Closing on a Home

Finalizing your home sale or home purchase should be an exciting time, not a stressful event. Find out how long closing takes, how much it costs, and how to close without delays.

What can buyers demand during a final walk-through?
Closing on a Home
What can buyers demand during a final walk-through?

During a final walkthrough, buyers can demand that the home be in the same clean, well-maintained condition as when the purchase agreement was signed.

How much are closing costs in Georgia?
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How much are closing costs in Georgia?

Georgia closing costs are on par with the national average due to its the state's transfer taxes.

How much are closing costs in Texas?
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How much are closing costs in Texas?

In 2022, closing costs in Texas were around $4,500, which was higher than the national average.

The worst day to close on a house
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The worst day to close on a house

Though there's no hard evidence, anecdotally many homebuyers and real estate professionals say Friday is the worst day for closing on a home.

Understanding real estate closing disclosures (CDs)
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Understanding real estate closing disclosures (CDs)

A real estate closing disclosure is a form that summarizes the details of your mortgage loan and it’s provided to you by your bank or mortgage lender.

A guide to real estate purchase and sale agreements
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A guide to real estate purchase and sale agreements

Purchase and sale agreements are important documents that outline the details of a real estate transaction between buyer and seller.

Change of address checklist: 12 people to notify
Closing on a Home
Change of address checklist: 12 people to notify

Here’s your essential change of address checklist to help make your transition to a new home much easier.

6 gift ideas to tell your Realtor "thank you"
Closing on a Home
6 gift ideas to tell your Realtor "thank you"

While you don’t have to buy your Realtor a gift, getting them something is great way to show your appreciation. Closing gifts don't need to be pricey, either.

11 things not to do after closing on a house
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11 things not to do after closing on a house

What you do during after closing can jeopardize the home sale and delay your timeline. Here's what not to do after closing on a home.

Should I buy a house with foundation issues?
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Should I buy a house with foundation issues?

Buying a house with foundation problems can be daunting, but not all foundation issues need to be deal-breakers. Here's everything you need to know.

What is the house closing process?
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What is the house closing process?

The closing process has many moving parts and steps to complete before the seller relinquishes ownership and you become the official owner of your new home.

What is a loan origination fee and who pays for it?
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What is a loan origination fee and who pays for it?

A loan origination fee is an upfront fee a lender charges to the borrower, but rates can vary. Here's everything you need to know to avoid overpaying.

When do you get your money after selling your home?
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When do you get your money after selling your home?

Sellers who live in dry funding states will have to wait considerably longer to receive their home sale proceeds than sellers who live in wet funding states.

What to Look for During the Final Walkthrough of Your New Home
Closing on a Home
What to Look for During the Final Walkthrough of Your New Home

As tempting as it is to rush the final walkthrough, it’s important to be methodical, as this is your last chance to catch any issues in the home before closing.

At what point do you buy homeowners insurance when buying a home?
Closing on a Home
At what point do you buy homeowners insurance when buying a home?

You can purchase a homeowners insurance policy at any time during the closing process. But you should have it in place at least a few days prior to closing.

How to deal when the homebuyer wants to move your closing date
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How to deal when the homebuyer wants to move your closing date

If your home's buyer requests a new closing date, stay calm and ask your real estate agent to walk you through the best options, including a per diem penalty.

Getting Access to the Home Before Closing: What Can the Buyer Do?
Closing on a Home
Getting Access to the Home Before Closing: What Can the Buyer Do?

There are major legal and financial factors to consider when a buyer wants, and gets, access to the home before they officially close on it.

What Is Title Insurance, and Do You Need It?
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What Is Title Insurance, and Do You Need It?

Title insurance protects both lenders and homebuyers from financial loss if somebody contests the title to a property or other issues with the title.

How long does escrow take?
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How long does escrow take?

If you’re a first-time buyer, you may not have a clear picture of what the escrow process actually looks like. Let’s break down everything you need to know

What the home seller needs to do after closing
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What the home seller needs to do after closing

So you’ve sold your house and are ready to move on with your life. But does the buyer just sign the documents and immediately walk into your home?

Can a Buyer Back Out After the Final Walkthrough?
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Can a Buyer Back Out After the Final Walkthrough?

Though it's rare, in some situations, buyers are allowed to back out after the final walkthrough. Here's how to avoid that.

Who pays closing costs — buyer or seller?
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Who pays closing costs — buyer or seller?

Buyers and sellers are each responsible for their own set of closing costs on a home sale, and buyers can ask sellers to cover more costs as concessions.

How long does it take to close on a house?
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How long does it take to close on a house?

It can take up to 60 days to close on a house, but signing paperwork on closing day takes less than a few hours.

What is a title company?
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What is a title company?

A title company is a third party that conducts a title search and provides insurance, and hiring one is a necessary part of the real estate transaction.

How much are closing costs for the seller?
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How much are closing costs for the seller?

The average closing costs for sellers typically amount 8% to 10% of the purchase price of the home and can be negotiated between the buyer and seller.