
If you’ve found the house of your dreams and made a successful bid, you’re in the homestretch. You may be eager to grab the keys and move in, but it’s important to take the time to properly close the deal to avoid any expensive oversights.
It typically takes between 30 and 60 days to close on a home, with closing times in 2021 averaging about 49 days, according to ICE Mortgage Technology.
How you pay for the home can affect how long it takes to close. If you’re buying with cash, the closing process speeds up considerably, and you can close in just a week or two. That’s because you’ll be able to skip all the individual steps it takes to get approved when you need a mortgage.
What Delays Closing on a House?
Problems that could delay closing include:
- The buyer fails to get a loan approved.
- The buyer is unable to make the down payment.
- The seller fails to complete agreed-upon repairs.
- There are claims on the title, or liens against the property.
- The home appraises for less than the sale price.
- Issues are discovered during the home inspection.
- The loan officer is inexperienced.
Tips to close on schedule
- Choose your mortgage lender carefully.
- Get preapproval to have a better sense of what you can afford.
- Schedule the home inspection as soon as you make an offer and it’s accepted.
- Prepare the necessary paperwork in advance.
FAQ: How Fast Can You Close On a Home?
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about closing on a home.