You did it. You navigated the chaos, wrestled with negotiations, and finally slapped a ‘SOLD’ sign on that property. High fives all around. But hold that champagne cork for just a second, hotshot. The final boss battle is here: moving out. Mess this up, and that sweet victory turns sour faster than milk left in the sun.
Think this is the easy part? Think again. Screw up the move-out, and you could face angry buyers, frantic calls from agents, or worse – getting legally booted from the property you just sold. Yeah, awkward. Let’s make sure you exit like a pro, not a chump.
The Ticking Clock: Nail Your Exit Timing or Face the Consequences
Alright, listen up. Once those closing papers are signed, sealed, and delivered, that house ain’t yours anymore. Poof. Gone. The buyers hold the keys, literally and figuratively. If your stuff (or your butt) is still parked there past the agreed-upon time? Technically, you’re trespassing. The new owners could start eviction proceedings. Seriously.
Don’t be that person. Get your moving truck scheduled, your helpers lined up, and your exit strategy locked down before closing day. Need an extra day or two because of work or logistical nightmares? Fine, but don’t spring it on them last minute. Get that conversation handled EARLY, put it in writing if possible, and make sure the buyers are cool with it. Clear communication avoids colossal headaches. Treat the deadline like it’s life or death – because legally, it kinda is for your right to be there.
The Great Stuff Showdown: What Stays, What Goes? (Don’t Guess!)
This is where things get sticky if you wing it. Your sales contract is your bible here. Read the damn thing. It should list exactly what items (“inclusions” or “chattels”) you promised to leave behind. Light fixtures? Blinds? That fancy smart thermostat? If it’s in the contract, it stays.
Rule of Thumb: If it’s screwed, bolted, or wired in, it probably stays. Think ceiling fans, built-in shelves, TV wall mounts (unless specifically excluded), curtains rods. Ripping these out because you love them is a rookie mistake that can lead to demands or even small claims court. Not worth the hassle.
Got alarm systems, pest control contracts, or other services you agreed to transfer? Handle that setup before you leave. Leave clear instructions for the new owners, or get your Realwing agent to coordinate with theirs. Smooth handoffs make happy buyers.
Crucially: Don’t leave extra crap behind. You might think that dusty patio furniture or those half-empty paint cans are a “gift.” Trust me, they’re not. Your buyers expect a clean slate, not your leftovers. They bought a house, not the contents of your garage sale. Leaving unwanted junk is disrespectful and can actually cost them money to haul away – money they might try to recoup from you. If you genuinely think they might want something specific, ask first. Otherwise, haul it, donate it, or trash it.
Operation Clean Sweep: Leaving it Right (Not Necessarily Immaculate)
Nobody expects you to leave the place looking like a five-star hotel suite (unless you specifically agreed to a professional clean in the contract). But they do expect it to be “broom clean.”
What does that mean?
- Get your stuff OUT. Every last box, bag, and forgotten sock. Check closets, drawers, the attic, basement, garage, shed – everywhere. Forgotten items are legally theirs to keep or trash.
- Wipe down surfaces. Countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Clean out drawers and cabinets. No crumbs, no mysteries.
- Sweep or vacuum ALL floors. Get rid of the dust bunnies and debris.
- Give appliances a basic wipe-down. Nobody wants to inherit your fridge grime or oven spills.
Basically, leave it in a condition you wouldn’t be disgusted to walk into. It’s common courtesy and avoids any last-minute friction.
The Final Walkthrough: Your Last Chance Checklist
Before you lock that door for the very last time, do one final, meticulous sweep. Pretend you’re looking for a hidden wad of cash.
- Every room empty? Check closets and cabinets again.
- Mail forwarded?
- Utilities scheduled to be turned off (or transferred)? Coordinate this carefully with the closing date and buyer’s plans.
- Windows latched, doors locked?
- No taps running? (Seriously, check.)
- Garage door opener and any spare keys left where you agreed (usually kitchen counter)?
Once you’re absolutely sure, lock up and walk away. You can give your agent a heads-up that you’re officially out. Feeling generous? A bottle of wine or a brief, welcoming note for the new owners is a classy move. It sets a good tone for the people taking over the space where you made memories.
Now? Now you pop the good champagne. You navigated the selling maze, conquered the final move-out challenge, and hopefully have a hefty deposit hitting your account. You freaking earned it. Go celebrate your victory.
