First-home cash-to-close checklist

Build a complete cash-to-close checklist

Use this checklist to separate the money due at closing from the savings you want to keep afterward. Begin with estimates, then compare the figures with your lender’s disclosures before arranging final funds.

1. Down payment. Record the proposed purchase price, loan path, and estimated down payment. Mark anything still subject to qualification.
2. Closing costs and prepaids. List lender and third-party charges separately from prepaid insurance, interest, taxes, and initial escrow funding.
3. Deposits and credits. Record any earnest money already paid and proposed seller or lender credits. Ask how each affects the remaining cash to close.
4. Available funds. Identify savings, gifts, assistance, or sale proceeds and ask the loan team what documentation is needed.
5. Money after closing. Keep a separate plan for inspections, moving, repairs, and reserves so the same money is not counted twice.

Write down what you know, mark what still needs verification and avoid including Social Security numbers, account numbers or other sensitive financial information.

Further reading: CFPB Loan Estimate explainer (new tab).