Common Closing Mistakes Home Sellers Should Avoid in Central Florida

Closing is the finish line, but it’s also where preventable mistakes can cause last-minute stress or even derail the entire transaction. In late 2025, Central Florida sellers in Clermont, Winter Garden, Windermere, Montverde, and surrounding markets are navigating tighter insurance rules, rising documentation requirements, and stricter contract timelines. Staying ahead of these details is the key to a smooth closing day.

Not Reviewing the Closing Disclosure Early

Sellers often skim their Closing Disclosure or wait until the final day to review it. That’s how errors slip through, including incorrect prorations, payoff amounts, credits, and fees.
Fix: Review it as soon as it’s issued and compare it to your contract. Ask questions immediately so adjustments can be made before funding day.

Delaying Required Repairs or Leaving Them Unfinished

If you agreed to repairs during inspections, leaving them incomplete can delay closing or trigger buyer credits you didn’t plan for.
Fix: Use licensed professionals and complete repairs early. Provide receipts, permits, and photos to verify the work.

Failing to Secure Payoff Information

Title companies need exact payoff figures for mortgages, HELOCs, and any liens. Delays happen when sellers provide outdated or partial information.
Fix: Request official payoff statements early and forward them to the title company immediately.

Letting Homeowner’s Insurance or Utilities Lapse Early

Some sellers cancel insurance or utilities before the deal closes, assuming it won’t matter. It does. If something happens to the property before recording, the liability falls on you.
Fix: Keep utilities on and insurance active through closing day.

Forgetting HOA Requirements

Central Florida has a high number of HOA and condo communities. Missing documents, unpaid fees, or late estoppel requests can stall the entire process.
Fix: Contact the association early for estoppel letters, rules, and financial disclosures. Pay outstanding balances immediately.

Not Preparing for Final Walkthrough Issues

Buyers expect the property in the same condition as when they went under contract. Surprises at the walkthrough, like removed fixtures, unpatched walls, or new damage, can create disputes.
Fix: Keep the home clean, repaired, and consistent with contract terms. Leave agreed-upon items and remove everything else.

Ignoring Wire and Fraud Instructions

Florida sees frequent real estate wire fraud attempts. Responding to suspicious emails or wiring funds based on unclear instructions is a real risk.
Fix: Confirm all wiring instructions by phone using a verified number from the title company.

Bottom Line

A smooth closing isn’t luck. It’s preparation, accurate paperwork, timely communication, and attention to details that buyers and title companies rely on. When you stay organized from contract to closing, you protect your proceeds and avoid costly delays.

If you’re planning to sell in Central Florida, I can guide you through every closing requirement, coordinate with your title team, and help you avoid the pitfalls that catch other sellers off guard. Let’s make your closing day simple, predictable, and successful.