Five things, in order.

02

Check a cash buyer

Work down this list before you sign. You can still request a Home Pros offer while you compare.

1. 1
   Compare two or three offers

   One number has no context. A cash offer is usually free until you sign.

2. 2
   Look past the biggest price

   Ask when they can fund, and what has to happen between signing and the closing table.

3. 3
   Check proof of funds

   Ask for a recent bank statement or a letter from the institution that holds the money, and confirm it belongs to the buyer. Recent closings in your county are public record.

4. 4
   Get a deposit that protects you

   On a traditional sale, buyers often put down around 1 percent. The contract should say the deposit is due within a few days, held by the title company, and paid to you if the buyer cancels after inspections.

5. 5
   Find out who is buying

   Ask if they are the end buyer. Watch for “assignment,” “and/or assigns,” a closing past 30 days, or permission to list your house while you are under contract.

6. 6
   Read the way out

   Get the inspection window and the closing date in writing. You should be able to have an attorney or family member read it first.

03

Moving

1. 1
   Home Pros moving boxes

   Sellers under contract can request the current box discount. Call (830) 510-1597 or email contact@selltohomepros.com and say you need boxes for a Home Pros closing.

2. 2
   Two Men and a Truck

   Book a local or long-distance crew, then tell your Home Pros coordinator so the truck lines up with closing day. Get a quote.

3. 3
   Pack in this order

   Start with rooms you do not use every day. Leave the kitchen and bath until the last 48 hours. Label by room, and mark the boxes the movers should load last.

04

Donations

These groups take household goods that still have a next life. Construction debris and hazardous waste need a hauler, not a charity.

1. 1
   The Salvation Army

   Pickup for furniture, clothing, and household goods. Call ahead. Schedule a pickup.

2. 2
   St. Vincent de Paul

   Local conferences take furniture and household items. Find a council.

3. 3
   Habitat ReStore

   Working appliances, furniture, and building materials. Find a ReStore.

4. 4
   Goodwill

   Clothing and smaller household goods. Some locations take larger pieces by appointment. Find a center.

05

Closing week

1. 1
   Forward the mail

   File a change of address before closing. USPS Movers Guide.

2. 2
   Read the tax rules

   The IRS explains when a gain on a primary home may be excluded. This is general information, not tax advice. IRS Publication 523.

3. 3
   The last few days

   Schedule utility final reads for the day after closing. Update the school and your doctors. Leave fixtures, garage remotes, and keys unless the contract says otherwise. Bring a photo ID to the title company.