The big day is finally here!

The official process of becoming a homeowner begins on closing day after weeks or months of searching and negotiating and document inspection and signing. The official process of homeownership begins on closing day. The process remains unclear to first-time participants. The following information will help you prepare for the process so you can feel confident and ready for what lies ahead.

1.       The Final Walkthrough

The final walkthrough usually occurs within 24-48 hours before closing to verify that the home matches the agreed-upon condition.

You’ll want to:

·       Verify that all requested repairs have been finished

·       Verify that all items which should remain in the property are still present (such as appliances and fixtures)

·       Verify that the property is clean and damage-free

The purpose of this stage is to confirm the home matches the agreed conditions rather than to negotiate any further changes.

2.       Who Will Be There

Depending on the way your transaction is structured, you may see several professionals at the closing table:

·       Your real estate agent (that’s me!)

·       The title company representative or closing agent

·       Your lender or loan officer (if applicable)

3.       What You’ll Need to Bring

Be sure to have the following with you:

·       A valid government-issued photo ID

·       A cashier’s check or proof of wire transfer for your closing costs and down payment (your closing statement will detail this in advance)

·       Any final documents your lender or agent requests 

Make sure to follow the title company’s instructions carefully when wiring funds—wire fraud is real and dangerous.

4. What You’ll Be Signing

Expect to sign a lot of documents—especially if you’re financing your purchase. These may include:

• The promissory note (your promise to repay the loan)
• The deed of trust or mortgage (which secures the loan with the property)
• The closing disclosure, which itemizes all the final costs
• Title and tax documents, and other local or lender-specific forms

Your agent and the closing officer will walk you through everything, and you’ll have time to ask questions.

5. When You Get the Keys

The keys will become available to you, in most cases, the same day, right after closing and the county records the transaction. The delivery of keys may take one business day after closing when the transaction gets recorded by the county. Your agent will keep you informed.

A Word of Encouragement

The closing day marks the end of the process, yet it brings the start of something new. First-time homebuyers experience a mix of emotions during this time, which includes excitement and surreal feelings, and emotional responses. I will support you throughout your entire journey.

You’ve come so far—and now, you’re almost home.
If you're starting your homebuying journey or need guidance through the closing process, I’m here to help you feel cared for and confident.