What to Bring to Your Real Estate Closing as a Seller in New York

Closing day is the finish line — but arriving unprepared can turn it into a headache. As a seller in New York, your list of required documents is shorter than the buyer's. But the items you do need are non-negotiable, and missing any of them can delay or postpone the closing.

Government-Issued Photo Identification

You must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID to your closing. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver's license
• State-issued non-driver ID
• U.S. passport

The title company and the closing attorney will need to verify your identity before recording the deed. If you are selling with a co-owner, every person on the deed must be present and must bring their own ID.

Your Social Security Number

Your Social Security number is needed for tax reporting related to the sale. The IRS requires that the proceeds of real estate sales be reported on Form 1099-S. You do not need to bring a physical Social Security card — just know the number.

Keys, Access Devices, and Garage Openers

At closing, you hand over possession of the property. This means:

• All keys — front door, back door, side door, any deadbolts
• Garage door openers and exterior keypad codes
• Mailbox keys
• Keys to any outbuildings or storage areas
• Gate codes or fob access if applicable

Alarm Codes and Smart Home Information

If your home has a security system, bring the disarm code and the account information for the monitoring company. If your home has a smart thermostat, doorbell camera, or smart lock linked to an app account, factory-reset these devices before closing or transfer account credentials to the buyer.

Garage Door Remotes and Appliance Manuals

If the sale includes appliances, leave the manuals and any warranty cards at the property or bring them to closing. Buyers appreciate them.

Proof of Payoff or Satisfaction of Mortgage

Your attorney will have already coordinated the payoff of your existing mortgage. But if you have received a payoff letter directly from your lender, bring it with you. Also bring documentation for any HELOCs — these need to be paid off and closed at or before closing.

Documentation for Recent Repairs or Improvements

If you made any significant repairs or improvements that were discussed during the contract process, bring documentation: permits pulled, contractor invoices, inspection sign-offs, warranty documents. This is especially important if you agreed to make specific repairs as a condition of the contract.

Wire Transfer Instructions

Your net proceeds will be disbursed at closing, usually by wire transfer. Make sure your attorney has your wire transfer instructions — account number and routing number — well in advance of closing day.

Important: Never email wire transfer instructions without verifying with your attorney by phone. Wire fraud in real estate transactions is a real and growing problem. Always confirm by a second method.

What You Don't Need to Bring

Sellers sometimes worry about paperwork that is actually the responsibility of other parties:

• The deed — your attorney or the title company prepares the deed; you sign it at closing but do not bring a draft
• Title insurance — that's the buyer's policy
• Closing disclosure / loan documents — those belong to the buyer's lender

Have Questions Before Closing?

At Weinman Law Offices, Pete Weinman walks seller clients through the closing process in detail so there are no surprises on closing day.

For a complete overview of the entire selling process, see The Staten Island Home Selling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Contact Pete today: Call (718) 442-2010 | Text (718) 957-8121 | Weinman@StatenIslandLaw.com