You’ve done it! After months of searching for the perfect new home, you have found it and are ready to take the plunge into homeownership. But before you can move in and make all of your Pinterest-inspired dreams come true, there is something else you must do first—close on your new home. While this is an exciting part of the home buying process, it can also be a bit overwhelming. Understanding what to expect during closing will help make the process more manageable.
How Long Does It Take to Close on a Home?
On average, it takes 30-45 days from when you fill out your mortgage loan application until the day you sign all final paperwork and close on your new home – this timeframe can vary depending on any potential delays that may come up during the process, such as issues with title or appraisals or if one of the parties needs additional time to review documents or negotiate terms. Although closing day itself usually only lasts 1-2 hours, having everything ready ahead of time can help ensure that there are no last-minute surprises that delay the whole process further down the line.
Here’s how you can prepare for closing.
Organizing Your Paperwork & Finances
The most important thing to remember when it comes to closing is that organization is key. Before closing day arrives, make sure you have all of your paperwork in order and ready to go. This includes proof of income, any additional documentation needed by your lender (like bank statements or tax returns), and an updated copy of your credit report. Additionally, if you are using a down payment assistance program or other funds from outside sources, make sure you have proof of those funds as well. Finally, be prepared for last-minute requests from your lender or title company.
Closing Day Preparations
On closing day, there are certain things you should bring with you to ensure everything goes smoothly. You should bring a valid form of photo identification (a driver’s license usually works) as well as a cashier’s check made out to the title company or seller for the remaining balance due on the property. Be sure to double-check that the amount is correct and that it matches up with what was agreed upon in the purchase contract and loan documents prior to closing day. In addition, bring along any additional documents requested by your lender or title company—you don’t want anything slowing down the process at this point!
The Closing Meeting
During closing, you will sign numerous documents related to both your loan and ownership of the property itself. Some common documents include various disclosure forms related to both the loan and ownership, deed transferring ownership from seller to buyer, promissory note outlining repayment terms, mortgage agreement outlining responsibilities under said mortgage, tax forms, title insurance policy, homeowner’s insurance information, utility transfer information…it’s a lot! Don’t worry though—your real estate agent will be there every step of the way explaining each document so that nothing takes you by surprise on closing day!
Closing day marks one of life’s biggest milestones: becoming a homeowner! With proper preparation and an understanding of what is involved in closing on a home purchase, this part of the process can be enjoyable rather than stressful. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if something doesn’t seem right – after all, this is your dream home. Congratulations again on taking this huge step towards homeownership!
When you’re ready to get the home buying process started, visit us at SummerHillHomes.com to learn more about our new home communities in the Bay Area and our preferred lenders.