The Closing Disclosure (CD), previously known as the HUD-1, is a crucial three-page, government-mandated form that delineates the costs associated with a real estate transaction. Borrowers should ideally receive a copy of the CD at least one day before the closing date. The figures provided on the CD represent the actual charges tied to the loan, making it imperative for all stakeholders to scrutinize the document for any inaccuracies.
Since 2010, settlement agents are required to incorporate the Loan Estimate (LE), formerly known as the Good-Faith Estimate, figures into the CD. This safeguard allows borrowers to juxtapose initial loan estimates with the final loan costs. Side-by-side comparison can reveal any discrepancies or significant variations, enabling corrections to be made before the actual closing, ensuring transparent and accurate financial dealings.
It’s essential for homeowners, real estate professionals, and lenders to comprehend how to read and interpret the CD to prevent misunderstandings or financial discrepancies in what is often one of the most significant financial transactions in one’s life.
Related Terms: Loan Estimate, Good-Faith Estimate, Settlement Agent, Real Estate Transaction, Mortgage.
Unlock Your Real Estate Potential: Take the Ultimate Knowledge Challenge!
### What is the primary purpose of the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] To detail the costs associated with a real estate transaction
- [ ] To appraise the property's value
- [ ] To serve as the property's title deed
- [ ] To replace the loan application form
> **Explanation:** The Closing Disclosure (CD) is a government-mandated form that details the actual costs associated with a real estate transaction. It provides a comprehensive breakdown of all charges for the borrower’s review.
### When should the borrower receive a copy of the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [ ] One week prior to closing
- [x] At least one day prior to closing
- [ ] On the day of closing
- [ ] One month prior to closing
> **Explanation:** The borrower should receive a copy of the Closing Disclosure (CD) at least one day before the closing to allow sufficient time to review and ensure the accuracy of the figures.
### Why is it important for all parties to examine the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] To check for inaccuracies and ensure the charges are correct
- [ ] To negotiate the loan terms further
- [ ] To finalize the purchase agreement
- [ ] To confirm the property's appraisal value
> **Explanation:** It’s important for all parties to examine the Closing Disclosure (CD) to identify any errors or discrepancies in the charges, allowing corrections to be made before the closing.
### What figure comparison is facilitated by the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] Figures from the Loan Estimate (LE)
- [ ] Figures from the Homeowners Association (HOA)
- [ ] Figures from the appraisal report
- [ ] Figures from the credit report
> **Explanation:** The Closing Disclosure (CD) includes figures from the Loan Estimate (LE), allowing borrowers to compare the initially quoted loan charges with the actual charges.
### What was the former name of the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [ ] Final Settlement Sheet
- [ ] Property Transaction Report
- [ ] Mortgage Settlement Agreement
- [x] HUD-1 Uniform Settlement Statement
> **Explanation:** The Closing Disclosure (CD) was formerly known as the HUD-1 Uniform Settlement Statement.
### What should a borrower do if they find discrepancies on the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] Contact the settlement agent for clarification or correction
- [ ] Sign the document as is
- [ ] Ignore the discrepancies
- [ ] Delay the closing indefinitely
> **Explanation:** If there are discrepancies on the Closing Disclosure (CD), the borrower should contact the settlement agent to correct these inaccuracies before proceeding with the closing.
### As of what year are settlement agents required to include figures from the Loan Estimate (LE) in the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [ ] 2001
- [ ] 2005
- [x] 2010
- [ ] 2015
> **Explanation:** The requirement for settlement agents to include figures from the Loan Estimate (LE) in the Closing Disclosure (CD) came into effect in 2010.
### What document was used for initial loan charge estimates before the Loan Estimate (LE)?
- [ ] Truth-in-Lending Disclosure (TIL)
- [ ] Mortgage Initial Estimate (MIE)
- [x] Good-Faith Estimate (GFE)
- [ ] Initial Loan Disclosure (ILD)
> **Explanation:** Before the Loan Estimate (LE), the Good-Faith Estimate (GFE) was used for providing initial loan charge estimates.
### What is the main benefit of comparing the Loan Estimate (LE) with the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [ ] To finalize the closing date
- [ ] To negotiate a lower interest rate
- [ ] To reduce the loan amount
- [x] To identify and correct any variations in quoted and actual loan charges
> **Explanation:** Comparing the Loan Estimate (LE) with the Closing Disclosure (CD) helps identify any variations between the quoted and actual loan charges, allowing for necessary corrections before closing.
### What is the role of the settlement agent regarding the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] To prepare and include accurate financial figures
- [ ] To appraise the property
- [ ] To provide home inspection services
- [ ] To approve the loan application
> **Explanation:** The settlement agent’s role involves preparing the Closing Disclosure (CD) with accurate financial figures and comparing them with the Loan Estimate (LE) for consistency.
### The Closing Disclosure (CD) is mandated by which entity?
- [x] Government
- [ ] Real estate agencies
- [ ] Private lenders
- [ ] Federal Reserve
> **Explanation:** The Closing Disclosure (CD) is a government-mandated document ensuring transparency and accuracy in the costs associated with a real estate transaction.
### How many pages does the Closing Disclosure (CD) have?
- [ ] One page
- [ ] Two pages
- [x] Three pages
- [ ] Four pages
> **Explanation:** The Closing Disclosure (CD) is a three-page document detailing the costs associated with a real estate transaction.
### Why was the HUD-1 form replaced by the Closing Disclosure (CD)?
- [x] To improve transparency and accuracy of loan charges
- [ ] To reduce the cost of real estate transactions
- [ ] To simplify property appraisals
- [ ] To shorten the closing process
> **Explanation:** The HUD-1 form was replaced by the Closing Disclosure (CD) to improve transparency and accuracy regarding the actual charges associated with real estate transactions.