This section is from the book "Real Estate Principles And Practices", by Philip A. Benson, Nelson L. North. Also available from Amazon: Real Estate Principles and Practices.
1. Purchaser's copy of contract.
2. Abstract of title.
3. Report of title.
4. Examine deed to see if it conforms to the contract.
5. Compare description.
6. See that deed is properly executed.
7. Have sufficient cash or certified checks to make payments required by contract.
8. See that all liens which must be removed are properly disposed of.
9. Obtain names and details with reference to tenants and rents.
10. Obtain assignment of unpaid rents and assignment of leases.
11. Obtain and examine estoppel certificates with reference to mortgages which have been reduced.
12. Obtain letter to tenants.
13. Obtain affidavit of title.
14. Obtain and examine authority if the seller acts through an agent.
15. Obtain Bill of Sale of personal property covered by the contract.
16. Obtain any old deeds which the seller may have.
17. Examine survey.
18. See if report of title shows any covenants, restrictions or consents affecting the title or use of the property.
19. Have bills for any unpaid tax, water or assessments and have interest computed up to the date of closing.
20. Make adjustments as called for in the contract.
21. Examine purchase money mortgages and duly execute them.
22. Have damage award, if any, for public improvements assigned to the purchaser.
23. Obtain any unrecorded instruments affecting the title including extension agreements.
 
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