What to Expect on Closing Day: A Buyer’s Guide

After weeks (or months) of house hunting, negotiations, inspections, and paperwork, you’ve finally reached the finish line — closing day. For buyers, this is the moment when ownership officially transfers and you get the keys to your new home. But what actually happens on closing day? Here’s a clear guide to help you prepare.

Review and Sign Final Documents

Be ready to sign a stack of paperwork, which may include:

• Closing Disclosure – Details your final loan terms, interest rate, and closing costs.

• Promissory Note – Your agreement to repay the loan.

• Deed of Trust or Mortgage – Secures the loan with your new home.

• Title and Transfer Documents – Legally transfer ownership from seller to buyer.

Pro tip: Review your Closing Disclosure in advance (you should receive it at least 3 days before closing) to avoid last-minute surprises.

Pay Closing Costs and Down Payment

At closing, you’ll need to pay your down payment plus closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. These are usually wired in advance to the escrow or title company, so confirm details before the big day.

Final Loan Approval

The lender will confirm your financing is in order and transfer funds to the seller. This is the final step that makes the deal official.

Receive the Keys

Once everything is signed and the funds are transferred, you’ll receive the keys (sometimes the same day, sometimes the next business day). Congratulations — the home is officially yours!

Common Closing Day Delays

Closings don’t always go perfectly. Common hiccups include:

• Last-minute issues with loan approval.

• Errors in documents that need correcting.

• Delays in wire transfers.

To avoid stress, double-check all documents, confirm funds are sent on time, and stay in touch with your agent and lender leading up to closing.

Final Thoughts

Closing day is exciting, but it’s also a detailed process with many moving parts. By knowing what to expect — documents to sign, funds to transfer, and final steps to complete — you’ll walk into closing with confidence and walk out with the keys to your new home.