A common misconception in Pennsylvania real estate is that sellers must be present at the closing. In reality, as long as all costs are settled and documents are signed, you’re good to go!
Your Two Options for Signing Closing Documents
The flexibility of modern real estate transactions means you generally have two convenient choices for handling your required paperwork: signing beforehand or attending the official closing.
Option 1: Signing Documents at Your Convenience
The great news is that required documents can typically be signed at your convenience; whether that’s in the comfort of your own home or at your office. You can schedule this at a time that works best for you.
- Key Requirement: The required documents need a notary, so working with a reliable title company or mobile notary is essential to ensure everything is filled out correctly and legally executed.
- The Benefit: This is the most popular route for convenience, as it saves you time and a trip to the closing table.
Option 2: Attending the Closing (The Traditional Route)
Historically, many sellers would attend closings, and there are still strong benefits to being present.
- The Benefit: Being present allows for immediate clarification of any questions that arise and facilitates direct communication between all parties, which helps everyone understand the final moments of the transaction fully.
- Recommendation: While signing beforehand is more convenient for many, I still encourage sellers to consider the benefits of attending, as it can often lead to the smoothest closing experience.
Final Takeaway for PA Sellers
Don’t let the thought of a closing schedule stress you out. Your primary job is to ensure all paperwork is properly notarized and delivered. Work closely with your agent to choose the option that best fits your schedule and comfort level!
