Questions - Real Estate Buying

[kemiy]

So, doesn't the Buyer have the right to get copies of closing docs signed by both the Buyer and Seller?

Especially the Settlement Statement that shows who was paid when the sale was funded, signed by the Settlement Agent, and dated.

In my case a lien holder was getting a big chunk and the pre-sale Settlement Statement shows the guy's name and address... so I'm going to send a certified letter to him asking him to verify that the money that was paid to him was actually paid and if the lien is now satisfied.

It's like pulling teeth to get the title company to provide docs signed by myself and the Seller post-sale.

They were all polite pre-sale... but now that funds have been sent to the title company, they are not very forthcoming and transparent which to me is a red flag.

Seems like the Buyer should have the right to get copies of closing docs signed by both Buyer and Seller, right?

[dofetam]

Generally, yes, you should be able to obtain copies of the documents you personally signed at closing, but access to the seller's documents can depend on state law, the title company's policies, and privacy restrictions. Even in a sell house as is transaction, the settlement statement should normally show the relevant transaction figures, although some information may be redacted.

If you're concerned about a lien being paid and released, I'd ask the title company in writing for confirmation that the lien was paid and that a release or satisfaction was recorded. That is usually more reliable than contacting the lien holder yourself. A lack of immediate cooperation doesn't automatically mean something improper happened, but getting everything documented in writing is sensible.