Sellers Preparation for Closing

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The following check list summarizes the duties you are responsible for prior to the upcoming closing on your property:

Smoke Detector Certificate ? First, be sure that your smoke detectors are installed and working properly.  Contact the local Fire Department 14 ? 21 days prior to your closing and schedule an appointment for the Fire Chief to come to your home to inspect your smoke detectors. He will give you a certificate indicating that you have passed inspection. Bring the original certificate with you to the closing (copies are not acceptable). The bank will not close without this.

Carbon Monoxide Detector Certificate ? Effective March 31, 2006 MA Law requires that all homeowners install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. The Fire Chief will test these during the same visit that he checks the smoke detectors.  You will be given a certificate stating that you are in compliance. Bring this certificate with you to the closing. The bank will not close without this.

Final Water Bill ? Call the local Water Dept. and ask them to come to your home to read the water meter several days before closing.  Tell them what date you will close. They will issue a final water bill, which you must pay before your closing.  Bring the ?paid? water bill with you to the closing.

Last Paid Tax Bill ? Bring a copy of your last paid tax bill with you to the closing.  If there are any unpaid taxes due, the bank attorney will calculate the money owed to the town and deduct it from your proceeds at closing.

Deed From You to the Buyers ? You are responsible for drawing up a new deed in the Buyers? names for the closing.  Your attorney can do this for you OR you can request the bank attorney for the buyer to draw one up for you. There is a nominal fee for this service.

6D Certificate (for condo owners) ? After your P & S is signed, notify your condo association and inform them of your closing date.  They will send you a statement of your account for fees due.  These fees must be paid prior to closing.  Once the fees are paid in full, the association will issue a 6D certificate that indicates that your debts are paid in full.  Bring this certificate with you to the closing.  The bank will not close without this certificate.