Click Here for Local Weather

• Contact your lender to determine if a binder for homeowner's insurance is acceptable. In most cases, the actual policy is required, and your insurance carrier needs adequate time to prepare and deliver the policy. Bring a copy with you to closing
• Your closing funds (balance of down payment, closing costs, etc.) are usually required in the form of a certified or cashier's check. Personal checks may not be accepted and would cause your closing to be delayed. Check with your settlement company to verify the proper form of payment. Checks should be made payable to the settlement company for disbursement at closing. If your funds are in a MONEY MARKET account, notify your lender well in advance. Many banks will not issue a cashier's check until the money market check has cleared. Your settlement company contact will be able to answer specific questions about this process
• All utilities needed at your new home should be transferred or opened in your name effective the date of settlement. These are usually gas, water, sewer (if applicable), telephone, cable and electric
• Water and sewer (if applicable) bills and current year's real estate taxes will be pro-rated between you and the seller on the closing statement. You will be responsible for paying all bills after closing. The sellers have already credited you with their portion on the closing statement
• If the home you are purchasing is heated by oil, the amount of oil will be measured and the seller will bring a statement to closing. You will be required to write a personal check, made payable to the seller, for the purchase of the oil