ensure accuracy and avoid surprises on closing day.
7. Gather Documents to Bring to Closing
Sellers typically need to bring:
- Government-issued photo identification
- Any required payoff information
- Keys, garage openers, or access codes
- Documentation related to repairs or warranties
If the closing is handled by an attorney or title company, they will let you know exactly what is required ahead of time.
8. Attend the Closing Appointment
At closing, you will sign the legal documents needed to transfer ownership. These often include:
- The deed
- Seller affidavits
- Tax and residency forms
- Closing disclosures
Once all documents are signed and funds are distributed, the deed is recorded with the county, and the sale is complete.
9. Receive Sale Proceeds
After closing, proceeds are typically disbursed by wire transfer or check. Timing may depend on:
- State-specific recording requirements
- Lender funding schedules
- Banking cut-off times
Your attorney can explain when and how you will receive your funds.
Why Sellers Benefit from a Real Estate Attorney
While some transactions rely only on a title company, sellers often benefit from having legal representation, especially when dealing with:
- Commercial or multi-property sales
- Title or boundary issues
- Estate or inherited property
- Disputes over repairs or credits
A real estate attorney represents your interests, reviews contracts, resolves issues, and helps ensure you walk away from closing with confidence.
How Guida Law Offices Helps Sellers Close with Confidence
Guida Law Offices has guided sellers through real estate closings across West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania for decades. From contract review through final recording, our team helps ensure your sale is legally sound and efficiently handled.
If you are preparing to sell property, contact Guida Law Offices to discuss your transaction and learn how we can support you every step of the way.