Closing and moving
The 30-14-3 day checklist 2026

Closing is the day the money is paid, keys are handed over, and responsibility for the home changes owners. It is also one of the most common sources of stress, as many elements must align at the same time. Here is a simple 30-14-3 day checklist that works whether you are buying or selling.

30 days before closing: establish control

For you as the seller

Review the contract: what is agreed regarding fixtures, options, and any conditions?
Plan the move: book a moving company or trailer, and add buffer days.
Start clearing out: storage rooms, basements, attics, and balconies always take longer than you think.
Gather documents: manuals, receipts for renovations, warranties, service papers (heat pump, appliances).

For you as the buyer

Bank and mortgage promise: ensure everything is ready for disbursement on time.
Home insurance: take out a policy starting on the closing day (sometimes earlier depending on the arrangement).
Plan the move and change of address: book help, check access to the elevator/door code.
If an apartment/condominium: check that the association membership and any documents are submitted in good time.

14 days before: check off what could stop the deal

Joint checks (buyer + seller via real estate agent)

Closing date and time: confirm the exact time and place.
What keys exist and should be handed over (apartment, storage, mailbox, main door)?
Fixtures list: what should remain (appliances, curtain rails, hat rack)?
Any measures: what needs to be fixed before closing according to the contract?

For you as the seller

Book move-out cleaning: either a company or your own plan.
Look over the home: replace broken light bulbs, ensure everything works (stove, oven, dishwasher).
Empty and clear out bulky items in time (especially if you have a storage room).

For you as the buyer

Order electricity/broadband contracts: start on the closing day.
Plan for any contractors: if you are going to paint before moving in, book immediately after closing.
Have a buffer for unexpected costs during the first month.

3 days before: prepare the actual handover

For you as the seller

Do a "final walkthrough": do all faucets, ventilation, appliances, and lighting work?
Prepare the key ring and label the keys.
Empty the fridge/freezer and defrost if necessary.
Gather everything to be left behind: remote controls, manuals, key tags, parking cards.

For you as the buyer

Prepare your move-in: measure for larger furniture, plan where boxes will go.
Make a list of questions to ask at the handover (fuses, broadband, storage).

Closing day: how it usually works

The setup can vary, but closing often takes place via the real estate agent and bank. The core is the same: the purchase price is settled, the home is handed over, and you sign documents.

On site, you usually handle:

Closing statement (who pays what up until the day, e.g., fees/operating costs)
Key handover
Any handover protocol and noting of agreed items

After closing: do not forget this

For you as the buyer

Do a quick "move-in check": document visible damage immediately with photos.
Change lock cylinders/keys if you want extra security (common in houses, sometimes also in apartments).
Notify suppliers and ensure contracts are active (electricity, broadband).

For you as the seller

Cancel or transfer contracts (electricity, broadband, insurance) according to terms.
Save documents about the sale: contracts, closing statements, receipts for improvements for your tax declaration.

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Change of address too late: do it in good time so you don't miss mail.
Missing keys: count and label everything before closing.
Move-out cleaning is underestimated: book early and have a plan B.
Unclear about what is included: check fixtures against the contract in good time.

Summary

A calm closing day is built in the weeks beforehand. With a simple checklist, you can avoid the most common mistakes and ensure the handover goes smoothly, both as a buyer and a seller.

Do you want support all the way to the key handover?

Notar helps you through the entire process, from valuation and marketing to contracts and closing. Get in touch if you want a clear timeline and someone to manage every step.