What to bring to closing
A short checklist so closing day goes smoothly. Choose buyer or seller, tick off each item as you gather it, and call your closer with any questions.
Complete your identity check
Before closing you'll get a text or email from us. Take a photo of your driver's license, state ID or passport and a quick selfie. It takes about two minutes.
Photo ID for everyone signing
A current driver's license, state ID or passport for each person on the purchase. Names should match your loan documents.
Your closing funds
A wire sent in advance, or a cashier's check made payable to Abacus Title or Abacus Title and Escrow Group, LLC. Your closer will tell you the exact amount before closing. Personal checks are not accepted for closing funds.
Homeowner's insurance information
Your agent's name and the policy or binder number. Your lender needs proof of coverage before closing.
Anything your lender or closer asked for
Bank statements, letters of explanation or signed disclosures your lender requested in the days before closing.
Power of attorney, if someone signs for you
Send us a scan or the original before closing so the lender and underwriter can approve it. Your closer will let you know if the original is needed at closing.
Trust or company documents, if buying that way
The trust certificate, or LLC articles and an operating agreement showing who may sign.
Complete your identity check
Before closing you'll get a text or email from us. Take a photo of your driver's license, state ID or passport and a quick selfie. It takes about two minutes.
Photo ID for every owner on title
A current driver's license, state ID or passport for each owner who signs the deed.
Mortgage and loan information
Lender names and loan numbers for each mortgage or home equity line. Our payoff authorization form makes this faster.
Keys, openers and codes
House and mailbox keys, garage door openers, alarm codes and any association fobs.
Forwarding address
Where to send year-end tax forms and any refunds from escrow or tax prorations.
How you want to receive your proceeds
A check at closing or a wire to your bank. Wire instructions are verified by phone before any funds are sent.
Probate or trust documents, if they apply
A trust certificate, letters of authority from probate court, or a death certificate for a deceased co-owner, sent to us before closing so they can be reviewed.
Business documents, if a company is buying or selling
For an LLC, the operating agreement and a member resolution confirming who has authority to sign. For a corporation, the bylaws and a corporate resolution confirming the same. Send them to us before closing so they can be reviewed.
Judgment of divorce, if the transaction relates to a divorce
A certified copy of the Judgment of Divorce, sent to us before closing so it can be reviewed.
For everyone
Plan for about an hour
Most closings take 45 minutes to an hour. Arrive a few minutes early.
Every signer present
Everyone on the loan or title should attend. If someone can't, ask us about a witness closing before the closing date.
Name changes documented
If your name has changed since you signed the contract or loan application, bring the marriage certificate or court order.
Common questions
Can I sign if I can't be there in person?
Often, yes. Abacus Title offers witness closings, where you sign with an approved notary or attorney near you. Let your closer know as early as possible so the lender and underwriter can approve it.
How do I send my closing funds?
By wire transfer or cashier's check. Before you wire, call your closer at a known number to confirm the instructions. Never follow wiring instructions that arrive by email alone.
When will I know how much to bring?
Your closer sends the final figures before closing, once the lender's numbers and payoffs are confirmed. Buyers with a mortgage also receive a Closing Disclosure from their lender at least three business days before closing.
Do both spouses need to attend?
It depends on how title is held and what the lender requires. Ask your closer, and plan for both to attend if you are unsure.
What happens after closing?
We record the deed and mortgage with the county, pay off any old loans, disburse funds and issue the final title policy. Owners receive their policy by mail once recording is complete.
Ready to open a file?
Order online, email orders@abtitlemi.com, or send our order form to any office.