All the Documents You Need To Sell a House

By Richard Warner

I have been an investor and landlord for 5 years. When I got my official real estate license, I started as a First Time Homebuyer Specialist and have since received specialization certifications in Luxury Homes, Probate, and Divorce.

Are you looking to sell your home? At times, it may seem that you are stranded in an endless sea of paperwork. There are so many documents required when selling your home that it can be confusing and stressful. If you do not have all of your documentation, it can lead to your buyer’s loan falling through or even facing legal consequences.

I’ve put together this brief primer to assist you through the process. A trusted local real estate agent like me will help you gather these documents so you don’t miss anything. When working with an agent, the only thing you typically have to fill out is the seller’s disclosure. This is not a full list of all the paperwork you might need during a sale, but it should help you get started.

1. Pre-listing paperwork. This is possibly the most paperwork-intensive portion of the process. This stage involves gathering all the necessary documentation of your property ownership and any modifications you’ve made. Important documents may include:

• Title or deed

• Receipts for repairs

• Invoices for recent improvements

• Permits for any major work completed.

• Appliance warranties

• HOA records and guidelines

If there’s any confusion about your property boundaries, you may also need a flood zone verification form or a seller’s disclosure statement. The disclosures and documentation required by a seller can vary widely depending on your specific situation and location.

2. Listing paperwork. This is generally easier for homeowners compared to pre-listing documentation. If your property has been sold relatively recently, public records should be readily available. During this phase, prepare documents that verify the following:

• Acreage

• Square footage

• Block and lot information

• Title check

• Disclosure Paperwork

• Listing Agreement

Much of this paperwork should have been gathered before listing, and some of it will be the responsibility of your real estate agent. Be sure to work closely with your agent to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

3. The offer and closing paperwork. Your real estate agent will manage your offer and closing paperwork, making this step easier. Much of the paperwork will have been prepared in the earlier stages, but it’s still essential to carefully review the following:

• Purchase offer

• Counteroffer

• Response to the request for repairs.

These documents play a crucial role in finalizing the sale. Once you accept an offer, your real estate agent, mortgage company, and title company attorney will generate the necessary closing documents.

During the closing process, you must bring a few key items, primarily your ID. If you’re married, it’s important to note that both spouses must be present at closing, even if you are separated. Separation does not equate to divorce; unless your divorce is finalized, both parties are still legally recognized. This means that in Kentucky, while one spouse can buy a property, both must agree to sell it.

As I said, this is not a complete list of the paperwork you’ll need. Plus, your specific city, county, and state might have different requirements. If you feel overwhelmed, call or email me anytime at (502) 338-2861. We can help you identify, find, generate, or apply for all the necessary documents for your home sale.