Closing The Deal

Whether you celebrate with champagne or simply exhale with relief, the final steps of the closing process deserve the same care and attention as every stage that came before.

Final Walk-Through Inspection

The final walk-through is your last opportunity to inspect the property before taking ownership. At this point, all contingencies in the Purchase Agreement should be resolved, and the seller's belongings should be fully removed from the home. This inspection typically takes place the day before or the morning of closing.

Closing

When you are satisfied with the final walk-through, it is time to close. You, the seller, and the closing agent will sign the settlement agreement, which documents every financial transaction that has taken place throughout the process and certifies its accuracy. You will sign your loan documents and deposit the remaining balance of your down payment and closing costs to escrow. Funds can be delivered either as a certified bank check in the amount specified in the settlement statement, or wired electronically to the escrow account.

Once all documents have been signed and all funds confirmed, the deed will be recorded at the County Recorder's office. At that point, you officially take ownership of your property.