Closing was an interesting experience for me. I’m not sure how it would be normally in a non-COVID era, but for me it was definitely not what I expected…
For starters, the entire pre-closing process was both easy and a disaster hahah. I’ll probably end up writing a whole blog post on all that went into it, but essentially, the hard parts (eg. home inspection, mortgage requirements, etc.) were the easy part and the hard part came with what should have been easy (eg. agreed to repairs that came out of the home inspection, water, and much more).
Secondly, most everything was done online. I signed all my papers (except some at closing) online and all communication was handled by email or on the phone. Even at closing, the normal stack of papers you sign your life away on was significantly smaller and I only signed what couldn’t be signed beforehand.
While all that was different than expected, I would have to say the strangest thing was closing day it’s self. I think because of everything being taken care of before, and the limiting of people, it didn’t really feel like I “closed.”
When I got to Cambridge, after making a quick stop at my family’s favorite bait and tackle shop Anglers in Annapolis, MD, I went to the house and did the walk through the morning of by myself with family. There were no relators or inspectors or anyone else present. We looked to make sure everything we discussed was fixed or credited and then took the keys and headed to a restaurant for lunch.
After lunch we went to the law office, walked into a room and signed all the papers. We handed them over after signature and they gave us the remainder of the keys and we left. The sellers and everyone else did their closing on different days so once we signed the papers, we were done.
I will say, while it felt strange to have it so simple in the moment, it was also kind of nice looking back. While it didn’t really set in until the next morning, having it small allowed me to really pay attention, ask questions and feel more comfortable with the process. Additionally, all the people I worked with from the mortgage company to the closing attorney were all great, so when I think that also helped with feeling comfortable closing.
After closing, we went to the house and toasted. It was myself and Stacey, who is essentially my second mom, and it was prefect. We built two beds for us to go to sleep on and then kicked off the renovations in the guest bedroom..
It may have been small and different, but it was perfect for me and a perfect way to break in the new house.
Now…on to the fun part! Stay tuned for an update on the guest bedroom and all the work we did during our first 48 hours in the Cottage on the Bay..
xx
Katie
The Chesapeake Cottage 