The Closing Process
From accepted offer to getting the keys — here's the timeline and what happens at each stage.
Typical Timeline (30-45 Days)
Day 1-3
Offer accepted, earnest money deposited
Day 3-7
Home inspection scheduled and completed
Day 7-10
Inspection negotiations — repair requests or credits
Day 7-14
Appraisal ordered by lender
Day 14-21
Appraisal completed and reviewed
Day 10-25
Underwriting — lender reviews all documents
Day 20-28
Clear to close — final approval from lender
Day 25-30
Final walkthrough
Day 28-35
Closing day — sign documents, get keys
Closing Cost Categories
You'll receive a Closing Disclosure (CD) at least 3 business days before closing. Review it carefully and compare to your original Loan Estimate.
Lender Fees
- • Origination fee (0.5-1%)
- • Appraisal ($400-700)
- • Credit report ($50)
- • Underwriting fee
- • Processing fee
Title & Settlement
- • Title insurance
- • Title search
- • Settlement/closing fee
- • Attorney fee ($500-1,500)
Government & Recording
- • Recording fees ($100-300)
- • Transfer taxes (varies by state)
- • County stamps
- • City stamps (if applicable)
Prepaids & Escrow
- • Prepaid insurance (12 months)
- • Prepaid property taxes (2-6 months)
- • Prepaid interest (closing to month end)
- • Initial escrow deposits
What to Bring to Closing
0/4Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough happens 24-48 hours before closing. This is NOT another inspection — it's to verify:
- • Agreed-upon repairs were completed
- • No new damage since inspection
- • All fixtures and appliances included in the contract are still there
- • Seller has moved out and cleaned
- • All systems work (turn on faucets, flush toilets, check HVAC, test garage door)
Congratulations, homeowner!
After closing, check out our maintenance section to keep your new home in great shape.
Home Maintenance Guide →