The Seller's Pre-Listing Checklist

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Before listing

• Choose your attorney
• Gather your deed, survey, title policy and mortgage statements
• Complete the Residential Real Property Disclosure Report, radon disclosure and, for pre-1978 homes, lead-based paint disclosure
• Condos: ask the association what Section 22.1 documents cost and how long they take
• Check your municipality's transfer requirements; some need an inspection weeks ahead
• Locate permits for past renovations

Days 1–5 after acceptance

• Send the signed contract to your attorney the same day
• Make the home available for the buyer's inspection
• Review the buyer's inspection requests with your attorney before responding

Before closing

• Order the water certificate or final water reading
• Schedule any required municipal inspection
• Provide mortgage account numbers so your attorney can order payoff letters
• Condos: request the 22.1 package and paid-assessment letter
• Gather your most recent property tax bills for the proration
• Arrange movers and utility shut-off or transfer for the possession date

Closing day

• Leave the home broom-clean with agreed items in place
• Bring a government photo ID if signing in person
• Provide keys, garage openers and manuals
• Confirm how you'll receive your proceeds (wire or check)

After closing

• Keep your closing statement for tax time
• Cancel homeowner's insurance after the deed records
• Forward your mail

Estimate your take-home with the seller net proceeds calculator.

By Attorney Shara Kamal. General information for Chicago-area readers; not legal advice for a specific situation.