The Settlement Statement

The buyer and seller will sign the settlement sheet at the closing, detailing all of the charges that each party has incurred during the sale of the house. It is crucial to go over the sheet for accuracy and to make sure that you understand everything on it before you complete the transaction.

When a contract is negotiated, each side agrees how to divide the loan fees (or points), as well as the other closing charges, such as state or local taxes or escrow fees. Your Realtor can go over the settlement sheet and help you compare it with your purchase agreement. The seller's charges usually include the brokerage fee, the mortgage payoff, and any charges involved in clearing the title, as well as pro-rated property taxes, payments for termite treatment and escrow for repairs that could not be completed by closing. The buyer's costs include charges for the loan and title searches, insurance and any other legal fees. A good closing officer will go over the settlement sheet line by line, explaining each item and correcting any misplaced charges.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://www.dallaschambers.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.