Before Closing: Put Your Questions on Paper

Closing involves several moving parts: loan terms, settlement costs, title work, insurance, possession and the physical move. Keeping questions in one place helps you ask the right professional and track the answer. Avoid waiting until signing day to raise something you do not understand. When your Closing Disclosure is available, compare it with the latest Loan Estimate and the information your lender has provided. Review names, loan amount, interest rate, estimated payment, closing costs and cash to close. Ask your lender to explain changes rather than assuming they are harmless or automatically incorrect. Create a short contact list with your lender, agent, settlement provider and insurer. For each unresolved question, identify the person responsible and write down the response. Confirm the signing arrangements and the date possession is expected under your agreement. Do not assume the keys will be available simply because your moving truck is booked. Payment instructions deserve special attention. If you receive new or changed instructions, contact your settlement provider through a trusted number you independently established. Do not rely solely on contact details supplied in an unexpected message. Your next step: prepare five closing questions and review them with the appropriate professionals. The CFPB’s Closing Disclosure explainer provides a useful way to understand the form. Ask Ed about coordinating your walkthrough and next steps. This article is general educational information; your transaction documents and professional guidance determine the arrangements for your purchase.