Closing day is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming with pages of documents to sign. This checklist helps Florida home buyers arrive prepared and confident.

At Least 1 Week Before Closing

  • Review your Closing Disclosure (must be received at least 3 business days before closing). Compare every fee to your original Loan Estimate and ask your lender about any discrepancies.
  • Confirm wire transfer instructions directly with the title company by phone — wire fraud is a real risk in real estate transactions. Never wire funds based solely on emailed instructions without verbal verification.
  • Arrange your cashier's check or wire transfer. Ask the title company for the exact amount needed at closing (funds to close).
  • Confirm homeowners insurance is in place and your lender has a copy of the binder.
  • Confirm the closing time, location (or remote signing details), and who will be present.

24–48 Hours Before Closing

  • Conduct the final walkthrough to confirm the property is in agreed-upon condition, agreed items remain (appliances, light fixtures), and no new damage exists.
  • If issues are found during the walkthrough, contact your agent immediately — do not wait until the closing table.
  • Confirm utility transfer or setup at your name for move-in day.

What to Bring on Closing Day

  • Government-issued photo ID — your driver's license or passport. Some title companies require two forms of ID.
  • Cashier's check or wire transfer confirmation for the exact amount stated on your Closing Disclosure. Personal checks are typically not accepted.
  • Homeowners insurance binder — confirm your lender already has a copy, but bring one just in case.
  • Any outstanding documents your lender requested (final bank statements, letter of explanation, etc.).
  • Your agent's contact information in case questions arise.

What Happens at the Closing Table

Florida closings are conducted by title company agents or real estate attorneys. You'll sign:

  • The Closing Disclosure (acknowledging receipt)
  • The promissory note (your promise to repay the loan)
  • The mortgage or deed of trust (securing the loan against the property)
  • The deed (transferring ownership to you)
  • Various lender disclosures and affidavits

Closing typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Bring a pen (and a sense of humor — there are a lot of pages).

After Closing

  • Keep all signed closing documents in a safe place. These are important legal and tax documents.
  • Apply for your Florida Homestead Exemption by March 1 of the year after you move in. This can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars annually.
  • Change the locks on your new home.
  • Update your address with the post office, bank, employer, and Florida DHSMV (driver's license).
Wire Fraud Warning: Real estate wire fraud is one of the fastest-growing cyber crimes. Always verify wire instructions by calling the title company directly using a phone number you look up independently — never from an email. A legitimate title company will never pressure you to wire funds urgently via email alone.
Have questions about your specific situation? Every real estate transaction is unique. Call or email HP Singh at Coastal Group Brokers for personalized guidance.