Preparing to close on your Brooklyn Heights property is an exciting time. As one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in New York City, Brooklyn Heights is known for its elegant brownstones and tree-lined streets. The highlight of the area is the promenade along the East River, offering breathtaking views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.
Selling your Brooklyn Heights townhouse can be a complex and stressful process, but it can go smoothly with the right preparation and planning. It's important to have all your documents in order and work with a knowledgeable real estate agent to ensure a smooth closing process.
One of the most important steps in the process is the closing, when the home’s ownership is officially transferred to the buyer. As a seller, there are a number of things you should keep in mind to ensure that the closing goes smoothly and that you are properly prepared. Whether you're selling for the first time or a seasoned investor, these tips will help ensure that your townhouse closing goes smoothly.
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Complete the Closing Checklist
You should use a closing checklist to guide your actions as a seller as you prepare to finalize your sale of any Brooklyn Heights properties.
Make any repairs agreed upon and included in the contract
It is essential to make any repairs agreed upon in the contract before closing. A leak might need to be fixed, walls might need to be painted, or fixtures might need to be replaced. Keep receipts and information related to any improvements you make, as you may need to provide it to the buyer or their attorney.
Refer to the contract for any inclusion and exclusions to the sale
Take some time before the closing to review the contract and make sure you understand what is and is not included. Among the items that may be included are window treatments, light fixtures, BBQ grills, or outdoor furniture.
Remove personal items and clean the home to professional standards
All personal items should be removed from the home. This includes items in closets, refrigerators, ovens, and cabinet drawers. Don't leave behind paint cans, cleaning supplies, or construction materials unless otherwise agreed upon with the buyer. After that, the house should be cleaned to professional standards. By doing this, the home will be in the best condition possible when the buyer takes possession.
Test all appliances and systems
Before closing, check all appliances, including the washer and dryer, stove range, ice maker, oven, dishwasher, and exhaust fans. Check that all systems, including the heating, cooling, and radiant heated flooring, are functional so the buyer can use them immediately.
Check all electrical outlets and light switches
Make sure to check all light fixtures are working before closing, including the bulbs inside appliances like range hoods. Under-cabinet lighting and recessed lighting are included in this category. The electrical outlets and light switches must have plate covers attached and be functional before the closing unless otherwise agreed upon with the buyer.
Leave extra keys and garage door openers
Be sure to leave all extra keys and garage door openers where the buyers can find them. You should hand over at least two complete sets of keys to the buyer at closing.
Notify creditors, subscription services, loved ones of your new address
Notify creditors, subscription services, family, and friends of your new address before the closing. Forward your mail and formally change your address with the post office.
Call your utility companies
Before the closing, call your utility companies to schedule the final readings and the disconnect dates. Make sure to disconnect only after the closing date.
Gather appliance manuals, receipts, warranty information, and owner's manuals for your buyers
The owner's manuals, warranty information, and appliance manuals should be collected before the closing to pass along to the buyer.
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Keep Documents Organized
It is important to keep all disclosures, the purchase agreement, and the closing statement safe, as they may be required for tax reporting. These documents should be provided to you in a bundle by the closing agent at the time of closing. Also, keep records of home improvements that raised your cost basis, as they could lower or eliminate capital gains taxes. Make sure to keep proof that the mortgage was fully paid off during the process. In case the documents are separated, make an effort to keep them together as they may be required in the future if any issues arise.
Buying and selling Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn Heights homes for sale are highly sought-after and can sell quickly. With its prime location, beautiful architecture, and charming atmosphere, it's no wonder why many people are moving to Brooklyn Heights.
If you're thinking of selling or moving to Brooklyn Heights, Lindsay Barton Barrett Team is the perfect choice to help you navigate the process. Their deep understanding of Brooklyn Heights and dedication to outstanding customer service make the Lindsay Barton Barrett Team a reliable choice to aid you in finding your ideal home or getting the best return on your property sale.
