Seller guide
You're under contract, and closing day is coming. Here's how to wrap up repairs, move out on time, understand what comes out of your proceeds, and sign with confidence, whether you're down the street or out of state.
The weeks before
Moving out
In our area, most contracts transfer both ownership and possession at closing. That means everything should be packed, the moving truck loaded, and the house cleaned before you sign. Packing always takes longer than planned: aim to load the truck the night before, and have the house empty and clean at least an hour before closing.
The buyer will do a final walk-through shortly before closing to confirm the home is in the same condition, agreed repairs are done, and the house is clean. Keep all the utilities on for it.
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 44-1-6), fixtures stay: anything meant to remain permanently in place, like light fixtures, built-in appliances, flooring and blinds.
The checklist in your seller's disclosure, plus anything listed in the contract or a bill of sale, spells out exactly what stays. Once you're under contract, we'll send you the list. Not sure about an item? Ask us before you pack it.
Your settlement statement
The closing attorney pays everything you owe from the sale, and the rest is yours. Your settlement statement typically includes:
The attorney gets a payoff from your lender and searches the title. Your loan and any liens, like unpaid taxes, judgments or contractor liens, are paid off from the proceeds.
Sellers pay Georgia's transfer tax of $1 per $1,000 of the sale price (O.C.G.A. § 48-6-1). On a $550,000 sale, that's $550.
The real estate compensation set in your listing agreement, plus any amount you agreed to pay toward the buyer's agent or the buyer's closing costs.
You pay taxes only for the days you owned the home this year. The attorney credits that amount to the buyer, who pays the full bill when it's due.
Dues are split by date, too. Some management companies charge for the dues letter the attorney needs, and some neighborhoods charge a fee when a home sells.
A mail-away or power-of-attorney fee if you don't sign in person, and a wire fee if you'd rather have your proceeds wired than receive a check.
You may still get this year's property tax bill in your name, since most counties update their records once a year. You don't owe it; the buyer was credited for your share. Be a good neighbor and forward it to the new owner.
Closing day
Georgia is an attorney state: a licensed closing attorney conducts the closing, pays off your loan, collects the money and records the deed. Most closings take about an hour, less for a cash sale. You may sign at the same table as the buyer or at a separate time, depending on the attorney.
No need to bring a pen; the attorney provides one.
Want your money wired? Give your bank details directly to the closing attorney, and confirm by calling their office at a number you look up yourself. We'll never email you wiring instructions, and never trust an email saying instructions have "changed."
After closing
Questions about closing?
From repairs to the final walk-through to coordinating with the closing attorney, we're with you until the keys change hands.
Good to know: this is a general overview; your contract and closing attorney set the exact requirements, amounts and timing for your closing.
We're real estate agents, not attorneys. Nothing on this page is legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different, so always consult an attorney about your specific situation. Attorneys you can contact: Weissman PC · Blasingame, Burch, Garrard & Ashley, P.C.