After you sell a house, it doesn’t end with closing the deal. There will be a couple of tasks that you must accomplish first before handing the keys to the new owner. Getting them done are necessary to protect yourself against future problems down the road. Here’s what you should take care of while finalizing the sale.

4 Steps to Take After You Sell a House

1. Keep Track of Your Documents

Refrain from shredding or disposing of documents about the sale. Instead, store every piece of related paperwork, including executed seller disclosures, purchase contracts, and closing statements in a file together. Not only will you need them for filing tax returns, but they will also serve as evidence if the deal goes awry. Keep receipts on home improvements and purchases — they can be used for tax purposes as well.

2. Have the House Cleaned

After emptying the house of your belongings, it’s a nice gesture to have it cleaned thoroughly. Even after you sell a home, leave it how you’ll want to see it as a buyer. Hire professional cleaners to remove grime, polish fixtures, scrub overlooked corners, and wipe down surfaces for a fresh, clean feel. Turn off the water valves, and if the electricity hasn’t been disconnected yet, shut it down using the main switch.

3. Do a Final Walk-Through

Attend the final walkthrough with the new owner, as you know more about the home and its inherent quirks. Advise the new owners on where the main switches are located and how to operate them. Find every key in the house, label each, and put them in one place like the kitchen drawer or cupboard. Take time to gather every manual and warranty, and store them in an envelope or plastic case.

4. Give Notice on Change of Address

After you sell a house, make a list of utility companies and notify them about closing your account. If you have subscriptions and insurance policies, call them about your intention to cancel. Disclose your new address if you wish to continue the subscription, and don’t forget to submit a change of address notice to a local post office. 

When it’s time to sell a house, the real estate professionals at Hensley Realty will guide you from start to finish, making sure no step in the process is overlooked. As the leading real estate firm in Russell, KY, owner Dale Hensley and his team have helped countless sellers throughout the Greater Ashland area find the right property buyers. Call (606) 836-9770 today or browse their real estate listings online.