Closing as a seller.

Once the inspection period is past and the buyer's loan is moving smoothly, closing is mostly logistics. Here's what to expect.

The title and escrow process

The title company researches your title history, clears any issues (old liens, name discrepancies, pending judgments), and prepares the closing documents. Most issues are cleared up routinely; occasionally an old lien from a prior owner surfaces and needs sorting out, which is exactly why title insurance exists.

What seller costs typically include

The biggest line items:

• Real estate commission — paid out of the seller's proceeds at closing, terms set in the listing agreement.
• Title insurance — owner's policy is commonly paid by the seller in Arizona (varies by negotiation).
• Escrow fee — often split with the buyer.
• Property tax prorations — you pay your share of the tax year up to closing.
• HOA transfer fees — if applicable, and prorated dues.
• Any agreed-upon repair credits or concessions to the buyer.
• Recording and small administrative fees.
• Mortgage payoff — your remaining loan balance, paid directly to your lender from closing proceeds.

Your preliminary settlement statement will show every line. Review carefully a few days before closing.

Prorations

Several items are prorated to the day of closing — most commonly property taxes, HOA dues, and any rent if the property has tenants. The math is straightforward: you pay (or get credited) for your share of the period.

The buyer's final walkthrough

Usually 24–72 hours before closing. They're confirming the home is in roughly the condition it was at contract, that agreed-upon repairs were done, and that included items are still there. Have the home clean and accessible.

Signing day

You sign deed and closing documents at the title company (or with a mobile notary). It's a much shorter signing than the buyer's — usually 20-30 minutes. Bring government-issued ID.

Possession and move-out

Possession typically transfers at closing — when the deed records with the county. Unless your contract specifies otherwise:

• The home should be empty (except for items the buyer is keeping) by the time of recording.
• It should be "broom clean" — swept, vacuumed, surfaces wiped, no trash left behind.
• All keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys, pool service codes, and any equipment manuals should be left for the buyer.

If you need a few extra days to move, negotiate it into the contract up front as a "post-close occupancy" or "rent-back." Trying to negotiate it at the last minute creates friction.

Getting paid

Once the deed records and the buyer's funds disburse, your proceeds wire to the account you designated. Same-day wire is typical. Confirm wiring instructions verbally with the title company before they send — wire fraud is real on both sides of the transaction.

After closing

• Cancel homeowners insurance on the property (your agent will prorate the refund).
• Transfer or cancel utilities.
• Update your address with banks, employers, and the post office.
• Save the closing package — you'll need parts of it for your tax return next year.