Closings

by Barry

What Happens After the Closing? 3 Things Every Homeowner Should Know

Congratulations on closing on your new home! Closing day marks the culmination of hard work, planning, and a significant financial investment. While it’s a huge milestone, it’s not quite the end of the home-buying journey. There are a few crucial steps you should take to ensure everything is set up for a smooth transition into homeownership.

At Edwards Law, we guide homeowners through every stage of the process, including what to do after the closing. Here are three essential things every new homeowner should know.

1. Transfer Utilities and Update Contact Information

Once you’ve received the keys to your new home, one of the first tasks is to ensure all essential services are transferred to your name. These include:

• Electricity and Gas: Contact your utility providers to start service or transfer existing accounts.
• Water and Sewer: Update your account with the local water authority.
• Internet and Cable: Schedule installation or transfers well in advance to avoid delays.
• Trash Collection: Arrange for garbage and recycling pickup if it’s not included in your property taxes.

Additionally, update your address with the following:

• U.S. Postal Service
• Banks and credit card companies
• Employer payroll for W-2s
• Subscriptions and memberships

Taking these steps promptly ensures uninterrupted service and avoids unnecessary late fees or disruptions.

2. File for Homestead Exemption

As a new homeowner, you may be eligible for a homestead exemption, which can reduce your property taxes. This exemption is available in Georgia for primary residences, but you must file with your county tax office to claim it. Here’s what to know:

• Deadline: In Georgia, the deadline is usually April 1 of the year following your purchase.
• Requirements: You must occupy the property as your primary residence.
• Savings: The exemption can save you hundreds of dollars annually on property taxes.

Don’t miss out on this valuable benefit. Contact your local tax office or visit their website for specific filing instructions.

3. Secure Important Documents

After closing, you’ll have several critical documents that need to be safely stored. These include:

• Deed: This proves your ownership of the property.
• Title Insurance Policy: Protects you against any title-related issues that could arise in the future.
• Closing Disclosure: Outlines all costs and fees associated with the transaction.
• Mortgage Documents: Include your loan agreement and payment schedule.

Store these documents in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe or a secure digital storage service. You may need them for tax purposes, refinancing, or resolving future disputes.

Why Contact Edwards Law?

At Edwards Law, we don’t just help clients during the closing process—we’re here to support you throughout your homeownership journey. If you have questions about title insurance, deed recording, or property taxes, our experienced team can help. We’ll ensure you have the guidance and resources needed to protect your investment and enjoy your new home with confidence.

Ready to Simplify Your Post-Closing Process?

Take the stress out of homeownership with help from Edwards Law. Contact us today for expert advice and personalized support. Your home is our priority, and we’re here to make every step of the journey as seamless as possible.

by Barry

Why You Need an Attorney for Real Estate Closings in Georgia

Buying or selling a home is a major milestone, but it also comes with a lot of legal and financial complexities. In Georgia, it’s not just a good idea to have an attorney involved in your real estate closing—it’s the law. Georgia requires an attorney to oversee all real estate closings to ensure that the transaction is legally sound and protects the interests of all parties involved.

Here’s why having a skilled real estate attorney on your side is essential for a smooth and successful closing process.

What Does an Attorney Do During a Real Estate Closing?

A real estate closing is the final step in a property transaction, where ownership is officially transferred from the seller to the buyer. While this sounds straightforward, it involves numerous legal documents, financial transactions, and potential risks. An attorney plays a critical role in making sure everything is done correctly. Here’s how:

1. Reviewing the Contract: The attorney ensures that the purchase agreement protects your interests and aligns with your goals. They’ll address any unclear or problematic terms and negotiate revisions if necessary.
2. Conducting a Title Search: Before closing, the attorney reviews the property’s title to confirm the seller has the legal right to transfer ownership. They identify any liens, easements, or disputes that could affect your ownership rights.
3. Addressing Title Issues: If title issues are discovered, the attorney works to resolve them before closing, ensuring you don’t inherit someone else’s problems.
4. Preparing Legal Documents: From the deed to the settlement statement, the attorney drafts and reviews all necessary documents to comply with Georgia law.
5. Overseeing the Closing: During the closing meeting, the attorney explains the documents, ensures all parties sign correctly, and facilitates the transfer of funds.
6. Recording the Deed: After the closing, the attorney files the deed with the appropriate county office to officially record your ownership.

Why You Need an Attorney (Even If It Weren’t Required)

While Georgia law mandates attorney involvement, having a real estate attorney benefits you in many ways:

1. Protect Your Investment: Buying a home is a significant financial decision. An attorney safeguards your investment by identifying and resolving potential legal risks.
2. Avoid Costly Mistakes: Errors in contracts, misfiled paperwork, or unresolved title issues can lead to expensive problems down the road. An attorney ensures the process is accurate and thorough.
3. Navigate Complexities: Every real estate transaction is unique, and unexpected challenges can arise. An attorney’s expertise helps you navigate complexities with confidence.
4. Ensure Compliance: Real estate laws vary by state and can change over time. An attorney ensures your transaction complies with all Georgia laws and regulations.

Why Choose Edwards Law for Your Closing?

At Edwards Law, we understand the intricacies of Georgia’s real estate laws and are committed to providing top-notch legal support for your closing. Here’s why clients trust us:

• Experience: We have extensive experience in real estate transactions and understand how to handle even the most complex cases.
• Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your unique needs and guide you through every step of the process.
• Efficiency: We streamline the closing process to ensure everything is handled promptly and accurately.
• Peace of Mind: With Edwards Law, you can feel confident knowing your closing is in capable hands.

Contact Edwards Law Today

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or refinancing, having an experienced attorney by your side makes all the difference. At Edwards Law, we’re here to help you navigate the closing process with ease and ensure your investment is protected.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us make your real estate closing seamless, secure, and stress-free.