Your loan balance
A rough idea of what you owe helps us understand your situation. Your latest mortgage statement usually shows the current balance.
Mention any second mortgage, home equity line or other lien too. An estimate is fine for the first call.
If the home is paid off, just say so. That is useful information too.
If you are behind on payments, it helps to mention it. We can plan the closing timeline with that in mind.
Repairs the house needs
Think about what works well and what needs attention. Honest details help us shape an offer that holds up after the walkthrough.
You do not need contractor quotes. A simple list is plenty.
Photos can help, if you have them handy. We may ask for a few pictures before we visit.
Mention anything you have been putting off, even small items. We would rather know up front than find surprises later.
- Roof, furnace, air conditioning and water heater age if you know it
- Leaks, foundation or plumbing concerns
- Rooms or systems that need updating
- Recent improvements you have made
Who lives in the house
Let us know if the home is owner occupied, vacant or rented. If tenants live there, share the lease end date if you have it.
This helps us plan the walkthrough and the closing date around everyone involved.
If the home is vacant, mention how we can get access. A lockbox or a key holder nearby can make the walkthrough easy to schedule.
Tenants may need notice before a visit, depending on the lease and local rules. Planning ahead keeps everyone comfortable.
Everyone on title
Every owner listed on the deed usually needs to agree to the sale and sign at closing. Think about who is on title before the call.
If an owner has passed away or lives far away, mention it early. The title company or an attorney can explain the steps for your situation.
If you are not sure who is on title, your deed or a recent property tax statement can help. The county recorder or assessor's office can also share public records.
Your ideal move date
Your timeline is one of the most helpful things to share. Some sellers want to close soon. Others need time to line up their next home.
We can often work with a range of dates. Telling us early lets us plan around you.
Think about what needs to happen before you move. School schedules, a new job or a home purchase can all shape the best date.
If you are not sure yet, a rough window is fine. You can refine the date as plans come together.
HOA information
If your home is part of a homeowners association, have the HOA name and contact information handy. Note your regular dues and any special assessments you know about.
The closing company usually requests HOA documents during the sale. Having the contact ready helps that step go smoothly.
If there is no HOA, simply let us know. It is one less thing to plan for.
If you have recent HOA statements or a copy of the rules, keep them in one place. The closing company may ask for them later.
Questions to ask us
The first call goes both ways. It is a good time to learn how we work and what comes next.
Write down the answers so you can refer back to them later.
- What are the next steps after this call?
- Will you visit the house, and when?
- Which title company, escrow company or attorney handles your closings?
- How flexible can the closing date be?
- What do you need from me before closing?
General information, not legal or tax advice.