Weekly Checklist

Seller Weekly Reminders Prior to Closing

3 Weeks Before Closing:

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: A “Smoke Detector Certificate” & a “Carbon Monoxide Certificate” are closing requirements. The local fire department must come in and certify that all detectors are properly located and in working order.

Water/Sewer Bills: Call the local water/sewer department right away to schedule a final meter reading and get a final bill.  The final paid bill or final reading must be brought to closing.

Septic Certification: For a private sewer system a “Title 5 Certificate” issued by the local board of health is REQUIRED AT CLOSING. Call the local “Board of Health” to finalize this process and the issuance of the certificate.

Registry of Motor Vehicles: Change of address can be called in to 800-858-3926, 617-351-4500 or you can do it on line at www.state.ma.us/rmv/

2 Weeks Before Closing:

Deed: THE SELLER IS REQUIRED TO PREPARE THE DEED FOR CLOSING! Either your attorney or the closing attorney can handle this process.

Certificate of Title: Is needed only if your property is registered land.

Change of Address: Notify the post office of your new address so they will forward your mail.

Oil: Contact your oil company for a final reading or final fill.  Have them prepare a bill at the current rate for the number of gallons in the tank so the buyer can bring a check for that amount to closing. 

1 Week Before Closing:

Utilities: Notify the appropriate utility companies that you are moving.  Have them shut off services on the day of closing. The utility companies you need to call are electric, gas, oil, telephone, cable, internet and private trash pick-up.

Homeowner’s Insurance: Contact your insurance company and have them cancel your homeowner’s insurance a few days after closing.

At the Closing:

Keys and Garage Door Openers: Please remember to bring all keys (clearly marked) and garage door openers to the closing.

Taxes: An adjustment will be made for any property taxes that you have paid beyond the date of closing.  If your taxes ARE NOT included in your mortgage, bring your most recent tax bill to the closing.

Excise Tax Stamps: The seller is responsible for paying for the Massachusetts Excise Tax Stamps.  The amount is determined by multiplying $4.56 per $1000 of the total selling price of the property.  This amount is usually adjusted out of your sale proceeds.

Mortgage Pay-Off: The conveyancing or closing attorney will pay off the balance due on your present mortgage from your sale proceeds.  The seller is required to pay a nominal fee for the recording of that mortgage discharge.

Real Estate Commission: The closing attorney will add the commission due to the HUD Settlement Statement which will be adjusted, at closing, from the sales proceeds.