You and the seller agree on price and terms; you both sign the offer to purchase contract. While you wait for your closing date, you need to do a few things.

• Purchase homeowner's insurance. You must provide a policy number or binder agreement before closing. Caution: obtain your policy before settlement; if you do not, the lender will sell you a policy that will be 2 – 3 times as expensive. Check with your renter’s or auto insurance company for the policy, or with USAA.If your new home is in a flood plain, your lender will require that you carry flood insurance (only the U.S. federal government writes the coverage, but your home insurer should be able to sell it to you). Similarly, if your home is in a high-risk area for hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, and so forth, you may be required to carry additional insurance coverage.



• Conduct a walk-through and inspection of your new home just before the closing. The purpose of this inspection is to make sure all required repairs have been completed to your satisfaction. Don't take the seller's word or let the seller's agent rush you.



• Notify the post office and utility companies of the change of address/ownership. Be certain you have made all necessary arrangements to change over utility accounts to your name. Submit change-of-address information to the post office. Real estate agents often have helpful resources and contact information to make this easy.

Your real estate agent, lawyer, and/or title attorney will be busy preparing for your closing. They will make certain your seller is providing title evidence and a deed with all liens removed. Before the closing, your lender will provide a good-faith written estimate of the closing or settlement costs you can expect to pay.