Seller’s Closing
Checklist

  • Review and Finalize the Contract:
    Carefully verify that all agreed terms — including the purchase price, contingencies, and closing date — are accurate and acceptable before signing.
  • Resolve Inspection-Related Matters:
    Complete negotiated repairs, provide required receipts or warranty documentation, and ensure any agreed credits are properly reflected in writing.
  • Prepare Essential Documentation:
    Gather property records, survey documents, mortgage payoff statements, and manuals or warranties for fixtures and appliances remaining with the property.
  • Confirm Title Status and Transfer Tax Obligations:
    Work with your attorney to address any title issues and review all applicable transfer taxes or municipal fees due at closing.
  • Arrange Utility Transfers:
    Schedule utility disconnections or transfers effective on or after the closing date to ensure a smooth handoff.
  • Schedule Final Property Services:
    Coordinate any last-minute maintenance such as professional cleaning, landscaping, or debris removal prior to possession transfer.
  • Prepare Keys and Access Items:
    Collect all house keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys, and security codes so they are ready to deliver at closing.

Real Estate Terms for Sellers

Appraisal: An independent evaluation conducted by a licensed appraiser to determine a property’s fair market value and confirm that the agreed purchase price aligns with market conditions.

As-Is: A sale term indicating the property is being transferred in its current condition, without requiring the seller to make repairs or improvements.

Capital Gains Tax: A tax assessed on the profit earned from selling real estate, typically determined by how long the property was owned and the seller’s tax status.

Closing Costs: The fees and charges paid at the end of a real estate transaction, which may include attorney fees, transfer taxes, title insurance, and escrow-related expenses.

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Blog

Stay informed with current real estate trends, transaction updates, and professional insights from the experienced team at Bradford Miller Law.

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  November 17, 2024   0 comments   

Closing Your Home in Chicago: Expert Attorney Tips

Selling your home in Chicago’s real estate market can feel overwhelming, particularly given the legal and financial complexities involved.

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  November 17, 2024   0 comments   

Overview of Transfer Taxes in the Chicagoland Area

When purchasing or selling a home in the Chicagoland area, it’s essential to account for every expense that contributes to the final transaction amount - including transfer taxes.

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  November 17, 2024   0 comments   

Smart Strategies to Decrease Seller Closing Costs

Selling a home isn’t only about negotiating a strong price - it’s also about preserving as much of your final profit as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions? We are here to answer them.

We have handled more than 11,000 successful real estate closings and earned hundreds of five-star reviews across Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Our depth of experience allows us to provide reliable, strategic guidance from contract through closing.

Yes. While we are headquartered in Chicago, we serve clients throughout the greater Chicagoland area, with multiple convenient office locations providing strong local knowledge and accessibility.

Prior to closing, we prepare a comprehensive estimate of your anticipated expenses, clearly outlining each fee and identifying potential cost-saving opportunities so you can plan effectively.

Absolutely. During the attorney review and inspection period, we negotiate repairs, credits, and contract adjustments to ensure terms remain fair and financially protective.

Although many sellers attend closing, alternative arrangements — including mail-away signings — may be available depending on your circumstances.

We conduct thorough title examinations to uncover liens or ownership issues and take prompt action to resolve them, helping prevent delays in your transaction.

Most standard transactions close within approximately 45 to 60 days, though timing may vary based on financing, inspections, and municipal requirements.

We prioritize consistent communication, providing regular updates, prompt responses to questions, and clear explanations at every stage.

Unlike high-volume firms that offer limited oversight, we provide personalized service, strategic advocacy, and focused attention dedicated solely to protecting your interests.

Yes. We remain available even after closing to address any post-transaction questions or matters that may arise.