August 11, 2025: Preparing for Closing: Your Final Steps Before Moving Into Your Kansas City Home
You’ve made it through inspections. You’ve survived the appraisal. And now the finish line is in sight. But before you start bubble-wrapping every dish you own (and swearing off cardboard for life), there’s one last crucial phase in your home-buying or selling journey: preparing for closing.
This stretch is less “pop the champagne” and more “triple-check your inbox”—but it’s every bit as important to making sure your transaction runs smoothly.
Once your appraisal is approved by the lender, the countdown to closing begins. Your lender will prepare your Closing Disclosure, a detailed breakdown of every financial aspect of your loan. Think of it as the final receipt for your new home. By law, this document must be delivered to you at least three days before closing. Once signed, your loan terms are locked in—so it’s critical to review it carefully.
Pro tip: Avoid making any big purchases or financial changes before closing. Financing a new car, charging a full set of furniture, or even moving large sums between accounts can affect your loan qualification and put the brakes on your closing.
For sellers, the title company will prepare a Seller Settlement Statement, which outlines your net proceeds and any remaining financial obligations. Both buyers and sellers should review their respective documents for accuracy. At Nelson Home Group, we double-check everything to ensure there are no surprises on closing day.
While the paperwork is in motion, it’s time to get ready for life in your new home. This means switching utilities—electric, gas, and water—into your name, starting on the day you take possession. We provide our clients with contact information for local utility providers to make this process simple.
Don’t forget to update your address with:
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USPS (to forward mail)
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Banks and credit cards
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Subscriptions and streaming services
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Your veterinarian, stylist, and anyone else who sends you bills or birthday cards
Trust us—your future self will thank you when your Amazon packages arrive at the right doorstep.
Step Three: Last-Minute Requests from Your Lender or Title Company
As closing day approaches, your lender or the title company may request final documents like pay stubs, proof of insurance, or additional identification. These are usually small, quick-to-provide items, but they’re essential to keeping your closing on schedule.
If you’re bringing funds to closing, you’ll receive the exact amount a few days beforehand. Be prepared to wire the funds or bring a cashier’s check—no briefcases full of cash, please.
A day or two before closing, we’ll join you for a final walkthrough to confirm the property’s condition and verify that any agreed-upon repairs are complete. Once everything checks out, all that’s left is to sign the closing documents.
Keep in mind: buyers can’t take possession of the home until the sale is closed and funded, unless otherwise specified in the contract. Funding typically happens the same day, which is why we recommend scheduling a morning closing to allow time for review and transfer.
Step Five: Move-In Day (Without the Chaos)
To make your first day in your new home easier, pack a box of essentials—phone charger, toiletries, coffee supplies—so you’re not digging through boxes at midnight. Our moving checklist covers everything from labeling boxes to scheduling your internet installation, so nothing gets overlooked.
Why Work With Nelson Home Group?
Closing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Nelson Home Group, Kansas City’s highest-rated real estate team, we guide you through every step, double-check every detail, and make sure your move is as smooth as possible.
Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling to start your next chapter, we’d be honored to put our expertise to work for you. Contact us today to make your move with confidence.
