Closing Day 101: Everything You Need to Know About Selling A Home

You’ve accepted an offer, made it through inspections and negotiations, and now you’re at the final step—closing day. But before you can celebrate the sale of your home, you’ll need to sign a stack of paperwork to make everything official. Understanding what to expect on closing day can help you feel confident and ensure a smooth transaction. Here’s what you need to know about signing the closing documents in Texas.

1. Where Does the Closing Take Place?

In Texas, closings typically occur at a title company’s office. Some closings can be done remotely, but most buyers and sellers prefer to meet in person to finalize the paperwork. Your real estate agent or title company will coordinate the time and location with you.

What to Expect:

✅ You’ll meet with a closing agent from the title company.

✅ Your real estate agent may also be present to offer support and answer questions.

✅ If you’re selling with a spouse or co-owner, both of you must be present to sign.

2. What Documents Will You Sign?

As the seller, you’ll sign fewer documents than the buyer, but they’re still important. Here are the key papers you’ll be signing:

Seller’s Closing Documents:

✅ Closing Disclosure – This document breaks down the final financial details of the transaction, including any fees and how much you’ll receive from the sale.

✅ Deed Transfer – This officially transfers ownership of the home to the buyer.

✅ Bill of Sale – If you’re including personal property (like appliances) in the sale, this document outlines those terms.

✅ Affidavit of Title – A legal statement confirming that you have the right to sell the home and that there are no outstanding liens or ownership disputes.

✅ Payoff Authorization – If you have a mortgage, this allows the title company to pay off your remaining loan balance.

✅ Tax Documents – You may need to sign tax-related documents to confirm prorated property taxes and any potential capital gains obligations.

Once all documents are signed, the title company will officially record the sale with the county, making it a done deal.

3. What Do You Need to Bring to Closing?

To avoid any last-minute surprises, make sure you bring:

✅ A valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

✅ Keys, garage openers, and access codes (unless previously arranged)

✅ Any required paperwork from your title company or lender

✅ Banking details if you’re receiving sale proceeds via wire transfer

4. When Do You Get Paid?

Texas follows a wet funding process, meaning that all closing is a two-step process - step one is signing the paperwork and step two is complete when funds have been distributed by the title company. Typically, once all documents are signed and verified, the title company will:

✅ Pay off any outstanding mortgage balance.

✅ Deduct any closing costs or agreed-upon fees.

✅ Distribute the net proceeds to you, usually via wire transfer or check the same day or the next business day.

5. What Happens After Closing?

Once the closing is complete, here’s what to expect:

✅ The buyer officially owns the home and can take possession based on the agreed move-out date.

✅ The deed is recorded with the county, finalizing the transfer of ownership.

✅ You receive your proceeds after the title company processes the paperwork.

If you haven’t already, be sure to:

✅ Cancel homeowner’s insurance (after confirming the sale is recorded).

✅ Update your mailing address with banks, subscriptions, and government agencies.

✅ Transfer utilities out of your name unless the buyer has already taken over service.

Conclusion

Closing day is an exciting milestone in the home-selling process, but understanding what to expect can help you avoid delays or stress. With the right preparation and a trusted real estate team by your side, signing the papers will be a smooth, straightforward process.

If you’re thinking about selling your home and want expert guidance every step of the way, reach out to DFW Story Group today!

Ruth Story, Broker

DFW Story Group

📞 817-992-9232

📧 ruth@dfwstorygroup.com