How Does the Closing Process Work?

Closing is the final stretch—exciting, detailed, and critical. Here’s how it typically unfolds in our Southern California markets once your offer is accepted.

Day 0–3: Open Escrow & Deposits. We open escrow with a neutral third party (title/escrow), and you wire your earnest money deposit. I verify wiring instructions to protect you from fraud.

Day 1–10: Inspections & Disclosures. You’ll receive seller disclosures and reports. We schedule inspections (home, termite, roof, septic/well if applicable). I attend, review findings, and—if needed—negotiate repairs or credits.

Day 7–21: Appraisal & Underwriting. Your lender orders an appraisal. If it comes in low, I implement our appraisal strategy (rebuttal, comps, credits, or price adjustment). Underwriting reviews income, assets, and the property. I keep all parties in sync.

Day 15–25: Loan Approval & Docs. Once “clear to close” is near, loan documents are generated. We review your final numbers (cash to close, interest rate, payment). You’ll sign with a notary or at the escrow office.

Day 25–30+: Funding & Recording. Your lender funds the loan, escrow releases funds to the seller, and the deed records with the county. Once recorded, you get keys—welcome home.

For sellers, I manage payoff statements, repair coordination, final walkthrough prep, and a clean closing statement for your records and CPA. For buyers, I set you up with utilities, HOA onboarding if applicable, and post-close vendor referrals.

Timelines can vary based on loan type, appraisal speed, and negotiations. My role is to anticipate bottlenecks, keep documents moving, and remove friction. No surprises, no last-minute scrambles.

Want a printable closing checklist? I’ll send a step-by-step guide you can keep on your fridge.