Closing the Deal: Your FSBO Finish Line
🏁 CLOSING THE DEAL: YOUR FSBO FINISH LINE
You’ve made it through pricing, marketing, showings, negotiations, inspections, and appraisals — now it’s time to close the deal! The closing process is the final stretch of your FSBO journey, and getting it right is absolutely critical. In Southern California, the closing process typically takes 30-45 days from the accepted offer. Here’s everything you need to know to cross that finish line with confidence! 🏠
Watch the video above from our FSBO Guide series for Remo’s expert walkthrough of the closing process!
📝 OPENING ESCROW AND TITLE
Once you accept an offer, the first step is opening escrow with a neutral third-party escrow company. In Southern California, the seller typically chooses the escrow company, though this is negotiable. The escrow officer will coordinate all the paperwork, hold the buyer’s earnest money deposit, and ensure all conditions of the sale are met before transferring ownership. You’ll also need to order a title search to confirm there are no liens, judgments, or other encumbrances on your property. Title insurance protects the buyer (and their lender) against any future claims. 📋
💵 UNDERSTANDING CLOSING COSTS
As a FSBO seller in California, you’ll be responsible for several closing costs. These typically include: escrow fees (split with buyer), title insurance, transfer taxes, any outstanding property taxes or HOA dues, recording fees, and potentially a home warranty for the buyer. In Southern California, seller closing costs usually run between 1-3% of the sale price (not including any agent commissions). Even as a FSBO seller, you may still owe a buyer’s agent commission if the buyer is represented. Make sure you budget for these costs so there are no surprises at the closing table! 💰
🔍 THE FINAL WALKTHROUGH
Before closing, the buyer will conduct a final walkthrough of your property — typically 1-5 days before the close of escrow. This is their chance to verify that the home is in the same condition as when they made their offer, that all agreed-upon repairs have been completed, and that all fixtures and appliances included in the sale are still present. Make sure your home is clean, all personal items are removed, and everything is in working order. A smooth final walkthrough keeps the deal on track! ✅
🔑 SIGNING DAY AND KEY HANDOFF
On closing day, you’ll sign the grant deed, settlement statement, and other closing documents at the escrow office or with a mobile notary. Once the buyer’s funds are received and all documents are recorded with the county, the sale is officially complete! You’ll hand over the keys and celebrate a successful FSBO sale. Congratulations — you just saved thousands in commission! If at any point the process feels overwhelming, remember that Team Remo is always available to guide you through the finish line. Call us at 562.762.8581! 🎉
FSBO Guide Series — All Chapters
Section 1: Introduction to Selling Your Home Without a Realtor
Section 2: What Is FSBO? Pros, Cons & What Every Seller Needs to Know
Section 3: How to Prepare Your Home for Sale
Section 4: How to Price Your Home to Sell
Section 5: How to Market Your Home for Sale by Owner
Section 6: Legal Requirements for Selling in California
Section 7: How to Negotiate Offers
Section 8: How to Show Your Home to Buyers
Section 9: Home Inspections & Appraisals
You are reading: Section 10 — How to Close a Home Sale
Section 11: Common FSBO Mistakes
Section 12: Real Estate Contracts & Paperwork
Section 13: How to Handle Multiple Offers
Bonus Chapters
What Happens After You Accept an Offer
Working with Title & Escrow Companies
How to Handle Repairs After Inspection
Final Walkthrough & Pre-Closing Checklist
Moving Out & Handing Over the Keys
Tax Implications of Selling Your Home
When to Consider Hiring a Realtor
FSBO Success Stories & Lessons Learned