Can you walk us through your closing process and timeline?
The closing process in real estate involves several steps and typically spans several weeks, depending on
various factors like loan approval, home inspections, and legal requirements. Here's a general overview
of the closing process and timeline:
Opening Escrow (Day 1)
Escrow Account: Once the purchase agreement is signed, an escrow account is opened with a neutral third party (like a title company or attorney) to handle all money and documents associated with the transaction.
Deposit Earnest Money: The buyer deposits earnest money into the escrow account as a show of good faith.
Title Search and Insurance (Week 1-2)
Title Search: The title company conducts a title search to ensure there are no liens, disputes, or legal hurdles.
Title Insurance: Title insurance policies for the buyer and lender are arranged to protect against
future title disputes.
Home Inspection and Appraisal (Week 1-3)
Home Inspection: The buyer arranges a home inspection to check for any issues with the property.
Appraisal: The lender requires a property appraisal to confirm the home’s value is adequate for the loan amount.
Mortgage Finalization (Week 2-4)
Loan Processing: The lender processes the mortgage application, which includes verifying financial information and a detailed financial background check.
Underwriting: The loan goes through underwriting where the lender approves, suspends, or denies the loan based on their criteria.
Addressing Contingencies and Repairs (Week 3-5)
Review of Contingencies: Based on the home inspection, you might negotiate repairs or credits with the seller.
Finalizing Repairs: If repairs are agreed upon, ensure they are completed before closing.
Final Walkthrough (1-2 Days Before Closing)
Inspection: The buyer does a final walkthrough of the property to ensure all is in agreed condition.
Closing Disclosure Review (At Least 3 Days Before Closing)
Disclosure Receipt: The buyer receives the Closing Disclosure from the lender, detailing the final financials of the loan.
Review: You should review this document carefully for any discrepancies from the Loan Estimate.
Closing Day (Typically 4-6 Weeks After Offer Acceptance)
Signing Documents: The buyer and seller sign all necessary documents, including the mortgage paperwork, transfer of ownership documents, and multiple closing documents.
Funds Transfer: The buyer transfers the down payment and closing costs to the escrow account. The lender releases the loan amount to escrow.
Record the Deed: The deed is recorded with the local government to make you the official owner of the property.
Keys and Handover: The seller hands over the keys, and the buyer officially becomes the new owner.
Post-Closing (Immediately After Closing Day)
Final Transactions: The escrow agent ensures all funds are paid out correctly and the transaction is complete.
Document Receipt: You receive copies of all documents and confirmation of the transaction.
Important Notes:
Communication: Regular communication with your real estate agent, lender, and escrow officer is crucial to keep the process moving smoothly.
Flexibility: Be prepared for potential delays. Issues in financing, inspection findings, or other contingencies can shift the timeline.
Preparation: Have all your financial documents in order and respond promptly to requests from your lender or escrow agent.
This timeline is a general guide and can vary based on the specifics of your transaction, local regulations, and other unique factors
