What to Bring to a Real Estate Closing

There are a number of things that are absolutely vital to a real estate closing. We can work around most problems if we know about them ahead of time, so please call if you have any questions or concerns. Here is a list of the most obvious—and yet most frequently overlooked—items:

• Yourself. If you want to use a power of attorney to close a transaction, we need to know about it ahead of time. There are strict formalities that must be observed in order for a power of attorney to be effective, particularly in Alabama real estate transactions.
• Your spouse (usually). In Alabama, spouses must often sign various closing documents, even if they are not on the property’s title. If your spouse does not wish to attend closing, please let us know well in advance of closing.
• Certified funds. We cannot accept personal checks for more than a nominal amount. This policy is required by the title companies, the Bar, and our own business practices. We send payoffs and proceeds immediately and your personal check might not clear before debits to our account are posted, so we simply cannot accept them. Also, we do not accept large amounts of cash and we file cash transaction receipts with the IRS when required.
• Identification. A current, valid photo ID is required by most lenders and by the Patriot Act. Everyone signing, including spouses, must bring photo ID. So, if your license expired, renew it before you come.  Also, if you are a foreign person, please let us know ahead of time because there will be additional paperwork.