Closing day in New Hampshire: what to bring and what to expect

What happens in the week before closing?

You'll receive your Closing DisclosureClosing Disclosure A five-page form you receive at least three business days before closing that shows your final loan terms and costs. See the full glossary× at least three business days before closing. It shows your final loan terms and the exact cash you need to bring. Compare it with your Loan Estimate and ask Tom about anything that changed.

The same week, confirm your homeowners insurance is in place, schedule utility transfers, and get the closing time and place from the closing attorney or title company. Keep your finances steady until after closing: no new credit, no large unexplained deposits and no job changes without talking to Tom.

What is the final walk-through?

Usually within a day or so of closing, you and your agent walk through the home to confirm it's in the condition you agreed to: repairs done, appliances that were included still there, and nothing new damaged. If something's wrong, raise it before you sign, while it can still be fixed or credited.

What should I bring to closing?

• A government-issued photo ID for everyone signing
• Proof your cash to closeCash to close The total you bring to closing: your down payment plus closing costs, minus any deposits, credits or gifts. See the full glossary× was sent, or a cashier's check if the closing agent asked for one
• Your copy of the Closing Disclosure
• Your checkbook, in case of a small last-minute adjustment
• Any documents the closing agent or lender asked for in advance

Ask the closing agent exactly how they want funds sent and whether a spouse or co-owner who isn't on the loan needs to sign anything.

How do I send my closing money safely?

Wire fraud targets home buyers. Criminals send fake emails that look like they come from a closing agent or real estate agent, with new wiring instructions. The CFPB's advice:

• Confirm wiring instructions, including the account name and number, by calling the closing agent at a number you already know, never one from an email.
• Treat any email that changes the instructions as a warning sign, even if it looks real.
• Don't email bank account details or other financial information.

If you think you've wired money to the wrong place, call your bank right away and ask for a wire recall, then report it to the FBI at ic3.gov. Speed matters.

What will I sign?

Plan on about an hour. The main documents are:

• The promissory note, your promise to repay the loan on the stated terms
• The mortgage, which secures the loan with the home and is recorded at the county registry of deeds
• The Closing Disclosure, the final statement of your loan terms and costs
• Escrow and other disclosures, including your initial escrow accountEscrow account An account your loan servicer uses to collect and pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance as part of your monthly payment. See the full glossary× statement

The seller signs the deed. New Hampshire's real estate transfer tax is paid when the deed is recorded; the closing costs guide explains how it's split.

When do I get the keys?

Once everything is signed and the closing agent confirms the loan has funded and the sale is complete. On a purchase that's often the same day. Your agent will tell you how keys, garage openers and codes are handed over.

Refinancing is different. On a refinance of the home you live in, you usually have three business days to cancel after signing, so the loan funds after that waiting period.

What happens after closing?

• Your first payment. Mortgage interest is paid after the month it's charged, so the first payment is usually due on the first of the month after a full month has passed. Your closing paperwork shows the date.
• A servicer letter. The company that collects your payments will write with your account details. Loans are often transferred to a new servicer; you'll get notice before that happens.
• Recording. The deed and mortgage are recorded at the county registry of deeds.
• Property taxes. Your escrow account pays your town's tax bills; the tax bills and escrow guide explains why the payment can change.
• Mail offers. Expect official-looking mail offering your deed or mortgage protection. Read it carefully before paying anything, and ask Tom if you're unsure.