What Do I Bring to a Real Estate Closing?

What Documents Do You Need at Closing?

Your lender and title company will send you loan documents and closing paperwork days or weeks before your scheduled closing date. Bring all of these documents with you—they're the core of what you'll sign. If you've already received them electronically, print a copy or have it ready on your phone so you can reference it during the appointment.

Your closing agent will walk through each document with you, but it's helpful to have reviewed them beforehand. If questions come up, don't hesitate to ask—though remember that a notary is not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice. For complex legal questions, consult your real estate attorney.

Bring Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

This is non-negotiable. The notary signing agent must verify your identity before you sign. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver's license
• Passport
• Military ID
• State-issued ID card

Make sure your ID is current and has not expired. The name on your ID should match the name on your closing documents.

Proof of Homeowners Insurance

Your lender requires proof that you have homeowners insurance in place before closing. Bring your insurance declaration page or binder showing:

• Your name and the property address
• Coverage amounts
• Policy effective date (should be on or before closing day)

If you haven't finalized insurance yet, contact your agent immediately—your closing may be delayed without it.

Financial Documents for Verification

You may be asked to bring recent bank statements or proof of funds, especially if there were last-minute questions during underwriting. Have available:

• Bank statements (typically last 2 months)
• Proof of your down payment funds
• Pay stubs or proof of income (if requested)

Your lender will let you know if they need these, but it's smart to have them ready just in case.

Cashier's Check or Wire Transfer Instructions

Most closings require a cashier's check for your down payment and closing costs, or you may wire funds directly. Ask your title company which method they prefer and any specific wire instructions. Do not bring personal checks—lenders require certified funds.

A List of Questions or Concerns

If there's anything unclear about your closing documents or the process, write down your questions ahead of time. Your closing agent can clarify procedural questions, though they cannot give legal advice. Having questions written down helps keep the appointment organized and efficient.

Optional But Helpful Items

• Pen: You'll sign many documents; some closing agents provide pens, but bringing your own is fine.
• Notepad: Useful for jotting down numbers, timelines, or details you want to remember.
• Phone: In case you need to contact your real estate agent, lender, or attorney during the appointment.

What NOT to Bring

• Original utility bills or other "soft" ID (not acceptable for notary verification)
• Unsigned documents of your own (the closing is not the time to introduce new paperwork)
• Copies of your loan documents without the originals sent by your lender

Real Estate Closings in the Charlotte Area

Whether you're closing on a home in Charlotte, Mint Hill, Monroe, or Union County, Integrity Closings CLT brings the closing to you. Frank Coxx, a Certified Notary Signing Agent, handles all the notarization and verification so you can sign at your home, office, or the title company's office—whatever works best.

Ready to close? Schedule your closing appointment or call 980-372-4103 for details. We serve the Charlotte metro and surrounding areas with professional, timely notary signing services.

For more on preparing for your appointment, see What to Have Ready for Your Notary Appointment.