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Kentucky · KRSKentucky real estate closing laws: a checklist for transaction coordinators

Kentucky's rules for a home sale, in the order a transaction meets them: when a licensee is paid in the sale of a single-family home, the seller signs the Real Estate Commission's disclosure of conditions form at listing, and the listing agent delivers it to the buyer within 72 hours after receiving a written offer (KRS 324.360). The deed must show both parties' names and mailing addresses, the full consideration, an in-care-of address for the tax bill and a sworn consideration certificate signed by grantor and grantee, plus the preparer's signed statement – or the county clerk won't record it (KRS 382.135, 382.335); "with general warranty" and "with special warranty" carry the meanings set by KRS 382.030 and 382.040. The seller pays the transfer tax of 50 cents per $500 of value, collected by the clerk before the deed is accepted, and a deed isn't lodged until it's paid (KRS 142.050, 382.260). After closing, the seller's paid-off mortgage must be released within 30 days, with daily penalties after written notice (KRS 382.365).

From listing to release

  1. 1. Disclosure (KRS 324.360)

    Signed at listing; to the buyer within 72 hours of a written offer.

  2. 2. Deed contents (KRS 382.135, 382.335)

    Consideration certificate, addresses, preparer statement.

  3. 3. Transfer tax (KRS 142.050)

    50¢ per $500, paid by the seller at recording.

  4. 4. Mortgage release (KRS 382.365)

    30 days; $100 then $500 a day after notice.

Questions about Kentucky closings

When does a Kentucky buyer get the seller's disclosure?

The listing agent delivers it within 72 hours after receiving a written, signed offer (KRS 324.360).

Who pays the Kentucky transfer tax?

The grantor – the seller – at 50 cents per $500 of value (KRS 142.050).

Does the buyer sign anything on a Kentucky deed?

Yes – the buyer or its agent signs the sworn consideration certificate with the seller (KRS 382.135).

The Kentucky guides

ClosingCode links key Kentucky checklist steps to these guides – add a deal and the steps come with owners and due dates.

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Sources: Kentucky Revised Statutes 142.050, 324.360, 382.030, 382.040, 382.135, 382.260, 382.335 and 382.365 (apps.legislature.ky.gov, read for the linked guides).

General information, not legal advice. Each point links to the guide with the details. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.