Closing is the final stretch—from “offer accepted” to keys in hand. Here’s the plain-English version of how it works in California, what you’ll do at each step, and how to keep it calm and on-track.
At-a-glance timeline
- Day 0: Offer accepted; escrow is opened.
- Days 1–5: Deposit due; inspections scheduled.
- Days 7–17: Inspections, appraisal, loan underwriting.
- ~Week 3–4: Contingency removals; loan docs issued.
- ~Week 4–5: Sign final docs; loan funds; recordation; keys.
1) Offer Accepted
Once both sides sign, the clock starts. You’ll receive escrow instructions and a timeline with key deadlines.
You’ll handle
- Send your initial deposit to escrow (per contract).
- Send your insurance agent the property address for a quote.
- Share any lender/escrow requests quickly.
Behind the scenes
- Escrow opens file, orders title report, distributes instructions.
- Lender starts full underwriting checklist.
- Agent schedules inspections and confirms access.
2) Escrow & Inspections
Your deposit is held in a neutral escrow account while you inspect the home and negotiate any repairs or credits.
- General home inspection: overall condition, safety items.
- Specialty checks (as needed): roof, sewer, pool, termite, foundation, mold, etc.
- Repair requests: your agent presents requests or credit options.
3) Appraisal & Final Loan Approval
Your lender confirms value with an appraisal and clears underwriting conditions (income, assets, employment, title, insurance).
- Appraisal: supports value for the loan; low appraisals can be challenged or renegotiated.
- Conditions: respond quickly to document requests to avoid delays.
- Loan docs: once cleared, the lender issues final loan documents to escrow.
4) Final Walkthrough
Usually 24–72 hours before closing. You’re verifying the home’s condition and that agreed repairs are complete—it’s not a new inspection.
5) Sign, Fund, Record, Keys- Sign: you’ll sign closing documents with escrow (in person or with a mobile notary).
- Fund: lender wires funds; you wire any remaining cash to close.
- Record: title records the deed with the county. Once recorded—you’re the owner.
- Keys: delivered per contract (often the same day as recordation).
Common documents you’ll see
- Escrow instructions & settlement statement (closing costs itemized)
- Loan estimate & closing disclosure (if financing)
- Title report & prelim; deed of trust; note
- Inspection reports; repair addenda
- Homeowner’s insurance binder
Common speed bumps (and easy fixes)
- Low appraisal: challenge with comps, renegotiate price/credit, or add cash gap.
- Inspection surprises: negotiate repairs, credits, or specialized contractor bids.
- Wire delays: confirm routing and send early; always verify wiring instructions by phone.
- Insurance hiccups: shop policies early—especially for homes with older roofs or pools.
Want a step-by-step timeline you can print and check off? Grab the checklist below.
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