What To Expect At a Closing!
You’ve Made It This Far—What’s Next?
You’ve navigated pre-approval, made a winning offer, and completed the home inspection—congratulations! Now it’s time for the final step.
Closing Time
If you're using a loan, get ready to sign a stack of documents at closing! While it might feel like a bit of a hassle, keep in mind what’s waiting for you at the finish line—your new home!
During the closing process, your lender and title company will walk you through the paperwork, ensuring everything is clear. You’ll sign the final loan documents, settle any remaining costs, and officially receive the keys to your new home.
This step marks the exciting conclusion of your home-buying journey—and the start of a brand-new chapter in your life!
A Few Days Before Closing
Around three days before your closing date, your lender will send you a Closing Disclosure. This important document breaks down your final costs, so you’ll know exactly what you need to bring to closing. Once you review and acknowledge the disclosure, it’s sent to the title company.
The title company will then prepare a settlement statement, which outlines the financial details for both you and the seller, including any credits, fees, and remaining balances.
Final Walk-ThroughTypically held the day before closing, the final walk-through is your chance to make sure everything is as expected. You’ll confirm that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed and ensure there are no new issues since the inspection. This is your last opportunity to double-check the home before signing on the dotted line.
Closing Day
On closing day, head to the title company’s office with a valid photo ID and arrive on time. The process usually takes about an hour, as you’ll be signing a stack of important documents.
You’ve likely reviewed most of the key details—like loan terms, interest rates, and amounts—with your lender already. However, if you have any last-minute questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Some of the key documents you’ll sign include:
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The Deed: Transfers ownership of the home to you.
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Seller Disclosures: Acknowledges that you’ve received all required disclosures from the seller.
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Mortgage Agreement: Outlines the terms of your loan.
Once everything is signed and finalized, you’ll get the keys to your new home—it’s officially yours!
Who all will attend the closing?
In addition to you, here’s who you can expect to see at the closing table:
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Your Agent: There to support you, answer questions, and guide you through the process.
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Title Company Representative: Facilitates the closing, ensures all documents are signed, and handles the transfer of funds and ownership.
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The Seller and Their Agent: The seller will sign over the deed and finalize their side of the sale.
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Your Lender (Sometimes): While not always required, some lenders choose to attend the closing to provide additional support.
This entire team has worked hard to get you to this day—congratulations! You’re just moments away from becoming a homeowner!
After You Sign: Final Steps
Once you’ve signed all the documents, the closing agent will step out to make copies for everyone. While you wait, it’s a great time to ask the seller any last-minute questions—like when trash day is or tips about the neighborhood. Most sellers are more than happy to share those details!
You’ll receive a folder with all your closing documents to keep on file—perfect timing if you’ve been thinking about getting a new filing cabinet for your new home! Your agent will also have a copy of everything. In Indiana, we’re required to keep these documents for up to five years, so if you ever need them down the road, just ask.
If you have any questions about the home buying process or anything related to real estate, feel free to contact me. You can also explore my blog or check out the “Top Buyer Questions” page for more information.