Funding, Recording and Closing in
Real Estate Transactions
The Final Steps to Ownership
You’re almost there—but a few critical steps remain before the keys are yours. Understanding the funding, recording, and closing process helps you navigate the final days with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises.
Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough typically occurs 0-2 days before the close of escrow, ideally after the sellers have removed all personal belongings from the home. This is your last opportunity to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition and that any negotiated repairs have been completed.
We’ll accompany you during this walkthrough to verify everything is as expected before you officially take ownership.
Funding: When the Money Changes Hands
Funding is the process of disbursing the necessary funds to complete the transaction. This occurs after all conditions of the sale have been met—inspections completed, appraisals approved, and financing confirmed.
How it works: Once your lender confirms that all requirements are satisfied, the funds are released to escrow and then disbursed to the seller. This step is crucial because it ensures the seller receives payment and clears the way for you to officially take ownership.
Recording: Making Your Ownership Official
Recording is the legal process of documenting the transfer of property ownership in the public records maintained by the county or local government. After the transaction is funded, the deed and other relevant documents are submitted to the appropriate recording office.
Why this matters: Recording provides public notice of your new ownership and protects your legal rights to the property. It also establishes a clear chain of title, which is essential for future transactions, refinancing, and resolving any potential disputes regarding ownership.
Key Release: When You Get Access
Keys are released only after confirmation from the city or county that ownership has officially transferred. This ensures you can access your new home without any legal complications or disputes.
We’ll coordinate with escrow and title to confirm recording and arrange for your key pickup as soon as it’s official.
Important Post-Closing Considerations
Moving Arrangements
Don’t schedule movers for closing day. Confirmation of the transaction and key release timing can be uncertain, and delays may occur. It’s best to schedule movers for the day after closing to give yourself flexibility and avoid complications.
First Mortgage Payment
To allow time for moving and settling in, your first mortgage payment is usually delayed by about a month. Be sure to confirm this arrangement with your lender to avoid any surprises or confusion about when your first payment is due.
Re-Keying the House
Re-keying is highly recommended for security reasons. Consider scheduling this after any tradespeople have completed their work and before you move in. This ensures that only you and those you trust have access to your new home—previous owners, contractors, and real estate agents will no longer have working keys.
You're Ready for Closing
By understanding these final steps, you can navigate the closing process with confidence and ensure a smooth transition into your new home. We’ll be with you every step of the way to coordinate details, answer questions, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Congratulations—your new chapter is about to begin!
