What to bring
- Government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, for each signer
- Proof your closing funds were wired, or a cashier's check if your settlement agent allows it
- Your copy of the Closing Disclosure
- Proof of homeowners insurance, if you haven't already sent it
- A personal checkbook for small last-minute adjustments
- Any documents your loan consultant or settlement agent asked you to bring
How to send your closing funds
Your Closing Disclosure shows the cash you need to close. That can include your down payment and costs such as escrow deposits, prepaid interest and your first year's homeowners insurance premium.
Most settlement agents want large amounts by wire transfer. Some accept a cashier's check. Personal checks usually aren't accepted for large amounts. Ask your settlement agent early which methods they take and when the funds need to arrive.
Protect yourself from wire fraud
Wire fraud is a real risk around closings. Scammers send emails that look like they come from your agent, lender or settlement agent, with new wiring instructions.
Before you wire, call your settlement agent at a phone number you already know, such as one from your contract or their official website. Don't use a number in the email. Never trust emailed changes to wire instructions, and call right away if anything looks off.
Review your Closing Disclosure first
You'll receive your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Read it carefully and compare it with your Loan Estimate.
Check your loan amount, interest rate, monthly payment and cash to close. Ask your loan consultant about anything that looks different, so questions are settled before you sit down to sign.
Who needs to be there
Usually, each person on the loan and the title needs to sign. If someone can't attend, ask your settlement agent ahead of time about options, such as signing early or using a power of attorney. Not all lenders or loan types allow each option, so plan early.
After you sign
Once everything is signed and the funds are in place, the settlement agent records the documents and, on a purchase, you get the keys. Your closing documents show when your first payment is due, where to send it and who your servicer is.
With CapCenter, any Good Faith Deposit you paid is refunded in full when your loan closes.
