Homebuyer Closing Checklist: What to Do Before Closing Day in DuPage County
Once your offer is accepted, the transaction becomes a series of deadlines, documents and practical move-in tasks. This closing checklist turns John Salidas's buyer resources into a clear plan for the final stretch.
Use it alongside the instructions from your contract, attorney, lender and title company. Those professionals control the exact timing, funds, documents and legal requirements for your closing.
Immediately after contract acceptance
Send the signed contract to your attorney and lender.
Deliver earnest money according to the contract instructions.
Schedule inspections promptly and confirm the contractual deadline.
Complete lender disclosures, applications and document requests.
Create a secure folder for the contract, inspection materials, lender documents and contact information.
During attorney review, inspection and financing
Keep your agent and attorney informed of inspection findings and priorities.
Do not open new credit, finance furniture, change employment or make unexplained bank transfers without speaking with your lender.
Review title, survey, association and municipal documents as applicable.
Arrange homeowner's insurance and provide evidence to the lender.
Track the appraisal and remaining loan conditions.
The rights and deadlines attached to inspection, attorney review, financing and appraisal depend on the signed contract. Ask your attorney or lender before acting on a generic checklist.
One to two weeks before closing
Confirm the closing date, time and location with your attorney.
Arrange movers and reserve elevators, parking or building access if needed.
Schedule utility transfers for electricity, gas, water, internet and other services.
Update your address with the U.S. Postal Service, employer, banks, credit cards, insurers and subscriptions.
Plan vehicle-registration and Illinois driver's-license updates after the move.
Confirm what identification and documents you must bring.
Protect your closing funds
Real estate wire fraud is a serious risk. Never rely on unexpected emailed wiring instructions. Before sending funds, independently call your attorney or title company using a trusted phone number and verify every detail. Be suspicious of last-minute changes.
Prepare for the final walkthrough
Bring the contract and any written repair agreements.
Confirm included fixtures and personal property remain.
Check that the home is in the agreed condition and substantially free of the seller's belongings unless otherwise agreed.
Review negotiated repairs or credits with your agent and attorney.
Note unexpected damage or material changes immediately.
A final walkthrough is a condition check shortly before closing; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Closing-day checklist
Bring acceptable government-issued identification.
Use only the verified payment method and final amount provided by your closing team.
Review the final closing disclosure and settlement figures with your lender and attorney.
Ask questions before signing anything you do not understand.
Confirm how and when keys, garage remotes and possession will be delivered.
After you receive the keys
Change exterior locks and security codes.
Locate utility shutoffs, the electrical panel and emergency contacts.
Store closing documents, warranties and inspection records securely.
Complete address, insurance and vehicle updates that could not be finalized earlier.
Create a maintenance calendar for filters, detectors, HVAC service and seasonal tasks.
Keep the move connected to your search team
John Salidas helps buyers move from the first Zenlist alert through tours, offer strategy, due diligence, final walkthrough and closing coordination. That continuity matters when several professionals and deadlines need to stay aligned.
Important note
This checklist is general information, not legal, lending, tax, insurance, inspection or title advice. Your contract and professional team determine the actual obligations, deadlines, costs and documents for your transaction.
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