What Happens at a Closing? A Simple Guide for Buyers & Sellers in Southern Indiana & Greater Louisville

Closing day is the finish line — the moment when ownership officially transfers and months of preparation finally come together. But for many buyers and sellers, the process can feel unclear or overwhelming. At Aristocrat Title, we believe transparency builds confidence, and understanding the closing process helps everyone move through it with ease.

Whether you're purchasing a home, selling property, or completing a commercial deal, here’s what actually happens at a closing in Southern Indiana and the Greater Louisville region.

Closing Commercial

1. Final Title Review & Clearance

Before anyone sits down at the closing table, your title company completes a detailed title search to confirm the property is free of issues that could delay or prevent the sale.

This includes reviewing:

  • Prior deeds

  • Mortgages

  • Liens or judgments

  • Property taxes

  • Legal descriptions

  • Easements and restrictions

  • Probate or estate matters

The goal is simple: ensure the buyer receives clear, insurable title.

Learn more about title-related terms:
Real Estate Glossary

2. Preparing the Closing Documents

Once the title is cleared, the closing team prepares the documents needed to finalize the transaction. These may include:

  • Closing Disclosure

  • Deed

  • Settlement Statement

  • Loan documentation

  • Tax forms

  • Affidavits and certifications

Every document is prepared in compliance with Indiana Good Funds Law and local county recording requirements throughout Jeffersonville, New Albany, Sellersburg, Paoli, and Louisville.

3. Reviewing the Numbers

At closing, both parties review the financials. For buyers, this means confirming:

For sellers, the title company confirms:

  • Payoff of existing mortgages

  • Prorated property taxes

  • Commissions

  • HOA dues (if applicable)

  • Net proceeds

Clear and accurate numbers reduce confusion and ensure a smooth experience.

4. Signing the Closing Documents

This is the moment most people picture when they think of “closing day.”

Buyers typically sign:

  • Loan documents

  • Title insurance policies

  • Settlement statements

  • Deed acknowledgments

Sellers sign:

  • The deed

  • Affidavits

  • Tax forms

  • Settlement statements

  • Any required payoffs

Aristocrat Title ensures every document is explained thoroughly and professionally so all parties understand what they’re signing.

5. Funding the Transaction

Indiana requires strict compliance with Good Funds Law, meaning all funds must be wired or certified before the transaction can close.

Once funds are received:

  • Lenders release final funding approval

  • Payoffs are sent

  • Seller proceeds are issued

  • Agents receive commission disbursements

Our secure digital platform (Qualia) keeps all parties updated in real time.

Explore our process:
About Aristocrat Title

6. Recording the Documents

After signing and funding, Aristocrat Title submits the deed and mortgage to the appropriate county recorder’s office, such as:

Once the deed is recorded, the transfer is official.

7. Final Title Insurance Issuance

After recording, the title company issues the final title insurance policy to protect the buyer — and the lender, if applicable — against future claims.

This policy is one of the most important safeguards in a real estate transaction. It protects ownership rights for as long as the buyer owns the property.

Learn more about our title expertise:
Commercial Title Services

What Makes Closing with Aristocrat Title Different?

Because we’re locally owned and rooted in this region, our team offers:

  • Faster communication

  • Strong relationships with local professionals

  • Precision in complex files

  • Secure digital tools

  • A community-first approach to service

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or completing a commercial transaction, we walk you through every step with clarity and care.

Ready to Learn More or Start Your Closing?

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Aristocrat Title is proud to serve clients across Southern Indiana and Greater Louisville with accuracy, transparency, and a deeply local commitment to service.