title company’s representative, closing agent, and a notary public. The exact number and function depend on the state and county. In some states, it’s as few as the buyer(s) and the closing agent, with all documents pre-executed by the other parties. Basically, the purpose of the meeting is to sign the following documents: • Closing Disclosure (CD). This document contains your final payments, costs, and charges and agreed upon terms and periods. You must receive it three business days before the closing date and should compare it with the conditions of the initial loan estimate. • Mortgage note. In signing this document, you agree to your mortgage terms and conditions, as well as penalties, in case you’re not able to pay duly and on time. • Deed of trust or mortgage. In real estate, a deed of trust, or trust deed, is a deed wherein legal title in real property is transferred to a trustee, who holds it as security for a loan (debt) between a borrower and lender. The equitable title remains with the borrower. • Certificate of Occupancy (for new houses or major renovations). The Certificate of Occupancy provides authorization from the local government for a building to be used as a public edifice or as a private residence. The purpose of the certificate is to provide verification that the building is in full compliance with current building codes and is safe for occupancy. This type of certificate is issued whenever a new building is constructed or major renovation is completed within the city or town limits of
the local government. Inspections are conducted to ensure the basic construction, wiring, plumbing, and
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