Real Estate Closing Process: Start to Finish
Congratulations! You’re under contract—so what happens next?
Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens behind the scenes during the closing process.
Step 1: Getting Started
The process begins when you or your Realtor sends us the purchase contract. This allows us to open your file and begin processing.
You can email contracts to Closings@24Hourclose.com or submit them through our online portal.
—Step 2: File Setup & Communication
Once your file is opened, we send a welcome email to all parties involved.
Make sure all email addresses are included in the contract so everyone stays updated throughout the process.
—Step 3: Buyer & Seller Information
You’ll receive digital forms to complete.
This step is critical. Delays in submitting forms can delay closing.
- Buyers: Must complete forms before the title search begins
- Sellers: Needed to request payoffs and HOA statements
Step 4: Title Work
We conduct a title search to verify ownership and uncover any issues that need to be resolved before closing.
—Step 5: Gathering Financials
We request mortgage payoffs, HOA statements, and collect invoices from all parties involved in the transaction.
—Step 6: Preparing for Closing
If the purchase is cash, we can move forward once prior steps are complete.
If financing is involved, we wait for lender approval and closing instructions before preparing the final closing statement (CD).
As you move through the process, it’s important to understand the fees involved. Learn more about closing costs in North Carolina.
—Step 7: Signing
Buyers and sellers typically sign separately due to privacy requirements.
We offer flexible signing options, including in-office and remote closings for North Carolina clients.
—Step 8: Final Review & Funding
We perform a final title update and send documents to the lender (if applicable) for funding approval.
—Step 9: Funds Received
All funds must be received before we can proceed. Learn more about bringing funds to closing.
—Step 10: Recording
The deed is recorded with the county. Most counties now allow electronic recording, which speeds up the process.
—Step 11: Disbursement
Once recording is complete, funds are distributed to the appropriate parties.
—Step 12: Final Documents
Your title insurance policy is issued and delivered within approximately 60 days.
Closing Complete
Congratulations! Your closing is officially complete.