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5 Common Myths About Home Closings Debunked

5 Common Myths About Home Closings Debunked

5 Common Myths About Home Closings Debunked

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but when it comes to the closing process, many first-time buyers can feel overwhelmed.

A lot of confusion arises from myths and misconceptions about what happens during closing. Don’t worry—today, we’re clearing up five of the most common myths surrounding home closings to ensure you have a smooth and stress-free experience.

Myth #1

The Closing Process is Fast and Simple

While some may think closing is a quick, simple formality, it’s actually an involved process. There are plenty of legal documents, paperwork, and financial steps that need to be finalized before everything is official. Expect the closing process to take some time—more than just a few minutes—and be sure to review all documents thoroughly.

Myth #2

You Have to Pay All Closing Costs Upfront

Many first-time buyers worry about paying hefty fees upfront. While there are indeed closing costs, such as title insurance and appraisal fees, you don’t always have to pay everything out of pocket at once. In some cases, closing costs can be rolled into your mortgage, or you may negotiate with the seller to cover part of these expenses.

Myth #3

You Can’t Back Out of the Deal After Signing the Contract

It’s a big commitment, but the truth is, you *can* back out of the deal under certain circumstances—like if you find issues during the home inspection or if the appraisal doesn’t come in as expected. There are contingencies in place to protect buyers, so be sure to understand your rights before moving forward.

Myth #4

You Must Attend Closing in Person

The idea of spending hours in an office, signing stacks of papers in person, is intimidating to many. However, in today’s digital age, remote closings are becoming more common. Depending on the lender and state regulations, you might be able to complete the process online or at a remote location, making it much more convenient.

Myth #5

The Closing Date is Set in Stone

Although the closing date is agreed upon early in the process, life happens, and delays can occur. From paperwork snafus to last-minute negotiations, don’t be alarmed if the date shifts a little. Your closing agent will keep you updated on any changes and help you navigate the process smoothly.

The home closing process doesn’t have to be stressful. By debunking these myths, you can walk into your closing day with confidence and the right knowledge. With the right team by your side, like The Best Closings, you can enjoy this exciting time in your home-buying journey without any unnecessary worries.

Did You Know?

Did you know that as a homebuyer, you have the legal right to choose your own closing attorney? Many buyers aren’t aware of this right, assuming the lender or realtor has control over who represents them during the closing process. However, selecting a trusted closing attorney is crucial for ensuring that your legal rights are protected, and that the transaction proceeds smoothly. A knowledgeable attorney helps manage critical tasks like reviewing closing documents, coordinating title insurance, and addressing any legal issues that may arise. By choosing the right attorney, you’re taking an active role in safeguarding your interests and ensuring a seamless home purchase experience. For more information on the closing attorney’s role and how it can impact your transaction, read our full article!

Young couple showing keys in a city background setting. The image implies the young couple has just received keys to their first home purchase.

Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire

From Our Clients

“I would highly recommend David as a closing attorney. I have known David and have been using his office for many years. David’s professionalism when dealing with me, my closing department and most especially my clients has been always exemplary.”
DAVID BREMER

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SHAMROCK FINANCIAL SERVICES

“The Law Office of Attorney David R. Rocheford, Jr. is by far the most exceptional real estate law office that I have had the pleasure of working with. The professionalism is by far second to none.”
JACQUI KEOGH

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER, SALEM FIVE MORTGAGE SERVICES

“Attorney David Rocheford has provided settlement and title services for me and Greenpark Mortgage several years. He has assisted all of my clients, including my family and friends with mortgage closings. Always providing excellent service. Reliable and trustworthy!”
SANDRA MALDONADO

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Isn’t That Loan Fraud?

Isn’t That Loan Fraud?

The definition of loan fraud is simple.  According to the F.B.I. loan fraud is any material misstatement, misrepresentation or omission relied upon by a mortgage underwriter or lender to fund a loan.

The definition does not make any exception for white lies, half truths, fibs or creative facts.  It says any material misstatement, misrepresentation or omission.  In most cases if you are involved in a real estate loan transaction, as a borrower, real estate agent, attorney or some other party, and you have to ask yourself or someone else “Is that loan fraud?”  95% of the time the answer is “yes.”

In most cases when I am asked about whether or not something is loan fraud the conversation usually goes something like this: (more…)

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Realtors® are licensed and are trained to understand all aspects of real estate sale and purchase transactions as part of that licensing. From rules and regulations to financing options a good Realtor can guide their client through the complicated process of buying or selling real estate.  Realtors® are required to continue their training annually to receive training credits to renew their licenses.

Realtors® have access to resources not available to the average home buyer or seller.  (more…)

Understanding Title Insurance

Understanding Title Insurance

With all of the recent talk of improper foreclosures having taken place, and the issues with bank owned real estate title problems, the question of the need for title insurance has been a hot topic. I have always stressed the importance of purchasing an owner’s policy of title insurance. Regardless of who is selling the property, how long it has been in the family or how familiar you or the seller may be with the property you just never know (more…)

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So what is a short sale flip?

A short sale flip is when a property is purchased by a real estate “investor” from a seller who has negotiated with the current mortgage holder(s) to release the mortgage(s) for less than what is owed, the purchaser of the property then flips, or resells, the property for a profit. (more…)

Marketable Title vs. Insurable Title

I have had a lot of questions recently regarding the topic of marketable vs. insurable title. They are both terms of art, in that they are unique terms to the legal and title industry.  They are not easily defined with comparable examples.

When a title is marketable it means that the chain of ownership (title) to a particular piece of property is clear and free from defects.  And as such, it can be marketed for sale without additional effort by the seller or potential buyer.

In contrast an insurable title does, or may have a known defect or defects in the chain of title.  However, with an insurable title, a title insurance company has agreed in advance to provide insurance against the defects ever affecting the ownership or value of the property.

If a property does not have a current, valid title insurance policy and there is a defect in the chain of title, then the defect must be cured or repaired before a seller can convey marketable title.  If there is a current policy, rather than curing or fixing the defect, which can be very expensive and time consuming, the title insurance company may elect to insure against any problem the defect may cause in the future.  That is, the insurance company agrees to fix the problem only when – and IF – it ever becomes an immediate problem.  Some defects in title may never become a problem or threaten the value or ownership of the property.  Title insurance companies, like any insurance companies are in the business of risk management, and whenever possible would rather defer the risk then to pay to address/correct it.

One of the biggest problems with insurable title is that a buyer of a property accepting insurable title (rather than marketable title) is taking a risk of their own.  It’s not that the defects may ever threaten the value or ownership of the property, but that upon resale of the property the next buyer may not be as willing to accept the insurable title and may demand a marketable title.

Be sure that you know the type of title the seller intends to convey before you sign a purchase contract.