At a Missouri closing, a title company handles the documents and the money. The buyer signs the loan papers and brings funds, the seller signs the deed, the title company pays off loans and costs, records the deed with the county, and releases the proceeds. Keys usually change hands when the sale is funded and recorded or as the contract states.
Before closing day
- Title search and insurance: the title company checks ownership and liens.
- Loan approval: the buyer's lender issues final approval and the Closing Disclosure, which the buyer receives at least three business days before closing.
- Payoff and settlement statement: the title company gathers payoff amounts and prepares the figures.
- Occupancy permit: in municipalities that require one, the inspection and permit are handled before the buyer moves in.
- Final walkthrough: the buyer checks that the home is in the agreed condition.
Who attends
The buyer and seller often sign at different times. A closer from the title company guides each signing. Agents may attend. Some title companies offer remote or mail-away signing, and sellers can often sign ahead of time.
What gets signed
- Buyer: promissory note, deed of trust (Missouri commonly uses deeds of trust), Closing Disclosure and title documents
- Seller: the deed, settlement statement, affidavits and any payoff authorizations
How the money moves
The buyer's funds and the loan go to the title company. The title company pays the seller's loan payoff, commissions as agreed, taxes and other costs, then sends the seller's proceeds. Confirm wire instructions by phone using a number you trust, never from an email alone.
Keys and possession
Possession transfers as the contract states, often at closing once funds are received, or later if a rent-back was agreed.
Common closing day problems
- Last-minute loan conditions or appraisal issues
- Wire fraud attempts by email
- Repairs not completed as agreed
- Missing occupancy permits or HOA documents
A written timeline with each milestone, owner and due date keeps closing on schedule. See buyer closing costs and the cost of selling.
Frequently asked questions
Who handles closing in Missouri?
A title company usually handles the documents, the money and recording the deed.
Do buyer and seller sit together at closing?
Not always. Many closings in St. Louis are split, and some signings can be done remotely or ahead of time.
When does the seller get paid?
Once the sale is funded and the documents are complete, the title company sends the seller's proceeds as arranged.
How can I avoid wire fraud at closing?
Confirm wire instructions by phone using a number you already trust, and never act on emailed changes alone.
About the author: Stephanie Muhlenfeld, PMP, REALTOR® with LPT Realty. Stephanie helps buyers and sellers across St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin Counties move with a plan, not pressure. (314) 597-7494.
LPT Realty (417) 813-1762