You're in the home stretch. Literally. But there's still a lot happening between "offer accepted" and "keys in hand."

The Appraisal

If you're financing, your lender will order an appraisal to verify the home is worth what you're paying. If it appraises at or above your purchase price, great. If it appraises low, you'll need to renegotiate, bring more cash to closing, or walk away (if you have an appraisal contingency).

Title Search and Insurance

A title company will research the property's ownership history to make sure there are no liens, claims, or legal issues. You'll also purchase title insurance, which protects you if any issues come up later.

Final Walkthrough

A day or two before closing, you'll do a final walkthrough of the property. This isn't another inspection—it's to verify that any agreed-upon repairs were made, nothing has changed since your offer, and the property is in the same condition you expected.

Closing Disclosure

Three days before closing, your lender will send a closing disclosure with your final loan terms and closing costs. Review it carefully. Compare it to your original loan estimate. If numbers have changed significantly, ask why.

Closing Day

You'll meet at a title company to sign a mountain of paperwork, especially if you are getting a loan. Bring a cashier's check or arrange a wire transfer for your down payment and closing costs. If wiring funds, it is critical to triple-check wiring instructions and if something seems fishy, ask your agent or the escrow agent. Bring your ID. Expect to be there for an hour or so. Once the title company has funding and lending approval you'll get the keys—usually within a couple of hours after signing. So, do not plan an immediate move-in right after signing—discuss logistics with your agent before scheduling your movers.

What You'll Sign

  • The deed

  • Mortgage note

  • Closing disclosure

  • Title insurance documents

Your agent, your lender, and the escrow agent will walk you through everything. Don't be afraid to ask questions if something doesn't make sense.