You’ve found the perfect home, made an offer, and it’s been accepted — congratulations! But before you can pop the champagne and move in, there’s still a series of important steps that happen between offer and closing.
Understanding this process helps you stay organized, avoid delays, and know exactly what to expect at every stage. Here’s a step-by-step look at the typical homebuyer’s timeline from offer to closing.
1. Offer Accepted (Day 0)
Once the seller accepts your offer, the countdown begins. You’ll enter into a purchase agreement, which outlines the price, terms, and closing timeline (usually 30–45 days).
At this stage, you’ll also submit earnest money — a deposit showing good faith, typically 1–3% of the purchase price. It’s held in escrow and applied toward your down payment at closing.
2. Schedule Your Home Inspection (Days 1–7)
A home inspection helps you uncover any potential issues before the sale is finalized. You’ll hire a licensed inspector to evaluate the property’s structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and more.
If major problems are found, you can negotiate repairs, request credits, or even back out if your contract includes an inspection contingency.
3. Appraisal and Loan Processing (Days 7–21)
After the inspection, your lender will order an appraisal to ensure the property’s value matches (or exceeds) the loan amount. This protects both you and the bank from overpaying.
Meanwhile, your lender’s underwriting team reviews all your financial documents — income, credit, assets, and debt — to finalize your mortgage approval.Be ready to respond quickly if they ask for additional paperwork.
4. Title Search and Insurance (Days 15–25)
The title company performs a title search to confirm there are no legal claims, liens, or disputes tied to the property. Once verified, you’ll purchase title insurance to protect your ownership rights in the future.
This step ensures that the home can be legally transferred to you without complications.
5. Final Loan Approval (Days 20–30)
Once underwriting is complete, you’ll receive a loan commitment letter confirming your mortgage approval. This means your financing is officially secured, and you’re clear to close — pending any final checks.
At this stage, avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases that could affect your approval.
6. Final Walkthrough (1–2 Days Before Closing)
Before signing the final documents, you’ll do a final walkthrough to make sure the home’s condition matches what was agreed upon.Confirm that:
- All requested repairs were completed
- Fixtures and appliances remain in place
- No new damage occurred since the inspection
If everything looks good, you’re ready for closing day.
7. Closing Day (Typically Day 30–45)
This is the big day! You’ll meet with your agent, lender, and closing agent (either in person or virtually) to sign the final paperwork.
You’ll:
- Pay closing costs and your down payment
- Review your Closing Disclosure (CD) carefully
- Sign the mortgage and title documents
Once the funds are transferred and the paperwork is recorded, you’ll receive the keys — and officially become a homeowner!
💡 Final Thought
The journey from offer to closing involves many moving parts, but with the right team and preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
By staying informed, keeping communication open with your lender and realtor, and responding promptly to requests, you’ll move through the process smoothly and confidently.
If you’re ready to start your homebuying journey, connect with a trusted real estate professional who can guide you from the first offer to the moment you get your keys.
