What Paperwork Is Required to Sell a Home in Pasadena, CA?
What paperwork is required to sell a home in Pasadena, CA?
Answer:
To sell a home in Pasadena, CA, you need several documents including disclosure forms, title reports, inspection records, and closing contracts. May Kunka helps sellers navigate each form to stay compliant and protected.
Why Paperwork Matters When Selling a Home
Selling a home in California means more than accepting an offer—you must provide full transparency and follow legal procedures. In Pasadena, both state and city laws require specific disclosures and documents. Missing or mishandling these forms can delay or derail your sale. That's why working with a local expert like May Kunka can make the process smoother and safer.
Key Documents Required by California Law
Here are the essential documents every Pasadena home seller needs to prepare:
Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS): Details the condition of the property and any known issues
Seller Property Questionnaire (SPQ): Offers additional context about the home’s systems, renovations, and history
Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD): Identifies risks such as earthquake zones, floods, and fire-prone areas
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required for homes built before 1978
Local City Addenda and Reports: Pasadena may require special permits, compliance forms, or point-of-sale ordinances
Title and Escrow Documents
These documents are typically managed during escrow but still require your review and signature:
Preliminary Title Report to verify legal ownership and any liens
Escrow Instructions detailing the terms and timeline of the transaction
Grant Deed which legally transfers ownership to the buyer
Final Closing Statement (HUD-1 or Settlement Statement) showing all costs and distributions
Optional But Recommended
Home Inspection Report (pre-listing) to identify potential concerns early
Repair Receipts or Contractor Records for recent upgrades
Home Warranty Info if you’re including one as a seller incentive
City of Pasadena-Specific Considerations
Pasadena has unique local requirements, especially for older homes or those in historic zones. Sellers may need to provide proof of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a sewer compliance certificate, and water efficiency compliance under California’s civil code. May Kunka stays current on Pasadena’s evolving regulations to ensure full compliance.
What If You’re Selling Without a Realtor?
Even FSBO sellers are legally responsible for providing this paperwork. If you’re not using a real estate agent, consider hiring a real estate attorney or transaction coordinator. May Kunka frequently supports FSBO sellers as a consultant or by offering paperwork packages to simplify the process.
Avoiding Legal Trouble: Why Accuracy Matters
Failing to disclose known issues can lead to lawsuits—even after closing. The TDS and SPQ aren’t optional, and any omissions can be interpreted as fraud.
Accurate, honest disclosures are not only the law—they also build trust with buyers and prevent post-sale disputes.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Protected
Selling a home in Pasadena comes with a lot of paperwork—but you don’t have to manage it alone. May Kunka ensures every form is completed accurately, filed on time, and tailored to your property’s needs. This peace of mind can make all the difference in a smooth sale.
Need Help Navigating Seller Paperwork?
From disclosures to deeds, May Kunka helps Pasadena homeowners handle every document with confidence.
📞 Contact her today for a customized paperwork checklist or a full-service listing consultation.