Wiring Your Sale Proceeds: What to Know Before Closing

You’ve made it to closing day—congratulations! Once the documents are signed and the buyer’s funds are received, it’s time for you to get paid. But how your sale proceeds are delivered is just as important as the sale itself. In most cases, you’ll receive them via wire transfer. 

Here’s what sellers need to know about receiving wired proceeds safely, accurately, and without delay. 

How Sale Proceeds Are Paid 

At closing, your title company will disburse funds after: 

• The buyer has signed all documents 

• Funds from the lender (if applicable) have been received and cleared 

• The act of sale is recorded with the parish clerk of court 

Once these steps are completed, your net proceeds will be wired directly to your bank account—unless you’ve requested a paper check. 

What You’ll Need to Provide 

To receive a wire, you’ll need to complete a Wire Instructions Form, which typically includes: 

• Your name 

• Bank name 

• Bank routing number 

• Your account number 

• Bank address or branch info 

This must be submitted in writing and often notarized or verified in person for security. 

How to Avoid Wire Fraud 

Wire fraud is a growing concern in real estate transactions. Hackers target sellers and title companies to intercept or manipulate wiring instructions. 

To protect yourself: 

• NEVER email your bank info without first verifying the email address 

• CALL your title company directly (using a known number) to confirm instructions 

• BE SUSPICIOUS of any last-minute changes to wiring details 

• DO NOT send your wire instructions to your agent or lender—they must go directly to the title company 

At Title Stream, we verify all wiring instructions verbally and use secure forms to protect our clients' funds. 

When Will You Receive the Money? 

In most cases, funds are wired same-day once closing is complete and the sale is recorded. However: 

• Late afternoon closings may result in next-business-day wires 

• Bank processing times may vary 

• You may experience a short delay if the lender’s funds arrive late 

Ask your title company what to expect so you can plan accordingly. 

Want a Paper Check Instead? 

If you’re not comfortable with wiring or prefer a physical check, most title companies can issue one at the time of closing. Just let your closing coordinator know in advance. 

Final Word 

Wiring your sale proceeds is fast and secure—as long as you follow the right steps. At Title Stream, we take every precaution to verify wire instructions, avoid fraud, and make sure sellers are paid accurately and on time. 

Have questions about your upcoming closing? We’re here to help walk you through every step.