Several people could be present at the closing, e.g., your attorney, a seller or seller’s representative, seller’s attorney, real estate agents (both yours and seller’s), lender’s representative, a title company’s representative, closing agent, and a public notary. The exact number and function depends 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 upon agreed terms and periods. You’re supposed to receive it three business days before the closing date and 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, which 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 only). 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 within the city limits of the local government. Inspections are conducted to ensure the 84
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