Essential Checklist: What to Review After Your Real Estate Deal

After your real estate agent completes their work, verify all closing documents, confirm deed recording, review final settlement statements, check property condition, secure all keys and access codes, and ensure utility transfers are complete. Document everything for future reference.

Why is Post-Closing Review Critical for Property Buyers?

The excitement of closing on a property can overshadow the critical need to verify that all aspects of your real estate transaction were completed properly. Your agent's work extends beyond the closing table, and understanding what to check ensures you're fully protected and prepared for homeownership. A thorough post-closing review helps identify any oversights that could create problems later, from missing documentation to incomplete property transfers. This verification process also provides valuable insight into your agent's thoroughness, which becomes important for future transactions or referrals. The relationship between you and your agent shouldn't end at closing—it should transition into a supportive partnership for your ongoing real estate needs.

Essential Documents to Verify and Organize

Your agent should have provided you with a complete set of closing documents. Review each item carefully:

• Final settlement statement (HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure) with all fees itemized
• Recorded deed showing your name as the new owner
• Title insurance policy protecting your ownership rights
• Property survey showing exact boundaries and easements
• Home inspection reports and any agreed-upon repair documentation
• Homeowners insurance policy confirmation and contact information
• HOA documents, bylaws, and contact information if applicable
• Warranties for appliances, systems, and any contractor work
• Keys to all doors, garage remotes, and security system codes
• Contact information for all service providers and utilities

How Do You Confirm Proper Deed Recording and Ownership Transfer?

Deed recording is perhaps the most crucial step your agent should have facilitated, as it legally establishes your ownership. Contact your county recorder's office or check their online database to confirm your deed has been properly recorded with the correct spelling of your name and accurate property description. This typically happens within a few days to a week after closing, depending on local procedures. If you discover any errors in the recorded deed, contact your agent immediately to initiate corrections. Your title insurance company should also send you a final policy within 30-60 days of closing. Review this document carefully to ensure it matches the terms discussed during the transaction and covers the full purchase price of your property.

What Property Condition Items Need Immediate Attention?

Your agent should have coordinated a final walkthrough, but additional checks are essential:

1. Compare current property condition to the final walkthrough notes and closing agreement
2. Test all systems including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and built-in appliances
3. Verify that any negotiated repairs were completed according to specifications
4. Document any new issues discovered after closing with photos and detailed descriptions
5. Check that all agreed-upon items were left behind (fixtures, appliances, window treatments)
6. Ensure utility meters are reading correctly and services are in your name
7. Test security systems, garage door openers, and smart home features

How Should You Handle Discovered Issues or Incomplete Work?

If you discover problems or incomplete work, document everything with photos and written descriptions, then contact your agent immediately. Professional agents maintain relationships with contractors, title companies, and other service providers who can help resolve issues quickly. Your agent should also be familiar with your closing agreement and can clarify what remedies are available. For minor issues discovered within the first few weeks, some sellers may be willing to address problems voluntarily, especially if your agent maintains a positive relationship with the listing agent. However, understand that once closing occurs, your legal recourse may be limited unless the issue was specifically warranted in your purchase agreement or represents a material defect that was concealed.

What Financial Reconciliation Steps Are Necessary?

Your agent should have ensured accurate financial settlements, but verify these items:

• Review your final settlement statement against your loan estimate for any unexpected changes
• Confirm all earnest money and deposits were properly credited
• Verify property tax prorations were calculated correctly
• Check that all agreed-upon seller credits and concessions were applied
• Ensure homeowners insurance premiums align with your policy terms
• Review any HOA fee prorations and transfer requirements
• Confirm your lender has accurate information for your first mortgage payment

How Do You Evaluate Your Agent's Overall Performance?

Reflecting on your agent's performance helps you understand the value they provided and informs future decisions. Consider their communication throughout the process, problem-solving abilities, knowledge of local markets and procedures, and their network of reliable service providers. A quality agent should have guided you through each step, anticipated potential issues, and provided resources beyond the basic transaction requirements. Their post-closing follow-up also demonstrates professionalism—excellent agents check in to ensure everything is proceeding smoothly and remain available for questions. This evaluation isn't just about rating their service; it helps you understand what to expect from real estate professionals and how to recognize exceptional service for future transactions.

What Ongoing Support Should Your Agent Provide?

Professional real estate agents understand that closing day marks the beginning of your homeownership journey, not the end of their responsibility. Quality agents typically provide ongoing support including answering questions about your new neighborhood, recommending trusted contractors and service providers, and staying available for future real estate needs. Many agents send periodic market updates showing how your property value is performing and maintain relationships that benefit you long after closing. They should also be proactive about following up during your first few months of ownership to ensure everything is going smoothly. This ongoing support distinguishes exceptional agents from those who view transactions as one-time events.

How Do You Prepare for Future Real Estate Needs?

Use this experience to build a foundation for future property transactions:

1. Maintain organized records of your purchase for future reference or resale
2. Keep your agent's contact information readily available for questions or referrals
3. Document trusted service providers you discover for future maintenance and improvements
4. Monitor your local real estate market to understand property value trends
5. Build relationships with neighbors and community members who can provide local insights
6. Consider how this experience informs your criteria for future agent selection