“Closing the deal doesn’t mean your job is done just yet.”
Many FSBO sellers assume once closing is complete, there’s nothing left to handle. But there are still steps to finalize the transition and stay legally organized.
After closing, you should:
Post-sale follow-up helps protect your legal and financial interests—even if no problems arise.
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“No one wants to move into a home with the lights off or bills still in your name.”
Sellers sometimes forget to cancel or transfer utilities, leading to billing confusion—or unpleasant buyer experiences.
Contact each utility provider 5–7 days before closing and:
Smooth utility transitions create goodwill—and help prevent post-closing issues.
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“Once the keys are gone, your paperwork still matters.”
Some sellers delete emails or discard documents after closing, thinking everything is finished.
Keep digital and/or physical copies of:
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“Closing the deal is one thing—reporting it is another.”
FSBO sellers may not realize their sale must be reported to the IRS, and may qualify—or not qualify—for capital gains exclusions.
You may owe taxes depending on:
Speak with a tax advisor or accountant to confirm. Sellers who meet certain IRS conditions may exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples) of the gain.
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“The buyer’s name may be on the deed—but your name may still be in the system.”
Some sellers assume title companies handle all government updates, but that’s not always true.
Check with:
This helps prevent misdirected tax bills or unwanted service notices.
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“A closed deal doesn’t mean closed communication—but you need boundaries.”
Some buyers may call the seller weeks or months later about minor concerns, misunderstandings, or follow-up questions.
You may choose to:
Avoid discussing legal or repair responsibilities after the deal closes—especially if the buyer is raising new issues.
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“If anything is challenged, your inbox could become your legal trail.”
Sellers may delete texts or emails before realizing how important they could become if questions arise later.
Save all:
Organize your records by category and store them digitally in the cloud or on a backup drive for safekeeping.
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“Your sale may be done—but liability doesn’t disappear with your signature.”
FSBO sellers who skip disclosures or misstate property conditions may still be liable for legal disputes—even months after closing.
You may be held responsible if:
Avoid liability by:
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What to Do Next?
Just closed your FSBO sale? Let’s make sure you’re fully wrapped up and protected. Schedule a free consultation to ask any final legal or transition questions before you move on.