11: How to Make Closing Day A Success

The big day is finally here — you're officially selling your home and handing over the keys to the new owners. Congratulations!

It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. But no one wants closing day to be sidetracked by last-minute surprises. The good news? With a little preparation, your transaction can go smoothly from start to finish.

If you're selling a home in Hemet, San Jacinto, or a nearby community, here's what you need to know, what to bring, and what to expect at closing.

Pre-Closing Tasks to Complete

Here’s a checklist to keep you on track before closing day:

• Complete Agreed-Upon Repairs
  Any repairs you’ve agreed to with the buyer should be completed before the final walk-through. If they’ve agreed to take care of things after closing, that should already be in writing.
• Prepare to Vacate
  Be ready to move out by the date you agreed on. If you’re staying past the closing date, be sure there’s a “rent-back” agreement in place.
• Cancel or Transfer Utilities
  Contact your local utility providers in Hemet or San Jacinto to cancel or transfer services as of the closing date.
• Cancel Homeowners Insurance
  Let your insurance company know you’ve sold the home and cancel your policy effective the day of closing.
• Stop Monthly Services
  Trash pickup, alarm systems, pest control, HOA dues — anything tied to your property should be canceled or transferred.
• End Automatic Payments
  If you’ve set up automatic bill pay for your mortgage, utilities, or services, cancel those so you’re not accidentally paying after the sale.
• Notify Your Lender
  Give your mortgage lender your new mailing address. They’ll send any leftover funds from your escrow account to you directly.

What to Bring to Closing

When you head to the title or escrow office (likely here in the Hemet or San Jacinto area), be sure to bring:

• A Valid Photo ID (it can not be expired)
  Usually your driver’s license or a government-issued ID.
• A Checkbook or Voided Check
  Most title companies wire your proceeds, and they’ll often need a voided check to set this up securely.

What to Expect at Closing

You will either meet at the escrow office or the documents will be sent to you via UPS or FedEx courier. Here’s what happens:

• You’ll Sign Final Documents
  There’s a lot of paperwork involved in transferring ownership. Ask questions if you need clarification — this is your moment to understand everything.
• You’ll Review Closing Statement
  This could include prorated property taxes, agent commissions, and any other closing costs.
• Ownership Will Be Transferred
  Once the exchange of ownership is recorded by the county, I will get a call from the title representative to say something similar to "It’s official — the home now belongs to the new owner. Congratulations on a successful recording!"
• You’ll Receive Your Proceeds
  Once everything is signed and processed, your proceeds will be sent to your bank account via wire transfer or check. You should have your funds in 2-3 days.
  

The escrow company acts as a neutral third party, making sure everyone upholds their part of the contract. They manage the paperwork, payments, and the transfer of ownership. You’re in good hands!

Congratulations … You Sold Your Home!

Now that closing is done, it’s time to move on and start making new memories — whether that’s in another part of Hemet, a nearby neighborhood in San Jacinto, or beyond.

This post wraps up my Love Selling Your Home series, where I’ve walked you through each step of the home-selling journey. My goal has been to help you feel confident, informed, and excited about selling — and I hope that’s exactly how you’re feeling today.

If you’re considering selling your home in the Hemet or San Jacinto Valley, I’d love the opportunity to be one of the agents you interview. Let me show you how my local knowledge and unique marketing approach can help you sell your home for the highest possible price — with the least amount of hassle.

📧  Email me and let’s chat! We’ll talk strategy, pricing, timing, and how to get your home market-ready without stress or overwhelm.

You’ve got this — and I’m here to help every step of the way.