The Closing Process Explained: What Every Buyer, Seller, and Realtor Should Know
- serenabinner
- Oct 10
- 3 min read
Buying or selling a home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and one of the most significant financial transactions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, understanding the closing process can help make the experience smoother, less stressful, and more successful.
At Merit Title, we take pride in guiding our clients through each step with transparency, efficiency, and care! Here’s what you need to know about how a real estate closing works—and how our Kerry, Rachel, and Serena make it seamless.
1. What Exactly Is “Closing”?
Closing (or settlement) is the final step in a real estate transaction—the moment when ownership officially transfers from seller to buyer. It’s when all the necessary documents are signed, funds are disbursed, and keys are exchanged.
While it’s exciting, it also involves a number of moving parts that require precision and coordination. That’s where your Merit Title plays a critical role.
2. The Title Search and Title Insurance
Before closing day, Merit Title conducts a title search—a detailed review of public records to verify the property’s ownership history and ensure there are no outstanding liens, judgments, or claims that could affect the buyer’s rights.
Once the title is cleared, the buyer typically purchases title insurance, which protects against any future claims that weren’t uncovered during the title search. Think of it as peace of mind that your biggest investment is truly yours.
3. The Role of the Title Company
At Merit Title, our job is to coordinate all the behind-the-scenes details that make closing possible. This includes:
Preparing and reviewing closing documents
Working with lenders, realtors, and attorneys to ensure accuracy
Collecting and disbursing funds
Recording the deed and mortgage with the county
Making sure everyone leaves the table confident and informed
Our boutique approach means you’ll always know who to call and what to expect—no automated systems, no runaround, just real people ready to help!
4. What Buyers Should Expect
Buyers can expect to review and sign several key documents, including the loan package, closing disclosure, and deed of trust or mortgage. You’ll also bring your down payment and closing costs—typically via wire transfer or certified funds.
Pro tip: Always verify wire instructions directly with your title company to avoid fraud. Merit Title provides secure communication for every transaction. We will share the secured platform we use in another post.
5. What Sellers Should Expect
For sellers, closing involves signing the deed transferring ownership, reviewing the settlement statement, and confirming payoff of any existing mortgage. Once everything is finalized, you’ll receive your proceeds—often on the same day!
6. The Realtor’s Role
Realtors play a vital part in keeping communication flowing between all parties. They help ensure documents are completed, deadlines are met, and any last-minute issues are handled smoothly. Partnering with a proactive title company like Merit Title gives realtors peace of mind that their clients will have a positive closing experience.
Click this link to access a Title Guide with detailed information on "The Realtor's Role."
7. The Final Step: Keys, Smiles, and Congratulations!
Once all documents are signed and funds are disbursed, it’s time for the best part—handing over the keys. Whether it’s the joy of a buyer stepping into their new home or a seller completing a successful sale, the closing is a celebration of hard work and teamwork!!
At Merit Title, Your Closing Is Our Commitment
With over 30 years of combined experience, the Merit Title team—Kerry, Rachel, and Serena—believe every closing should feel personal, efficient, and stress-free. We’re here to support buyers, sellers, and realtors every step of the way with expertise, communication, and care that big-box title companies simply can’t match.
Ready to experience a smoother closing? Let’s connect and see how Merit Title can support your next transaction. 👉 Schedule a meeting with Serena here.
Visit our website at: www.merittitle.net