The Complete Closing Checklist for Minnesota Home Sellers (Wire vs. Check, Utilities, and What to Bring)

Why Sellers Need a Checklist (In Their Own Words)

One of our sellers put it perfectly in her review: "I wish there had been a check list for what I needed to do and know. Wire vs check, calling the utilities, and general info like when and where closing is. It is kinda assumed the seller should know it, I did not." She was right — the industry assumes sellers just know these things. So we built the checklist.

What follows are the highlights. For the full interactive version — where you can check items off and your progress saves automatically — visit our Closing Checklist page, or download the printable PDF to keep on the fridge.

The Big Three Questions Every Seller Has

Wire or check? A wire deposits your proceeds directly into your bank account, usually the same or next business day — you'll need your routing and account numbers before closing. A cashier's check is handed to you at the closing table. Wires are faster for large amounts; checks feel more tangible. Either is fine — just decide before closing week so the title company can prepare.

When do I call the utilities? One to two weeks before closing, call each provider — electric, gas, and city water/sewer/trash — and schedule a transfer-out with a final meter reading on your closing date. Transfer, don't disconnect: utilities must stay on through closing day. Have your account numbers ready when you call; it makes each call a five-minute task instead of twenty.

When and where is closing? Closing happens at a title company's office (with remote and mobile-notary options often available). You should receive the date, time, and location in writing shortly after accepting an offer — if you haven't, ask. There is no such thing as a dumb question during a closing; the process only feels obvious to people who do it every week.

The Mistake That Costs Sellers Real Money: Wire Fraud

The single most important item on the checklist: verify wire instructions by phone before your bank sends anything. Criminals monitor real estate transactions and send convincing "updated wire instructions" emails days before closing. Legitimate title companies do not change wire instructions by email at the last minute. Call the title company at a number you looked up yourself — not one from the email — and read the instructions back to them. Thirty seconds of verification protects your entire proceeds.

Timing Traps Worth Knowing

Don't cancel your homeowner's insurance early. Schedule cancellation for the day after closing — cancelling before leaves you uninsured while you still own the home, and you'll receive a refund of prepaid premium anyway.

Don't forget what stays with the house: every key, garage remotes, mailbox keys, and any well or septic records. Gathering these a week early beats hunting for a garage remote the morning of closing.

And after closing: confirm your wire landed the next business day, pay the final utility bills when they arrive (they close out your accounts), and save your settlement statement for tax season.

Get the Full Checklist

The complete version covers all five phases — from the day you accept an offer through the week after closing — with every step explained in plain language. Use the interactive checklist or download the free PDF. And if you're selling to us, you never work through it alone: call (651) 383-4590 with any question, at any step.