If you’re thinking about selling your home, the first question is probably: “How much can I get for it?”
The second is: “What do I need to have ready?”
And the third is usually: “Wait... why do I need that?”
Let’s clear it up. Selling a home is more than putting up a sign and crossing your fingers. It comes with a trail of documents behind it. Some that make sense, others that feel like they were invented just to test your patience. But all of them serve a purpose.
Your deed
Your deed confirms your legal name and will show exactly how you hold title to the property: solo, jointly, in a trust, etc. This is one of the first things a title company or closing agent will ask for.
Pro tip: If you can’t find your original deed, don't panic. A copy is on file with the county. Your real estate agent or closing attorney can help pull it.
Your property survey (if you have one)
This shows the boundaries of your lot and the position of the home, fence lines, easements, and sometimes even driveways.
Buyers like surveys, lenders often want them, but not all sellers have one. If you do, hand it over, it saves time and can avoid last-minute surprises (like finding out your shed is technically on the neighbor’s lawn, which may or may have not happened to me once).
A seller’s disclosure
This is Florida. Transparency is required.
The seller’s disclosure is where you tell the buyer what you know about the property. Roof leaks, electrical work, insurance claims, additions, termites, drainage issues, ghost sightings… This is your chance to lay it all out.
The more honest and thorough you are, the less chance a buyer can come back later with surprises or lawsuits.
HOA documents (if applicable)
If your home is in a community with a homeowners association, you’ll need to provide the bylaws, rules, fees, and contact information.
Buyers need this before closing. Otherwise, they can back out of the deal during the review period, even if everything else looks perfect. So dig up that welcome packet, or call the HOA and ask for an official resale package.
A payoff statement (for your mortgage)
If you still have a mortgage, your lender will need to send a payoff letter showing exactly how much you owe, including interest and any fees. That way, the title company can pay off the loan at closing and transfer clean ownership to the buyer.
This isn’t something you need to have in your desk drawer, but you should be ready to request it when your agent or attorney gives you the green light.
Receipts, warranties, and manuals (optional, but appreciated)
Have you replaced the roof? Re-piped the house? Installed a new AC system or water heater? If you have receipts or transferable warranties, pass them along.
And while you’re at it, throw in any manuals for the appliances you’re leaving behind. Buyers love this stuff. It doesn’t affect the legal transaction, but it makes the handoff smoother, and it shows you’ve taken care of the place.
Past utility bills and insurance info (also optional, but helpful)
Some buyers will ask what it costs to maintain the home. You’re not obligated to provide this, but if you have a rough idea of monthly utilities or homeowners insurance premiums, it can help a buyer feel more confident about their purchase.
Just don’t overpromise or guess. If you don’t know, say so.
A government-issued ID
This sounds basic, but it’s required at closing. And yes, it needs to match the name on the deed or the title documents. No nicknames, no expired licenses, no “my passport is somewhere in a drawer from that trip we took in 2017”
Bring a valid ID. It makes everyone’s job easier.
The wildcard: trust documents, divorce decrees, power of attorney
These won’t apply to everyone, but if your home is held in a trust, or if you’re selling due to a divorce, death, or on behalf of someone else, the title company will need the right paperwork. There are a lot of factors that can influence the documents needed, so this is where a real estate agent really earns their keep. We make sure nothing gets missed and no one's surprised at the closing table.
Selling your house doesn’t have to feel like a scavenger hunt. If you're organized (or know where to find someone who is) the paperwork becomes background noise. What really matters is pricing your home correctly, prepping it to show well, and negotiating the right terms. The documents just help seal the deal.
And remember: if you're ever unsure what a document is or why it matters, ask. A good agent will explain things in plain language, without turning every sentence into a sales pitch.
Kelli Eggen
