Closing Disclosure checklist for Florida homebuyers

Homebuyers review final mortgage documents with a real estate professional. — Illustrative image; not a property listing.

Closing on a Florida home? Review these details before you sign

The Closing Disclosure is one of the last chances to check your mortgage terms and costs before closing. Your lender must provide it at least three business days before closing, giving you time to compare it with your Loan Estimate and ask questions.

Here’s what I’d review first.

1. Check the loan terms

Confirm the loan amount, interest rate, loan type, and whether the rate is fixed or adjustable. Review the projected monthly principal-and-interest payment and any mortgage insurance. If something differs from what you expected, ask your lender to explain the change.

The CFPB recommends comparing the Closing Disclosure against your latest Loan Estimate and asking about terms or costs that don’t match your expectations.

2. Look at the full monthly payment

Principal and interest may not be the entire payment. Check whether the estimate also includes property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, or association dues. Some costs may be paid through escrow, while others may be billed separately.

For a Florida home, make sure the tax and insurance numbers reflect the property you’re buying as closely as possible. The seller’s current tax bill or insurance premium may not match your costs as a new owner.

3. Confirm the cash to close

Review the down payment, closing costs, prepaid items, deposits already paid, and any credits. Make sure the final cash-to-close figure matches the funds you expect to bring. If you see an unfamiliar fee or a large change, ask for an itemized explanation before closing day.

4. Ask about anything that changed

Some costs can change between the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure, for example if the loan or application details changed. Ask your lender for a specific reason when the rate, fees, or payment differ.

You don’t have to understand every line without help. Contact your lender or closing agent as soon as you spot a question; waiting until the signing appointment can make it harder to resolve.

5. Watch for payment instructions

Use a verified phone number to confirm wiring instructions with your title company or closing agent. Don’t rely on a last-minute email that changes where to send money. If instructions arrive unexpectedly, call a trusted number you already have.

Review it carefully, not quickly

Your Closing Disclosure is a document to review carefully, not just sign quickly. A few clear questions now can help you arrive at closing knowing what you’re agreeing to.

General educational information only. Loan terms, eligibility, and closing costs vary by borrower, property, and lender. This article is not a loan offer, approval, rate quote, legal advice, or tax advice.