Seller Closing Checklist for Florida Home Owners

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There are a lot of things to keep in mind when selling a Florida property. We’ve created this Florida home seller closing checklist to simplify the process of closing on your home:

Power Down

Don’t forget to transfer or cancel your utility services to coincide with closing on your home. Update your new address with the utility provider so you don’t miss out on deposit refunds!

Be respectful of the buyers and allow them adequate time to transfer services. According to Tampa Bay Area Realtor, Tabi Deas, “It is industry standard for sellers to leave on utilities for 2-3 days, and as soon as the buyers utilities switch on the sellers are no longer charged.” For example, if you close on a Friday, it is common practice to shut off utilities the following Monday. When in doubt, treat others as you would want to be treated.

Avoid unpleasant surprises. Shut-off your ice maker and hot water heater to avoid potential leaks if no one is regularly in the property. Shut off the main water source if the house will be left unattended for more than a couple of days.

Cut the Cable

Hand-deliver your cable and internet equipment to your cable provider. Make sure the final payment is due before your account is closed. Be certain to get a receipt for payment and equipment return.

Transfer Keys to the Kingdom

Pull together all keys to the property when closing on your home. It’s easy to remember the obvious keys, like those for the main doors, but make sure not to overlook other keys, like those for the mailbox, storage areas, or utility closet. Find out if you are expected to leave the keys in the unit or bring them to the closing table.

Secure the Premises

Don’t forget to lock-up all doors, windows, and access points to your property. This is especially important if the property will be vacant prior to a final walkthrough. Avoid any surprises as you get closer to closing on your home.

Make arrangements for transferring access to your security system. After all, the property is still your responsibility until you officially close on your home. Make sure to keep batteries in cameras and other security devices charged. Find out if the buyer will be taking over your system or installing their own. Let the security company know of the transition.

Update Your Insurance

Avoid the costly mistake of paying additional insurance premiums on your property. Contact your insurance carrier and let them know when the property is scheduled to close, but make sure they don’t hit the “cancel” button until you call them to confirm you have completed closing on your home!

Notify Service Providers

Let your lawn maintenance, pest control, and house keeping services know of your plans. Find out if new owners can take over your services contracts. Ask your realtor if this will appeal to buyers in your market. Be sure to get any deposits back or arrange for these to be factored-into the settlement on your closing documents.

Moving Forward

Change your mailing address with everyone from whom you receive mail. For example, credit card companies, investments, banks, magazine subscriptions, and your family. You don’t want to miss out on Aunt Janet’s holiday fruit cake! File a change of address with the post office. Do this online or in person at your local office to make sure all mail gets forwarded to your new address.

Plan for Stress Free Closing on Your Home

Take the hassle out of selling and closing on your home. Follow this seller closing checklist, consult with your local real estate professional, and check out our tips to sell your house fast in Florida.

Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful).

Jacqui May

Jacqui May has a background in nonprofit project management and writing. She is currently a freelance consultant, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, and writer. She enjoys working with diverse organizations to connect them with resources, and make a difference in the community. Jacqui is a straight ally and several of her close family and friends identify as lgbtq. She volunteers with organizations serving veterans, developmentally disabled adults, the homeless, and low-income community members. Originally from New York City, she is a long-time Floridian and has extensively explored the Sunshine State. Jacqui loves history and believes that everyone has a story worth listening to.

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