Seller Guide
What to Expect at Closing
The seller's closing process in Georgia, from the week before the closing table through proceeds disbursement. No surprises.
The Timeline
Closing, step by step
What happens between an accepted offer and the day your proceeds arrive. Georgia-specific throughout.
The week before closing
Coordinate utilities transfer, do a final walkthrough of the property, and confirm that any agreed repairs are completed and documented. Gather your government-issued ID and any keys, garage openers, HOA materials, and appliance manuals you are leaving with the home.
Closing disclosure review
Your closing attorney's office will provide a closing disclosure or settlement statement itemizing your proceeds, commission, transfer tax, prorated property taxes and HOA fees, and any seller-paid credits. Review this document carefully before the closing date and ask questions if any line item is unclear.
At the closing table
You will sign the deed transferring title to the buyer, along with any seller-specific affidavits (no liens, owner occupancy confirmation, and similar). Georgia closings are attorney-conducted, so a licensed Georgia attorney will be present and can explain every document. The process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for the seller.
Proceeds disbursement
After the buyer's lender funds the loan and the deed is recorded with the county, the closing attorney disburses your net proceeds. Wires are typically same-day. Commission, transfer tax, any outstanding liens or payoffs, and prorated amounts are settled before the balance reaches you.
Georgia transfer tax
Georgia imposes a real estate transfer tax under O.C.G.A. section 48-6-1, generally the grantor's (seller's) obligation. The amount is based on the purchase price. The exact allocation between buyer and seller is governed by the Purchase and Sale Agreement. The default is seller-paid, but this can be negotiated.
After closing
Turn over all keys, access codes, and HOA materials at or before closing. Cancel your homeowner's insurance only after the deed has been recorded. Forward any future mail, and contact your local tax authority if needed for a prorated tax credit. Keep a copy of the final settlement statement for tax purposes.
Proceeds Calculation
How your net proceeds are calculated
The settlement statement will itemize every line. These are the typical components on the seller's side.
| Item | Who typically pays | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Real estate commission | Seller | Negotiated in listing agreement |
| Georgia transfer tax | Seller (default) | O.C.G.A. § 48-6-1; allocable by contract |
| Mortgage payoff | Seller | Outstanding principal plus accrued interest |
| Prorated property taxes | Seller (for days owned) | Settled to closing date |
| Prorated HOA dues | Seller (for days owned) | If applicable |
| Seller-paid buyer credits | Seller | If negotiated in PSA |
| Outstanding liens or judgments | Seller | Must be cleared to convey clean title |
| Attorney closing fee (seller portion) | Seller | Varies by attorney; review settlement statement |
The allocation of closing costs is governed by the Purchase and Sale Agreement and can vary. This table reflects common practice, not legal advice. Review your settlement statement with your closing attorney before signing.
Related Seller Guides
Prepare for the full process
Closing is the final stage of a prepared sale. These guides cover the steps that come before it, so there are no surprises at the table.
FAQ
Closing questions
Most residential closings run between 30 and 60 minutes for the seller. Unlike buyers, sellers typically sign fewer documents. If you are using the proceeds to fund a simultaneous purchase, coordination between the two closings may extend the timeline. Your closing attorney's office will confirm the expected duration when scheduling.
Both parties have closing costs, and the specific allocation is negotiated in the Purchase and Sale Agreement. Sellers typically pay the real estate commission, transfer tax, and their share of prorated property taxes and HOA fees. Buyers often pay lender fees, title insurance, and recording fees. The amounts vary by transaction and what was negotiated.
In Georgia, funds are typically disbursed on the same day as closing, after the deed has been recorded with the county. The closing attorney's office coordinates funding and recording. Wire transfers are same-day; a check may arrive the following business day depending on the bank. Your closing attorney can give you the exact timeline.
Georgia is an attorney-closing state, meaning a licensed Georgia real estate attorney must handle the closing. The buyer typically selects the closing attorney, though this is negotiable. The same attorney represents the transaction, not either party individually.
Not necessarily. Georgia allows sellers to sign documents remotely using a power of attorney or a remote online notarization arrangement in some circumstances. If you cannot attend in person, discuss remote-closing options with your closing attorney well before the closing date.
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