What Paperwork Do You Need
to Sell a Home in Washington DC?

Selling a home in Washington DC requires more than just listing it on the
market—it involves handling a lot of paperwork. Whether you’re a
first-time seller or experienced in real estate transactions, understanding what
documents are required can help make the process smooth and stress-free.

As a trusted Realtor in Washington DC, Dan Wheeler helps home sellers navigate
the required paperwork and avoid common pitfalls. In this guide, we’ll break
down the essential documents you need to sell your home, from the
listing agreement to closing disclosures.

Documents Needed Before
Listing Your Home

Before you list your home for sale, you’ll need to gather some key documents. These
helps determine pricing, legal compliance, and property details.

1.
Property Deed

• This legal document proves that you own the home.
• Your deed should match the name on your identification and mortgage documents.
  
  

2.
Mortgage Payoff Statement

•  If you still have a mortgage, request a mortgage
  payoff statement from your lender.
• This document shows how much you owe,
  including interest and any prepayment penalties.
  
  

3.Comparative
Market Analysis CMA

•  A CMA report provided by a Realtor like
  Dan Wheeler helps determine your home's market value.
•  This analysis compares your home to
  similar recently sold properties in Washington DC.
  
  

4.
Homeowners Association (HOA) Documents (if applicable)

• If your home is in an HOA, you’ll need to provide HOA bylaws, fees, and rules.
• Buyers may request HOA meeting minutes or financial statements.
  
  

Required Paperwork When
Listing Your Home

Once you decide to sell, these documents make your listing official and help
market your property.

1. Listing
Agreement

• This contract between you and your realtor
  authorizes them to market and sell your home.
• It outlines the commission, listing price, and terms of the agreement.
  
  

2.
Seller’s Disclosure Form

 Required in Washington DC, this form
details known issues with your home. - Includes information about
structural problems, lead-based paint, or past repairs.

3.
Pre-Sale Home Inspection Report (Optional)

• While not mandatory, a pre-sale
  inspection can help identify issues before listing.
•  Buyers may feel more confident making an
  offer if a recent inspection is available.
  
  

4. Title
Report

• This document confirms that your home
  has a clear title (no outstanding liens or ownership disputes).
• The title company will conduct a title search before closing.
  
  

Paperwork You’ll Need When
Accepting an Offer

1. Purchase
Agreement (Sales Contract)

• This is the legally binding contract between you (the seller) and the buyer.
• It includes the sale price,
  contingencies, closing date, and deposit information.
  
  

2.
Contingency Addendums (If Applicable)

• Buyers may include contingencies for home
  inspections, appraisals, or financing.
•  You may need to sign addendums agreeing
  to these terms.
  
  

3. Proof
of Repairs (If Required by Buyer’s Inspection)

• If the buyer requests repairs, you may need to provide receipts and
  documentation showing completed work.
  
  

Documents Needed for Closing

As you approach closing, you’ll need to finalize legal documents and financial
statements.

1. Closing
Disclosure

•  This document outlines final costs,
  including real estate commissions, property taxes, and any loan payoffs.
• Provided by the title company before
  closing.
  
  

2. Deed of
Transfer

• This document officially transfers
  ownership of the home to the buyer.
• You’ll sign this during the closing
  process.
  
  

3. Bill of
Sale

•  Lists any included items, such as appliances,
  furniture, or fixtures that will remain with the home.
  
  

4. 1099-S
Tax Form

• Required by the IRS, this form reports proceeds from the home sale.
• Your title company or closing agent will provide this form.
  
  

How a Realtor Can Help with the
paperwork

Selling a home involves a lot of documentation, but an experienced Washington
DC Realtor like Dan Wheeler can help.

Dan will
assist you with:

• Organizing paperwork to avoid delays.
• Ensuring legal compliance with Washington DC real estate laws.
• Communicating with the title company and buyers to streamline closing.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Selling a home in Washington DC requires careful attention to paperwork and
legal documents. Having everything prepared in advance can reduce
stress, avoid delays, and ensure a smooth closing process.

If you need guidance on selling your home, contact Dan Wheeler today for
expert real estate advice and assistance with paperwork management.