What Documents Should Buyers and Sellers Bring to a Florida Closing?

Florida real estate closings are handled by title companies or real estate attorneys. Most of the documents you will sign are prepared by the title company — but both buyers and sellers need to bring specific items to make the closing go smoothly.

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What Sellers Need to Bring

Government-Issued Photo ID

All sellers must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID, or passport. If there are multiple sellers (spouses, co-owners), each person who will sign must bring their own ID.

All Keys, Access Devices, and Garage Door Openers

Sellers are responsible for delivering all keys, key fobs, access cards, garage door openers, mailbox keys, and any other access devices to the buyer at closing.

HOA Documents and Access Information

For properties subject to HOA or condo association governance, sellers should bring any HOA documents, gate codes, parking passes, pool access fobs, and similar items that will transfer to the buyer.

Warranty Documents and Manuals

Sellers should bring any available warranty documents for appliances, HVAC systems, roofing, and other systems — along with owner's manuals for appliances that will remain with the property.

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What Buyers Need to Bring

Government-Issued Photo ID

All buyers who will be on the deed must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID.

Certified Funds or Wire Confirmation

Buyers must bring the funds needed to close in the form of a wire transfer (confirmed before closing) or a cashier's check made payable to the title company. Personal checks are not accepted.

Important: Wire fraud is a serious risk in real estate transactions. Always confirm wire instructions by calling the title company directly at a phone number you independently verified — never rely on wire instructions received by email.

Proof of Homeowner's Insurance

Lenders require buyers to have homeowner's insurance in place before closing. Buyers should bring their insurance binder or declaration page showing coverage effective on or before the closing date.

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What the Title Company Prepares

The title company prepares the documents that both parties will sign at closing, including:

• Deed: Transfers ownership from seller to buyer
• Closing Disclosure (CD): Itemizes all closing costs for both parties
• Settlement Statement (HUD-1 or ALTA): Detailed accounting of all funds
• Mortgage documents (for financed transactions)
• Title insurance policies: Owner's policy and lender's policy
• Affidavits: Seller's affidavit of title, no-lien affidavit, and similar documents

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Reviewing the Closing Disclosure Before Closing Day

Buyers in financed transactions receive a Closing Disclosure (CD) at least 3 business days before closing. Review it carefully before closing day. Confirm that the loan amount, interest rate, monthly payment, and cash to close all match what you were quoted.

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FAQ

Can I bring a personal check to a Florida closing?

No. Florida title companies require certified funds — a wire transfer or cashier's check. Personal checks are not accepted for closing funds.

What if I cannot attend the closing in person?

Florida allows closings to be completed by power of attorney or by mail/overnight courier. See our posts on power of attorney for Florida real estate closings and remote closings in Florida.

How long does a Florida real estate closing take?

A typical Florida closing takes 30–60 minutes for a cash transaction and 60–90 minutes for a financed transaction.

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Have questions about what to expect at your Emerald Coast closing? I walk every buyer and seller through the closing process before closing day.

— Kinsey Haddock P.A., Broker Associate | Coldwell Banker Realty — Panhandle | License #BK3253849