Selling a house in Chicago takes more than just putting a “For Sale” sign in the yard. Along the way, you’ll need to gather a lot of paperwork to make the process smooth, legal, and stress-free. Everything plays a part in closing the deal without delays, including having the correct documents.
Here’s a simple guide to the real estate documents you’ll need when selling your Chicago home. We will also explain how you can skip most of the hassle by selling directly to a cash buyer.
Before You List: Documents to Gather
Before your home even hits the market, you’ll want to collect some important documents:
- Permits for Major Work: If you’ve added a deck, porch, or second unit, ensure you have the right paperwork.
- Pre-listing Inspection Report (Optional): This helps you spot and fix issues before buyers do.
- Previous Home Appraisals: These documents are critical if you’ve refinanced or gotten an appraisal recently.
- Appliance Warranties and Manuals. You’ll want to gather these for any appliances included in the sale.
- Records of Home Improvements: Having records for improvements like a new roof, HVAC updates, kitchen remodels, or added bathrooms help prove your home’s value.
- Original Sales Contract: This can help clarify any past details.
- Property Survey: A survey can be especially important for boundaries or shared driveways.
- Tax Records: These are helpful for both buyers and real estate agents.
- Mortgage Documents: These include the original loan paperwork and any second mortgages or lines of credit.
- The Property Deed: If the deed is misplaced, a copy can be requested from your county recorder’s office.
- Home Insurance Records: Buyers may want to know coverage costs.
- Title Report: This document shows past ownership or legal claims.
- HOA Documents (If Applicable): HOA documents include rules, fees, and recent meeting notes.
- Pest Inspection (If Required): This report is required in some states, mainly if signs of termites or rodents are found.
Paperwork Needed When Listing Your Home
When you’re ready to list your home officially, there are a few more key forms you’ll need:
- Listing Agreement: This contract is between you and your real estate agent, covering commission, responsibilities, and marketing plans.
- Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): This is a report your agent prepares to help price your home based on nearby sales.
- Marketing Materials: This can include flyers, online listings, and other tools your agent will use to attract buyers.
- Easement Agreements: If you share a driveway or utility line, you’ll need these documents.
- Leased Equipment Agreements: You need these agreements for leased items like solar panels or propane tanks.
Do You Want to Skip the Paperwork and Sell Your House Fast?
Let’s be honest: keeping track of all this paperwork can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for an easier way to sell your house fast in Chicago, Diamond Equity Investments can help.
We buy houses in Chicago regardless of conditions, and you won’t have to worry about inspections, repairs, or long contracts. There are no agent commissions or fees, and we handle all the paperwork for you. We can close in as little as seven days. If you want to skip the mountain of forms and sell your house the easy way, reach out to our cash home buyers in Chicago today. We make selling simple!
