Pre-closing checklist: what to do before you hand over the keys

Before your closing date, make sure you've completed every item on this list. Working through it ahead of time helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth handoff.

Your pre-closing checklist

1. Remove all personal belongings from every room, closet, garage, attic, and shed. Check storage areas you might overlook, such as crawl spaces, under-stair cabinets, and mounted shelving.

2. Leave all fixtures and built-in appliances in place. Anything attached to the home stays with the home, including light fixtures, ceiling fans, built-in shelving, and mounted TVs that were included in the sale. If there's a specific exception, confirm it with your Opendoor advisor in writing before closing.

3. Clean the home to broom-clean condition. You don't need to hire a professional cleaning service. Sweep and vacuum all floors, wipe down countertops and surfaces, and clean out the refrigerator and oven.

4. Remove all trash and debris from the property, including the yard, patio, and driveway. Don't leave bulk items, old furniture, or yard waste behind.

5. Transfer utilities out of your name three days after your last day in the property. This includes electric, gas, water, sewer, trash, and internet. See our utilities article for step-by-step instructions. Do not cancel — transfer.

6. Complete your Digital Checkout. This will advise you where to leave all keys, garage door remotes, and access devices in the home.

7. Lock all doors and windows before you leave for the last time.

8. Confirm your banking information with your Opendoor advisor so your closing proceeds can be disbursed correctly. Double-check the account and routing numbers to avoid delays.

Tip: Walk through the entire home one final time after your belongings are out. It's easy to miss items in closets, the garage, or the backyard.

Move-out photos and digital checkout

Before handing over the keys, you may need to take move-out photos to document the condition of your home. This is part of Opendoor's digital checkout process.

• Check your dashboard or email for instructions on which photos are required.
• Photograph each room — including the kitchen, bathrooms, garage, and exterior — to show the home is empty and in the agreed-upon condition.
• Upload the photos through the Opendoor app or website as directed.

If you are not sure whether move-out photos are required for your transaction, contact 888-352-7075 or your Opendoor advisor.