Guide to Residential Purchase and Sale Services in Lakewood
Buying or selling a home in Lakewood involves many steps, legal requirements, and deadlines that can affect the outcome of the transaction. This guide explains how the process typically works for residential purchases and sales in Davidson County and provides clear information about common documents, timelines, and legal considerations. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a seller preparing for closing, or an investor managing multiple properties, understanding the legal components can help you avoid delays and minimize risk throughout the transaction.
This page outlines the services available for residential real estate transactions in Lakewood, Tennessee, including contract review, title matters, negotiations, contingency management, and closing coordination. We describe typical responsibilities for buyers and sellers, common pitfalls to watch for in purchase agreements, and how to protect your financial interests. The goal is to give you practical steps and plain-language explanations so you can approach your purchase or sale with confidence and a plan to move through the process efficiently.
Why Legal Guidance Matters for Residential Purchases and Sales
Legal guidance for residential real estate transactions helps ensure that contracts accurately reflect the parties’ intentions, deadlines are met, and obligations like inspections, disclosures, and title requirements are satisfied. Sound legal handling can uncover title issues, clarify closing costs, and manage seller or buyer contingencies so that surprises at closing are minimized. For sellers, proper contract drafting and disclosure management reduce liability exposure. For buyers, careful review of terms protects deposit funds and ensures clear transfer of ownership at closing.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Residential Real Estate Services
Jay Johnson Law Firm in Hendersonville serves clients across Davidson County and the surrounding areas, handling residential purchase and sale matters with an emphasis on practical results and client communication. The firm assists with review and negotiation of purchase agreements, title review, coordination with lenders and title companies, and representation at closing. Our approach focuses on clear advice, attention to documentation, and efficient resolution of issues that commonly arise during residential transactions, helping clients complete purchases and sales with confidence.
Understanding Residential Purchase and Sale Legal Services
Residential purchase and sale legal services cover a range of activities tied to the transfer of single-family homes, condominiums, and other owner-occupied properties. Typical tasks include drafting or reviewing purchase agreements, negotiating contract terms, advising on contingencies like inspections and financing, conducting or reviewing title searches and commitment documents, and coordinating closing documentation. These services ensure that necessary disclosures are made, contingency deadlines are observed, and the transaction moves toward a clean transfer of title at closing.
Legal professionals also handle issues such as resolving title defects, clarifying easements or boundary concerns, preparing deeds, and advising on prorations and closing costs. For buyers, legal review can confirm that contingencies protect their deposit and allow inspection periods. For sellers, counsel helps ensure that required disclosures are completed and that the contract protects against last-minute claims. Coordination with lenders, title companies, and closing agents is an essential part of completing a residential real estate transaction smoothly.
What We Mean by Residential Purchase and Sale Representation
Representation for a residential purchase or sale involves legal oversight and document management related to the transfer of ownership of a home. That representation may include drafting and negotiating purchase agreements, advising on statutory disclosures and seller obligations, examining title commitments and resolving defects, preparing conveyancing documents, and appearing at closing to complete the transfer. It is intended to protect the legal and financial interests of the buyer or seller and to ensure the transaction complies with local rules and customary practices in Tennessee and Davidson County.
Key Elements and Typical Processes in a Residential Transaction
A residential transaction typically begins with an offer and acceptance, followed by escrow of earnest money and the establishment of contingencies such as inspections and financing. Title review and a title commitment identify liens or encumbrances that must be cleared before closing. Inspections and disclosure reviews often lead to negotiations for repairs or credits. If financing is involved, lender conditions and appraisal results must be satisfied. Finally, closing involves signing deed and mortgage documents, paying prorations and closing costs, and recording the deed to transfer ownership officially.
Glossary of Key Real Estate Terms for Buyers and Sellers
The following glossary clarifies common terms you will encounter during a residential purchase or sale. Understanding these terms helps you follow the contract timeline, evaluate obligations, and communicate more effectively with agents, lenders, and title companies. Each definition is written for practical use so you can apply the concepts to your own transaction and know when to ask questions or seek further legal guidance about specific contract provisions or title issues.
Title Search
A title search is a review of public records to identify the legal ownership of the property and any liens, encumbrances, or recorded claims that may affect the transfer of title. The title commitment that follows the search lists conditions that must be satisfied before the title company will insure the new owner. Reviewing the title commitment early in the transaction can reveal mortgages, judgment liens, or other matters requiring resolution, and it helps determine whether any corrective steps are needed to ensure a clear conveyance at closing.
Contingency
A contingency is a contractual condition that must be satisfied or waived for the transaction to proceed to closing. Common contingencies include satisfactory home inspections, acceptable appraisal results for lender financing, clear title, and final approval of the buyer’s loan. Contingencies specify deadlines and procedures for removing or addressing issues. Properly drafted contingencies provide buyers and sellers with defined rights and obligations, allowing time to resolve concerns while protecting deposits and the ability to terminate the contract under certain circumstances.
Earnest Money
Earnest money is a deposit made by the buyer to demonstrate good faith when entering into a purchase agreement. The deposit is held in escrow and applied toward closing costs or the purchase price if the transaction completes. The purchase agreement outlines conditions under which the earnest money may be refunded to the buyer or forfeited to the seller, often tied to the satisfaction of contingencies or breach of contract. Clear contract language about earnest money protection can prevent disputes later in the process.
Closing Disclosure and Settlement Statement
A closing disclosure or settlement statement summarizes the final financial terms of the transaction, including the purchase price, loan amounts, prorated taxes and utilities, seller credits, and closing costs payable by each party. Buyers and sellers should review this document carefully prior to closing to confirm the accuracy of figures and the allocation of costs. Discrepancies identified before closing can be corrected to prevent last-minute surprises and ensure that the net proceeds or funds needed at closing align with contract expectations.
Comparing Limited and Comprehensive Legal Services for Real Estate
Clients often choose between limited-scope assistance and full-service representation for residential transactions. Limited services might include contract review or document preparation for specific aspects of the deal, while comprehensive representation covers negotiation, title resolution, and presence at closing. The right choice depends on your comfort with the process, the complexity of the transaction, and whether there are unresolved title issues, contingencies likely to trigger negotiation, or other legal risks that could complicate the closing process in Davidson County.
When Limited Legal Assistance May Be Appropriate:
Simple, Well-Understood Transactions
A limited approach can be appropriate when the transaction is straightforward, both parties are experienced, and there are no known title defects or unusual contract provisions. In such cases, focused services like a one-time document review or discrete contract advice can help confirm that the terms are standard and that the buyer or seller understands key dates and obligations. This option can reduce cost while providing targeted support where it is most needed for a smooth closing.
When Parties Have Strong Professional Support Elsewhere
If a buyer or seller already has reliable representation through a lender or title company and the agent is handling negotiations effectively, limited legal advice focused on contract language and title items may be adequate. This approach allows you to address specific legal questions without full representation, such as clarifying contingencies, confirming proration calculations, or ensuring the deed language is correct prior to closing. It remains important to confirm who will handle any unforeseen legal issues that arise later in the process.
When Full Representation Is Advisable for Residential Transactions:
Complex Title or Contract Issues
Full representation is often advisable when title searches reveal liens, unresolved ownership questions, boundary disputes, or other defects that require negotiation or corrective action. An attorney can help resolve those matters before closing so that the buyer receives clear title and the seller can convey the property without liability for undisclosed claims. Addressing title issues proactively reduces the risk that a closing will be delayed or that funds held in escrow will be tied up until defects are cleared.
Transactions with Unusual Contract Terms or High Stakes
Complex transactions, such as those involving contingent sales, significant repairs, estate transfers, or unusual deed restrictions, benefit from comprehensive representation to manage negotiation and documentation from start to finish. When large sums are at stake or the contractual terms are nonstandard, having continuous legal oversight helps ensure deadlines are met, negotiations are documented, and the final settlement is consistent with the parties’ agreement. Comprehensive representation also provides continuity if disputes arise before or after closing.
Benefits of Choosing a Comprehensive Legal Approach
A comprehensive approach to residential real estate reduces the likelihood of last-minute complications by addressing title issues early, coordinating with lenders and title companies, and negotiating terms that protect your financial interests. It provides consistent communication throughout the transaction, documentation oversight, and representation at closing. For sellers, this approach can limit post-closing liability by ensuring disclosures are handled correctly. For buyers, it provides protection of deposits and confirmation that contingencies are properly managed and resolved.
Comprehensive handling also streamlines coordination among parties, reduces the potential for errors in settlement statements, and helps resolve disputes or ambiguities before they escalate. With thorough review and proactive steps to clear title or address contract deficiencies, you gain confidence that the transfer of ownership will be completed cleanly. This approach tends to save time and stress during the most critical closing period and can prevent future legal challenges related to the transaction.
Reduced Risk of Post-Closing Issues
Handling all legal aspects of a residential transaction from start to finish reduces the chance of unresolved issues arising after closing. Thorough title review, correct deed preparation, and accurate disclosure practices all work together to limit future claims against the seller and to protect the buyer’s ownership. By identifying potential problems early and negotiating effective remedies, comprehensive representation helps ensure the transaction stands up to scrutiny and that both parties leave closing with a clear understanding of their obligations and protections.
Smoother Coordination at Closing
Comprehensive service promotes efficient closing by confirming that lender requirements, title conditions, and contract contingencies are satisfied in advance. This reduces the need for last-minute document corrections or funding delays and makes the final settlement more predictable. Coordinated communication among the buyer, seller, lender, title company, and real estate agents ensures that the closing proceeds without unexpected interruptions, helping everyone meet scheduled closing dates and reducing stress associated with last-minute surprises.
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Practical Tips for Smooth Residential Transactions
Get Contracts Reviewed Early
Have your purchase agreement or sales contract reviewed early in the transaction so you can identify deadlines, contingencies, and any nonstandard provisions that could affect your closing rights or obligations. An early review helps you understand inspection timelines, earnest money conditions, and what items must be resolved for a clean closing. This proactive step reduces the chance of rushed decisions and allows time to negotiate repairs, credits, or contract changes while maintaining momentum toward settlement.
Prioritize Title and Disclosure Issues
Coordinate with Lenders and Title Companies
Maintain open communication among your lender, title company, and the other party to ensure documentation flows promptly and requirements are met. Timely delivery of appraisal reports, payoff statements, and loan conditions prevents last-minute funding issues. Confirm which party is responsible for specific closing tasks, and review the settlement statement ahead of closing to verify proration calculations and fees. Coordinated effort reduces surprises and helps everyone arrive prepared on closing day.
Reasons to Consider Legal Assistance for Your Residential Transaction
You may want legal assistance if you face title defects, unusual contract terms, or concerns about disclosures and repairs. Assistance is also helpful when mortgage financing contingencies or appraisal issues threaten closing, when there are competing claims on ownership, or when you want to ensure that closing documents accurately reflect agreed financial terms. Legal involvement helps protect deposits, clarify responsibilities, and facilitate resolution of disputes that could otherwise delay or derail the transaction.
Even seemingly routine transactions can benefit from legal review to prevent misunderstandings about contingency deadlines, prorations, or final settlement figures. Sellers may seek help to prepare seller disclosures and handle payoff logistics, while buyers often need confirmation that title and deed language will transfer ownership correctly. Engaging legal services early provides clarity about process steps and helps you make informed decisions at each stage of the purchase or sale.
Common Situations That Often Require Legal Assistance
Common circumstances include discovery of liens or judgments during title review, property disputes revealed by surveys, transactions involving estates or trusts, issues with prior ownership transfers, and contracts that include unusual contingencies or performance conditions. Other situations include short sales, transactions with tenant-occupied properties, and sales involving significant repair negotiations. Each scenario introduces legal questions that are best addressed early to protect the parties and facilitate a successful closing.
Title Defects and Liens
When a title search reveals liens, outstanding mortgages, or recorded judgments, the transaction cannot close until those matters are resolved. Legal assistance helps identify the source of the claim, determine whether payoffs or releases are required, and coordinate corrective actions such as liens paid at closing, release documents recorded, or corrective affidavits prepared. Addressing these matters early prevents delays and ensures the buyer receives clear title at the time of ownership transfer.
Unresolved Boundary or Easement Issues
Boundary discrepancies or easement disputes discovered during title or survey review can complicate conveyance of the property. Legal guidance assists in interpreting recorded documents, negotiating resolutions, or obtaining clarifying surveys or agreements. Resolving boundary or easement concerns before closing protects future property use and value and reduces the risk of post-closing disputes between neighbors or other affected parties.
Transactions Involving Estates or Nonstandard Ownership
Sales involving estates, trusts, or entities require additional documentation and often include deadlines or probate requirements that affect the timing of a transfer. Legal assistance ensures that the person conveying the property has authority to do so, that required probate steps are completed if necessary, and that deeds and related paperwork reflect the correct chain of title. Proper handling prevents voidable transfers and protects both buyers and sellers from future claims.
Local Representation for Lakewood Residential Transactions
Jay Johnson Law Firm provides local representation for residential purchases and sales in Lakewood and Davidson County, offering practical legal support at every stage of your transaction. We coordinate with agents, lenders, and title companies, review contracts and title documents, and attend closing to ensure that documents are executed properly. Our approach emphasizes clear communication, prompt responses, and focused problem solving to help move the process toward a timely and orderly closing.
Why Choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for Your Residential Transaction
Clients choose our firm because we provide responsive representation tailored to the needs of buyers and sellers in the local market. We prioritize practical solutions to title, contract, and closing issues, and we aim to communicate clearly so you understand each step. Our services include contract review, negotiation support, title review, deed preparation, and attendance at closing, all coordinated with lenders and title companies to keep the transaction on track toward a successful settlement.
We focus on the details that commonly cause delays or disputes, such as contingency deadlines, disclosure obligations, and settlement statement accuracy. By addressing these items proactively and working closely with the parties involved, we help reduce the risk of last-minute complications. This hands-on coordination helps buyers and sellers resolve issues quickly and proceed to closing with the confidence that the necessary legal and administrative tasks have been handled properly.
Our firm serves clients across Hendersonville, Lakewood, and surrounding Davidson County communities, offering flexible engagement options from limited-scope reviews to full representation at every stage of the transaction. We will explain the likely timeline and anticipated costs for the services you need and work to keep the process efficient. Clear communication and reliable follow-through are central to our approach so clients can focus on their move rather than administrative surprises.
Contact Us to Discuss Your Residential Purchase or Sale
How We Handle Residential Real Estate Matters
Our process begins with an initial consultation to identify your goals, timeline, and any known issues such as title concerns or contract complexities. We then review relevant documents, coordinate with your agent or lender as needed, and provide a clear plan for addressing contingencies and title matters. Regular updates keep you informed of progress and any decisions that require your input, and we strive to manage logistics so the transaction can move smoothly to closing without unnecessary delay.
Initial Review and Contract Assessment
Step one involves a detailed review of the purchase agreement, inspection results, seller disclosures, and the preliminary title report. During this phase we identify deadlines, contingencies, and conditions that must be satisfied prior to closing. We advise on negotiation points, whether related to repairs, credits, or specific contract language, and recommend practical steps to protect earnest money and to maintain momentum toward a timely closing date within the agreed timeline.
Document Review and Deadline Identification
Reviewing the contract and associated documents early allows us to identify important dates for inspections, loan commitment, and contingency removal. This review clarifies responsibilities for repairs, disclosure items, and timing for title review or survey objections. Understanding the schedule and required deliverables helps the parties prioritize tasks and avoid potential breaches that could jeopardize the transaction or result in forfeiture of earnest money.
Negotiation and Contract Amendments
If inspections or title findings suggest adjustments, we assist in drafting amendments or addenda to the purchase agreement to document negotiated repairs, credits, or timeline changes. Clear written amendments prevent misunderstandings and protect both parties by recording agreed-upon terms. These changes are handled professionally and promptly so that the transaction can proceed without confusion over responsibilities or unresolved conditions prior to closing.
Title Review and Issue Resolution
During this stage we coordinate a thorough title review, examine the title commitment, and identify any liens, encumbrances, or restrictions that must be addressed. We communicate with the title company and other stakeholders to arrange payoffs, releases, or agreements that will clear the title. Resolving these matters before closing is essential to ensure the buyer receives insurable and marketable title at settlement.
Clearing Liens and Payoffs
If liens, mortgages, or judgments appear in the title search, we work to obtain payoff statements and coordinate the mechanics of clearing those items at or before closing. This may involve negotiating with lienholders, arranging funds, or documenting releases that must be recorded. Proper handling of payoffs prevents unexpected claims against the property after closing and ensures that net proceeds are distributed according to the agreement.
Addressing Easements and Other Restrictions
Easements, covenants, and recorded restrictions can affect future use of the property and must be disclosed or resolved as appropriate. We analyze recorded instruments and advise whether additional agreements or clarifying documentation are necessary. When feasible, we negotiate resolutions or record corrective instruments to reduce uncertainty and make the scope of permitted property use clear to the new owner prior to transfer.
Closing Preparation and Settlement
The final stage focuses on preparing closing documents, confirming the final settlement figures, and coordinating logistics with the title company and lender to ensure funds are available on the closing date. We review the settlement statement for accuracy, confirm deed language and signatures, and verify that required releases and payoffs will be recorded. Our goal is to ensure a smooth settlement where ownership is transferred and funds are disbursed according to contract terms.
Final Document Review
Before closing we review all documents to ensure accuracy and consistency with the negotiated terms, including the deed, mortgage instruments where applicable, and the settlement statement. This review reduces the risk of clerical errors that could cause delays or require post-closing corrections. Any discrepancies are resolved prior to signing so the closing proceeds without interruption and the parties understand the expected disbursements and net proceeds.
Attendance at Closing and Post-Closing Recording
We attend or coordinate the closing, oversee signing, and confirm that the deed and related documents are properly executed and submitted for recording. After closing, we monitor the recording process to ensure the deed is entered into the public record and follow up on any post-closing matters such as lien releases or final payoff documentation. This ensures the buyer’s ownership is properly recorded and the seller receives agreed funds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Purchases and Sales
What should I look for in a residential purchase agreement in Tennessee?
When reviewing a residential purchase agreement in Tennessee, pay close attention to the purchase price, financing terms, inspection and contingency deadlines, earnest money provisions, and any special conditions that alter standard obligations. Confirm who is responsible for repairs, what items are included in the sale, and whether there are any seller representations or warranties. Also review default and termination clauses to understand the remedies available if one party fails to perform. Clear language about closing dates and possession timing helps prevent misunderstandings and supports timely performance under the contract.It is also important to verify that the contract references applicable disclosures and that timelines for loan approval, appraisal, and inspections are realistic given your schedule. When deadlines are tight or the transaction involves unique terms, consider clarifying them with written amendments so both parties share a precise understanding. Early review of the contract allows you to negotiate changes or request clarifying language before significant funds are placed at risk or contingencies expire.
How does a title search affect my home purchase?
A title search uncovers recorded matters that affect ownership of the property, such as mortgages, liens, judgments, easements, and covenants. The title commitment lists conditions to be satisfied before title insurance is issued and identifies issues that must be resolved to allow a clean transfer. An early review of the title commitment helps parties determine whether liens need payoffs, whether recorded easements affect use, or whether further documentation is needed to clarify ownership rights prior to closing.If title issues are discovered, the parties must decide how to resolve them before settlement, which may include obtaining releases, arranging payoffs at closing, or negotiating credits. Addressing title matters early in the process reduces the risk of last-minute delays and ensures the buyer receives insurable title at closing. Communication with the title company and coordination of necessary payoffs is essential for timely resolution.
What are common contingencies in a buyer's contract?
Common contingencies in a buyer’s contract include an inspection contingency, which allows the buyer to obtain property inspections and request repairs or credits; a financing contingency, which conditions the purchase on loan approval and appraisal; and a clear title contingency that requires removal of title defects prior to closing. Each contingency typically has a deadline for the buyer to remove or waive it, and careful attention to these dates is essential to preserve contractual rights, including the return of earnest money under specified circumstances.Other contingencies may include the sale of the buyer’s current home, receipt of certain disclosures, or satisfactory review of homeowners association documents when applicable. The purchase agreement should specify how disputes over repair requests are handled and how extensions to contingency deadlines are documented. Clear contingency language helps manage risk and sets expectations for how negotiations will proceed when issues arise.
What happens if a title defect is discovered before closing?
If a title defect is discovered before closing, the parties typically must resolve the issue before the buyer can receive insurable title. Resolution methods include obtaining payoff or release documents for liens, recording corrective affidavits or deeds, or negotiating seller-provided cures. Depending on the nature of the defect, closing may be delayed until required documents are obtained and recorded, or funds may be held in escrow to address outstanding claims when agreements are reached in advance.Prompt communication with the title company and coordination with lienholders and other affected parties are important to clear defects efficiently. When resolution is possible but may take time, parties sometimes agree to revised closing dates or escrow arrangements to accommodate necessary steps while protecting the interests of both buyer and seller during the interim.
Who attends closing and what documents are signed?
Typically, the buyer and seller or their representatives, the closing agent or title company representative, and any lenders participate in the closing process. Each party signs documents appropriate to their role: buyers sign deed and financing documents when obtaining mortgage loans, while sellers sign the deed and seller affidavits. The closing agent prepares the settlement statement and coordinates disbursement of funds after all documents have been properly executed and any required funds have been received for settlement.Third parties such as real estate agents or attorneys may also attend and help review documents or address last-minute questions. After signing, the closing agent records the deed and any mortgage documents with the county recorder so that ownership is officially transferred and liens are recorded, completing the transfer process and allowing the buyer to obtain keys and possession according to the contract.
How are closing costs and prorations calculated?
Closing costs and prorations are calculated based on the terms of the purchase agreement, lender requirements, and customary local practices. Typical closing costs include title insurance premiums, recording fees, escrow fees, lender fees, and prepaids such as property tax or hazard insurance escrows. Prorations allocate expenses like property taxes, homeowners association dues, or utility charges between buyer and seller based on the date of closing, ensuring each party pays their fair share for the relevant portion of the year.Your settlement statement will itemize each fee and proration so you can review the net amounts payable or receivable at closing. Reviewing this statement ahead of the closing date allows you to verify calculations and ask questions about any unexpected charges. This helps avoid surprises and ensures the final disbursement aligns with negotiated terms.
What should a seller disclose to the buyer in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, sellers must provide certain disclosures about the condition of the property and any known material defects that could affect its use or value. Typical disclosures address structural issues, prior repairs, water intrusion, environmental concerns, and the presence of lead-based paint in older homes. Full and timely disclosure helps buyers make informed decisions and reduces the risk of post-closing disputes related to undisclosed conditions that materially affect the property.Sellers should also disclose any facts that may materially affect the buyer’s intended use of the property, such as known boundary disputes, recorded restrictions, or pending special assessments. Documenting and delivering required disclosures as part of the transaction helps establish transparency and protects both parties by ensuring expectations are properly aligned before closing.
Can earnest money be refunded if the sale falls through?
Whether earnest money is refundable depends on the terms of the purchase agreement and whether contingencies are properly exercised or waived. If a buyer timely removes a contingency or otherwise fails to meet conditions that permit a refund, the contract may allow the seller to retain the deposit. Conversely, if a contingency such as financing or inspection protection is not satisfied and the buyer follows the contract procedures, the earnest money is typically returned to the buyer. Clear contract language determines the parties’ rights in these scenarios.To protect the deposit, buyers should document communications, meet contingency deadlines, and follow the contract’s notice procedures if they decide to terminate. Sellers should also follow the contract regarding release or retention of earnest money to avoid disputes. When disagreements arise about the deposit, parties often negotiate or, if necessary, use the dispute resolution process outlined in the contract.
How long does a typical residential closing take in Lakewood?
A typical residential closing timeline in Lakewood varies depending on financing, title issues, and the responsiveness of the parties involved. For financed purchases, a closing period of 30 to 45 days is common to allow for loan processing, appraisal, and title work. Cash transactions can often close more quickly if title is clear, sometimes within two weeks. Variations arise when contingencies require additional time for inspections, repairs, or title cure efforts before settlement.Early coordination with your lender and title company and prompt responses to requested documentation shorten the timeline. Buyers and sellers who prepare proactively by addressing inspection requests, confirming payoff information, and ensuring required paperwork is available help keep the transaction on schedule and reduce the likelihood of postponements near the scheduled closing date.
What steps can I take to prepare for a smooth closing?
To prepare for a smooth closing, gather necessary documents early, respond promptly to requests from your lender or title company, and review the purchase agreement to confirm deadlines and responsibilities. Buyers should schedule inspections and provide required loan documentation quickly, while sellers should compile required disclosures and payoff information. Communicating clearly with your real estate agent, lender, and closing agent about the anticipated closing date and any potential issues prevents last-minute surprises.Also review the settlement statement in advance to verify prorations and closing costs, and confirm how funds will be transferred for closing, whether by wire transfer or certified funds. Addressing these logistics beforehand reduces delays at the table and helps ensure the transaction concludes with all required documents properly executed and recorded.