🏡 Home Buying Timeline: A Complete Guide from Contract to Close

Buying a home is a major milestone — and whether it’s your first or fifth, the process can be complex. At J Alexander Realty Group, we believe in keeping our buyers informed and empowered every step of the way. That’s why we’ve created this clear, step-by-step guide to walk you through the entire real estate transaction, from first showing to final closing.

🔎 Step 1: Determine If You’re Ready to Buy

Before diving into the market, ask yourself:

  • Am I ready for the responsibilities of homeownership?

  • Do I have a clear picture of my finances and goals?

  • Am I buying with cash or securing financing through a lender?

We’ll guide you through the early planning stages to ensure you’re financially and mentally ready to make the move.

💵 Step 2: Secure Financing or Verify Proof of Funds

If paying cash:
You’ll need proof of funds (typically a bank or investment statement) to accompany your offer.

If financing:
Start with a mortgage pre-approval from a reputable lender. This will:

  • Clarify your budget

  • Strengthen your offer

  • Help us target homes in your price range

We’ll connect you with trusted mortgage professionals if needed and help you understand what your monthly payment will include: principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI).

🏘️ Step 3: Define Your Search Criteria

We’ll meet to identify:

  • Your ideal property type (single-family, condo, townhouse, etc.)

  • Location preferences

  • Must-have features vs. nice-to-haves

  • Desired timeline

Using this information, we’ll set up real-time alerts and start scheduling showings for homes that meet your criteria.

📝 Step 4: Make an Offer

When you’ve found the right property, we’ll:

  • Research recent sales and market data

  • Structure a competitive offer that protects your interests

  • Determine the right contingencies (financing, inspection, etc.)

  • Submit your offer to the seller’s agent along with your pre-approval or proof of funds

Negotiations may follow — we’ll handle all communication and strategy to get you the best possible terms.

🔍 Step 5: Home Inspection

Once your offer is accepted, the next step is the home inspection (usually completed within the first 5–10 days of contract acceptance).

  • A licensed inspector evaluates the property’s condition: structure, systems, roof, HVAC, etc.

  • We’ll review the report together and negotiate any necessary repairs or credits with the seller

  • You’ll decide whether to move forward based on the results

🏦 Step 6: Appraisal (If Financing)

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the property’s value.

  • The appraisal must meet or exceed the purchase price to move forward with your loan

  • If it comes in low, we’ll negotiate with the seller or discuss other options (price adjustment, covering the difference, etc.)

Cash buyers may choose to waive the appraisal, but it’s often still recommended as a valuation safeguard.

🧾 Step 7: Mortgage Underwriting

Your lender will begin underwriting — a detailed review of your financials and the property. You’ll be asked to submit:

  • Updated income and asset documents

  • Homeowners insurance information

  • Any additional documentation the underwriter requests

We stay in close communication with you and your lender to keep the process moving smoothly.

✅ Step 8: Clear to Close

Once underwriting is complete, your loan will be "Clear to Close" (CTC).

That means:

  • Your lender has approved everything

  • Final numbers are confirmed

  • You’re ready to sign

At this point, your lender will issue a Closing Disclosure (CD) at least three business days before closing. We’ll go over this document with you to ensure all costs are accurate and understood.

🗝️ Step 9: Final Walkthrough & Closing Day

Final Walkthrough:
Typically done 24–48 hours before closing to ensure the property is in agreed-upon condition and any repairs are complete.

Closing Day:

  • You’ll sign the final documents (in person or electronically, depending on your location)

  • If financing, your lender funds the loan

  • Once funds are received and the deed is recorded, you get the keys

Congratulations — you're officially a homeowner!

🤝 Why Work With Us?

As your real estate broker, we manage the entire process from start to finish, representing your best interests at every turn. We’re not just here to open doors — we’re here to guide you, protect your investment, and help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

We handle:

  • Offer strategy and negotiations

  • Transaction management

  • Vendor coordination (lenders, inspectors, title companies, etc.)

  • Contract deadlines and compliance

Whether you’re buying with cash or financing your purchase, we’re committed to making your experience seamless, strategic, and successful.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s schedule a quick consultation to learn about your goals and show you how we can help you succeed in today’s market!