Your Guide to Common Issues, Red Flags, and How to Avoid Closing Delays
Selling your home is an exciting milestone. After months of preparation, you want your closing day to be seamless — with no surprises that could delay or derail the sale.
In our “Title Troubles” series, we’ve explored issues that can surface during real estate transactions. This final installment focuses on the seller’s side, showing you how to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.
Stay on Top of Documentation
The first step to a stress-free closing is making sure your paperwork is accurate and complete:
- Identify and resolve liens early – Review your records for unpaid taxes, judgments, or contractor liens. Work with your title company to clear any outstanding issues well before closing.
- Verify property details – The process includes double-checking that your deed, legal description, and names on the title match current ownership. Small discrepancies can cause big delays if left until the last minute.
Keep Timing on Track
In real estate, timing is everything. Staying proactive keeps your sale moving:
- Respond promptly to requests – Quickly return calls or emails from your agent, title company, or escrow officer. Timely communication helps documents get signed and information delivered without bottlenecks.
- Request your mortgage payoff early – The title company will ask your lender for a payoff statement as soon as soon as documentation is turned in. This ensures your closing documents can be finalized and your title transferred cleanly.
Address Legal Matters Upfront
Some properties involve additional legal steps. Planning ahead prevents last-minute complications:
- Confirm all necessary parties – Make sure all owners (spouse, ex-spouse, heirs, business partners, power-of-attorney holders) are disclosed and available to sign before closing.
- Review trust documents – If the property is held in a trust, provide your title company with the full trust document so they can outline next steps and keep your closing on schedule.
- Handle probate issues early – If the property is in the name of a deceased person, consult a real estate attorney to initiate probate in advance. This can take weeks to months if left until the end.
Vanguard Title Helps You Close with Confidence
Being proactive as a seller helps you avoid costly delays, legal issues, and last-minute surprises. Vanguard Title Company’s experienced team partners with you to make sure everything is handled correctly — from a thorough title search to clear instructions on resolving any issues. With more than 20 years in real estate, title insurance, and closings, we’re committed to protecting your interests and making your home sale a positive experience.