Navigate closing with qualified professional support.

Day 1–3

Open escrow and deliver earnest money

Open escrow with a title company immediately after contract execution. The buyer delivers earnest money within the contract-specified window, typically 2–3 business days. Confirm every contract deadline in writing.

→ Call your title company today. Their contact is in the partners directory below.

Day 3–10

Buyer's inspection period

The buyer conducts a licensed home inspection. You will receive a written repair request. Respond in writing within the contract deadline — typically 48 hours. Be reasonable. Most deals that collapse during this stage do so over small items that could have been negotiated.

→ Have your pre-listing inspection report ready to share. It demonstrates transparency and limits surprise findings.

Day 10–21

Appraisal ordered by lender

If the buyer is financing, their lender orders an appraisal. A low appraisal can collapse the transaction or trigger renegotiation. Prepare your closed comparable sales documentation in advance — a low appraisal can be challenged with proper evidence.

→ Pull your 4–6 most recent closed comps before the appraiser arrives and have them ready.

Day 21–35

Loan underwriting and approval

The lender underwrites the buyer's loan. Delays are common. Stay in daily contact with the buyer's agent and title company. Do not make large purchases or open new credit accounts during this period.

→ Communicate proactively. Most failed transactions collapse from poor coordination, not irresolvable disputes.

Day 35–45

Final walk-through and closing disclosure

The buyer conducts a final walk-through, typically 24 hours before closing. You will receive a Closing Disclosure at least 3 business days before closing. Review every figure, credit, proration, and fee line by line before signing day.

→ Contact your attorney before signing day if any figure is unclear or unexpected.

Day 45–60

Closing and title transfer

Sign all documents. Funds transfer through escrow. Title transfers. You receive your net proceeds. Keys exchange. Confirm wire instructions directly with your title company by phone — never by email alone. Wire fraud is common in real estate transactions.

→ Bring a valid photo ID. Verify all wire instructions by phone the morning of closing.

Mortgage Lenders

Home Inspectors

Title Companies

Real Estate Attorneys

Photographers

Staging Companies

Cleaning Services

Home Warranty

Plumbing

Heating and Cooling

Roofing

Painters and Pest Control