What happens next

From contract to closing, step by step.

Timing varies by deal, lender and county, so treat these ranges as a general guide and ask your agent about your dates.

1. 1

   Day 1

   Contract is signed

   Both sides sign the purchase contract. Your agent sends it to the title company and the lender to open the file.

2. 2

   Within a few days

   Earnest money deposit

   Your deposit goes to the title company or escrow holder, as the contract directs.

3. 3

   First 1 to 2 weeks

   Title search and commitment

   The title company checks the property's ownership history for liens or claims and issues a title commitment.

   Faster closings

   Key Technologies Speeding Up the Process

   • Automated Title Searches

     Algorithmic title engines aggregate public property records, tax data, and municipal liens instantly, cutting down title search turnarounds to under 24 hours in many jurisdictions.

   • Remote Online Notarization (RON)

     Signers verify their identity through automated credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication (KBA), then complete the signing via a 15-minute secure video session from anywhere in the world.

   • E-Recording Networks

     Title companies submit digital deeds directly to county recorder databases (using services like Simplifile), achieving same-day legal recording rather than waiting days for mail delivery.

   • Digital Earnest Money & Wire Transfers

     Instant digital bank verification and electronic earnest money transfers clear funds in minutes, eliminating paper checks and escrow letter delays.

4. 4

   First 1 to 3 weeks

   Inspection and appraisal

   Inspections happen and the lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value.

5. 5

   Weeks 2 to 4

   Loan underwriting

   The lender reviews your documents. Respond quickly to requests and avoid new debt or large purchases.

6. 6

   Before closing

   Review your closing costs

   Compare your Loan Estimate with the Closing Disclosure and confirm the cash you need to bring.

7. 7

   Day before or day of closing

   Final walkthrough

   Confirm the home is in the agreed condition and any repairs are complete.

8. 8

   Closing date

   Closing day

   Sign the loan and settlement documents, send your funds and receive the keys once the deed is recorded.