Escrow Opened
Once your offer is accepted, escrow is officially opened. You’ll deposit your earnest money (typically 3% of the purchase price) within three business days.
Title & Escrow Work Behind the Scenes
The title company verifies ownership and checks for liens, while escrow coordinates documents and funds between all parties.
Home Inspections
I recommend scheduling a whole home inspection during your investigation period and, depending on the property, additional inspections such as sewer, roof, or chimney. This allows us to get a full picture of the home’s condition early on. We can then request repairs, credits, or price adjustments if needed.
Disclosures & Documents
The seller will provide disclosures about the property’s condition along with any available inspection or repair reports. You’ll review these carefully to understand the home’s current state and any potential concerns.
Loan Approval
If you are obtaining a loan, you’ll work with your lender to finalize financing. This includes providing requested documents, locking in your interest rate, and obtaining final underwriting approval.
Appraisal Ordered
If you’re financing the purchase, your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount. This is a buyer expense. If you’re paying cash, an appraisal is optional but can still be helpful for peace of mind.
Negotiations & Repairs
After inspections, you may choose to request repairs or credits. I’ll help you evaluate what’s reasonable and negotiate terms that keep your best interests in mind.
Contingency Removals
As you progress through your due diligence—such as inspections, appraisal, and loan approval—you’ll remove each contingency based on the timelines set in the purchase agreement. I’ll monitor all deadlines closely to ensure a smooth and timely transaction.
Final Walkthrough
Within five days of closing, you’ll walk through the property to ensure it’s in the same condition and any agreed-upon repairs are complete.
Sign Loan + Closing Documents
If you’re obtaining a loan, you’ll sign your loan documents along with the final closing paperwork. If you’re paying cash, you’ll sign the final closing documents only.
Closing + Keys!
Once the loan is funded (if applicable) and the deed is recorded, the home is officially yours.
