A Philadelphia Condominium Buyer’s Day of Closing
Here are some helpful hints on what to do/what to expect on your “big” day:
1) Make sure that the funds you have are either in the form of a certified check, or your funds have been wired into the
title company’s account. No one is going to take your “3rd party, postdated, out-of-state” check. No one. AND…bring your ID.2) Plan on some type of delay. Either your
mortgage company is not going to have the paperwork ready, or the interest rate you were quoted may be incorrect, or perhaps THEIR wire (your loan amount) has yet to be received by the closing (title) company. It may seem shocking that the people who practically beg for your business are so disorganized. But they usually are. Perhaps this would be a good time to resume sticking needles in a voodoo doll that resembles the seller. Kidding…do that on your own time.3) Ask the seller if anyone has another set of keys to your condo. Any other sets floating around? And does the management company (if applicable) have a set? They should.
4) Make sure you get a key to the mailbox, should you have an interior unit without a mail slot carved into your front door. Often overlooked.
5) While waiting for someone to do something that they previously forgot to do, why not take the time to call the gas and electric company that you will need to use. Usually can be done over the phone.
6) Now might also be a good time to gather info: How do I get my name programmed into the front intercom of the building (if applicable), what is the Mgmt. company’s contact number, and who is the contact? How will I receive my monthly condo dues bill?
7) What should you do with all the paperwork given to you on your day of settlement?
KEEP THEM HANDY. Do not lose. You will need to refer to this paperwork again, I guarantee you. Especially at tax time.
8) If you realtor did a good job for you, then brag about them to your friends and family in the future. See that others you care about, get the same good treatment. If your realtor was as valuable as say a bag of nails, then you will know who not to call in the future. If I was your realtor, and I could easily be compared to a bag of nails, then perhaps a good swift “thump” up the side of my head would be appropriate.
Mark Wade
www.CenterCityCondos.com
Prudential Fox and Roach REALTORS®
530 Walnut St., Suite 260 Philadelphia, PA 19106
