Selling a house involves paperwork — but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're selling for cash or through a traditional agent-assisted sale, this checklist covers every document you'll encounter, what it's for, and when you'll need it.
The good news: in a cash sale, the buyer handles much of the paperwork. In a traditional sale, your agent and the title company manage most of it. Either way, knowing what's coming helps you prepare.
Cash Sale Advantage
In a cash sale, the paperwork is significantly simpler. No lender-required documents, no appraisal reports, no financing addendums. The buyer's title company handles most of the documentation — you mainly need your ID, deed, property tax info, and seller's disclosure.
Documents You Must Provide as the Seller
Property Deed
The legal document proving you own the property. If you can't find it, the title company can pull a copy from county records. You don't need the original physical deed in most cases — the title company prepares a new one for the transfer.
Michigan Seller's Disclosure Statement
Required by Michigan law. You must disclose known material defects — roof leaks, foundation issues, flooding, electrical problems, etc. This is not optional, even in an as-is sale. Be thorough and honest. Full guide to Michigan disclosure requirements →
Property Tax Statements
Current and recent tax bills. These show whether taxes are paid current and help calculate the proration at closing. If you're behind on taxes, the title company will need payoff amounts. See our tax delinquent property guide.
Government-Issued ID
Driver's license or passport. Required at closing for identity verification. All owners on the deed must provide ID.
Documents That Are Helpful to Have Ready
| Document | Why You Need It | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage payoff statement | Shows exact amount to pay off your loan at closing | Required |
| HOA/condo documents | Bylaws, fee schedule, and assessment status if applicable | Required |
| Utility bills (recent) | Helps calculate prorations and transfer accounts | Helpful |
| Home warranty info | Transferable warranties on roof, HVAC, appliances | Helpful |
| Renovation permits & receipts | Proves work was done legally, reassures buyers | Helpful |
| Survey (if available) | Shows property boundaries. Often ordered by buyer if needed. | Optional |
| Past insurance claims | History of claims on the property | Optional |
Documents You'll Sign at Closing
- Warranty Deed or Quit Claim Deed — transfers ownership to the buyer
- Settlement Statement (HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure) — itemized list of all charges and your net proceeds
- Affidavit of Title — you certify there are no undisclosed liens or claims against the property
- IRS Form 1099-S — reports the sale proceeds. Most homeowners exclude gain from primary residence sales (up to $250K single / $500K married)
- Property Transfer Affidavit — required by Michigan assessors when property changes hands
Frequently Asked Questions
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